1. Rights of Muslims:
- Muslims are entitled to basic human rights, including the right to life, property, dignity, and freedom of belief and worship.
- “And do not kill the life which Allah has forbidden, except by right.” (Quran, Surah Al-Isra, 17:33)
- “Do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent.” (Quran, Surah An-Nisa, 4:29)
- The Prophet Muhammad said, “A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hands other Muslims are safe, and a believer is the one in whom people place their trust for their lives and wealth.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari)
2. Rights of People of the Book (Jews and Christians):
- People of the Book, who believe in the earlier revelations (Torah and Gospel), are granted certain rights in an Islamic society. They are referred to as “Ahl al-Kitab” (People of the Scripture).
- “And do not argue with the People of the Scripture except in a way that is best, except for those who commit injustice among them, and say, ‘We believe in that which has been revealed to us and revealed to you. And our God and your God is one; and we are Muslims [in submission] to Him.'” (Quran, Surah Al-Ankabut, 29:46)
- The Prophet Muhammad said, “Whoever kills a person who has a truce with the Muslims will never smell the fragrance of Paradise.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari)
3. Rights of Polytheists:
- Islam recognizes that polytheists may have different beliefs, but their rights are still to be respected, and they are entitled to just treatment.
- “Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes – from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (Quran, Surah Al-Mumtahanah, 60:8)
- The Prophet Muhammad showed kindness to polytheists, even when they showed hostility. For example, during the Conquest of Mecca, he granted amnesty to many former enemies.
4. Rights of Non-Combatants during War:
- During war or conflict, non-combatants, such as women, children, and the elderly, are to be protected, and their rights should be respected.
- “Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed. Allah does not like transgressors.” (Quran, Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:190)
- The Prophet Muhammad explicitly prohibited the killing of women and children during warfare. (Sahih Al-Bukhari)
5. Animal Rights:
- Islam emphasizes the rights of animals and the importance of treating them with kindness and compassion.
- The Prophet Muhammad said, “Whoever is kind to the creatures of Allah is kind to himself.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari)
