A study conducted by Latifa Menadi al-Kaabi, a research assistant at the Ibn-Khaldon Centre for Humanities and Social Sciences at Qatar University (QU), has shed light on the pivotal role of Qur'anic research in shaping Islamic politics, particularly in the realm of treaties.
This seminal research, titled “The Importance of Qur'anic Research in Deducting the Provisions in Islamic Legal Politics: Issue of Mu’aahadun,” delves deep into the Qur'anic verses to illuminate the significance of treaties and alliances in Islam, propelling a paradigm shift in the understanding of international relationships within the Muslim and non-Muslim worlds.
The study is an exploration of the intersection between the Holy Qur’an and the intricate tapestry of Islamic politics. It delves into the question of treaties within Islam, emphasizing their binding nature and the commitment required by all parties involved. By meticulously analysing Qur'anic verses, al-Kaabi clarifies the definition of treaties as enduring political agreements between two entities, governed by principles of justice and mutual respect.
“In a world that often emphasises differences, the Holy Qur’an provides a profound framework for nurturing alliances and fostering peaceful coexistence,” al-Kaabi remarks. The study identifies three distinct categories of mu’aahadun; the parties involved in treaties. Al-Kaabi's insights into “Committed Mu’aahadun,” “Uncommitted Mu’aahadun,” and “Untrusted Mu’aahadun” provide a comprehensive understanding of the various dimensions of treaty obligations and the outcomes of adherence or breach.
The research also underscores the nuanced obligations that both Muslims and non-Muslims bear within treaties. The Holy Qur’an dictates not only the rights but also the responsibilities of each party. “This explains the dynamic balance envisioned by Islam, where justice, dignity, and cooperation thrive,” al-Kaabi elaborates.
As the study unfolds, it draws strength from the Quranic verses themselves, presenting a cohesive framework for dealing with treaty breaches. Al-Kaabi explains, “Islam's emphasis on kindness, justice, and preparedness serves as the cornerstone for maintaining stability and preventing conflicts.”
In the words of Dr Amir Hasan, director of the Ibn-Khaldon Centre: “Latifa Menadi al-Kaabi's research embodies the centre's commitment to rigorous scholarship and the pursuit of knowledge that enriches global discourse. This study's implications extend beyond academia, shaping a more harmonious world.”
The research, published in the esteemed Journal of Islamic Studies and Thought for Specialised Research, Malaysia, Volume 7, Issue 4, in October 2021, has garnered attention for its meticulous Qur'anic analysis. By establishing a profound connection between Qur'anic wisdom and modern-day political considerations, Al-Kaabi's study marks a significant milestone in Islamic scholarship.
The Ibn-Khaldon Centre for Humanities and Social Sciences is renowned for its dedication to advancing knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of Islamic civilisation. Committed to rigorous academic inquiry, the centre's research continues to make invaluable contributions to global scholarship.
