Understanding Islam — Page 172
SLAVERY AND PRISONERS OF WAR 170 It does not behove a Prophet that he should have captives until he engages in regular fighting in the land. You desire the goods of the world, while Allah desires for you the Hereafter. And Allah is Mighty, Wise. 9 Then, the Holy Quran says that after the war is over, the prisoners should not be kept: …[after the battle] either release them [i. e. prisoners] as a favour or by taking ransom — until the war lays down its burdens. 10 This means that prisoners are to be released in good will after the battle or by taking ransom in some way (such as money from the family, exchange of prisoners, or some other such means). Further, the Holy Quran states that prisoners are only to be treated strictly to the extent that the enemy is strict to Muslim prisoners: And if you desire to punish the oppressors, then punish them to the extent to which you have been