Religious Pluralism in the Islamic Society

Abstract

Citizenship in modern societies is based on two basic rules: pluralism

in all its forms and respect for human rights.These two rules constitute a

measure of distinction between one country and another in the degree of

the country’s proximity or remoteness from the achievement of the values

of citizenship and coexistence between the members of society regardless of

their ideological opinions or their ethnic backgrounds.

Thus, this research is trying to solve the contradiction that stem from

these facts. It tries to define its dimensions in order to find answers for the

questions that are raised about it. These questions are related to the fundamentals

and criteria that Islam has stated to achieve the idea of citizenship

and establish its values in the Islamic society.

To reach this end, the researcher is dealing with religious pluralism in

its religious and historical frames. He presented its best constituents and

components. The research has shown that Islam accepts the phenomenon

of differences between the members of society and cares to implement the

principle of pluralism and draws for it a comprehensive framework that

includes the values of freedom, tolerance, justice , and equality.