Here it is predicated that when Islam spreads far and wide, it would happen at various times and in diverse regions, that a group out of the people of the Book would strive that you should emerge from the circle of Islam, and despite having recognized the Truth and the light you should deny them after having believed. In the text it is not expressly stated what your reaction would be or should be. But the latter portion of the verse indicates that they would make their utmost efforts and would employ force to pull you out of the fold of Islam and you would resist them. Nevertheless you must not use any kind of force or compulsion against them. You should forgive them and forbear. Surely Allah has full power to do all that He wills. He will bring about a change in the juxtaposition between you.

Permission to Fight for Freedom of Conscience

In the beginning of Islam the Muslims were commanded that if the enemies of Islam sought, as they in fact did, to wipe out Islam, by force, they were not to take up the sword in opposition to them. But then a time came when it was announced: Permission to fight is granted to those against whom war is made, because they have been wronged and Allah indeed has the power to help them (22:40). This meant that the wrongdoing of the enemies having reached its extreme limit, the Muslims were permitted, for the safeguarding of the freedom of conscience and freedom of belief, to take up the sword against the sword of the enemy and to continue to wield it till freedom of conscience and freedom of belief were firmly re-established in human society according to God’s design.

In another verse it is said: They will not stop fighting you until they turn you back from your faith, if they can. The works of those from among you who turn back from their faith and die in a state of disbelief shall be vain in this world and the next. These are the inmates of the fire, therein shall they abide (2:218).