What is the ruling on granting quarter to an isolated enemy warrior ('alj) who requests it?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Jihad
Primary text
If one encounters an isolated enemy warrior ('alj) and the warrior requests quarter (aman), quarter is not to be granted to him because his evil intent is feared. The evidence supports withholding assurance from a single enemy due to the risk of treachery.
Supporting text
If the one encountering the enemy is part of a military contingent (sarīyah), then quarter is granted to the enemy warrior. This is because a group is not expected to fear being treacherously killed by the enemy warrior, unlike when encountering him alone.