Politics in Islam (2): Why Politics is Inseparable From Islam

Why Did the Quraysh Fight Islam?

Islam as a Complete System

When we say ??????? ??? ????? (Islam is both religion and state), we mean that Islam is not just about personal acts of worship like prayer and fasting. It is a comprehensive system that regulates every aspect of life—spiritual, social, economic, and political. This understanding was clear from the very first days of Islam’s message.

Historical Context: Quraysh’s Reaction to “La ilaha illa Allah”

The society of Quraysh in pre-Islamic Arabia was a place of extreme religious freedom—on the surface. Around the Ka’bah, 360 idols coexisted peacefully, each representing a different tribe or group. One might ask: Why did the Quraysh oppose Islam so fiercely?

The answer lies in their deep understanding of the political implications of “La ilaha illa Allah” (there is no deity worthy of worship but Allah). To them, this phrase was not just a religious declaration—it was a direct challenge to their existing political, economic, and social systems.

The Political Implications of Tawheed

The Quraysh understood something profound about Islam: Tawheed (the oneness of God) is not limited to worship. It means rejecting all other sources of ultimate authority—whether idols, kings, or oppressive systems.

1. A Challenge to Political Power: The Quraysh leaders held political power over the tribes, benefiting from their control of trade and the Ka’bah’s status as a religious center. Tawheed undermined their authority because it placed ultimate sovereignty with Allah, not human leaders.
2. The End of Exploitation: Pre-Islamic Arabia’s economy was deeply unjust. The powerful exploited the weak, and tribal loyalties determined justice. Islam’s call for equality, justice, and accountability threatened the elite’s privileges.
3. A New System of Governance: Islam did not propose to be another idol alongside the 360 around the Ka’bah. Instead, it called for a system that would replace idolatry, tribalism, and corruption with justice, unity, and submission to Allah’s law.

“Say: Indeed, my prayer, my sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of the worlds. He has no partner. And this is what I have been commanded, and I am the first of the Muslims.” (Qur'an 6:162-163)

Why Didn’t the Quraysh Tolerate Islam?

It’s important to note that the Quraysh were not intolerant of religion in general. They were comfortable with a marketplace of idols and gods because these systems did not threaten their political dominance. Islam, however, was different.

• It declared that Allah alone is the ultimate authority.
• It called for a society where leaders are accountable to divine law, not personal whims.
• It rejected systems based on tribal superiority, injustice, and exploitation.

In short, the Quraysh saw Islam not as “just another religion” but as a revolution—a complete transformation of society that would challenge their rule and redistribute power based on justice, not lineage or wealth.

Comparison: Modern-Day “Religious Freedom”

Ironically, many modern societies claim to champion religious freedom while suppressing expressions of Islam. For example:

• Muslim women are sometimes forbidden from wearing the hijab.
• Islamic values are often labeled as “backward” or incompatible with modernity.
• Laws are passed to force Muslims to accept ideologies that contradict their faith.

This hypocrisy mirrors the Quraysh’s behavior. Just as they tolerated 360 idols but rejected Islam, many modern systems tolerate religions that do not challenge their authority but resist Islam because of its comprehensive vision for justice and governance.

Modern Times: Why This Lesson Still Matters

Today, understanding Islam as both deen (religion) and dawla (state) is more important than ever. Muslims cannot limit their faith to personal worship while ignoring the injustices around them. Islam demands engagement:

• Rejecting corruption and oppression: Just as the Prophet (peace be upon him) challenged the Quraysh’s unjust systems, Muslims must speak out against modern injustices.
• Promoting justice and accountability: Leaders must serve the people, not exploit them. Islam provides the framework for ethical governance.
• Uniting communities: Islam rejects divisions based on race, tribe, or wealth. This unity is a powerful force for societal reform.

Conclusion: Islam is Not “Just Another Religion”

From its very first days, Islam was a call to transform society—spiritually, socially, and politically. The Quraysh understood this truth, and so must we. Islam is inseparable from politics because it provides a complete system for establishing justice and accountability.

As we continue this series, we will explore more reasons why Islam cannot be separated from politics. This is not about power for its own sake but about fulfilling our duty to create societies where justice prevails, leaders are accountable, and Allah’s guidance shapes every aspect of life.