The Holy Quran with Five Volume Commentary (Vol 1) — Page ccxvi
GENERAL INTRODUCTION Pagans, who enter into a pact with Muslims, keep the pact and do not help the enemy against Muslims, are to have reciprocal treatment from Muslims. Piety requires that Muslims should fulfil their part of a pact in the letter as well as the spirit. (7) Of an enemy at war with Muslims who wishes to study the Message of Islam, the Quran orders: And if anyone of the idolaters ask protection of thee, grant him protection, so that he may hear the word of Allah: then convey him to his place of security. That is because they are a people who have no knowledge (9:6). That is to say, if any of those at war with Muslims seek refuge with Muslims in order to study Islam and ponder over its Message, they are to have refuge with Muslims for such time as may be reasonably necessary for such a purpose. (8) Of prisoners of war, the Quran teaches: It does not behove a Prophet that he should have captives until he engages in a regular fighting in the land. You desire the goods of the world, while Allah desires for you the Hereafter. And Allah is Mighty, Wise (8:68). That is to say, it does not become a Prophet to make prisoners of his enemy save as a result of regular war involving much bloodshed. The system of making prisoners of enemy tribes without war and bloodshed practised until and even after the advent of Islam, is here made unlawful. Prisoners can be taken only from combatants and after a battle. (9) Rules for the release of prisoners are also laid down. Thus we have: Then afterwards either release them as a favour or by taking ransom- until the war lays down its burdens (47:5). The best thing, according to Islam, is to let off prisoners without asking for ransom. As this is not always possible, release by ransom is also provided for. (10) There is provision for prisoners of war who are unable themselves to pay, and who have none who can or will pay, for their release. Often, relations are able to pay, but do not, because they prefer to let their relations remain prisoners possibly with the intention of misappropriating their property in their absence. This provision is contained in the Quran: And such as desire a deed of manumission from among those whom your right hands possess, write it for them, if you know any good in them; and give them out of the wealth of Allah which He has bestowed upon you (24:34). CXC