Understanding the rulings regarding Dua for non-Muslims is essential in today’s interconnected world where Muslims often work closely with colleagues of different faiths. A common question arises regarding the spiritual boundaries of these relationships: Is it permissible to pray for their safety, health, and worldly well-being?
This article explores the Islamic perspective on benevolence toward non-Muslims and the specific rulings regarding supplication.
The Foundation: Kindness and Just Dealing
Islam commands kindness to all people. The Qur’an instructs Muslims to maintain good relations with those who are peaceful and do not exhibit hostility toward the faith.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes – from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (Surah Al-Mumtahanah, 60:8)
This principle is further evidenced by the Sunnah. When Asma’ bint Abi Bakr asked the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) about maintaining ties with her mother, who was a pagan, he commanded her to keep good relations with her.
Therefore, a Muslim should spare no effort to be a good example for non-Muslim colleagues through kindness, morality, and cooperation. This conduct serves as a practical introduction to the beauty of Islam.
The Three Categories of Supplication (Du’a)
Scholars distinguish between different types of prayers for non-Muslims. The ruling depends entirely on what is being asked for.
1. Praying for Guidance (Permissible) Praying for a non-Muslim to be guided to the truth of Islam is entirely permissible and encouraged.
It was narrated from Ibn ‘Umar that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said:
“O Allah! Strengthen Islam with whichever of these two men is more beloved to You: Through Abu Jahl or through ‘Umar bin Al-Khattab.” (Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3681)
In this instance, the Prophet prayed for the guidance of specific individuals who were not Muslim at the time.
2. Praying for Worldly Good and Healing (Permissible) It is permissible to pray for a non-Muslim’s health, safety, or relief from sickness, particularly if it serves a purpose such as softening their heart toward Islam.
This is supported by the practice of the Companions, specifically the Hadith regarding the chief of a tribe who was stung by a scorpion. A Companion recited ruqyah for him, even though the tribe was not Muslim, and he was healed.
3. Praying for Forgiveness (Impermissible) Praying for Allah to grant forgiveness or paradise to a non-Muslim who has died in a state of disbelief is forbidden according to scholarly consensus. Prominent scholars, such as Imam Al-Nawawi, have stated that offering the funeral prayer for a non-Muslim or praying for their forgiveness is prohibited based on the text of the Qur’an and consensus.
Visiting the Sick and Softening Hearts
It is permissible and often recommended to visit a non-Muslim colleague or acquaintance during their sickness. When a person is ill, their heart is often softer and more receptive to the truth.
Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported:
A young Jewish boy used to serve the Prophet (ﷺ) and he became sick. So the Prophet (ﷺ) went to visit him. He sat near his head and asked him to embrace Islam. The boy looked at his father, who was sitting there; the latter told him to obey Abul-Qasim and the boy embraced Islam. The Prophet (ﷺ) came out saying: “Praise be to Allah Who saved him from the Fire.” (Sahih al-Bukhari 1356)
This incident indicates that maintaining social connections, visiting the sick, and wishing them well can be a powerful form of kind treatment and an avenue for inviting others to the path of Allah.
