Document Type : Research Article
Authors
1 PhD student in Theology, Kashan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kashan, Iran
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Islamic Studies, Kashan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Kashan, Iran
Abstract
The present article, using a descriptive-analytical method, seeks to discover, understand, and explain why polytheists are prohibited from entering Mecca from the perspective of the Holy Quran and the narrations of the infallibles (peace be upon them). In line with this goal, the fundamental question has been raised as to why polytheists should not enter this holy place. Verse 28 of Surah At-Tawbah is considered the most important Quranic document by commentators and jurists in proving the ruling prohibiting polytheists from entering mosques and holy places. However, some jurists have also cited other evidence (such as narrations and consensus) in support of this ruling, which has been criticized and rejected by another group of scholars. An examination of this issue shows that verse 28 of Surah At-Tawbah, in addition to not implying the inherent impurity of non-Muslims, is in apparent conflict with the provisions of verse 2 of Surah Al-Ma’idah, which appears in the last revealed Surah of the Quran and indicates the permission of polytheists to travel to Mecca and the need to ensure their safety. An analysis of the context of the verses in both Surahs shows that in Surah At-Tawbah, only warlike polytheists are prohibited from entering the Sacred Mosque, while in Surah Al-Ma’idah, non-warlike polytheists are permitted to enter Mecca. Accordingly, the provisions of verse 28 of Surah At-Tawbah do not imply the inherent, spiritual, or even physical impurity of polytheists, nor can a general ruling be inferred from it to absolutely prohibit them; rather,
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