Abstract

This study stems from a misunderstanding of the concept of religious tolerance, often due to a lack of understanding or even a misunderstanding of this concept and the teachings of Islam. Therefore, there is a need to accurately understand the concept of religious tolerance according to Islamic law (sharia). One relevant Islamic teaching is al-wala’ and al-bara’. Al-wala’ signifies love and loyalty, whereas al-bara’ signifies enmity and aversion, serving as the foundation and boundaries for understanding the concept of religious tolerance. The aim of this research is to identify and comprehend the concept of religious tolerance in the Qur’an and its relevance to al-wala’ and al-bara’. The findings of this study reveal that the concept of religious tolerance in Islam involves respecting and valuing other religions and their followers, allowing them the freedom to practice their beliefs, not threatening or coercing them to embrace Islam, and establishing good relations and acting kindly towards them. However, it is emphasized that tolerance in Islam is confined to the realm of muamalah (social interactions) and does not extend to the realms of worship or creed. The concept of religious tolerance is closely related to al-wala’ and al-bara’, as they form the basis for understanding the true concept of religious tolerance as taught by Islamic law. Therefore, a correct understanding of religious tolerance in Islam must include the principles of al-wala’ and al-bara’ as its main foundation.