This thesis deals with (1) the idea of pluralism in the Qur'an---that humanity's diverse communities are to co-exist and co-operate, and that no single group has a monopoly on 'salvation'; and (2) the practice of pluralism in the Prophet's Medina, wherein different religious groups were part of the ummah, 'community of believers'. This thesis will contend that pluralism is central to the Qur'an's vision for society as cooperative and inclusive, as exemplified in such verses as 2:62, 49:13, and 5:48. The Qur'anic doctrine of pluralism---buttressed by the notion of the commonality of humanity---influenced the Prophet's public policy, especially his actions and relations with other communities. This is seen especially in the 'Constitution of Medina', through which the Prophet aimed to establish a unified 'community of believers' (ummah) that included different religious groups, like Muslims and Jews.

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