‘‘Tolerance in Islam”

The Quran is full of instruction and advice of how to be tolerant of others. Tolerance is one of the basic principles of Islam and a religious moral duty for Muslims. Tolerance in Islam does not mean “concession, compromise or indulgence.“ It also does not mean lack of principles, or lack of seriousness about one's principles. Tolerance according to Islam does not mean that we believe that all religions are the same. The Quran speaks about the basic dignity of all human beings. The Prophet Muhammad -peace be upon him- spoke about the equality of all human beings, regardless of their race, color language or ethnic background.

Islam emphasizes the establishment of equality and justice. Both of these values cannot be established without some degree of tolerance. Islam recognized, from the very beginning, the principle of freedom of belief or freedom of religion. It said very clearly that it does not allow coercion in matters of faith and belief.

The Quran says, “There is no compulsion in religion,“ (2:256)

God also says in the Quran, “Invite (all) to the way of your lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and discuss with them in ways that are best and most gracious. Your lord knows best, who have strayed from his path, and who receive guidance.“ (16:125)

Further, “say: 'Obey God, and obey the messenger: but if you turn away, he is only responsible for the duty placed on him and you for that placed on you. If you obey him, you shall be on right guidance. The messenger's duty is only to preach the clear (message)'.“ (24:54)

Islam may tolerate many things, but it teaches zero tolerance for injustice, oppression, and violation of the rights of other human beings. God says, “And why should you not fight in the cause of God and of those who, being weak, are ill-treated (and oppressed)? Men, women, and children, whose cry is: “Our Lord! Rescue us from this town, whose people are oppressors; and raise for us from your side one who will protect; and raise for us from your side one who will help!“ (4:75)

Islam teaches tolerance on all levels: individual, groups and states. It should be a political and legal requirement. Tolerance is the responsibility that upholds human rights, pluralism (including cultural pluralism) and the rule of law.

The Quran says very clearly: “To every people have we appointed rites and ceremonies which they must follow, let them not then dispute with you on the matter, but do invite (them) to your Lord: for you are assuredly on the right way. If they do wrangle with you, say, “God knows best what it is you are doing.“ “God will judge between you on the day of judgment concerning the matters in which you differ.“ (22:76-69)

God demanded from Muslims to forgive each other and to tolerate each other. Islam teaches that to establish peace on earth we have to have mutual understanding among ourselves. It is not a choice any more, it is a necessity.