Prophet Muhammad and ISIS: A Stark Contrast Between Compassion and Extremism...

Understanding the Distinction

Few topics in the modern world generate as much misunderstanding as the relationship between Islam and extremism. One of the most misleading narratives promoted by Islamophobes and extremists alike is that groups like ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) represent the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In reality, the ideology and actions of ISIS directly contradict the core principles of Islam as taught by its Prophet.

Through historical records, theological analysis, and ethical reasoning, this article explores what Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would think of ISIS, based on his teachings, actions, and explicit warnings against extremism.

1. Prophet Muhammad’s Warnings Against Extremism

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was a vocal critic of religious extremism. He warned his followers against adopting extreme views or actions, emphasizing balance, mercy, and justice as the guiding principles of Islamic life.

Hadiths (Sayings) of Prophet Muhammad on Extremism:

  • “Religion is easy, and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists.” (Sahih Bukhari #39)

  • “Ruined are those who indulge in extremism.” (Sahih Muslim #2670)

  • “Beware of extremism in religion, for those who came before you were destroyed because of extremism.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i #3057)

What This Means in the Context of ISIS

ISIS represents the opposite of these teachings. Instead of moderation, ISIS embraces extreme violence. Instead of justice, ISIS practices oppression. Instead of making religion easy, ISIS imposes brutal interpretations that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) explicitly condemned.

2. The False Claim of Establishing an “Islamic State”

ISIS claims to have established an Islamic Caliphate, but their rule contradicts every principle of Islamic governance set by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Let’s compare:

Prophet Muhammad’s GovernanceISIS’s Governance
Ensured religious freedom and protected non-MuslimsPersecuted and massacred non-Muslims
Established justice through a fair court systemUsed brutal punishments without due process
Allowed women to own property and participate in societyEnslaved and abused women
Signed treaties to maintain peaceDeclared war on almost everyone

It is evident that ISIS’s so-called “Islamic State” is a distortion of Islamic principles, built on violence and fear rather than justice and mercy.

3. Prophet Muhammad’s Treatment of Non-Muslims vs. ISIS’s Crimes

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the protection and rights of non-Muslims living under Islamic rule. His famous Constitution of Medina (622 CE) guaranteed:

  • Religious freedom for Jews and Christians

  • Protection of life and property for all residents

  • Equal participation in governance for Muslims and non-Muslims

Contrast this with ISIS:

  • Massacred Yazidis, Christians, and Shia Muslims

  • Destroyed churches, mosques, and shrines

  • Kidnapped and enslaved women

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) once said:

“Whoever kills a non-Muslim under our protection will not smell the fragrance of Paradise.” (Sahih Bukhari #3166)

By murdering civilians and non-Muslims, ISIS directly violates one of the fundamental laws of Islam.

4. ISIS and the Misuse of the Quran

ISIS cherry-picks verses from the Quran, stripping them from their historical context. For example, they misuse verses about war that were revealed during defensive battles against hostile forces. However, the Quran repeatedly commands Muslims to:

  • Seek peace whenever possible (Quran 8:61)

  • Do not commit aggression (Quran 2:190)

  • Preserve the sanctity of life (Quran 5:32)

Any honest scholar of Islam can see that ISIS intentionally manipulates scripture to justify their crimes.

5. The Prophecy of False Extremists

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) even predicted the rise of fake religious extremists who would distort Islam. In a chilling hadith, he describes a group that sounds eerily similar to ISIS:

“There will appear in my nation people who recite the Qur’an but it does not go beyond their throats. They will pass through Islam like an arrow passes through its target. They will call to the truth, but they will not be from the people of truth.” (Sunan Ibn Majah #177)

ISIS fits this description perfectly—they use Islamic terminology but have no real understanding of Islam.

6. ISIS: A Political Weapon, Not a Religious Movement

The truth is, ISIS is not an Islamic movement but a political tool. Evidence suggests:

  • Many ISIS leaders had no formal religious education

  • Former intelligence officials from Iraq’s Ba’ath Party formed its military core

  • Western intervention in the Middle East created the conditions for ISIS’s rise

As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) warned:

“There will come a time when nothing will remain of Islam except its name.” (Musnad Ahmad #12947)

ISIS uses the name of Islam but embodies everything Islam stands against.

What Would Prophet Muhammad Say About ISIS?

There is no doubt that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) would completely reject ISIS. Based on his teachings, actions, and explicit warnings, he would condemn their violence, injustice, and distortion of religion.

Instead of following ISIS, Muslims are commanded to:

  • Practice moderation in faith (Sahih Muslim #2670)

  • Seek peace and justice (Quran 16:90)

  • Protect human life and dignity (Quran 5:32)

The world must recognize that ISIS does not represent Islam, just as the KKK does not represent Christianity. The best way to defeat extremism is through education, justice, and the true teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Final Thought: The Power of Truth Over Extremism

As misinformation spreads, it is every Muslim’s duty to speak against falsehood and uphold the real message of Islam—a message of peace, justice, and mercy. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) fought against oppression and extremism in his time, and his teachings continue to inspire those who seek a better world.

Islam’s greatest weapon against ISIS is the truth—a truth that exposes the lies of extremists and reaffirms the real Islam, rooted in wisdom and compassion.

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