Is Islam respectful of other beliefs?
Yes. The Qur'an states
unequivocally:
"There is no compulsion in religion. Truth
stands out clearly from falsehood…"
(Qur'an 2:256)
Freedom of conscience is an essential tenant of Islam. Truth can only be seen if
it is not clouded by coercion. Protection of the rights of non-Muslims is an
intrinsic part of Islamic law. The Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said:
"He who hurts a non-Muslim citizen of a
Muslim State - I am his adversary and I shall be his adversary on the Day of
Judgment."
"Beware on the Day of Judgment, I shall,
myself, be the accuser against him who wrongs a non-Muslim citizen (of a Muslim
State) or Lays on him a responsibility greater than he can bear, or deprives him
of anything that belongs to him."
History provides many examples of Muslims' respect towards other faiths. For
instance, prior to the Spanish Inquisition, Jews and Christians lived and
prospered in Spain for centuries under Muslim rule. Another well known example
is when Omar, the second successor to Prophet Muhammad, entered Jerusalem. He
refused to pray inside the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. He was concerned that
some overzealous Muslim in the future might destroy the Church and build a
Mosque in his honor.