A Qur’anic Critique of Orientalist Perspectives on the Ethical Teachings of the Prophet of Islam (PBUHH) Toward His Enemies

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Corresponding Author, Professor at the Higher Levels of the Qom Seminary, Iran.

Abstract

This study presents a Qur’anic-critical analysis of Orientalist perspectives on the ethical principles of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUHH) in his dealings with enemies. It aims to systematically critique contemporary Orientalist views by comparing them with the Qur’anic foundations of Prophetic conduct. Employing a qualitative content analysis and comparative approach, the research extracts key ethical principles—mercy (raḥmah), forgiveness (‘afw), justice (‘adl), and peace-seeking (ṣulḥ)—from Qur’anic verses and authoritative exegeses. It then critically examines the interpretations of prominent Orientalists such as W. Montgomery Watt, Karen Armstrong, John Esposito, Wilferd Madelung, Bernard Lewis, Michael Cook, Annemarie Schimmel, Fred Donner, and Maxime Rodinson. The findings reveal that the Qur’an establishes a coherent ethical framework for interacting with enemies, manifested in the Prophet's actions like the general amnesty at the Conquest of Mecca, his prayer for the people of Ta'if, just dealings with Banu Qurayza, and acceptance of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah. Contrary to the reductionist analyses of many Orientalists, who often attribute mercy and forgiveness to political motives or personal character, justice to tribal considerations, and peace-seeking to secular diplomacy, this study demonstrates that these principles are rooted in divine revelation (waḥy) and aim solely at guidance and reformation. The conclusion emphasizes the necessity of rereading the Prophet's biography (Sīrah) through authentic Islamic sources, particularly the Qur’an, to avoid Orientalist distortions and present a timeless model for human interaction.

Keywords

References

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