Overview
The lecture covered the verses of fighting in the Quran, comparing them with international laws of war, and explaining how they are applied and how Muslims prepare for war, peace, and defense.
Verses of Fighting in the Quran
- The decisive verse on fighting: "Fighting has been enjoined upon you while it is hateful to you," indicating the fundamental legislation of fighting.
- The verse suggests that what we dislike may contain good for us, and what we love may contain harm for us.
- Laws of war exist in all countries of the world and there are similarities with Quranic legislation.
- There are two options: fighting or peace, as in the verse: "But if they incline to peace, then incline to it."
- The ruling on preparing for war: "And prepare against them whatever you are able of power," meaning the obligation of constant readiness.
Rules of Response and Aggression
- In case of aggression: "So whoever has assaulted you, then assault him in the same way he has assaulted you," meaning the response should be proportional to the harm only.
- "And fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress" indicates the necessity to avoid injustice or unlawful aggression.
- Self-control must be maintained, excessive revenge avoided, and justice practiced even in war.
Rules for Prisoners and Wars
- The rule of captivity: prisoners are not taken until the balance in the battle tilts in favor of the Muslims.
- After the battle: "So either release them as a favor or ransom," meaning releasing prisoners or exchanging them.
- There is no slavery among prisoners of war; the options are either ransom or release.
International and Historical Application
- Quranic rules of war are practically applied worldwide, such as prisoner exchanges and reciprocal treatment.
- Historical example: the Soviet army entering Berlin in 1945 and violations occurring despite the laws.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Decisive verse — a clear and explicit legal text that does not accept interpretation.
- Fighting — participation in war or armed defense of self or land.
- Peace — inclination towards reconciliation or ending war when conditions are met.
- Aggression — attacking or harming the other party without right.
- Prisoners — persons detained during war from the enemy.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the verses of fighting and peace in the Holy Quran.
- Study comparative examples between Sharia and international laws of war.
- Prepare questions about the differences between Quranic laws and contemporary application.