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7/23/2019 Misquotes Verses
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It is amazing to see how many non-Muslims would blindly post the verses from Quran,
without even reading from ‘appropriate’ and well-know translations. Needless to say they
hardly ever know the context. In this article we will be examining commonly quoted
verses on the topic of violence and refuting them. This article is divided in 2 parts:
1) Refuting commonly quoted verses on the topic of violence
2) Providing accurate picture of Islam
1)Refuting commonly quoted verses on the topic of violence
Quran 9:5
Islam-critics only post 9:5:
“Then, when the sacred months have passed, slay the idolaters wherever ye find them,
and take them (captive), and besiege them, and prepare for them each ambush. But if
they repent and establish worship and pay the poor-due, then leave their way free. Lo!Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.” (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 9:5)
Let’s read the verse in context 9:1-9:5:
Freedom from obligation (is proclaimed) from Allah and His messenger toward those of
the idolaters with whom ye made a treaty. Travel freely in the land four months, and
know that ye cannot escape Allah and that Allah will confound the disbelievers (in His
Guidance). And a proclamation from Allah and His messenger to all men on the day of
the Greater Pilgrimage that Allah is free from obligation to the idolaters, and (so is) His
messenger. So, if ye repent, it will be better for you; but if ye are averse, then know thatye cannot escape Allah. Give tidings (O Muhammad) of a painful doom to those who
disbelieve, Excepting those of the idolaters with whom ye (Muslims) have a treaty, and
who have since abated nothing of your right nor have supported anyone against you.
(As for these), fulfil their treaty to them till their term. Lo! Allah loveth those who keep
their duty (unto Him). Then, when the sacred months have passed, slay the idolaters
wherever ye find them, and take them (captive), and besiege them, and prepare for
them each ambush. But if they repent and establish worship and pay the poor-due, then
leave their way free. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful. (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 9:1-
5)
This verses is always quoted out of context, they never post 9:6 or from 9:1 to 9:6. If we
read from start it states that there was a treaty, which the Pagans of Arab broke. Thus
Allah gave them 4 months as 9:2 states in order to amend the treaty. Verse 9:4 states
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that the punishment prescribed in 9:5 is ONLY to those who broke the treaty and NOT to
those who abided by the treaty. Therefore the context of 9:5 is of war with the pagan
Arabs who broke the treaty yet refused to amend it in 4 months.
Naturally, in war violence is expected. If a war is declared between Country A and
Country B, because country B broke the treaty and refused to amend, then if president
of country A states “wherever you find soldiers of Country B, you kill them and besiege
them”, no one would truly find much wrong in that statement.
Killing in war is nothing peculiar, and there is yet to be a war where soldiers hugged and
kissed each other. In additions, Dr. Zakir Naik writes in his book “Replies to the most
common questions asked by non-muslims“:
“4. Verse 9:5 quoted to boost morale of Muslims during battle
Similarly in Surah Taubah chapter 9 verse 5 the Qur’an says, “Kill the Mushriqs [pagans]where ever you find them”, during a battle to boost the morale of the Muslim soldiers.
What the Qur’an is telling Muslim soldiers is, don’t be afraid during battle; wherever you
find the enemies kill them.”
Islam-critics remain shy of posting the next verse, 9:6, as it contains the answer to their
deception:
“And if anyone of the idolaters seeketh thy protection (O Muhammad), then protect him
so that he may hear the Word of Allah, and afterward convey him to his place of safety.
That is because they are a folk who know not. (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 9:6)Quran does not only say that you release those who seek protection but it goes even
further and states to protect them! In the present international scenario, even a kind,
peace-loving army General, during a battle, may let the enemy soldiers go free, if they
want peace. But which army General will ever tell his soldiers, that if the enemy soldiers
want peace during a battle, don’t just let them go free, but also escort them to a place of
security?
Hence even in war Quran promotes peace.
Quran 2:191
Islam-critics usually apply “cut and choose” approach with regards to this verse. They
only quote: “And slay them wherever ye catch them…” (2:191). However, let us be brave
enough to read the whole passage in context from 2:190-195:
Fight in the cause of God those who fight you, but do not transgress limits; for God loves
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not transgressors. And kill them wherever ye catch them, and turn them out from where
they have turned you out; for persecution and oppression are worse than slaughter; but
fight them not at the Sacred Mosque, unless they (first) fight you there; but if they fight
you, kill them. Such is the reward of those who reject faith. But if they cease, God is Oft-
Forgiving, Most Merciful. And fight them on until there is no more tumult or oppression,
and there prevail justice and faith in God; but if they cease, let there be no hostility
except to those who practice oppression. The prohibited month, for the prohibited
month, and so for all things prohibited, there is the law of equality. If then any one
transgresses the prohibition against you, transgress ye likewise against him. But fear
(the punishment of) God, and know that God is with those who restrain themselves. And
spend of your substance in the cause of Allah, and make not your own hands contribute
to (your) destruction; but do good; for Allah loveth those who do good. (YUSUF ALI,Quran 2:190-195)
The verse clearly states to fight those who fight you, yet do not transgress limits. In so
sense therefore does it promote killing of innocent but allows self-defence. It further
goes on to state “And fight them on until there is no more tumult or oppression, and
there prevail justice” and “if they cease, let there be no hostility except to those who
practice oppression”. Hence, once again when the whole context is examined the
verses does not promote killing of innocent in anyway.
Abdul Majid Daryabadi (Finlay, Greece Under the Romans, pp. 367-368) writes on verse2:190:
“…Violating the truce they themselves had signed. The Muslims, after having borne
untold persecution with almost superhuman fortitude for years and years at the hands of
the pagans of Makkah, are now for the first time enjoined to take to reprisals. ‘For a full
thirteen years the Muslims were subjected to relentless persecution in Mecca. The
Prophet and his followers fled for life to Medina, but the enemy would not leave them
alone in their refuge. They came to attack them within a year, and the first three battles
were fought in the very locality which will whether the Prophet was an assailant or
defendant’ (Headley, The Original Church of Jesus Christ and Islam, p. 155). The
Makkans had signed a truce and were the first to break it…”
Once again when the whole context is examined the verses does not promote killing of
innocents, whether muslims or non-muslims in anyway, but only self-defence.
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Quran 4:89
Verse says:
But if they turn away, catch them and slaughter them wherever ye find them; and (in any
case) take no friends or helpers from their ranks.” (4:89)
Once again the context is ignored, they don’t quote previous and next verses.
They but wish that ye should reject Faith, as they do, and thus be on the same footing
(as they): But take not friends from their ranks until they flee in the way of Allah (From
what is forbidden). But if they turn renegades, seize them and slay them wherever ye
find them; and (in any case) take no friends or helpers from their ranks;- Except those
who join a group between whom and you there is a treaty (of peace), or those who
approach you with hearts restraining them from fighting you as well as fighting their own
people. If Allah had pleased, He could have given them power over you, and they wouldhave fought you: Therefore if they withdraw from you but fight you not, and (instead)
send you (Guarantees of) peace, then Allah Hath opened no way for you (to war against
them). Others you will find that wish to gain your confidence as well as that of their
people: Every time they are sent back to temptation, they succumb thereto: if they
withdraw not from you nor give you (guarantees) of peace besides restraining their
hands, seize them and slay them wherever ye get them: In their case We have provided
you with a clear argument against them. (YUSUF ALI Translation, Quran 4:89-91)
When we read it in context, verse 4:89 is NOT to those “who join a group betweenwhom and you there is a treaty (of peace), or those who approach you with hearts
restraining them from fighting you as well as fighting their own people.” This verse is
only referring to those “withdraw not from you nor give you (guarantees) of peace
besides restraining their hands”.
Dr. Muzammil H. Siddiqi says with regards to this verse:
“Now tell me honestly, do these verses give a free permission to kill any one anywhere?
These verses were revealed by God to Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be
upon him), at the time when Muslims were attacked by the non-Muslims of Makkah on a
regular basis. They were frightening the Muslim community of Madinah. One may say
using the contemporary jargon that there were constant terrorist attacks on Madinah
and in this situation Muslims were given permission to fight back the “terrorist”. These
verses are not a permission for “terrorism” but they are a warning against the “terrorists.”
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But even in these warnings you can see how much restraint and care is emphasized.”
Therefore, it is clear that the verse only allows self-defence against those who “withdraw
not from you nor give you (guarantees) of peace besides restraining their hands”.
Naturally, it would be necessary for the enemies to withdraw and make peace in order to
achieve peace. Verse is not referring to “those who join a group between whom and you
there is a treaty (of peace), or those who approach you with hearts restraining them
from fighting you as well as fighting their own people”.
In “…withdraw not from you nor give you (guarantees) of peace besides restraining their
hands”, it is obviously necessary to give guarantees of peace or form a treaty in addition
to stop fighting. Otherwise, anyone can pretend to be “restraining their hands” when they
are weak, and when they are strong again they come back and attack again. Thus to
make it official Quran says to give you (guarantees) of peace, and not act as two-faced.Quran 4:95
We have already discussed 4:89, now lets look at 4:95. Common translation amongst
the critics of this verse (poorly translated) is:
Qur’an 4:95 Not equal are those believers who sit at home and receive no injurious hurt,
and those who strive hard, fighting Jihad in God’s Cause with their wealth and lives.
God has granted a rank higher to those who strive hard, fighting Jihad with their wealth
and bodies to those who sit (at home). Unto each has God promised good, but He
prefers Jihadists who strive hard and fight above those who sit home. He hasdistinguished his fighters with a huge reward.
Now let’s examine this verse in the light of another common translation:
O ye who believe! When ye go forth (to fight) in the way of Allah, be careful to
discriminate, and say not unto one who offereth you peace: “Thou art not a believer,”
seeking the chance profits of this life (so that ye may despoil him). With Allah are
plenteous spoils. Even thus (as he now is) were ye before; but Allah hath since then
been gracious unto you. Therefore take care to discriminate. Allah is ever Informed of
what ye do. Those of the believers who sit still, other than those who have a (disabling)
hurt, are not on an equality with those who strive in the way of Allah with their wealth
and lives. Allah hath conferred on those who strive with their wealth and lives a rank
above the sedentary. Unto each Allah hath promised good, but He hath bestowed on
those who strive a great reward above the sedentary; (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran
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4:94-95)
The verse is stating those who strive in the path of God with lives and wealth are not
equal to those who do not, which is logical. Accurate translations make no mention of
“Jihadists” and killing as poor translations indicate. Once again, critics take advantage of
inaccurate translations. Also 4:94 prevents killing of innocents as it says “…be careful to
discriminate, and say not unto one who offereth you peace: “Thou art not a believer,”
seeking the chance profits of this life…”
Quran 47:4
If read with good translation and historical context in mind, no significant complaint can
be found about 47:4. However, some non-muslims insist on using a very poor translation
of Quran with additions. One such translation reads:
Qur’an 47:4 So, when you clash with the unbelieving Infidels in battle, smite their necksuntil you overpower them, killing and wounding many of them. At length, when you have
thoroughly subdued them, bind them firmly, making (them) captives. Thereafter either
generosity or ransom until the war lays down its burdens. Thus are you commanded by
God to continue carrying out Jihad against the unbelieving infidels until they submit to
Islam .
However, almost all of the major translations are contrary to the above translation. Yusuf
Ali’s translation reads:
Therefore, when ye meet the Unbelievers (in fight), smite at their necks; At length, whenye have thoroughly subdued them, bind a bond firmly (on them): thereafter (is the time
for) either generosity or ransom: Until the war lays down its burdens. Thus (are ye
commanded): but if it had been Allah’s Will, He could certainly have exacted retribution
from them (Himself); but (He lets you fight) in order to test you, some with others. But
those who are slain in the Way of Allah,- He will never let their deeds be lost. (Yusuf Ali
Translation, Quran 47:4)
Further translations can be checked out here. Nowhere does the accurate translations
make any mention of 1)”killing and wounding” 2) “Thus are you commanded by God to
continue carrying out Jihad against the unbelieving infidels until they submit to Islam”,
those are additions of the translator’s and are not to be found in Quran.
According to Professor Shahul Hameed
(http://www.islamonline.net/askaboutislam/display.asp…), historical context of this verse
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is Battle of Badr. He writes:
“The context of this verse was when the Muslims were to fight their enemies for their
very existence. After thirteen years of endurance and patience, the prophet and his
companions had to leave their home town of Makkah and to emigrate to Madinah. When
the people of Madinah had welcomed him there and he was accepted as a leader there,
the Makkans became unhappy. They wanted to eliminate Muhammad and his religion;
and so they sent their army to root out Islam. And the crucial battle took place in Badr.”
Once again, the context is of war here and therefore killing of innocent people is not
prescribed. Naturally, in war people would be expected to fight and kill, therefore “smite
at their necks” is only natural.
Quran 33:23
Another poor translation of this verse commonly seen reads:Qur’an 33:23 Among the Believers are men who have been true to their covenant with
God and have gone out for Jihad (holy fighting ). Some have completed their vow to
extreme and have been martyred fighting and dying in His Cause, and some are
waiting, prepared for death in battle.
More accurate and common translation reads:
Among the Believers are men who have been true to their covenant with Allah: of them
some have completed their vow (to the extreme), and some (still) wait: but they have
never changed (their determination) in the least: (YUSUF ALI Translation, Quran 33.23)Critics have included “fighting and dying”, “prepared for death in battle” and their own
interpretation to the verse. Ibn Kathir writes:
“When Allah mentions how the hypocrites broke their promise to Him that they would not
turn their backs, He describes the believers as firmly adhering to their covenant and
their promise:
([they] have been true to their covenant with Allah; of them some have fulfilled their
Nahbah;) Some of [the Qur’anic commentators] said: “Met their appointed time (i.e.,
death).” Al-Bukhari said, “Their covenant, and refers back to the beginning of the Ayah.
(and some of them are still waiting, but they have never changed in the least.) means,
they have never changed or broken their covenant with Allah. (Tafsir Ibn Kathir)”
It is clear, when read in proper translation, that the verse does not promote killing of
innocents at all.
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Quran 2:217-218
Verse states:
They ask thee concerning fighting in the Prohibited Month. Say: “Fighting therein is a
grave (offence); but graver is it in the sight of Allah to prevent access to the path of
Allah, to deny Him, to prevent access to the Sacred Mosque, and drive out its
members.” Tumult and oppression are worse than slaughter. Nor will they cease fighting
you until they turn you back from your faith if they can. And if any of you Turn back from
their faith and die in unbelief, their works will bear no fruit in this life and in the Hereafter;
they will be companions of the Fire and will abide therein. Those who believed and
those who suffered exile and fought (and strove and struggled) in the path of Allah,- they
have the hope of the Mercy of Allah: And Allah is Oft-forgiving, Most Merciful. (YUSUF
ALI Translation, Quran 2:217-218)The context of these verses refers to an expedition of a group of the companions of
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), under the lead of Abdullah bin Jahsh Asadi.
The companions recognized a caravan from the Quraysh. Since the Quraysh had
openly declared war on the Muslims and had persecuted them to the extent that they
drove them out of their homes, and stole their property, the companions present, felt that
they could retaliate. They killed one man of from the caravan, and took two as prisoners.
When they returned to Madinah, the Prophet Muhammad disapproved of their attack
during the Holy Month. But God revealed this verse as a reminder to the Muslims thatwhile killing in the Holy Month was bad, persecution and expelling people from their
homes because of their faith is far worse. So the verses make it very clear that in the
face of the terrorist attacks of the polytheists, the Muslims should be brave and steadfast
and turn to God for help rather than giving in and leaving the truth.
Shaykh Safiur Rahman Al-Mubarakpuri (Al-Mubarakpuri, Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum;
Riyadh-Saudi Arabia, Dar-us-Salam Publications, 1996; pp. 205-206)writes on verse
2:217:
The Words of Allah were quite clear and said that the tumult created by the polytheists
was groundless. The sacred inviolable sanctities repeatedly violated in the long process
of fighting Islam and persecuting its adherents. The wealth of the Muslims as well as
their homes had already been violated and their Prophet s.a.w.s. had been the target of
repeated attempts on his life…Shortly afterwards, the two captives were released and
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blood money (compensation) was given to the killed man’s father. (fn. For details see
Zad Al-Ma’ad, 2/83-85; Ibn Hisham, 1/605; Rahmat-ul-lil’alameen, 1/115. 2/468.) (Al-
Mubarakpuri, Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum; Riyadh-Saudi Arabia, Dar-us-Salam Publications,
1996; pp. 205-206, emphasis added)
Quran 2:244
2:244 Fight in God’s Cause, and know that God hears and knows all. (PICKTHAL
Translation, Quran 2:244)
Verse 2:244 is informing us not to transgress limits and Allah “hears and knows all”, also
fight in God’s cause which could be in reference to several things including liberation of
the oppressed, meaning the helpless men and women who are yearning and praying for
freedom as well as striving for all that which is good as well as doing Dawah in an
appropriate manner. This does NOT refer to fighting and killing innocents. As Quransays:
Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress limits; for Allah
loveth not transgressors. (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 2:190)
Quran 4:76
Those who believe do battle for the cause of Allah; and those who disbelieve do battle
for the cause of idols. So fight the minions of the devil. Lo! the devil’s strategy is ever
weak. (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 4:76)
Now, let’s read the verse in textual context:Let those fight in the way of Allah who sell the life of this world for the other. Whoso
fighteth in the way of Allah, be he slain or be he victorious, on him We shall bestow a
vast reward. How should ye not fight for the cause of Allah and (for the cause) of the
feeble among men and of the women and the children who are crying: Our Lord! Bring
us forth from out this town of which the people are oppressors! Oh, give us from thy
presence some protecting friend! Oh, give us from Thy presence some defender! Those
who believe do battle for the cause of Allah; and those who disbelieve do battle for the
cause of idols. So fight the minions of the devil. Lo! the devil’s strategy is ever weak.
(PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 4:74-76)
Verse 4:76 is specific to those who have been oppressed. In order to help those who
cannot help themselves is indeed a great deed and to shun away tyranny and help
those who are weak and oppressed. Islam-critics seek to present a view of violence and
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hate on behalf of Quran, however, when the verse is examined carefully in a correct
context, their deceit is clearly exposed.
Dr. Maher Hathout (Hathout, Jihad vs. Terrorism; US Multimedia Vera International,
2002, p.50) comments on verse 4:76 by saying:
This verse is related to the two preceding verses (see 4:74-75) where it was stated that
those who fight for God’s cause would be rewarded whether they are victorious or slain.
Fighting for God’s cause includes the liberation of the oppressed, meaning the helpless
men and women who are yearning and praying for freedom. The believers fight for
God’s cause, and the disbelievers fight for the sake of their idols. An idol may be taken
conceptually. For example, evil or greed may figuratively be construed as idols. The
believers should put all their trust in God the Almighty and Powerful and fear not the
disbelievers and their evil plans. Evil plans are always inferior to goodness. (Hathout,Jihad vs. Terrorism; US Multimedia Vera International, 2002, p.50)
Quran 5:33
Verse states:
The punishment of those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger, and strive
with might and main for mischief through the land is: execution, or crucifixion, or the
cutting off of hands and feet from opposite sides, or exile from the land: that is their
disgrace in this world, and a heavy punishment is theirs in the Hereafter (YUSUF ALI
Translation, Quran 5:33)The verses before and after 5:33 are not usually quoted, as 5:32 prohibits murder and
5:34 encourages forgiveness.
On that account: We ordained for the Children of Israel that if any one slew a person –
unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land – it would be as if he slew
the whole people: and if any one saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the
whole people. Then although there came to them Our messengers with clear signs, yet,
even after that, many of them continued to commit excesses in the land. The
punishment of those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger, and strive with
might and main for mischief through the land is: execution, or crucifixion, or the cutting
off of hands and feet from opposite sides, or exile from the land: that is their disgrace in
this world, and a heavy punishment is theirs in the Hereafter; Except for those who
repent before they fall into your power: in that case, know that Allah is Oft-forgiving,
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Most Merciful. (YUSUF ALI Translation, Quran 5:32-34)
The verse mentions “The punishment of those who wage war against Allah and His
Messenger, and strive with might and main for mischief through the land ” is either
execution, OR crucifixion, OR the cutting off of hands and feet from opposite sides, OR
exile from the land. This is the punishment for waging war against the Prophet of God
and spreading corruption. Four kinds of punishment are mentioned based upon the
gravity of the crime. As Muhammad F. Malik writes in his translation of this verse:
The punishment for those who wage war against Allah and His Rasool and strive to
create mischief in the land is death or crucifixion or the cutting off their hands and feet
from opposite sides or exile from the land (based on the gravity of their offence)…
(Malik, Al-Qur’an: Guidance for Mankind)
Therefore stealing may not result in execution but cutting of hand. Similarly, killing aninnocent person may not result in exile from the land but execution. Verses 5:32 and
5:34 must also be taken in consideration, which condemns killing of innocent and takes
into account repentance.
Quran 9:29
Fight those who believe not in Allah nor the Last Day, nor hold that forbidden which hath
been forbidden by Allah and His Messenger, nor acknowledge the religion of Truth,
(even if they are) of the People of the Book, until they pay the Jizya with willing
submission, and feel themselves subdued. (YUSUF ALI Translation, Quran 9:29)This verse is referring to the Islamic Concept called “Jizya”, which Shaikh Sayed Sabiq
in the Fiqh Alsunna (a commonly used source of fiqh[rulings (Fatwa) of Muslim Islamic
jurists]), describes as “the underlying root of the word jizya is jaza, and defines it as “A
sum of money to be put on anyone who enters the themah (protection and the treaty of
the Muslims) from the people of the book“.
It is usually portrayed by certain critics that jizya is a mechanism for discriminating non-
muslims in an Islamic-society. This is a common misconception; jizya is a political
method dealing with finance.
One of the main pillars of Islam is called Zakat (Muslims whose wealth is above a
certain limit must pay a percentage of it (in most cases 2.5%) to the poor and needy).
Islam does not “force” upon non-muslims to follow one of it’s main pillar. This certainly
quietens some critics who would otherwise be accusing Islam of imposing itself on
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them. Just like in a non-muslim society muslims pay tax, likewise non-muslims are
obliged to pay certain percentage of their money to the Islamic State. It is quite
hypocritical of non-muslims to criticize Jizya, whilst, in non-muslims countries muslims
have to pay tax. If tax is justified then so should jizya be.
Regarding the amount of jizya Shaykh Abu’l-Hasan Al-Mawardi (d. 1058CE) writes in his
book Al-Mawardi, al-Ahkam as-Sultaniyyah, Ta-Ha Publishers Ltd. 1996, pp. 209-210:
“The fuqaha (Jurists) differ as to the amount of the Jizya. Abu Hanifa considers that
those subject to this tax are of three kinds: the rich from whom forty-eight dirhams are
taken; those of average means from whom twenty four are taken, and the poor from
whom twelve dirhams are taken: he thus stipulated the minimum and maximum
amounts and prohibits any further judgement on behalf of those responsible for its
collection. Malik, however, does not fix its minimum and maximum amount andconsiders that those responsible should make their own judgement as to the minimum
and maximum. Ash-Shafi’i considers that the minimum is a dinar, and that it is not
permitted to go below this while he does not stipulate the maximum, the latter being
dependant on the ijtihad (judgement) of those responsible: the Imam, however, should
try to harmonise between the different amounts, or to exact an amount in accordance
with people’s means.”
In conclusion, this verse refers to a non-muslim who doesn’t pay poll-tax in Islamic State
and thus does not contribute to the financial needs of the territory. It is generally agreedby the four major Jurists that jizya money is based upon one’s income. We ought also
not forget that muslims are also obliged to pay Zakat.
Some critics try to pose the conception that the verse ought to be translated as “Kill
those who believe…” instead of “Fight those who believe…” They claim since the verse
uses the arabic word Qateloo, which comes from the root word Qaatil. However, there is
derivitive field in arabic, when prefix and suffix are added, it determines the defination of
verse in context. If it meant to say kill, verse would have said uqtulo or Uqtul.
According to the Ectaco English-Arabic Online Dictionary, in arabic words for “Fight” are:
N , , , , , , , , ك , م ل ا ض ن ح ا ف ش و ا م ر ع ى غ و ر ص ك ي ة ا ب م ا ج ش م و ا ق م ,
V , ,, , , , , , وا! ر" م $ % ا # نا )' ) ا * اب+ '+ اق+ '+ ا! , ا- [Source ]
Note: As the dictionary testifies one of the word for Fight is Qaatil (in a verb).
Furthermore, in english, word Qaatil is translated thus:
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A DEADLY, LETHAL, VITAL, MURDERED, MURDEROUS,
N KILLER, MANSLAYER, MURDERER, ASSASSIN,
V BATTLE, COMBAT, ENGAGE, FIGHT, WAR [ Source ]
So Fight indeed is a correct translation, in a context of a VERB. Also the jizya is only
upon livings, dead people cannot pay money. Therefore “kill until they pay jizya” would
also have logical contradictions, as killing would cause jizya to be abolished.
Quran 8:12-13 and 8:17
Anti-Islam websites quote this verse as:
“I will instill terror into the hearts of the unbelievers. Smite ye above their necks and
smite all their finger tips off them. This because they contend against God and his
apostle…”
Let’s read verses from 8:12-16:When thy Lord inspired the angels, (saying): I am with you. So make those who believe
stand firm. I will throw fear into the hearts of those who disbelieve. Then smite the necks
and smite of them each finger. That is because they opposed Allah and His messenger.
Whoso opposeth Allah and His messenger, (for him) lo! Allah is severe in punishment.
That (is the award), so taste it, and (know) that for disbelievers is the torment of the Fire.
O ye who believe! When ye meet those who disbelieve in battle, turn not your backs to
them. Whoso on that day turneth his back to them, unless manoeuvring for battle or
intent to join a company, he truly hath incurred wrath from Allah, and his habitation willbe hell, a hapless journey’s end. (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 8:12-16)
Hence when read in its textual context the verse is referring to smiting in the time of
BATTLE. Now let’s read 8:17 which is presented in absence of 8:14-16:
Ye (Muslims) slew them not, but Allah slew them. And thou (Muhammad) threwest not
when thou didst throw, but Allah threw, that He might test the believers by a fair test from
Him. Lo! Allah is Hearer, Knower. (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 8:12-16)
Verses 8:12-17 are in the context of Battle Of Badr. Ansar Al-’Adl ( Source ) comments
on 8:12-13:
“The historical context is that this verse was revealed at the Battle of Badr, a battle in
which the pagans of Makkah traveled over 200 miles to destroy the Muslims of Madinah.
The Pagans of Makkah had an army of about 1000 while the Muslims were only 300
followers. The Prophet Muhammad ((peace be upon him)) and his followers had
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suffered severe persecutions and torture for 13 years in the city of Makkah. Having fled
from Makkah to the safety of Madinah, they found that they were once again
threatened.”
Al-Mubarakpuri, Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum; Riyadh-Saudi Arabia, Dar-us-Salam
Publications, 1996; pp. 219-220, says:
“When the fierce engagement grew too hot he (Prophet Muhammed) again began to
supplicate his Lord saying: “O Allâh! Should this group (of Muslims) be defeated today,
You will no longer be worshipped.”…. Immediate was the response from Allâh, Who
sent down angels from the heavens for the help and assistance of the Prophet (Peace
be upon him) and his companions. The Noble Qur’ân observes:
And recall when your Lord inspired the angels: “Verily, I am with you, so keep firm those
who have believed. I will cast terror into the hearts of those who have disbelieved.”[8:12]”
Furthermore, 8:19 says:
(O Qureysh!) If ye sought a judgment, now hath the judgment come unto you. And if ye
cease (from persecuting the believers) it will be better for you, but if ye return (to the
attack) We also shall return. And your host will avail you naught, however numerous it
be, and (know) that Allah is with the believers (in His Guidance). (PICKTHAL
Translation, Quran 8:19)
It is obvious from historical and textual context therefore that the verse in no sensepromote killing of innocents. Verse 8:19 reaches out a hand of peace towards the
Qureysh despite their aggression.
Quran 5:51
Translation of PICKTHAL is usually quoted:
O ye who believe! Take not the Jews and the Christians for friends. They are friends one
to another. He among you who taketh them for friends is (one) of them. Lo! Allah guideth
not wrongdoing folk. (PICKTHAL Translation Quran 5:51)
The arabic word Awliya used in 5:51 is mistranslated by PICKTHAL and other major
translators. More accurate translation of the word Awliya would be “Protector” , “allies” or
“intimate friends”. Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi says [ Source ]
“In the verse you quoted, the word “Awliya” is used. It is a plural and its singular is “wali”.
The correct translation of the word “”wali”” is not “friend” but it is someone who is very
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close and intimate. It is also used to mean “guardian, protector, patron, lord and master.”
In addition, according to Ectaco Online Dictionary, root word of Awliya (Al-wali . )
means:
N PROTECTOR
Whilst according to the same dictionary words for friends in arabic are:
N , , , , ,/0 ر 12345 ع ا م 1 6 عض . ي ب - ا7 ن 07ر * /0 م 0' ,ص 28/
V ,*9 :; صا
[ Source ]
Al-Wali and awliya are NOT mentioned in the above list of friends.
However, according to the same dictionary, an Arabic word for protector is
. (the
wali):
N , , , , ,<
ر
" ى
= ع صي
.
>?
@ 1 م
2 ا
!.= ة
;A
0!
. ر
07 ي
.
B
8 ي م ا
C
[ Source ]
Allah says that Allah alone is the Auliya (in a sense of a protector):
The likeness of those who take Auliyâ’ (protectors and helpers) other than Allâh is as
the likeness of a spider, who builds (for itself) a house, but verily, the frailest (weakest) of
houses is the spider’s house; if they but knew. (Al-’Ankabut 29:41)
Or have they taken (for worship) Auliyâ’ (guardians, supporters, helpers, protectors, etc.)
besides Him? But Allâh, He Alone is the Walî (Protector, etc.). And it is He Who gives
life to the dead, and He is Able to do all things. (Ash-Shura 42:9)The word Auliya is also used as a substitiotion for God/Lord:
Say (O Muhammad SAW): “Who is the Lord of the heavens and the earth?” Say: “(It is)
Allâh.” Say: “Have you then taken (for worship) Auliyâ’ (protectors, etc.) other than Him,
such as have no power either for benefit or for harm to themselves?” Say: “Is the blind
equal to the one who sees? Or darkness equal to light? Or do they assign to Allâh
partners who created the like of His creation, so that the creation (which they made and
His creation) seemed alike to them.” Say: “Allâh is the Creator of all things, He is the
One, the Irresistible.” (Ra’d 13:16)
Do then those who disbelieve think that they can take My slaves [i.e., the angels, Allâh’s
Messengers, ‘Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), etc.] as Auliyâ’ (lords, gods,
protectors, etc.) besides Me? Verily, We have prepared Hell as an entertainment for the
disbelievers (in the Oneness of Allâh Islâmic Monotheism). (Al-Kahf 18:102)
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Verily, they can avail you nothing against Allâh (if He wants to punish you). Verily, the
Zâlimûn (polytheists, wrong-doers, etc.) are Auliyâ’ (protectors, helpers, etc.) to one
another, but Allâh is the Walî (Helper, Protector, etc.) of the Muttaqûn (pious – see
V.2:2). (Al-Jathiyah 45:19)
Or have they taken (for worship) Auliyâ’ (guardians, supporters, helpers, protectors, etc.)
besides Him? But Allâh, He Alone is the Walî (Protector, etc.). And it is He Who gives
life to the dead, and He is Able to do all things. (Ash-Shura 42:9)
Surely, the religion (i.e. the worship and the obedience) is for Allâh only. And those who
take Auliyâ’ (protectors and helpers) besides Him (say): “We worship them only that they
may bring us near to Allâh.” Verily, Allâh will judge between them concerning that
wherein they differ. Truly, Allâh guides not him who is a liar, and a disbeliever. (Az-Zumar
39:3)Quran 9:111
Verses 9:111-112 states:
Allah hath purchased of the believers their persons and their goods; for theirs (in return)
is the garden (of Paradise): they fight in His cause, and slay and are slain: a promise
binding on Him in truth, through the Law, the Gospel, and the Qur’an: and who is more
faithful to his covenant than Allah? then rejoice in the bargain which ye have concluded:
that is the achievement supreme. Those that turn (to Allah) in repentance; that serve
Him, and praise Him; that wander in devotion to the cause of Allah,: that bow down andprostrate themselves in prayer; that enjoin good and forbid evil; and observe the limit set
by Allah;- (These do rejoice). So proclaim the glad tidings to the Believers. (YUSUF ALI
Translation, Quran 9:111-112)
As we read in Quran limits set by Allah are: “Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight
you, but do not transgress limits; for Allah loveth not transgressors.” (Yusuf Ali
Translation, Quran 2:190).
Thus in the light of 2:190 it can be easily understood that the verse teaches self-defense
in a form of a physical jihad (striving in the path of Allah). Let us also remember the rest
of context of Chapter 9, which we have discussed before in 9:5 and 9:29.
Part 2: Providing accurate picture of Islam
Quran preaches peace
Unsurprisingly, Islam-critic shy away from posting verses of the Quran, which preaches
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peace. By bombarding verses out of their context or using dubious translations they
seek to give the impression that a book such as Quran leaves no place for peace.
Can Muslim and non-Muslim co-exist?
One of the common misconception is that Quran teaches that either non-muslim must
be forced to become Muslim or they must be put to death. They justify themselves by
misquoting verses, most of which we have discussed in this article. Now, let’s examine
what Quran really says, does Quran allow non-Muslim to keep their religion? One whole
chapter is dedicated in Quran to this topic called Surah Kafiroon (Chapter THE
DISBELIEVERS):
Say: O disbelievers! I worship not that which ye worship; Nor worship ye that which I
worship. And I shall not worship that which ye worship. Nor will ye worship that which I
worship. Unto you your religion, and unto me my religion. (PICKTHAL Translation,Quran 109:1-6)
The chapter gives crystal-clear evidence of “let and let live”. Quran states “Unto you
your religion, and unto me my religion”. Thus no enforcement of religion by sword or
otherwise is suggested in Islam. Furthermore, Quran says that there is no compulsion in
religion; non-Muslims do not have to become Muslims against their wishes:
There is no compulsion in religion. The right direction is henceforth distinct from error.
And he who rejecteth false deities and believeth in Allah hath grasped a firm handhold
which will never break. Allah is Hearer, Knower. (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 2:256)Does Quran not say kill (innocent) non-believers?
Murder is a grave sin in Islam, Quran says in 5:32:
For that cause We decreed for the Children of Israel that whosoever killeth a human
being for other than manslaughter or corruption in the earth, it shall be as if he had killed
all mankind, and whoso saveth the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all
mankind. Our messengers came unto them of old with clear proofs (of Allah’s
Sovereignty), but afterwards lo! many of them became prodigals in the earth.
(PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 5:32)
As Quran points out killing an innocent being is like killing an entire humanity, which
naturally leaves no place for killing innocents. It must be pointed out that Quran states
“…whosoever killeth a human being…”, thus referring to a human being and not simply
restricted to Muslims.
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Quran also says:
And slay not the life which Allah hath forbidden save with right. Whoso is slain
wrongfully, We have given power unto his heir, but let him not commit excess in slaying.
Lo! he will be helped. (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 17:33)
Quran emphasizes not to slay unjustly!
Does Quran not states to hate non-Muslims and treat them unjustly?
This is another common misconception, Quran itself describes how ought a Muslim to a
treat non-Muslims:
Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for (your) Faith nor drive you
out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loveth those who
are just. (PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 60:8)
Quran states to deal KINDLY and JUSTLY with those who don’t fight us. It does not onlyorder Muslims “not to live and let live” but to even go a step further in living peacefully
and deal with them kindly and justly.
Another verse says:
O ye who believe! Be steadfast witnesses for Allah in equity, and let not hatred of any
people seduce you that ye deal not justly. Deal justly, that is nearer to your duty.
Observe your duty to Allah. Lo! Allah is Informed of what ye do. Allah hath promised
those who believe and do good works: Theirs will be forgiveness and immense reward.
(PICKTHAL Translation, Quran 5:8-9)Allah emphasizes not to let hatred of people prevent them from upholding justice.
Does Quran not say to wage war with non-Muslims for any reason possible?
Quran states:
To those against whom war is made, permission is given (to fight), because they are
wronged;- and verily, Allah is most powerful for their aid;- (They are) those who have
been expelled from their homes in defiance of right,- (for no cause) except that they say,
“our Lord is Allah”. Did not Allah check one set of people by means of another, there
would surely have been pulled down monasteries, churches, synagogues, and
mosques, in which the name of Allah is commemorated in abundant measure. Allah will
certainly aid those who aid his (cause);- for verily Allah is full of Strength, Exalted in
Might, (able to enforce His Will). (YUSUF ALI Translation, Quran 22:39-40)
There are reasons for which permission of war is given is mentioned in the verse as
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those have been wronged and “expelled from their homes in defiance of right” because
they are Muslim. Quran also calls upon its followers not to transgress limits:
Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress limits; for Allah
loveth not transgressors. (YUSUF ALI Translation, Quran 2:190)
We Conclude with the following verse of the Quran:
How should ye not fight for the cause of Allah and (for the cause) of the feeble among
men and of the women and the children who are crying: Our Lord! Bring us forth from
out this town of which the people are oppressors! Oh, give us from thy presence some
protecting friend! Oh, give us from Thy presence some defender! [4:75]
And Allah knows best..