This contract defined the rights of the citizens of the...

This contract defined the rights of the citizens of the various groups and secured peace and justice for all citizens. Here, we will mention some items and paragraphs of this great contract: (1) Muslims and Jews[^46]constitute a single nation (ummah). (2) Muslims and Jews are free to follow their faith. (3) The emigrants of Quraysh, like the pre-Islamic days, should pay blood-money.

If anyone of them commits homicide or becomes captive, others should pay the ransom in accordance with accepted terms among believers and free the captive in this way. (4) Banu-`Amr ibn `Awf (a tribe of Ansar) and other branches should pay blood-money like others. (5) Nobody is allowed to give asylum to anybody's slaves, children or other family members without his consent. (6) The signers of this contract collectively have to defend the city of Medina.

(7) Medina is a sacred city and any kind of bloodshed is forbidden there. (8) The final judge and arbitrator for the settlement of the probable disagreements and conflicts will be Muhammad (s).[^47] A cursory look at the events of those days shows that this contract, which was concluded in the earlier months of the Holy Prophet's arrival at Medina,[^48] was effective in securing tranquility for citizens. Up to the second year of Hegira, i.e.

until the Battle of Badr which occurred due to the conspiracies of Banu-Qaynuqa`, no disturbance or turbulence is recorded. A Brotherly Contract between Muhajirun and Ansar The Prophet's second social act of significance during the first year of Hegira[^49] was the convention of a brotherly treaty between the Muhajirun and Ansar.

Previously, these two Muslim groups had some rivalry over business and racial issues, because Ansar had migrated from the south (Yemen) and were from the Qahtani race, and Muhajirun belonged to the Northern Arabs and to the `Adnani race; and during the days of Ignorance, there were severe racial conflicts between the two. Ansar also used to work in agriculture and gardening, while the Meccan Arabs were traders who considered agriculture lowly and classless affair.

Furthermore, these two groups had been brought up in two quite different social settings and now they were considered religious brethren. They had gathered in Medina and the probabilities existed that the remnants of the previous cultures still remained in their souls and minds; and that some ancient obstacles might be renewed.