As a concept, it is never difficult to proclaim non voilence and equality and tolerance as the guiding principle of any religion including Islam. But the institution of Islam was never in accordance with the theoratical doctrine. Soon after Islam got hold over Arabia, the Muslims adopted a hegemonic and aggressive approach towards their neighboring states under the disguise of the term Jihad. The aggressor Muslims marched over almost every part of the then known land, everywhere the defenders were presented a humiliating set of offers:

1-Embrace Islam,
2-Pay tax, or
3-Fight

Any explanation?

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He who has a why to live can bear almost any how.