3.6 — Importance as an Example for Communal and Inter-State Relations

📖 Main Content

🔹 Background: The First Islamic State of Madinah

After emigrating from Makkah in 622 A.D., Prophet Muhammad PBUH established the first Islamic state in Madinah. As the head of this state, he dealt with many different groups — neighboring Arab tribes, the Jews of Madinah, the Makkans, the Byzantine (Roman) Empire, and the Persian Empire.

The way Prophet Muhammad PBUH handled these relationships set a timeless example for how Muslim communities and states should deal with others. His approach was guided by the teachings of the Quran and was built on the foundations of peace, justice, honesty, and strength.

🔹 A. Policy of Co-existence and Non-Aggression

What is this policy? Co-existence means living peacefully alongside others, even those who are different or hostile. Non-aggression means never starting a fight or attacking others without a just reason.

How did Prophet Muhammad PBUH demonstrate this?

• From the very beginning, the Islamic state of Madinah made it a firm principle never to interfere in the affairs of other states or tribes.
• Prophet Muhammad PBUH did not use Madinah's geographic advantage — the city was positioned along the trade routes of the Quraish — to threaten or raid their caravans in the early period.
• He actively sought peaceful relations with all neighboring groups.

When war did occur — it was always defensive:

• The Makkans confiscated the properties of Muslims who had emigrated to Madinah, which was an act of open hostility.
• It was only after repeated aggression by the Quraish that Allah SWT granted permission to the Muslims to fight back.

The Three Defensive Battles:

• In all three battles, it was the Makkans who initiated the fighting. The Muslims of Madinah were always fighting to survive and defend themselves.
• Even after the painful loss at the Battle of Uhud, Prophet Muhammad PBUH did not advance to seek revenge.

📌 Lesson for Muslims Today: Muslim communities and states must always prioritize peace. They should never be the first to cause harm or conflict. If faced with aggression, they are permitted to defend themselves — but revenge should not be the driving force.