Spirit of Islam, Sept 2015

M USLIM scholars have the notion that there are only two bases on which Muslims can relate to people: friendliness (wala) and separation (bara). Wala means to be on friendly terms, while bara means to be separate from. They claim that Muslims are dutybound to maintain wala with fellow Muslims. Those outside the fold of Islam are ‘others’ and friendly relations with them is discouraged. This is a communal, not an Islamic notion. Muslim scholars championing this notion, base it on two Quranic verses, 60 : 1 and 60 : 4. However, this notion is unfounded and has nothing to do with Islamic teachings. This is evident from an examination of the occasion of revelation of the Chapter 60 of the Quran, in which these two verses are found. This Chapter was revealed prior to the victory over Makkah, when the well-known incident of Hatib ibn Abi Baltaah occurred. The Prophet maintained immense secrecy in his plans about marching to Makkah with his Companions. It was found that a Companion, Hatib, had sent a secret letter to the opponents—the Quraysh in Makkah—detailing the Prophet’s movements. When confronted, he begged for understanding, explaining that he hoped the Quraysh tribe would in return protect his family residing in Makkah. It was under these circumstances that the above verses from the Quran were revealed. It was meant to dissuade Muslims from leaking the Prophet’s secret plans of movement. The mention of wala and bara in this chapter is not for general application. Rather, they are related to the particular conditions that prevailed at the time of the incident concerning Hatib ibn Abi Baltaah. What is stated in this chapter regarding wala and bara applies for times when war prevails between the followers of Islam and others and not when peace has been established. FRIENDLINESS AND SEPARATION True Understanding Muslims’ relations with other communities must be based on the laws of peace, not on the basis of the laws of war.