Islam - Kill Infidels

 

Verses often cited as teaching violence against "infidels":

• Quran 2:191: This verse calls to "kill them wherever you find them," but the preceding verse (2:190) limits fighting to those who initiate hostilities.
• Quran 4:89: This verse addresses apostates who become hostile and mentions dealing with those with whom treaties exist.
• Quran 9:5: Known as the "Sword Verse," this verse instructs to "slay the idolaters wherever you find them". 
• Many interpret this as specific to Meccan polytheists who broke treaties and persecuted Muslims, with verse 9:6 offering a path to peace.
• Quran 47:4: This verse instructs to "strike at their necks" when meeting disbelievers in a fight. Its context is a battle situation, outlining wartime directives and rules for prisoners. 

Interpretations and Counter-Verses

Interpretations of these verses are debated, with many arguing for a holistic reading of the Quran, including verses emphasizing peace, justice, and self-defense. 

• Fighting is often interpreted as permissible only for self-defense or in response to aggression.
• Verses like Quran 2:190 and 8:61 prohibit aggression and encourage peace if the enemy does.
• Other verses, such as 2:256 ("There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion") and 60:8, are cited to highlight the Quran's emphasis on tolerance.