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Introduction

There are undeniably many instances of violence, terror, and crimes committed by individuals claiming to be Muslims and using the name of Islam as justification. While it is true that some of these perpetrators are Muslim, the question of whether they genuinely embody the principles of Islam or are even Muslim is a discussion for another time. For now, I want to focus specifically on the issues of killing and torture according to the one of the Surah in the Al-Quran.

The misconception that Islam condones such acts is often perpetuated through the misrepresentation of Quranic verses, particularly Surah At-Tawbah verse 5. Such deliberate misquotations fuel misconceptions and contribute to the spread of false narratives against Islam. This article aims to debunk these claims by clarifying the context and meaning of Surah At-Tawbah verse 5. It will also address the broader falsehoods often used to accuse Islam of endorsing violence or torture, offering a truthful perspective on the teachings of the religion.

The Verse and Its Context

فَإِذَا ٱنسَلَخَ ٱلْأَشْهُرُ ٱلْحُرُمُ فَٱقْتُلُوا۟ ٱلْمُشْرِكِينَ حَيْثُ وَجَدتُّمُوهُمْ وَخُذُوهُمْ وَٱحْصُرُوهُمْ وَٱقْعُدُوا۟ لَهُمْ كُلَّ مَرْصَدٍۢ ۚ فَإِن تَابُوا۟ وَأَقَامُوا۟ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَءَاتَوُا۟ ٱلزَّكَوٰةَ فَخَلُّوا۟ سَبِيلَهُمْ ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ غَفُورٌۭ رَّحِيمٌۭ

And when the inviolable 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 zakāh, let them [go] on their way. Indeed, Allāh is Forgiving and Merciful.

Surah At-Tawbah 9:5

For many people, especially non-Muslims, this verse may sound barbaric at first glance. It seems to state that the instruction is to kill all polytheists wherever they are found. However, in Islam, understanding context is paramount. The context of this verse becomes clear when we read the chapter starting from verse 1. The verses are as follows:

1. [This is a declaration of] disassociation, from Allāh and His Messenger, to those with whom you had made a treaty among the polytheists.
2. So travel freely, [O disbelievers], throughout the land [during] four months but know that you cannot cause failure to Allāh and that Allāh will disgrace the disbelievers.
3. And [it is] an announcement from Allāh and His Messenger to the people on the day of the greater pilgrimage that Allāh is disassociated from the disbelievers, and [so is] His Messenger. So if you repent, that is best for you; but if you turn away – then know that you will not cause failure to Allāh. And give tidings to those who disbelieve of a painful punishment.
4. Excepted are those with whom you made a treaty among the polytheists and then they have not been deficient toward you in anything or supported anyone against you; so complete for them their treaty until their term [has ended]. Indeed, Allāh loves the righteous [who fear Him].
5. And when the inviolable 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 zakāh, let them [go] on their way. Indeed, Allāh is Forgiving and Merciful.

It becomes apparent, even without looking into the asbāb al-nuzūl (circumstances of revelation), that this passage is directly related to the violation of treaties.

The Historical Context of the Treaties

The treaties mentioned in Surah At-Tawbah verse 1 were agreements of non-aggression between Muslims and various polytheist tribes in Arabia. These agreements were intended to ensure peace and stability in a region rife with conflict. However, some of these tribes repeatedly violated their treaties by supporting hostile actions against the Muslims and betraying their commitments.

Allah’s Instruction of Mercy

Verse 2 demonstrates Allah’s mercy by allowing the disbelievers to “travel freely” during a grace period of four months. This gave them the opportunity to reflect, make amends, or prepare for the consequences of their actions.

Verse 4 further exemplifies mercy by exempting those who honored their treaties and remained peaceful. Allah commands that their agreements be upheld until their terms expired, emphasizing justice and fairness.

Additionally, even though verse 5 being used by the Islamophobes to picture Islam as barbaric, the verse includes a provision of mercy by stating that if the violators repent, establish prayer, and give zakāh, they must be allowed to go their way without harm. This highlights that the directive to fight was not absolute but conditional upon ongoing hostility and treachery. While some people might perceive this as coercion or forced conversion, that is not the case. The following verse clarifies this:

“And if any one of the polytheists seeks your protection, then grant him protection so that he may hear the words of Allāh [i.e., the Qur’ān]. Then deliver him to his place of safety. That is because they are a people who do not know.“

Surah At-Tawbah 9:6

The verse implies that if they seek forgiveness and protection, we are commanded to grant it and ensure their safety. The phrase “so that he may hear the words of Allāh” indicates that these individuals have not yet embraced Islam, highlighting the importance of offering them guidance and a safe environment to learn about the faith. 

Then In verse 7, Allah questions how there could be a treaty with the polytheists while they have repeatedly broken their agreements. The verse reads:

“How can there be for the polytheists a treaty in the sight of Allah and with His Messenger, except for those with whom you made a treaty at al-Masjid al-Haram? So as long as they are upright toward you, be upright toward them. Indeed, Allah loves the righteous [who fear Him].”

Surah At-Tawbah 9:7

This verse emphasizes the importance of reciprocity and justice in treaties. Allah acknowledges that treaties are valid only with those who remain faithful to their agreements, even though they are polytheists and worship other than Allah. If they honor their commitments and do not act treacherously, Muslims are obligated to uphold the treaty and treat them justly. The verse also highlights the sanctity of treaties made at significant locations, such as al-Masjid al-Haram, underscoring the need for mutual respect and integrity. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the verses of Surah At-Tawbah must be understood in their proper historical and textual context. Far from promoting indiscriminate violence or coercion, these verses outline a framework of justice, mercy, and accountability. They emphasize the importance of honoring treaties and only taking action against those who have actively violated agreements and posed threats to peace.

Islam’s teachings prioritize fairness and compassion, even in times of conflict. The Quran repeatedly stresses the value of forgiveness and protection for those seeking safety and understanding. By clarifying misconceptions and focusing on the broader context, we can address the false narratives that have been used to misrepresent Islam and its principles.

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