How can a mortal claim to fight in the name of God?

No human being can take God's place. Whoever claims the right to rule over others or to force the truth on them in God's name is mistaken; Islam allows fighting only to defend against wrong, and only within strict limits.

The question touches an important point. A mortal human being cannot take the place of God. He cannot decide on God's behalf who is right, and he cannot place the truth in other people's hearts by force. Whoever tries this sets himself above others and calls it religion.

Political domination in the name of religion and a godly character do not go together. God is merciful, patient and just. Whoever wants to oppress people in God's name shows the very opposite of these qualities. He uses the name of God for his own aims.

This is why the Holy Qur’an says plainly that there is no compulsion in religion. The truth has become clear, and every person decides for himself. No one may be killed for his faith, and no one may be forced into faith.

The second and third verses above show when fighting is permitted at all. It is permitted when one is attacked and wronged. Even then one must not go beyond the limit. This is not a fight to impose one's own faith on others. It is defence, just as anyone may protect his life and his freedom.

So a Muslim does not fight because he declares himself God's deputy. He only keeps within the limits that God Himself has set. The truth is defended with arguments, with patience and with a good example.