Ahl al-Kitab
Definition
Ahl al-Kitab (Arabic: أهل الكتاب, Turkish: Kitap Ehli) is an Islamic term referring to Jews, Christians, and Sabaeans, who are recognized in the Quran as possessors of divine scriptures revealed prior to Islam. Additionally, the term is sometimes extended to include Zoroastrians, Magians, and Samaritans.
Etymology
The term Ahl al-Kitab is derived from two Arabic words: “Ahl” (أهل) meaning “people” or “family,” and “Kitab” (كتاب) meaning “book.” Together, it literally means “People of the Book.”
Quranic Basis
The Quran acknowledges the religious scriptures of Jews and Christians, including the Torah, Psalms, and Gospels, recognizing them as God’s revelations. However, it also asserts that these previous scriptures were superseded by the Quran, viewed as the final and unaltered message of God to humanity. Chapter 3, verse 3 of the Quran states, “He has sent down upon you, O Muhammad, the Book in truth, confirming what was before it. And He revealed the Torah and the Gospel.”
Legal Status
In Islamic jurisprudence, Jews and Christians under Muslim rule are given a special status known as dhimmi (ذمي), meaning “protected people.” This status allows them to practice their faith, govern their own communities, and receive protection from external threats, in return for paying a tax known as jizyah (جزية).
Dhimmi Status
Dhimmi status entails a set of rights and responsibilities. People of the Book are allowed to:
- Practice their religion and run their religious institutions
- Govern their own communities according to their laws
- Receive protection from external aggressions
In return, they are required to:
- Pay a special tax called jizyah
- Accept a secondary status in the larger Muslim society
Modern Context
Many twentieth-century scholars have critiqued the notion that dhimmis essentially hold second-class citizenship in Islamic states. Contemporary thinkers advocate for increased recognition of the shared spiritual heritage binding the People of the Book, promoting interfaith dialogue and cooperative efforts for mutual understanding and peace.
Books for Further Studies
- The People of the Book and the Foundations of Islamic Pluralism by John Tolan
- The Construction of Knowledge in Islamic Civilization: Old & Modern by Lourdes Bravo-Torija
- Dhimmis and Others: Jews and Christians and the World of Classical Islam by Uri Rubin
Takeaways
- Ahl al-Kitab identifies Jews, Christians, and Sabaeans as recipients of earlier divine scriptures.
- The term underscores a shared Abrahamic heritage and offers a basis for legal and communal coexistence in Islamic societies.
- Modern scholarship emphasizes revisiting this concept to promote enhanced interfaith dialogue and coexistence.
Conclusion
Ahl al-Kitab plays a pivotal role in Islamic theology and law, underscoring the relationship between Muslims and other Abrahamic faiths. As the world evolves, the principles embedded within this concept continue to inspire discussions related to pluralism, intercultural dialogue, and mutual respect.
