What is the response to the specious argument of contradiction between the verses: "Do they seek then a religion other than Allah's, while to Him submitted all creatures in the heavens and the earth, willingly or unwillingly, and to Him shall they all be returned," and "There is no compulsion in religion," and how is the verse "while to Him submitted all creatures in the heavens and the earth" to be understood given the existence of disbelievers?

Firstly: The verse "There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion" emphasizes the impermissibility of compelling someone to embrace Islam, due to the clarity of its proofs and evidences. A rational person does not need compulsion but rather chooses the truth by their own free will. This indicates that the truth is evident and does not require coercion.

Secondly: The verse "Do they seek other than the religion of Allah, while to Him submitted whoever is in the heavens and earth, willingly or unwillingly" clarifies that all creation is submissive to Allah and surrenders to Him; believers surrender willingly, while others surrender unwillingly to His decree and destiny. This is a proof of His oneness and power.

There is no contradiction between the two verses; the first indicates that the clarity of the religion obviates the need for compulsion, and the second affirms that all creatures are subject to Allah, whether believers or disbelievers, in submission to His power and authority.