“ISIS” is an acronym for “Islamic State of Iraq and Syria.” It is also known as “ISIL” (Islamic State of Iraq and Levant), and is more recently being called simply “IS” (Islamic State). ISIS is a terrorist army that has taken over large portions of Syria and Iraq and has established an Islamic Caliphate in that area. They are known for their barbarous treatment of their enemies, which includes all non-Muslim religious groups (primarily Christians and Yazidis) and even other Muslims (particularly Shi’ites, but also moderate Sunnis). Americans were recently shocked by ISIS’ video-recorded beheading of the American photo-journalist, James Foley. Their cruel behavior has many people wondering why they behave as they do? The answer is in their religious guide – the Quran. This should serve as a warning for all non-Muslims and even moderate Muslims throughout the world.
1. Why does ISIS crucify and behead people, and drive them from their land? The Quran says, “The only reward of those, who wage war against Allah and His Messenger and strive to create disorder in the land, is that they be slain or crucified or their hands and feet be cut off on account of their enmity, or they be expelled from the land. That shall be a disgrace for them in this world, and in the Hereafter they shall have a great punishment” (Quran 5:34; 7:125). According to the last part of this verse, the opponents of Islam are to be punished “in this world” as well as in “the hereafter.” But who are those who “wage war against Allah?” According to verses 148-151 of chapter 4 of the Quran, all “public speech” that is critical of Allah or his messengers, or who accepts some of “Allah’s messengers” and not all of them, is considered “evil” and is to be punished.
2. Why does ISIS reject and even kill non-Muslims? The Quran says, “Surely the true religion with Allah is Islam… And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam it shall not be accepted of him, and in the hereafter he shall be among the losers” (Quran 3:20, 186). The first verse of chapter 9 speaks of Allah’s “commitment that Islam would triumph in Arabia.” ISIS tolerates no other religion because the Quran allows no other religion to be practiced!
Chapter 9, known as the “chapter of the sword,” goes on to encourage Muslims to, “Fight those who believe not in Allah nor the Last Day, nor hold that forbidden which hath been forbidden by Allah and His Messenger, nor acknowledge the religion of Truth, even if they are of the People of the Book, until they pay the Jizya with willing submission, and feel themselves subdued” (Quran 9:29).
3. Why doesn’t ISIS just make a treaty with their neighbors for the sake of peace and to avoid bloodshed? Because the Quran allows no such treaties to be made with non-Muslims UNLESS they submit to Islamic law, including being taught the Quran, saying regular prayers and paying the submission tax (Quran 9:1-8, 29). As noted before, no criticism of Islam is permitted. There is no “free speech” in Islamic states and cultures.
We plead with people of all religions to work together for societal conditions that allow for freedom of speech and action. We can disagree with one another without hating or harming one another. Unlike the Quran, the Bible tells me to “leave” people “alone” who aren’t interested in my teaching (Matthew 10:14 & 15:14). I can still love them as neighbors. Jesus does not want His teaching to be forced upon anyone. Let us do as God and respect the free agency of others, including those with whom we differ religiously.
Tim Haile