THE FOLLOWING ARE EXCERPTS FROM SHIITE LAW
(The law in many muslim countries)
The Following are excerpts from Shara'i'u 'I-Islam, in A. Querry, trans., Droit Musulman, Recued des lois concernant les Musulmans Schyites (Collection of Laws concerning the Shiite Muslims) (Paris, 1871), pp.342-52. English translation by Michael J. Miller.
INFIDELS ON WHOM A TRIBUTE MAY BE IMPOSED
167. Some infidels are permitted to retain the privilege of practicing their own religion, in return for a tribute; they are: the Jews, the Christians, and those whose revealed scripture is of doubtful authenticity, that is, the guebres.(fire-worshippers) Any infidel other than those who profess one of the three above-mentioned religions must be compelled to embrace Islam.
168. Every infidel belonging to one of the three categories mentioned in the preceding article, whatever his nationality, Arab or foreigner is permitted to pratice his religion, provided that he abides by the conditions that are prescribed.
169. Every infidel who claims to belong to one of the three categories defined in article 167 is believed on the basic of his statement, without being bound to provide proof of it.
170. If it appears that the infidel has not told the truth, the tready made with him is dissolved by that very fact.
171. The following are exempt from the tribute: infidel minors, madman, women, and old men who have reached an advanced age. The latter point is disputed, but it is based on tradition; the same goes for infidel slaves.
172. Except for the persons mentioned in the preceding article, every infidel belonging to one of the three categories defined in article 167 is subject to the tribute, including monks and sick people.