Religious Tolerance from the Perspective of the Qur'an and Hadith

M. Basor Hidayatullah Lubis; Jesti Damara; Muhamad Yahya

Authors

M. Basor Hidayatullah Lubis Universitas Islam Negeri Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar Author
Jesti Damara Universitas Islam Negeri Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar Author
Muhamad Yahya Universitas Islam Negeri Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar Author

Keywords:

Hadith, Religious Tolerance, Qur’an

Abstract

This study examines the concept of religious tolerance in Islam based on the Qur’an and the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Diversity in ethnicity, culture, race, and religion is a social reality that cannot be separated from human life, especially in Indonesia as a multicultural country that upholds the principle of “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” (Unity in Diversity). However, differences often trigger social conflict and intolerance when not accompanied by mutual respect and understanding. Islam, as a religion of mercy for all creation, teaches tolerance (tasamuh) as a fundamental value reflected in both the Qur’an and Hadith. This research uses a literature study method by analyzing books, journal articles, and other academic references related to religious tolerance in Islam. The findings show that the Qur’an strongly emphasizes freedom of religion and respect for differences, particularly through Surah Al-Baqarah verse 256, which rejects compulsion in religion, and Surah Al-Kafirun verse 6, which affirms mutual respect between followers of different faiths. In addition, the Hadith of the Prophet demonstrates persuasive, wise, and peaceful approaches in interacting with non-Muslims. The study concludes that Islamic teachings promote harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among people of different religions without compromising Islamic beliefs. Therefore, understanding the values of tolerance in the Qur’an and Hadith is essential for preventing extremism, strengthening interfaith harmony, and building peaceful social relations in contemporary multicultural societies.

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