Opus 2011-134, Koran Klarifications: Punishment

The American attitude toward war and defeated enemies is an aberration in history.  Much of it comes from a teaching that people think is from Jesus but really is based in the Old Testament.  Here are the words of Jesus.

(Matthew 5:44 KJV)  But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;

Paul echoes the same thought.

(Romans 12:20 KJV)  Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.

Both of them are looking to the OT times.

(Proverbs 25:21 KJV)  If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

What they are advocating goes against the law of the jungle and the survival of the fittest.  It is the Christian way.  There have been times when God demanded killing but it was location specific, not general directions for all occasions. 

How does the Koran instruct victorious Muslims to treat defeated infidels?

“Only, the recompense of those who war against God and his Apostle, and go about to commit disorders on the earth, shall be that they shall be slain or crucified, or have their alternate hands and feet cut off, or be banished the land: This their disgrace in this world, and in the next a great torment shall be theirs-  Except those who, ere you have them in your power, shall repent; for know that God is Forgiving, Merciful.” Surah 5, “The Table,” verses 33-34

So you have choices.  You can convert, be killed or be mutilated.  But notice that the conversion must come before they are defeated, not after. 

We see the same command in regard to thieves.

“As to the thief, whether man or woman, cut ye off their hands in recompense for their doings.19 This is a penalty by way of warning from God himself. And God is Mighty, Wise.”  Surah 5, “The Table,” verse 38

Some people have noted that this is not usually practiced today.  Okay.  Then I guess some Muslims are living in disobedience.

All Koran quotes are from the translation by Rev. J.M. Rodwell, M.A. provided by the Gutenberg Project.

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