Full context of 5:32 must be repeated ad-infinitum

Submitted by Prashant (United States), May 26, 2013 at 08:12

Dear Dr Pipes:

Thanks for providing the full context of 5:32 (which extends to 5:33).

I think 5:32 itself is not a very kind because it has the exclusion about spreading mischief in the land. And if anyone has any doubts about 5:32 not being kind, they are completely removed by 5:33. 5:33 clearly says that extremely harsh punishments must be rendered to those who wage war against Allah and his messenger. Even Muslims agree that Mohammad was a religious, military and political leader.

The punishment that 5:33 prescribes against military opponents of Muhammad, is scary. I want to read these two verses in as positive light as possible but there is really not much wiggle room left.

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