Violence

Dear scholars, as-salamu `alaykum. Are violence and extremism Islamic phenomena? How would you explain the phenomenon of violence in general? Jazakum Allah khayran.

Some people say that there are two kinds of jihad: defensive and offensive. Is that right?

As-salamu `alaykum wa rahmatu Allah wa baraktuh. Could you please clarify the Islamic stance on violence and aggression? Also, please shed light on the relation between Muslims and non-Muslims.

I hope you scholars will help me get rid of these confusions I have been having since the Sept 11 incident, especially as regards some Qur’anic verses. These verses totally contradict what Muslims say that their religion calls for peace and denounces violence. Mind you, though not a Muslim, but I don’t hate Muslims. I just need shedding light on some issues. How would you interpret a verse like this (And slay them wherever ye catch them…)? (Al-Baqarah 2: 191) and (…But if they turn away, seize them and slay them wherever ye find them; and (in any case) take no friends or helpers from their ranks) (An-Nisaa' 4: 89) I will really appreciate your quick reply.