IBN ʿUMAR’S INTERPRETATION OF THE QUR’ĀNIC VERSE ‘FIGHT THEM UNTIL FITNAH IS NO MORE’ AND ITS RELEVANCE TO CONTEMPORARY MUSLIMS

Abstract

The focus of this article is Qur’ānic verse 2:193 and the interpretation of a popular Islamic term – fitnah – in it that not only changes the verse’s meaning, but the purpose of dīn (religion). Fitnah has multiple meanings in early exegetical literature but the majority of exegetes use polytheism (shirk) or disbelief (kufr), which has resulted in numerous complications and will be examined in this study. The interpretation of fitnah as ‘religious persecution’ will be discussed in detail through the interpretation offered by a famous companion of the Prophet, ʿAbd Allah b. ʿUmar, in the days of civil unrest (fitan wars). The heart of the argument lies in the interpretation of fitnah as ‘religious coercion’ rather than polytheism (shirk) or disbelief (kufr), which has many positive aspects. First, Ibn ʿUmar’s interpretation does not lead to any complications or contradictions. Second, by adopting this, the verse (2:193) remains relevant in contemporary times as it was in the past. Third, this commentary enhances the virtuality of peace and refutation of religious extremism.