The Quran uses the term in reference to Jews, Christians and Sabians in a variety of contexts, from religious polemics to passages emphasizing the community of faith between those who possess monotheistic scriptures. The term was later extended to other religious communities that fell under Muslim rule, including Sikhs and even Hindus. Historically, these communities were subject to the dhimma contract in an Islamic state. The Quran speaks respectfully about the People of the Book and permits marriage between Muslim men and women who are People of the Book (Jews and Christians); in the case of a Muslim-Christian marriage, which is to be contracted only after permission from the Christian party, the Christian spouse should not be prevented from attending church for prayer and worship, according to the Ashtiname of Muhammad.