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Killing non-combatant civilians Islam is a very practical religion and a complete way of life which allows fighting when required. Having said that, Islam places very strict guidelines when it comes to combat. Islam categorically forbids the killing of innocent non-combatant civilians and even forbids its followers from destroying crops as the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: "Do not kill women or children, or an aged, infirm person. Do not cut down fruit-bearing trees. Do not destroy an inhabited place." [Al-Muwatta, Vol. 21, Hadith 9] We find some Muslims engage in un-Islamic acts such as terrorism. We perfectly understand that people can often see no alternative in the face of oppression, injustices, double standards and hypocrisy; however, as Muslims we must always remember that in Islam, ends do not necessarily justify the means. Islam is a religion of justice and we must strive to uphold these Islamic values under all circumstances. We need only look at the example of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) in that he never went beyond the bounds of Islam regardless of the most severe injustices and oppression that he and his people underwent. "O you who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah and be just witnesses and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed Allah is Acquainted with what you do." [Quran 5:8] "If anyone killed a person not in retaliation of murder, or (and) to spread mischief in the land - it would be as if he killed all mankind, and if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all mankind." [Quran 5:32]
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