"Dhimmis" refers to non-Muslims living in an Islamic state who are granted protection and certain rights under Islamic law. Historically, this status was often extended to Jews, Christians, and sometimes Zoroastrians, allowing them to practice their religion in exchange for paying a tax called jizya. While dhimmis enjoyed some legal protections, they were also subject to certain restrictions and social limitations compared to Muslim citizens. The concept of dhimmitude has evolved over time and varies across different cultures and historical contexts, reflecting the complexities of interfaith relations in Islamic societies.