Issues of Ijtihad

INSIGHT BORN OF FAITH The way of the Prophet of Islam was not to follow a collision course at a time of strife or controversy, but to move away from the point of conflict. Such a course enables one to conserve one’s energies in order to utilize them more fruitfully at a later stage. Concession to Others One of the enduring principles of Islam is what the Quran calls ta’lif al-qulub—winning people’s hearts (9:60). It means bringing hearts together and creating a sense of affinity with others. This can be achieved only by showing consideration for people and respecting their feelings and interests. The principle of winning hearts is an important part of the Islamic message. It is universally relevant and remains necessary in every human society. The Prophet of Islam followed this rule throughout his life. For instance, when he came to Madinah after emigration, many families of Jews and idolaters were settled there along with the believers. On reaching there the Prophet issued a statement known as the covenant of Madinah. In this the Prophet declared that each group would enjoy the freedom of their culture and religion; that the controversial matters of all tribes would be settled according to their respective tribal traditions; and that no coercion would be resorted to in matters of religion and culture. The Prophet made special concessions to the Jews. He even went to the extent of fasting on the days when the Jews