[Blog] In the Context of the International Day of Tolerance: The Trailblazing Example of Umar bin Kattab

November 16th marks the International Day of Tolerance, declared by the UN General Assembly in 1996. The aim is to inspire global respect, acceptance, and appreciation of the rich diversity of cultures, expressions, and ways of being human. The groundwork for this proclamation was laid by UNESCO, which in 1994, during the 125th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi's birth, developed the Principles of Tolerance, reflecting his embodiment of non-violence and tolerance.

These principles underscore that tolerance is not a passive trait but an active one. It's not about indifference; it's about actively countering intolerance.

The common narrative suggests that tolerance is a Western value born from the Enlightenment, with thinkers like Locke and Voltaire shaping it in the 17th and 18th centuries. However, it is less known that the concept of tolerance was practiced in various early societies long before the European Enlightenment. A prime example of this is the rule and exemplary conduct of Umar Ibn al-Kattab (580 - 644 CE), the second Caliph of Islam, who succeeded Abu Bakr after the Prophet's death. Initially a fierce opponent of Islam, Umar became a dedicated supporter and a key figure in the Islamic community after his conversion.

Umar's open-mindedness, tolerance, and generosity are vividly illustrated during the conquest of Jerusalem in 637 CE. The Muslim army besieged the city for a year, and when Sophronius, the Patriarch of Jerusalem, decided to surrender, he requested a meeting with Umar rather than the army's general. When they met, Sophronius was astonished to find Umar dressed in simple, worn clothing, arriving on a shared camel with his servant, contrasting sharply with the opulence of Byzantine leaders.

Despite his commanders urging him to ride the camel to impress Sophronius, Umar insisted on humility, stating, "True honor comes from faith in God, not from worldly appearances." When it was time for prayer, Sophronius offered him a place inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the holiest site in Christianity. Umar politely declined, fearing that future Muslims might use this as a reason to seize the church.

During his time in Jerusalem, Umar signed a treaty with Sophronius, known as the Covenant of the Pact of Umar, which ensured the safety and rights of Christian residents, safeguarding their lives, properties, churches, and crosses. This pact also guaranteed freedom of worship and the sanctity of Christian holy sites, leading to the keys of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre being held by two Muslim families for centuries.

Intrigued by the absence of Jews in Jerusalem, Umar learned from Sophronius that they had been banned by the Romans for 500 years. He immediately ordered their return, marking a pivotal moment in Jewish history, signaling the end of their long exile.

Umar also visited the Temple Mount, where he was alarmed by its neglect and ordered it cleaned, even participating in the cleanup himself.

Another example of tolerance in Islamic societies is the Dhimma system, which protected non-Muslims' rights, and the Millet system during the Ottoman era, allowing various religious communities to manage their own affairs. There was also the Convivencia period in Islamic Spain, characterized by peaceful coexistence and collaboration among Jews, Christians, and Muslims.

In today's climate of rising intolerance and Islamophobia, these historical examples serve to dispel myths and prejudices, putting things into proper perspective.

Azize Bankur

Sources: Al Tabari, Karen Armstrong, A. Caetani Professor Roy Casagranda, UNESCO