set a fixed term with them. As for those whose treaties had a fixed term, he was not permitted to break them, as indicated by His words:

“Except those polytheists with whom you made treaties and who have not failed you in anything or supported anyone against you. Honour your treaty with them until its term expires. Surely Allah loves the righteous.”

He also said:

“Except those with whom you made a treaty at the Sacred Mosque. So long as they remain true to you, remain true to them. Surely Allah loves the righteous.”

And He said:

“If you fear treachery from a people, openly renounce your treaty with them, so that both sides are equally informed.”

He thus permitted renouncing a treaty only when signs of treachery became apparent, since the threat came from their side. Allah Most High also said:

“O you who believe, why do you say what you do not do?”

—to the end of the verse.

It is also reported in Sahīh Muslim from Abū Mūsā al-Ash‘arī:

“Among the Quranic passages whose recitation was abrogated was a surah like Barā’ah: ‘O you who believe, why do you say what you do not do? A testimony will then be inscribed upon your necks, and you will be questioned about it on the Day of Resurrection.’”

Allah Most High said:

“And those who honour their trusts and their covenants.”

This occurs in both Surah al-Mu’minūn and Surah al-Ma‘ārij. It is among the qualities of those exempted from the blameworthy impatience described in His words:

“Indeed, man was created impatient:
Distressed when touched by adversity,
And withholding when touched by good—
Except those who pray,
Who are constant in their prayers;
And those in whose wealth there is a known share
For the beggar and the deprived;
And those who believe in the Day of Judgment;
And those who are fearful of their Lord’s punishment—
Indeed, none can feel secure from their Lord’s punishment;
And those who guard their chastity,
Except with their spouses or those whom their right hands possess, for then they are free of blame.”