Reflections on some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [78 of 80]
In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy
One of the greatest characteristics of Islam is the fulfilment of contracts and promises, even towards non-Muslims. Among the characteristics of the believers is the avoidance of betrayal and treachery. There is a story about Al-Mughirah Ibn Shu’bah, may Allah be pleased with him, who accompanied a group of polytheists during their time of disbelief, while they traveled to Egypt for trade and acquired wealth. Then they spent the night there, thus, he attacked and killed them, and took their wealth. He came to Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, as a Muslim, presented the wealth and narrated the incident to him. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “As for your Islam, we accept it; however, the wealth is that of treachery, and we have no need for it.” This is because it was acquired through treachery. Islam does not permit treachery under any circumstances.
Another incident: There was a treaty between the Romans and the Muslims, then as this treaty approached its end, Mu’awiyah, may Allah be pleased with him, proceeded with his army, stating: “Once the time of the treaty ends, we’ll launch an attack on the enemy”. An old man mounted his horse, shouting, “Allahu Akbar! Fulfilment and not treachery! Allahu Akbar! Fulfilment and not treacheryl!” Mu’awiyah, may Allah be pleased with him, asked him (about it), so he said: “I heard Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, say, ‘When one has covenant with people, he must not strengthen or loosen it till its term comes to an end or he brings it to an end in agreement with them (to make both the parties equal)'”. So Mu’awiyah stopped.
Treachery and betrayal are not permissible (to be perpetrated against) unbelievers, despite them being upon misguidance. Acts of destruction and devastation in this manner are not permissible because they result in the killing of women, children, and innocent people, and it does not harm the enemy. Indeed, the enemy rejoice about it (i.e. such actions) to tarnish the image of Islam and its adherents, and it is exploited by the media to oppose Islam and give Islam an image darker than the corrupt religions. This is what results from the actions of these people (i.e. the terrorists) against Islam and the Muslims. It is incumbent upon the Muslims to serve as role models of truthfulness, lofty manners, fulfilment (of covenants) and trustworthiness, and be distant from what contradict these characteristics, such as treachery, betrayal, lies, and bloodshed which does not benefit Islam, rather it harms it. [Paraphrased]
An Excerpt from the link below: