The 14th verse of Surah Al-Hashr in the Quran addresses the concept of warfare and the rules of engagement for Muslims. The verse begins with "لا يقاتلونكم جميعا إلا في قرى..." which translates to "They will not fight you all except within inhabited cities..."
This verse provides guidance on the conduct of war and emphasizes the principle of proportionality in conflict. It highlights the restriction on fighting to specific circumstances and locations, emphasizing the sanctity of civilian life and the need to avoid unnecessary harm.
The verse also underscores the importance of adhering to ethical and moral principles even in the midst of conflict. It serves as a reminder to Muslims that the use of force should be governed by just and humane considerations, and that indiscriminate violence is not permissible.
Furthermore, the verse encourages restraint and moderation in warfare, emphasizing the need to minimize harm and avoid unnecessary aggression. It promotes the idea of self-defense and protection of the community while discouraging aggression and unnecessary violence.
Overall, the 14th verse of Surah Al-Hashr provides valuable insights into the Islamic perspective on warfare, emphasizing the principles of proportionality, ethical conduct, and the protection of civilian life.
English Translation
They will not fight you all except within fortified cities or from behind walls. Their violence among themselves is severe. You think they are together, but their hearts are diverse. That is because they are a people who do not reason.
English Transliteration
La yuqatiloonakum jameeAAan illa fee quran muhassanatin aw min warai judurin basuhum baynahum shadeedun tahsabuhum jameeAAan waquloobuhum shattathalika biannahum qawmun la yaAAqiloona
Tafsir of Verse 14
They will not fight against you all together except in fortified cities, or from behind walls. Their valour is great, among themselves; you think of them as a host; but their hearts are scattered; that is because they are a people who have no sense.
They will not fight you (even) together, except in fortified townships, or from behind walls. Strong is their fighting (spirit) amongst themselves: thou wouldst think they were united, but their hearts are divided: that is because they are a people devoid of wisdom.