In today’s diverse societies, especially in the West, many Muslim families include individuals of different faiths, such as Christianity, Judaism, or no religious belief at all. In this context, some Muslims feel confused when encountering Qur’anic verses that caution against taking people of other faiths as “awliyāʾ” (أولياء). This confusion is often amplified by widespread misconceptions, sometimes used to portray Islam as intolerant. One commonly cited verse states:
“O you who believe, do not take the Jews and the Christians as awliyāʾ; they are awliyāʾ of one another…” (Qur’an 5:51)
At first glance, this can be misunderstood as a prohibition against friendship or kindness toward people of other faiths. However, this interpretation is incorrect and ignores both the linguistic meaning of the word and the broader teachings of Islam.
The term “awliyāʾ” does not simply mean “friends.” Rather, it refers to deep loyalty, political alliance, or protective allegiance, particularly in situations where faith, identity, and communal security are at stake. Historically, such verses were revealed in times of conflict, when alliances could determine the survival of the early Muslim community. Therefore, the warning relates to compromising one’s faith or siding with hostile forces, not ordinary social relationships.
In fact, the Qur’an explicitly encourages kindness and fairness toward people of other faiths who are peaceful. Allah says:
“Allah does not forbid you from being kind and just toward those who do not fight you because of religion nor drive you out of your homes. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (Qur’an 60:8)
This verse makes it clear that respect, compassion, and justice are core Islamic values, regardless of religious differences.
The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ further reinforce this understanding. When Asmāʾ bint Abī Bakr’s non-Muslim mother came to visit her, she asked the Prophet whether she should maintain ties with her. He replied:
“Maintain ties with your mother.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim)
This example demonstrates that family relationships with people of other faiths are to be honored and preserved with care and kindness.
Islam also permits marriage between Muslim men and chaste women from the People of the Book (Jews and Christians), as stated in the Qur’an (5:5). Marriage, by its nature, involves love, mercy, and emotional connection:
“And He placed between you affection and mercy…” (Qur’an 30:21)
Such relationships naturally create families that span different faiths; grandparents, relatives, and children connected through bonds of love. Islam acknowledges and accepts this reality.
So, what then does “awliyāʾ” truly mean in a religious sense? The Qur’an explains:
“The believers, men and women, are awliyāʾ of one another…” (Qur’an 9:71)
Here, it clearly refers to a special bond of faith-based loyalty and mutual support in upholding religious principles, not everyday friendship.
In summary, Islam does not forbid Muslims from forming friendships, showing kindness, or maintaining family ties with people of other faiths. The concept of “awliyāʾ” is about deep allegiance in matters of faith and communal loyalty, not social interaction. Misrepresenting this term fuels harmful stereotypes, but a proper understanding reveals a faith that upholds both strong spiritual identity and compassionate coexistence.
