MODEL OF RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE DURING THE ERA OF PROPHET MUHAMMAD PBUH AND THE RIGHTLY GUIDED CALIPHS

Abstract

This research is based on the fact that there are still limited studies that deeply and systematically discuss the models and practices of religious tolerance during the time of Prophet Muhammad PBUH and the Khulafaur Rasyidin. In reality, the practice of tolerance in early Islam strongly influenced the development of social life, the understanding of citizens' rights and duties, and Islamic political traditions. The lack of such studies has caused a gap in understanding how tolerance works in diverse societies. Therefore, this research is essential, especially for today’s pluralistic society. The purpose of this research is to describe, analyze, and examine the implementation of models of religious tolerance during the era of Prophet Muhammad PBUH and Khulafaur Rasyidin. Specifically, this study aims to identify the forms and practices of tolerance applied by early Islamic leaders and compare the continuities and differences in their application across various social and political contexts. In this study, the method used is qualitative research with a library research approach. The data source includes the Qur’an, hadith, books of Qur’anic exegesis (tafsir), the Prophet’s biography (sirah), classical works of Islamic history, and relevant books and academic journals. Data were collected through document analysis, while the data analysis employed a descriptive and analytical approach to identify patterns and models of religious tolerance. The results of the study show that religious tolerance during the era of Prophet Muhammad PBUH and the Khulafaur Rasyidin represents a model of tolerance based on justice (‘adl), freedom of religions (al-hurriyyah), and peace (as-slim). This model is not only normative and theological in nature but was also practically implemented in governmental policies and social realities, giving it strong, systematic historical roots. This research is expected to contribute academically to the development of studies on the history of Islamic civilization and religious tolerance, and to serve as a practical reference for government, spiritual leaders, and educational institutions in building a harmonious, just, and peaceful social life within diverse societies.

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