Islamic and Christian Law on the People of Dhimmahh (non-Muslims Residing in an Islamic State):

A Historical Comparative Analysis Drawn from Adam Metz's ‘The Renaissance of Islam’

Yousif K. Al-Shimmary

Hamed Abd Al-Hamza Al-Janabi

 

Abstract: This article examines the views of German Orientalist Adam Metz regarding Islamic law's treatment of the ‘People of Dhimmahh’,1 with the objective of elucidating the broader scientific perspectives held by Orientalist scholars on Islamic law. Metz's scholarly contributions are commendable, as he extensively relied on respected Islamic sources on the treatment of the People of Dhimmahh, particularly highlighting historical incidents marked by Islamic accommodation in legislation and Muslim interactions with the Dhimmahh. Metz also consulted other sources and cited texts that underscore Christian extremism and fanaticism towards the Dhimmahh, especially those who lived under the Islamic state and later moved to Byzantine territories. This comparative analysis between Islamic and non-Islamic sources underscores Metz's scientific approach, wherein he strives to maintain impartiality in his findings, albeit with some degree of subjectivity. In his book Islamic Civilization in the Fourth Century AH, there are instances where he appears to favour his own religious beliefs However, his work demonstrates a prevailing impartiality in his conclusions and assessments. By presenting the views of Western scholars on how Islamic law addresses the treatment of the People of Dhimmahh, this article highlights the contribution of Islamic law in dealing with religious minorities living in the Islamic state.