This was the first verse, through which war was permitted by a muslim for the cause of Allah, and in self-defence, but with well defined limits. It was after this revelation that the prophet proceeded to provide military equipments and prepared to fight; but only with those who fought with him. he then continued with this policy and strategy until another verse revealed to fight against all the idolaters and polytheists.

      The clause: ``FIGHT IN THE WAY OF ALLAH'' implies that when war is undertaken it must be pushed on to restore peace and freedom for the worship of God. It is not a fight for conquering lands and countries, or taking vengeance, or through ambitiousness. In any case and condition of war, strictly limits and bounds should not be exceeded in quantity and quality- The rights of the captives should be observed and regarded. Women, children, old, and weak persons should not be molested. Trees and corps are not to be cut down and spoiled, and when the enemy comes to term; peace should not be withheld. Drinking water of the enemy should never be poisoned. This is why the verse ends in: ``Allah does not love those who exceed the limits.''