Quran and Violence

The Quran incites violence and hatred towards others - true or false?

The Quran is often quoted as inciting violence and acts of terror. The table below lists 17 most frequently quoted 'violent' verses, and a summary of the background and context.

1 \| Quran 8:12
[Remember] when your Lord inspired to the angels, "I am with you, so strengthen those who have believed. I will cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieved, so strike [them] upon the necks and strike from them every fingertip QURAN 8:12 Explanation This verse was revealed about the Battle of Badr, which occurred in Arabia in the early seventh century. A battle in which the pagans of Makkah traveled more than 200 miles to Madinah with a 1000-strong army to destroy Muslims. Muhammad and his companions had suffered persecutions and torture for 13 years in the city of Makkah. They fled Makkah to Madinah, where once again they were under threat. At the time, the Muslim army was 300-strong. God revealed this verse telling Muslims to fight back and defend themselves and their faith. It was a war imposed upon Muslims
2 \| Quran 2:216-218
Fighting ("Qital") has been enjoined upon you while it is hateful to you. But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah Knows, while you know not. They ask you about the sacred month - about fighting therein. Say, "Fighting therein is great [sin], but averting [people] from the way of Allah and disbelief in Him and [preventing access to] al-Masjid al-Haram and the expulsion of its people therefrom are greater [evil] in the sight of Allah . And fitnah is greater than killing." And they will continue to fight you until they turn you back from your religion if they are able. And whoever of you reverts from his religion [to disbelief] and dies while he is a disbeliever - for those, their deeds have become worthless in this world and the Hereafter, and those are the companions of the Fire, they will abide therein eternally. Indeed, those who have believed and those who have emigrated and fought in the cause of Allah - those expect the mercy of Allah . And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. QURAN 2:216-218 Explanation The word "Qital" refers to physical combat in war. Combat is ordained for Muslims in order to defend themselves and their rights, as well as the rights of others. In light of the above quote, it becomes apparent that fighting has been especially ordained in conditions of severe persecution and hardship. Consequently, the Muslims are required to defend themselves from oppression and establish justice. To abstain from helping those under oppression is cowardice. Muslims understand this verse as the legal right to defend one's rights from the forces of oppression, and never to transgress limits in defence.
3 \| Quran 4:75
And what is [the matter] with you that you fight not in the cause of Allah and [for] the oppressed among men, women, and children who say, "Our Lord, take us out of this city of oppressive people and appoint for us from Yourself a protector and appoint for us from Yourself a helper? QURAN 4:75 Explanation It is a duty of all human beings to help each other from oppression and injustice. This is what Islam teaches.
4 \| Quran 4:95
Not equal are those believers remaining [at home] - other than the disabled - and the mujahideen, [who strive and fight] in the cause of Allah with their wealth and their lives. Allah has preferred the mujahideen through their wealth and their lives over those who remain [behind], by degrees. And to both Allah has promised the best [reward]. But Allah has preferred the mujahideen over those who remain [behind] with a great reward QURAN 4:95 Explanation Mujahideen are people who strive to uphold justice, even risking their lives in the process. This verse elevates the status of those who are brave enough to stand up for truth in the face of oppression; over those who cowardly hide from defending the rights of others, unless they have a disability, which prevents them from doing so. This verse supports the understanding that by donating money to a good cause, giving charity and doing humanitarian work, you are performing Jihad (striving) with your wealth.
5 \| Quran 33:23
Among the believers are men true to what they promised Allah. Among them is he who has fulfilled his vow [to the death], and among them is he who awaits [his chance]. And they did not alter [the terms of their commitment] by any alteration QURAN 33:23 Explanation This verse is praising those early companions who remained steadfast in their faith and true to their promise (covenant) to Muhammad to protect him and support Islam. Some of the companions had already fulfilled it by dying to protect their faith, whilst others were prepared to do the same. This verse does not mention fighting or Jihad at all.
6 \| Quran 47:4
So when you meet those who disbelieve [in battle], strike [their] necks until, when you have inflicted slaughter upon them, then secure their bonds, and either [confer] favor afterwards or ransom [them] until the war lays down its burdens. That [is the command]. And if Allah had willed, He could have taken vengeance upon them [Himself], but [He ordered armed struggle] to test some of you by means of others. And those who are killed in the cause of Allah - never will He waste their deeds. QURAN 47:4 Explanation This verse was revealed when the early Muslims were fighting for their very existence. After thirteen years of endurance and patience, Muhammad and his companions had to leave their hometown of Makkah and emigrate to Madinah. When the people of Madinah welcomed and accepted him as their leader, the Makkan people became unhappy. They wanted to eliminate Muhammad and his religion; and so they sent their army to root out Islam. A crucial battle took place in Badr.
7 \| Quran 2:190
Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed. Allah does not like transgressors. QURAN 2:190 Explanation Prophet Muhammad and his companions were commanded not to start the fighting; but to defend themselves against aggressors. It was ordained that if fighting were to break out, the objective would be to defeat the aggressors. Then, the people could live in peace without fear of molestation and invasion. God does not command anyone to start fighting; rather He permits people to fight in self-defence or for the defence of those who are unjustly under attack.
8 \| Quran 9:91
There is not upon the weak or upon the ill or upon those who do not find anything to spend any discomfort when they are sincere to Allah and His Messenger. QURAN 9:91 Explanation Sometimes this verse is falsely quoted as evidence that Jihad equates to Holy War as it frees the elderly and ill from participating. Consequently, this verse is falsely used in an attempt to negate the concept of non-military Jihad. Jihad is of many types and does not necessarily have to be spiritual or physical only. Another form of Jihad is donating money and resources to charity; supporting the poor and needy. Someone devoid of finances cannot be expected be financially contribute as the verse mentions. If ill or unwell, a Muslim is not required to keep the obligatory fasts. This is a simple example of spiritual Jihad.
9 \| Quran 2:190-194
Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed. Allah does not like transgressors. And kill them wherever you overtake them and expel them from wherever they have expelled you, and fitnah is worse than killing. And do not fight them at al-Masjid al- Haram until they fight you there. But if they fight you, then kill them. Such is the recompense of the disbelievers. And if they cease, then indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. Fight them until there is no [more] fitnah and [until] worship is [acknowledged to be] for Allah . But if they cease, then there is to be no aggression except against the oppressors. [Fighting in] the sacred month is for [aggression committed in] the sacred month, and for [all] violations is legal retribution. So whoever has assaulted you, then assault him in the same way that he has assaulted you. And fear Allah and know that Allah is with those who fear Him. QURAN 2:190-194 Explanation These verses were revealed for a very particular historical event. At a time when the Muslims of Madinah were under attack from the Makkan people. The verse apply to those who initiate the attack against Muslims. If their attack ceases, then Muslims are reminded to be forgiving. It is the duty of Muslims to defend humanity from oppression and persecution and to establish justice. Muslims believe that God has placed us on earth as his deputy or viceroy. It is our duty to enjoin good, forbid evil and to establish peace and justice in the land. However, the Quran clearly prohibits aggression. The verses explain that fighting is only for self-defence. Thus, a Muslim cannot commit aggression and kill innocent men, women, children, the sick, elderly, monks, priests or engage those who do not wish to fight.
10 \| Quran 4:88-91
What is [the matter] with you [that you are] two groups concerning the hypocrites, while Allah has made them fall back [into error and disbelief] for what they earned. Do you wish to guide those whom Allah has sent astray? And he whom Allah sends astray - never will you find for him a way [of guidance]. They wish you would disbelieve as they disbelieved so you would be alike. So do not take from among them allies until they emigrate for the cause of Allah . But if they turn away, then seize them and kill them wherever you find them and take not from among them any ally or helper. Except for those who take refuge with a people between yourselves and whom is a treaty or those who come to you, their hearts strained at [the prospect of] fighting you or fighting their own people. And if Allah had willed, He could have given them power over you, and they would have fought you. So if they remove themselves from you and do not fight you and offer you peace, then Allah has not made for you a cause [for fighting] against them. You will find others who wish to obtain security from you and [to] obtain security from their people. Every time they are returned to [the influence of] disbelief, they fall back into it. So if they do not withdraw from you or offer you peace or restrain their hands, then seize them and kill them wherever you overtake them. And those - We have made for you against them a clear authorization. QURAN 4:88-91 Explanation This verse commands Muslims to only fight those who practice oppression or persecution, or attack the Muslims. In the event of a battle, the laws of war are in place and any Muslim who transgresses the limits will be punished.
11 \| Quran 6:151
Say, "Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited to you. [He commands] that you not associate anything with Him, and to parents, good treatment, and do not kill your children out of poverty; We will provide for you and them. And do not approach immoralities - what is apparent of them and what is concealed. And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden [to be killed] except by [legal] right. This has He instructed you that you may use reason." QURAN 6:151 Explanation Muslims cannot initiate an attack against others, unless there is an immediate threat of being attacked. The context of this verse applies only to situations where the oppressors are killing Muslims. In this case, they have a right to defend themselves and others, especially the weak and oppressed.
12 \| Quran 9:5-6
And when the sacred months have passed, then kill the polytheists wherever you find them and capture them and besiege them and sit in wait for them at every place of ambush. But if they should repent, establish prayer, and give zakah, let them [go] on their way. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. And if any one of the polytheists seeks your protection, then grant him protection so that he may hear the words of Allah . Then deliver him to his place of safety. That is because they are a people who do not know. QURAN 9:5-6 Explanation Again, this verse was revealed to address a specific historical event, time and setting. It cannot be applied to general situations today. Hostilities were frozen for a three-month period during which the Arabs pledged not to wage war. Muhammad was inspired to use this period to encourage the combatants to join the Muslim ranks or, if they chose, to leave the area that was under Muslims rule; however, if they were to resume hostilities, then the Muslims would fight back until victorious. Even in the context of war, the verse emphasizes the divine attributes of mercy and forgiveness. To minimize hostilities, the Quran ordered Muslims to grant asylum to anyone, even an enemy, who sought refuge. Asylum would be granted according to the customs of chivalry; the person would be told the message of the Quran but not coerced into accepting that message. Thereafter, he or she would be escorted to safety regardless of his or her religion. Therefore, this verse refers to those pagans who would continue to fight after the period of peace. It clearly commands the Muslims to protect those who seek peace and are non-combatants.
13 \| Quran 2:217-218
They ask you about the sacred month - about fighting therein. Say, "Fighting therein is great [sin], but averting [people] from the way of Allah and disbelief in Him and [preventing access to] al-Masjid al-Haram and the expulsion of its people therefrom are greater [evil] in the sight of Allah . And fitnah is greater than killing." And they will continue to fight you until they turn you back from your religion if they are able. And whoever of you reverts from his religion [to disbelief] and dies while he is a disbeliever - for those, their deeds have become worthless in this world and the Hereafter, and those are the companions of the Fire, they will abide therein eternally. Indeed, those who have believed and those who have emigrated and fought in the cause of Allah - those expect the mercy of Allah . And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful. QURAN 2:217-218 Explanation This verse refers to an historical event. An expedition of a group of the companions of Muhammad under the lead of Abdullah bin Jahsh Asadi. The companions recognized a caravan from the Quraysh tribe. The Quraysh had openly declared war on Muslims, persecuted them, drove them out of their homes and stole their property. The companions felt they should retaliate and killed one man and took two as prisoners. Upon their return to Madinah, Muhammad was informed and he disapproved of their attack during the Holy Month. God revealed this verse as a reminder to the Muslims that whilst killing in the Holy Month was bad, persecution and expelling people from their homes because of their faith was far worse.
14 \| Quran 4:76
Those who believe fight in the cause of Allah , and those who disbelieve fight in the cause of Taghut. So fight against the allies of Satan. Indeed, the plot of Satan has ever been weak. QURAN 4:76 Explanation Where fighting has been permitted, the objective is the liberation of the oppressed; the helpless men and women yearning for their freedom. The believers fight for God's cause, whereas the disbelievers would fight for the sake of their idols, their evil or greed.
15 \| Quran 2:244
And fight in the cause of Allah and know that Allah is Hearing and Knowing. QURAN 2:244 Explanation This verse informs the believers not to transgress limits because they should know that "God hears and knows all". So a true Muslim is God-conscious when defending the rights of others and does not overstep the limits in applying justice.
16 \| Quran 9:29
Fight those who do not believe in Allah or in the Last Day and who do not consider unlawful what Allah and His Messenger have made unlawful and who do not adopt the religion of truth from those who were given the Scripture - [fight] until they give the jizyah willingly while they are humbled. QURAN 9:29 Explanation Some conclude from this verse that Muslims are commanded to attack all non-Muslims until they pay the jizyah (tax money). In fact, this interpretation is false and contradicts authentic Islamic teachings. Muslims are not permitted to attack non-Muslims who are not hostile towards Islam; who do not oppress Muslims; forcefully try to convert Muslims to another religion; expel them from their homes and lands; or wage war against them. If any of these offences occurs, Muslims are permitted to defend themselves and protect their religion. Muslims are not permitted to attack non-Muslims who signed peace pacts with them, or non-Muslims who live under the protection of the Islamic State. Jihad of a military nature was only permitted to help Muslims defend their religion and remove oppression from the people. All similar verses, without exception, if studied carefully, address aggression and oppression committed against Muslims (in the time of Muhammad) by idolatrous Arabs, some Jewish tribes in Madinah, or by some Christians. Therefore, the command to fight in this particular verse relates to those non-Muslims who commit aggression and not those wishing to live in peace. In conclusion, this particular verse commands Muslims to fight against those who initiate aggression as illustated by its historical context. Muslims may only fight under strict conditions, and are commanded to live peacefully with those wishing to live in peace (non-muslim neighbours etc.).
17 \| Quran 48:29
Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah ; and those with him are forceful ("ashidda") against the disbelievers, merciful among themselves. You see them bowing and prostrating [in prayer], seeking bounty from Allah and [His] pleasure. Their mark is on their faces from the trace of prostration. That is their description in the Torah. And their description in the Gospel is as a plant which produces its offshoots and strengthens them so they grow firm and stand upon their stalks, delighting the sowers - so that Allah may enrage by them the disbelievers. Allah has promised those who believe and do righteous deeds among them forgiveness and a great reward. QURAN 48:29 Explanation The Arabic word "ashidda" translates to forceful, strong and firm. It is incorrectly translated to "ruthless" which gives this verse an extreme interpretation. In this verse, the disbelievers refers to those who historically persecuted and attacked the Muslims. The Muslims were commanded to stand up for their religion and to defend against the attacks, persecution and oppression.
18 \| Quran 8:61
And if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah . Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the Knowing. QURAN 8:61 Explanation God instructs us if the enemy favours peace over fighting, then you too should work towards a peace treaty.

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Quran and Violence

The Quran incites violence and hatred towards others - true or false?

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