I’d like to agree with the article’s general conclusions. They are well taken. But I’d like to add that the reason for revelation given is wrong because the sources are not given. The text points out that some pagan Arabs who were polytheists violated the agreement they had with the muslims of that time. Hence God commanded anddesolved the teaty Muslims had with them. They were given 4 month’s to either repent and keepthe treaty by following it or tobe ready for open war with them.

Verse 9:5 is also not very well and clearly explained in the article. Its intended meaning is that if they repent their VIOLATION OF THE TEATY, Always Follow (aqaamus salaat)it,and give it growth by acting fruitfully, they should be left free to go on their OWN WAY of life (sabeeli hum ), othewise they will have to face war. This implies that they will have freedom of religion as well as peace if they observe the terms of the treaty sincerely. In this interpretation, all the words are well related and well organized in thought expression. Also because the next verses clearly point out that they WERE STILL POLYTHEISTS and when they would come toMuslims, they willbe respected and returned to their homes and the Quran would be recited tothem for consideration and acceptance if they chose to do so.

Thus it shows that Islamgives them free choice and protection if they follow the treaty. The others whofollowed their agreements were left in peace. The problemis that people don’t read the Quran in contexxt.

Liaquat Samma