The Foundations of Coexistence and Interaction between Islam and the People of the Book in the Light of the Holy Qur’an

چکیده

From its inception, Islam encountered Jewish and Christian communities in Medina, and the Qur’an articulated clear principles for coexistence and interaction with them. These principles include justice, dialogue, and adherence to covenants. The aim of this study is to examine the Qur’anic framework for engagement and coexistence with the People of the Book and its relevance to contemporary Afghan society. The research employs a library-based, descriptive–analytical method, drawing upon Qur’anic verses and classical exegeses such as those of al-Tabari, Ibn Kathir, and Fakhr al-Razi. In addition, modern sources are consulted to connect the findings with the current needs of Afghanistan. The study focuses on verses related to the People of the Book, with purposive sampling from the chapters of Āl ʿImrān, al-Mumtahina, al-Tawba, and al-Māʾida. The findings indicate that the Qur’an invites the People of the Book to a shared word of monotheism and encourages Muslims to engage with them at doctrinal, economic, social, and political levels. Consequently, Islamic coexistence and interaction with the People of the Book rest upon three fundamental principles: dialogue, justice, and covenant fidelity. Implementing these principles in present-day Afghanistan can foster cultural coexistence, sustainable peace, and the prevention of extremism.