Interreligious Relations in Early Islam and Their Relevance in the Modern Era: A Study of Umar’s Assurance of Safety to the People of Bayt al-Maqdis

Abstract

This study explores Umar's Assurance of Safety to the people of Bayt al-Maqdis (Jerusalem) in 637 AD, a pivotal document issued by Caliph Umar Ibn al-Khattab, which guaranteed the protection of life, property, and religious institutions for non-Muslim inhabitants. Against the backdrop of rising religious hostilities in the modern era, as evidenced by a 2022 Pew Research study, this research seeks to understand how historical models of interreligious tolerance, such as Umar's Assurance, can inform contemporary efforts to foster religious coexistence. Using a qualitative approach, this study uses historical and textual analysis to explore the guarantees given to non-Muslims under Islamic rule. The research is based on primary historical sources and previous scientific discussions, focusing on the themes of justice, inclusivity, and religious freedom.  The findings reveal that the Umar Guarantee establishes a comprehensive framework to protect religious minorities, ensure their right to worship, and maintain their places of worship. It also emphasizes economic justice through the jizya tax which is designed to be fair and not burdensome. The guarantee promotes inclusivity by allowing religious minorities, including Jews, to return to Bayt al-Maqdis after a period of exclusion. These principles contributed to long-term social stability and set a precedent for later models of government that emphasized pluralism and coexistence. The study concludes that the Umar Guarantee serves as a valuable historical precedent for contemporary models of government that seek to balance interreligious relations with legal protection for minorities. It provides important lessons for policymakers, especially in addressing religious pluralism and promoting an inclusive legal framework in diverse societies. The recommendations obtained from this study emphasize the need to integrate the historical principles of justice and tolerance into modern policies to promote peaceful interfaith relations.