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Conditioned dealing with Christians and Jews

Question

Is it permissible to deal with young men who are Jews or Christians in college for the sake of benefiting from their knowledge in the field of science?

Answer

All perfect praise be to Allaah, the Lord of the worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, is His slave and messenger.

It is permissible for a Muslim to deal with non-Muslims, like Jews or Christians, to benefit from their knowledge in the field of science, provided that the Muslim observes the limits of Sharee‘ah. For example, a person is not permitted to socialize or mingle with them while they commit sins like drinking alcohol and so on. Moreover, it is impermissible for a Muslim (under the pretence of seeking knowledge) to meet their women in seclusion or sit with those who expose their adornment because this is indeed evil and it represents strong temptation.

However, a Muslim is permitted to answer their greetings and to be involved with them in buying and selling, for the Prophet, sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, used to do this. Moreover, it is permissible to benefit from their knowledge in the field of science in college, as mentioned in the question, provided that the person can keep intact the features that distinguish him as a Muslim, and can adhere to the rituals of his own religion.

In addition, a Muslim must fully dissociate himself from their disbelief and falsehood and must fully hate them for their disbelief and deviation. A Muslim must also beware of being deceived or impressed by them and must never allow his heart to bear any kind of love or admiration for them. Allaah Knows best.

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