How can the Prophet's saying to the Jews of Banu Qurayza, "O brothers of apes and pigs, has Allah disgraced you and sent down His vengeance upon you?" be reconciled with his saying to Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, "O Aisha, Allah does not like obscenity or being obscene," and what is the ruling on insulting or cursing a specific disbeliever in light of that?
Reconciling hadiths that seemingly contradict each other regarding interaction with disbelievers is achieved by considering the differing circumstances. In times of war and jihad, it is legislated to be stern and harsh with them, in accordance with the Almighty's saying: "O you who have believed, fight those who are near to you of the disbelievers and let them find in you harshness." However, if they are not fighting (i.e., they are allies under a pact), it is legislated to show kindness and benevolence towards them and to invite them with that which is best, and with gentle speech, in accordance with the Almighty's saying: "and speak to people good words" and "And do not argue with the People of the Scripture except with that which is best." It is forbidden to insult a specific disbeliever if they are not at war [with Muslims], due to the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, saying: "Beware! Whoever wrongs a mu'ahid (person under a pact of protection), or diminishes his rights, or burdens him beyond his capacity, or takes anything from him without his consent, then I shall be his adversary on the Day of Resurrection."
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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