Understanding Islam — Page 21
21 Allah says that upholding treaties is a necessary requirement of righteousness and that He loves those who are righteous. Allah also instructs Muslims to always act fairly and with justice, even during battle and that the enmity of others should not drive a Muslim to act unjustly: O ye who believe! be steadfast in the cause of Allah, bearing witness in equity; and let not a people’s enmity incite you to act otherwise than with justice. Be always just, that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah. Surely, Allah is aware of what you do. 19 Explaining this further, Prophet Muhammad sa is reported to have said: Go in Allah’s name, trusting in Allah, and adhering to the religion of Allah’s Messenger sa. Do not kill the elderly, or a young infant, or a child, or a woman; do not be dishonest about booty, but collect your spoils. Create peace in the land, and treat the people with benevolence, for surely, Allah loves the benevolent. . . 20