Q2. The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah is a masterpiece of the foreign politics of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Argue this statement with a scholarly approach.

The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, signed between the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the Meccans in 628 AD, is considered a masterpiece of the foreign politics of the Prophet for several reasons. Here are some of the reasons why this treaty is considered a masterpiece of foreign politics in Islamic history:

1. Diplomatic skills: The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah demonstrates the Prophet’s exceptional diplomatic skills. He was able to negotiate a treaty with a powerful adversary, the Meccans, which allowed the Muslims to make a pilgrimage to Mecca and laid the foundation for future peaceful relations.
2. Flexibility: The treaty was a demonstration of the Prophet’s flexibility and willingness to compromise. He agreed to a temporary cessation of hostilities and the postponement of a full-scale conflict, which allowed the Muslims to gain strength and build alliances.
3. Long-term vision: The treaty was not only a short-term solution but also had a long-term vision. The Prophet was able to use the treaty to strengthen the position of the Muslims and lay the foundation for future conquests and expansion of the Muslim state.
4. Strategic wisdom: The Prophet demonstrated strategic wisdom in the treaty by accepting certain terms that were unfavorable in the short-term but advantageous in the long-term. For example, the treaty required the Muslims to return any Meccan who sought refuge in Medina, but the Prophet knew that this would encourage many Meccans to embrace Islam and join the Muslim community.
5. Peaceful coexistence: The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah established the principle of peaceful coexistence between the Muslims and the Meccans, setting a precedent for future relationships with other non-Muslim communities.

In conclusion, the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah is considered a masterpiece of the foreign politics of the Prophet due to his exceptional diplomatic skills, flexibility, long-term vision, strategic wisdom, and establishment of the principle of peaceful coexistence. These traits are considered exemplary by many Muslims and have been studied and admired throughout Islamic history.