Peaceful Coexistence in the Islamic Perspective: An Analytical Study of the Historicity of the Concept and Its Practical Manifestations

Abstract

This research is grounded in the Qur’anic foundation that affirms the unity of human origin and rejects discrimination based on race, tribe, creed, or religion, and regards peaceful coexistence and human dignity as fundamental principles governing relations among societies. The concept of Islam reflects the meaning of peace and includes an ethical and legal system that promotes conflict resolution and social harmony. Islamic history offers practical models of coexistence between Muslims and non-Muslims, particularly in Medina as the first Islamic state, where the Charter of Medina, proclaimed by Muhammad, represents an early model for organizing religious and social pluralism based on citizenship, justice, and cooperation. However, the contemporary reality of the Islamic world reveals growing challenges to such coexistence amid increasing internal conflicts and divisions among Islamic groups. This highlights the urgent need to reassess the Islamic approach to peaceful coexistence and reinterpret it in light of its textual foundations and historical experience.