Shared Responsibility

this was abrogated by the verse: “O Prophet, strive against the disbelievers and the hypocrites” (Tafsir al-Qurtubi Vol. 5, p. 290). But the intellectual process did not end there. This line of thinking further stimulated the minds of others. Upon deeper reflection, they concluded that the verse about avoidance had not been abrogated. As a result, they included it among the definitive verses (muhkamat) (Tafsir al-Qurtubi Vol. 10, p. 202). Now if we reflect further, this second opinion appears to be more in line with the spirit of the Quran. The fact is that avoidance is a permanent instruction, and it relates to the general ethics of a believer. While giving a message, dealing with people, or traveling, it often happens that unpleasant experiences come from others. In all such situations, adopting the method of avoidance is a lasting instruction. By turning away from the ignorant, the believer demonstrates noble character, which serves as the foundation for all success in both this world and the hereafter. As for qital (meaning physical combat), it is permitted for defensive purposes. When a group commits an act of aggression, then confrontation is allowed to repel that aggression. Combat is a temporary instruction, while avoidance is a permanent one. This shows that there is no difference in al-din. The differences that exist are only in the shari‘ah. These differences are of two kinds: one that relates to acts of worship, and another that relates to social dealings.