Do Verses in the Holy Quran teach Violence? Know the True Interpretation

Understanding the misinterpreted verses of the Holy Quran in historical context!

The Holy Quran is the word of Allah (SWT) revealed to the Holy Prophet (PBUH) as a divine guidance for the mankind. Unfortunately quite often media, and critics accuse Islam of inciting violence based on an inaccurate understanding of a few verses of the Holy Quran that according to them, promote violence. Besides, there are religious extremists who cherry pick Quranic verses to misguide youngsters to instigate violence in the name of religion.

When it comes to verses in the Holy Quran, we need to understand the historical context in which they were written and the backdrop against which the divine guidance was revealed. Let’s take some verses which are most often misunderstood and misinterpreted by bigots, and critics alike:

1. Surah Al-Anfal 8:12

"Remember when your Lord inspired the angels (with the message): "I am with you, so strengthen those who have believed. I will cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieved, so smite [them] above their necks and smite all their finger-tips off them." ~ Surah Al-Anfal 8:12

This verse was revealed regarding the Battle of Badr. The Holy Prophet (PBUH) and the early Muslims had faced severe persecution at the hands of pagans in Mecca for thirteen long years. Eventually Muslims left Mecca and found refuge in Medina. It was reported in Medina that a trade caravan led by Abu Sufyan was returning from Syria. Fearing that Muslims might intercept his trade caravan, he sent a messenger to inform Qurayshis of his fears. Upon receiving the message, Meccans with their mighty army of 1000 marched to Medina to kill Muslims who were just 313 in number.

This was when this verse was revealed that permitted Muslims to fight in order to defend themselves. Besides, there were three Jewish tribes, Banu Qaynuqa, Banu an-Nadir and Banu Qurayzhah in Medina who used wicked conspiracies to maintain their economic dominion over Medina.

Many detractors often tend to ignore verse 61 in the same Surah which proves that the Holy Quran has always encouraged Muslims to seek peace if the opponents incline towards truce. 

Seek peace if the opponents incline towards truce!

“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.” ~ Surah Al-Anfal 8:61

2. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190-192)

 “Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress limits; for Allah loves not transgressors. And slay them wherever you catch them, and turn them out from where they have turned you out; for tumult 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, slay them. Such is the reward of those who suppress faith. But if they cease, then indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” ~ Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190-192)

Theses verses were revealed after the peace treaty of Hudaybiyyah was signed between the Quraysh leaders of Mecca and Muslims; six years after Hijrah, in 628 CE. According to the treaty, Muslims could visit Mecca and perform the Umrah in the following year. However, some Muslims were afraid that Qurayshis may not stick to their promise and attack them during the pilgrimage.

The Holy Quran allows fighting only in self-defense!

The above verses answered the legitimate concern raised by Muslims. In case, Quraysh leaders attacked the Muslims during the pilgrimage, only then Muslims were allowed to fight in self-defense. However, they were commanded to preserve the age-old sanctity of Kaaba by not fighting in it unless they were attacked by Qurayshis, in which case Muslims had to retaliate.

Historical Context of the Holy Quran can’t be Ignored

An in-depth study of the Holy Quran would prove that Islam does not condone violence. On the contrary, it abhors violence and allows it only in self-defense. And those who keep pointing fingers at the Holy Quran must know that even other religious scriptures contain verses that hint at violence.

“So Joshua subdued the whole region…He left no survivors. He totally destroyed all who breathed, just as the Lord, the God of Israel, had commanded.” ~ Joshua 10:40

“But those enemies of mine who did not want me to be king over them- bring them here and kill them in front of me.” ~ Luke 19:27

It is ironic that when critics are asked to give explanation regarding the above-mentioned verses from the New and Old Testament; they insist upon considering the context of the sacred text. And yet, when it comes to Quranic verses; critics often tend to ignore the historical context in which they were written!