A study conducted by Latifa Menadi Al-Kaabi, a Research Assistant at the prestigious Ibn-Khaldon Center for Humanities and Social Sciences at Qatar University (QU), has shed light on the pivotal role of Quranic research in shaping Islamic politics, particularly in the realm of treaties. This seminal research, titled “The Importance of Quranic Research in Deducting the Provisions in Islamic Legal Politics: Issue of Mu’aahadun,” delves deep into the Quranic 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.
This 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 analyzing Quranic 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 emphasizes 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 Center, “Latifa Menadi Al-Kaabi's research embodies the center'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 groundbreaking research, which was published in the esteemed Journal of Islamic Studies and Thought for Specialized Research, Malaysia, Volume 7, Issue 4, in October 2021, has garnered attention for its meticulous Quranic analysis. By establishing a profound connection between Quranic wisdom and modern-day political considerations, Al-Kaabi's study marks a significant milestone in Islamic scholarship.
The Ibn-Khaldon Center for Humanities and Social Sciences is renowned for its dedication to advancing knowledge and fostering a deeper understanding of Islamic civilization. Committed to rigorous academic inquiry, the center's research continues to make invaluable contributions to global scholarship.