Prophet Muhammad's Kindness
Prophet Muhammad’s method of dealing with the enemy in times of war and dealing with army personnel, demonstrated the magnificence of the soul of this ambassador of God, a soul full of kindness. Imam Al-Sadiq (pbuh) has said, "Whenever the Messenger of God (peace be upon him and his progeny) wanted to dispatch an army, he would request at them to come to him and he would tell them: 'Go in the name of God, the Exalted. Seek perseverance from Him and fight for His cause. Do not steal from the war booty. Do not mutilate the disbelievers. Do not kill old men, children or women. Do not kill monks who live in caves. Do not uproot trees unless you are forced to do so. Do not burn palm trees nor destroy them. Never poison the water of the idol worshippers. Do not be deceptive nor treacherous. If a Muslim gives asylum to an idol worshipper, he is a refugee until he hears the word of God and Islam is presented to him. If he accepts, he is your brother in faith. If he does not accept, he is to be returned to a safe place (amongst his own people).
Sources:
- Source: Bihar al-Anwar, vol. 19, p. 177
- Figure: https://www.amazon.com/SARGENT-BEDOUIN-PAINTING-16x24inch-QUALITY/dp/B074QZFT3M
- Artist: John Singer Sargent (Edited)