MADEENA CHARTER: CO-EXISTENCE AND DIVERSITY

In the contemporary world, it is very essential for Muslims to know

how to live harmoniously with their non-Muslim brothers in a majority/minority
country. In this regard, the Medinian period of the Prophet proposes an example
to be followed. Living as a minority in Medina, however, Muslims contributed a
lot to build up peace and prosperity, and brought stability in the society through
the noble teachings of Islam.

Here, I would like to point out some enlightened aspects of the

Meethaq-e-Medina, which shaped the attitude of Islamic polity immediately
after the Migration. The Migration of Medina, indeed, made significant
influence on the social and political character of Muslims. In Medina, Muslims
were so much empowered that they could attain a prominent status after a
decade of oppression. Prophet forwarded an inclusive policy of mutual
understanding through Mithaq-e-Medina. This is regarded as the first written
constitution among Muslims and other habitats of Medina, belonged to various
tribes and religions. First time, a concept of political union was introduced,
referring to as 'Umma' (Community) in the Meethaq promoted co-existence
despite diversity.

The Muslims of Madina had two distinguished tribes named “Aus”

and “Khazraj”. They had been indulged in inter-tribal fighting for a long period
during the days of Buas. The prime mission of the Prophet in Medina was to
maintain peace and tranquility among various groups of Muslims introducing
the concept of universal brotherhood. On a wider level, he called up for an
agreement, especially between Muslims and Jews so that both could live
peacefully. And they should not fight each other. In order to bring peace,
Prophet (Pbuh) made a chirographical agreement whereon both groups agreed. I
would like to mention some important clauses which were the part of this
agreement as follows:
 (1) Every group shall be given freedom in its religious and cultural
affairs.
(2) The Muslims and Jews will live together enjoining the mutual
cooperation in social affairs.
(3) The Muslims and the Jews will fight together against their
common enemies.
(4) If an outsider attempts to attack on Medina, then both will
fight together against the invader.
(5) If any group will make treaty with others (except of Quraish)
the second party will have to comprise with them.

This agreement clearly describes the engagement of Islam in the

efforts to bring peace among various groups of people. In a country like India,
where diverse cultural and religious communities live together, it requires to
realize the principles of Madina Charter. Mutual awareness and making of
common platform to stand together are the most essential values we need in our
social circumstances. But ignorance about 'the Other' is prevailing among the
people and each one looks on others as troublesome, leading us to the chaotic
tomorrows. The present time needs a solution, and it can be sought from the
glorious history of Islam. Muslims must take the responsibility to lead the world
to this path of peace and harmony. And make the world aware of these lessons;
which are the gist of Prophet’s teachings.

Writer: Mohammad Raza

BA Islamic Studies, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi

Published in Sada e Jauhar Annual Magazine, May 2015