Dhimma

Dhimma is an Islamic legal term referring to a protected status granted to non-Muslims living in an Islamic state. It allows adherents of other religions—like Christians, Jews, and others—to practice their faith, manage their own religious affairs, and enjoy certain legal protections in exchange for paying a poll tax called jizya. This system historically fostered coexistence by recognizing diverse religious communities within Islamic territory, maintaining social order, and granting non-Muslims specific rights while subjecting them to certain limitations. Dhimma reflects a historical approach to religious diversity, emphasizing coexistence and mutual responsibility under Islamic governance.