Religion Vs. Country (In Society)
The question of preference comes from the perspective of Islam when there is an ethical question comes up, i.e. to support your country even if it is in the wrong. This is Asbiyah which is forbidden in Islam. A Muslim is always required to favor morality and ethics even if it goes against his or her own self, their parents, nation, etc. Allah says in the Quran: Believers! Adhere to justice bearing witness to it for God even if this evidence is against yourselves, your parents, and your kinsfolk. If someone is rich or poor, God only is more worthy [that His law be followed]. So, do not be led by desires [by leaving His guidance], lest as a result you swerve from the truth. And [remember that] if you try to distort [what is true and just] or evade [it], you shall definitely be punished for it because God is well aware of what you do. (4: 135) However, to love one’s country, one’s birthplace, its land, and its people is natural.