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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Philosophy of Islamic Laws Question 18: What Is The Purpose of Jizya?

Question: The purpose of the Prophet hood of the Holy Prophet (s.a.w.a.) was to guide the people and show them the right path which is connected to spiritualism, whereas on the other side we see in the Islamic laws that it is not according to the real purpose of Islam (to guide the people on the right path) as it is revealed: “If Christians and Jews are ready to pay the Jizya, then free them”. Whereas Jizya itself is diverting towards materialism.

Why does Islam give such a permission that they remain on their false religion? Answer: From the things of pride for Islam is that it doesn't force anyone to accept this religion without having liking and half-heartedness, As Qur’an says: There is no compulsion in religion; truly the right way has become clearly distinct from error; [^1] The philosophy of this great verse is also clear.

As Islam has invited towards itself through logic and proof and it is war against foolish and superstitious things, its only weapon is to explain the truth and express in a general way. Why after having such a strong weapon, which can attract an open mind and logical people, it should force the people?

Basically for real faith some special things are required if a person doesn't acquire them through perception and far sightedness, then it is difficult for them give it a place in the heart and if forcibly faith is thrust upon them. So it is limited to the tongue and would not have taken them with their heart and whenever factors of enforcement are not there, a person may revert to his earlier condition. Such type of faith is not profitable to Islam.

Islam wants to give such training to the people that they should remain attached to the principles of Islam until their death and should not be strayed for a moment also, and such type of faith cannot be achieved without logic, proof and open mindedness. The purpose of Jihad in Islam defense from enemies is itself a topic, which should be discussed separately, whereas Jizya was a fixed tax was paid by the People of the Book (Ahlul Kitab ) every year to the government.

The reason to levy this tax was, as the administration was under the Muslims and the unbelievers were in minority the Islamic government was forced to take care of their protection, their administration and safety.