Al Haqeeqa
The tragic events in New Orleans, where an attacker cited Quranic verse 9:111 as justification for violence, highlight the pressing need to address and dismantle extremist interpretations of religious texts. While such distortions are not new, they gravely misrepresent the teachings of Islam, a faith rooted in principles of peace, justice, and mercy. Understanding the context of this verse and its true meaning is essential to counter extremist ideologies effectively.
Verse 9:111 of the Quran states: “Indeed, Allah has purchased from the believers their lives and their properties [in exchange] for that they will have Paradise. They fight in the cause of Allah, so they kill and are killed. [It is] a true promise [binding] upon Him in the Torah and the Gospel and the Quran. And who is truer to his covenant than Allah? So rejoice in your transaction which you have contracted. And it is that which is the great attainment.” At first glance, the verse may appear to endorse violence, especially when read in isolation. However, like all scripture, Quranic verses must be interpreted within their historical and textual context. This verse is part of Surah At-Tawbah, a chapter revealed during a period when early Muslims faced existential threats from powerful adversaries. It reflects a call to defend the nascent Muslim community against oppression and persecution. Importantly, the verse speaks metaphorically about a “transaction” between believers and Allah, where devotion to faith and selfless service are exchanged for eternal rewards. The emphasis is not on violence but on commitment, sacrifice, and a sense of responsibility in upholding justice and truth. Extremist groups deliberately misinterpret this verse to advance their violent agendas. By cherry-picking such passages, they ignore the Quran’s broader principles that regulate the use of force.
The Quran permits fighting only under specific circumstances, primarily for self-defence, and explicitly prohibits transgression. For instance, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190) clearly states: “Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.” The misappropriation of Quran 9:111 by extremists is a stark violation of these principles. Such acts are rooted in political motives and radical ideologies, not in genuine religious teachings. Islam unequivocally condemns terrorism and the killing of innocents. The Quran explicitly declares: “Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land-it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one-it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.” (5:32). This verse underscores the sanctity of human life and the grave responsibility of preserving it. The actions of individuals or groups who invoke Islam to justify violence contradict these foundational teachings. A responsible understanding of Quranic verses requires considering their historical context, linguistic nuances, and the Quran’s overarching themes. Scholars emphasize that verse 9:111 pertains to a specific time and set of circumstances. It cannot be generalized as a mandate for aggression or violence. The Quran’s central message is one of peace, justice, and compassion. It repeatedly calls for reconciliation, patience, and the avoidance of conflict whenever possible. Misinterpretations arise when verses are isolated from their context or deliberately twisted to serve political agendas.
Countering extremist narratives involves promoting accurate interpretations of religious texts. This includes raising awareness about the Quran’s holistic message, supporting authentic scholarship, and addressing socio-political factors that fuel radicalization. Education plays a crucial role in this effort. By equipping individuals with the tools to critically evaluate religious texts and understand their deeper meanings, we can prevent the exploitation of scripture for violent ends. Religious leaders, scholars, and communities must also take proactive steps to denounce extremist ideologies and offer alternative narratives that reflect Islam’s true teachings. The misuse of Quranic verses like 9:111 to justify acts of terror is a gross distortion of Islam’s teachings. Far from endorsing violence, Islam promotes peace, justice, and the sanctity of life. By challenging extremist interpretations and fostering accurate understanding, we can honour the true essence of the Quran and work towards a more peaceful and harmonious world. Our collective responsibility is to counter the narratives of hate and division with knowledge, empathy, and a commitment to justice.
-Resham Fatima,
Masters in Internatonal Relations,
Jawaharlal Nehru University
