The Prophet Muhammad A simple Guide to his Life
Prophetic Wisdom
~ 87 ~
their hearts. This end can be achieved only by
making concessions to others, giving due respect to
their sentiments and not harming their interests.
This policy of sympathising with others is an
important part of Islamic
dawah.
It is to be desired at
all times in all human societies.
The Prophet of Islam followed this rule throughout
his life. For instance, when he came to Madinah
after emigration, many families of Jews and
idolaters settled there along with the believers. On
reaching there the Prophet issued a statement
known as the covenant of Madinah. In this the
Prophet declared that each group would enjoy the
freedom of their culture and religion; that the
controversial matters of all tribes would be settled
according to their respective tribal traditions; and
that no coercion would be resorted to in matters of
religion and culture.
The Prophet made special concessions to the Jews.
He even went to the extent of fasting on the days
when the Jews fasted until it was held obligatory by
a revelation to fast in the month of Ramazan.
Moreover, the Prophet prayed in the direction of
