#15 – Tolerance, Free Will and Freedom of Religion

IIn the Qur’an, a series of verses make it clear that religion must be freely accepted and cannot be imposed on anyone, confirming that in Islam, no one can be coerced into believing, nor told to either become Muslim or die.

“There is no compulsion in religion, for the truth has been made distinct from falsehood” (Qur’an 2:255)

Another verse states:

“Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in the best manner…” (Qur’an 16:125)

Additionally, this verse says:

“Had your Lord willed, all the people on earth would have believed. Do you want to force the people to become believers?” (Qur’an 10:99)

This verse emphasizes that if coercion were valid, God, with His infinite power, would have made all people believers, but faith is something that must be chosen freely by each individual.

Therefore, the Prophet (Peace be upon him) allowed people to make their own choices, and this is the way Muslims today should behave.

To conclude this chapter, God says: “And We only send the messengers to bring good news and to warn. And those who disbelieve argue with falsehood…” (Qur’an 18:56)