Chapter 109 - 21
The Disbelievers (Surah Al-Kafirun)
(6 verses in total; revealed in Makkah)
Another short chapter directed to those who deny God and refuse to accept the message from the Prophet. A direct address to them is being call for by the Prophet to show them his uncompromising stance on his faith and the message he brings from God but also to show that right to practice one’s faith should be respected by all.
Key themes in this short chapter are as follows:
There is to be no compromise between monotheism and the social order of truth and justice that it calls for and those who practice polytheism and atheism coupled with social injustice
One should be free to practice their faith and creed without interference by others – a true declaration of religious plurality and no place for compulsion in accepting one’s faith
In the Name of God, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!
Say: “O Disbelievers!
I do not worship whom you worship
And you do not worship Whom I worship!
I will never serve whom you serve
Nor will you serve Whom I serve!
For you is your religion
And for me is my religion (let be at peace!)” 1
1This is a defining statement on religious plurality, peaceful co-existence and freedom to practice our faith as we see fit without compulsion within a religious group as well as across religious groups
