Siyar

Siyar, also written as siyar or fiqh as-siyar, is a branch of Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) that deals with international relations and the conduct of Muslims toward non-Muslims, as well as the relations between Muslim states and other political communities. It covers matters related to war and peace, treaties, diplomacy, and diplomacy-related restrictions and obligations.

The field traditionally addresses questions about warfare and peace, including rules of combat, treatment of prisoners, protection of civilians, and the terms of truces and alliances. It also covers the status and treatment of non-Muslims living under Muslim rule (ahl al-dhimma), including financial obligations such as jizya, and the governance of treaties, safe conduct, and asylum. A central historical dichotomy within many classical discussions is the distinction between dar al-Islam (the house of Islam) and dar al-harb (the house of war), although later scholars have debated or nuanced this categorization in light of changing political realities.

Siyar draws on primary Islamic sources—principally the Qur’an and the Sunnah—along with secondary methodologies such as ijma (consensus) and qiyas (analogical reasoning). It was developed and elaborated by classical jurists across different Sunni schools and, in varying forms, within Shia jurisprudence. Over time, the field has evolved in response to shifting political contexts, colonialism, and modern international relations.

In contemporary discourse, fiqh as-siyar is often studied in relation to international law, statecraft, and ethics of warfare. Modern interpretations range from reaffirming traditional rulings to reformist approaches that emphasize diplomacy, protection of civilians, and alignment with universal human rights norms.