IT would appear Dr Vassie is an authority on the teachings of Islam, and seems to give the impression that the Koran condemns and forbids acts of violence.

I would find it extremely helpful therefore to understand how, as a non-Muslim, I should comprehend the following verses from the Koran:

33:60 "Truly, if the Hypocrites stir up sedition, if the agitators in the City do not desist, we shall urge you to go against them and set you over them. Then they will not be able to stay as your neighbours for any length of time. They shall have a curse on them. Whenever they are found, they shall be seized and slain without mercy."

8:12 "Your Lord inspired the angels with the message: 'I will terrorize the unbelievers. Therefore smite them on their necks and every joint and incapacitate them. Strike off their heads and cut off each of their fingers and toes."

9:12 "If they violate their oaths and break treaties, taunting you for your Religion, then fight these specimens of faithlessness."

5:33 "The punishment for those who wage war against Allah and His Prophet and make mischief in the land, is to murder them, crucify them, or cut off a hand and foot on opposite sides... their doom is dreadful.

"They will not escape the fire, suffering constantly."

I have quoted only four verses, there are many more similar verses I could quote. However, an answer to these few would be acceptable.

Geoff Carr,

Sutton Road,

Wigginton,

York.

Updated: 11:02 Tuesday, February 14, 2006