Relations with non-Muslims - Teachings of the Prophet of Mercy(Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam)

 Social relations with non-Muslims

Irrespective of whom the relationship is with, a Muslim must always remember that he/she is a Muslim.  They should make sure that no one is hurt by their talk or deeds as Islam has stressed social and moral relations with non-Muslims.  Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran:

لَا يَنْهَاكُمُ اللَّهُ عَنِ الَّذِينَ لَمْ يُقَاتِلُوكُمْ فِي الدِّينِ وَلَمْ يُخْرِجُوكُم مِّن دِيَارِكُمْ أَن تَبَرُّوهُمْ وَتُقْسِطُوا إِلَيْهِمْ إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ الْمُقْسِطِينَO

Allah does not forbid you to be good to them and treat them with equity and justice who did not fight against you on (the question of) Din (Religion), nor did they drive you out of your homes (i.e., homeland). Surely, Allah likes those who conduct themselves with equity and justice.[1]

This verse explicitly orders that non-Muslims also should be treated fairly and benevolently.

The fact is that whether it is an Islamic country or a democratic one, Muslims spread the message of love wherever they are.  Through talk and deeds, they are standard-bearers of peace.  The very existence of Muslims is to improve humankind.  As given in this verse of the Holy Quran:

كُنتُمْ خَيْرَ أُمَّةٍ أُخْرِجَتْ لِلنَّاسِ

You are the best community brought forth for (the guidance of) mankind: you enjoin righteousness, forbid evil and believe in Allah.[2]

There is a Hadith in Kanz Ul ‘Ummal in this regard:

خير الناس أنفعهم للناس

Translation: The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) says:  The best person is the one who benefits all human beings.[3]