Chapter Eleven

CHAPTER ELEVEN The Difference between Enemies and Combatants h The Quran tells us that even if a person appears to be one’s enemy, one should deal with him in a better way than fighting with him. It may be, it says, that some day he may become one’s friend. Thus, it says: Good and evil deeds are not equal. Repel evil with what is better; then you will see that one who was once your enemy has become your dearest friend. (41:34) Elsewhere, the Quran says: He [God] does not forbid you to deal kindly and justly with anyone who has not fought you on account of your faith or driven you out of your homes: God loves the just. God only forbids you to make friends with those who have fought against you on account of your faith and driven you out of your homes or helped others to do so. (60:8-9) A comparative analysis of these two verses indicates that the Quran distinguishes between an enemy, on the one hand, and a combatant, on the other. Even if an individual or a group appears to be one’s enemy, one should still maintain good