“God does not forbid you to show kindness and to act equitably toward those who have neither made war on you on account of your religion nor driven you from your homes: for, verily, God loves those who act equitably.”
Quran 60:8
Tafsir (Explanation) by Muhammad Asad
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Moral and Ethical Treatment of Non-Muslims
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This verse explicitly rejects the idea that Islam promotes permanent hostility toward non-believers.
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It emphasizes that Muslims must treat peaceful non-Muslims with kindness (birr) and fairness (qist) as a moral obligation.
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No Blind Enmity Based on Faith Alone
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The verse clarifies that mere disbelief does not justify mistreatment.
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Only those who actively fight Muslims or oppress them religiously are excluded from this command of goodwill.
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Justice as a Universal Principle
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Asad highlights that fairness is a divine virtue, not restricted to Muslims.
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The phrase “God loves those who act equitably” applies universally, transcending religious boundaries.
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Political Loyalty vs. Basic Human Decency
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While Islam requires allegiance (wala’) among Muslims in matters of faith and communal solidarity, this does not negate basic human rights for non-Muslims.
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Muslims may maintain social, economic, and diplomatic relations with peaceful non-Muslim societies.
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Relevance in Modern Context
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Asad’s tafsir stresses that this verse condemns extremism and reinforces interfaith harmony where possible.
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It serves as a Quranic foundation for peaceful coexistence in pluralistic societies.
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