Through Force or Faith? — Page 151
Chapter 2 — Islamic Teachings about Jihad 151 Therefore, when it is enjoined to fight against idolaters who vio- lated the treaty, it is fully justified and it is not transgression. Besides, such idolaters are given an ultimatum of four months in which they should decide about their future. If they do not take advantage of this respite and continue their war against Muslims, God Almighty instructs Muslims to fight them and lay siege to them. Even during the siege, God has enjoined humane treatment for them by offering two options: 1. They repent and accept Islam. 2. If they seek shelter, not only provide them protec- tion but also transport them to safety. Thus, even for such idolaters who ask for shelter, extremely humane treatment is accorded. In the first option, obviously they would become part of Islamic society and will continue to dwell there like other Muslims. Whereas in the second option, Allah, the Exalted, has committed Muslims to not only offer them safety as soon as they seek shel- ter, but also to transport them safely to the place of their choice. During this time they are to be exposed to the Word of God but it is not permitted that they be coerced to become Muslim. In the first option, they are given freedom. They could accept Islam if they so choose. The personal conduct of the Holy Prophet s as also testifies to this Islamic principle because he never linked such surrender with forcible conversion to faith. Whenever he gave amnesty, he gave it unconditionally. The most magnificent example of it was witnessed at the conquest of Makkah when he