The Existence of Abrogating and Abrogated Verses in the
qur'an
Among the verses in the Qur'an containing orders or laws, there are
verses that abrogate verses previously revealed and acted upon. These abrogating
verses are called nasikh and those whose validity they terminate
are called mansukh.
For example, at the beginning of the Prophet's mission, Muslims were
ordered to cultivate peace and friendship with the people of the Book,
"forgive and be indulgent (towards them) until god gives command,"
[II:109]. Some time later, fighting was allowed and the order to establish
peace was abrogated: Fight against such as those who have been given
the Book but who believe not in God nor the last day, and do not forbid
that which God has forbidden by His messenger, and follow not the religion
of truth ... [xi:29]
The common notion of abrogation, that is, a cancelling of one law or
code by another, is based on the idea that a new law is needed because
of a mistake or shortcoming in the previous one. It is clearly inappropriate
to ascribe a mistake in law-making to God, Who is perfect, and whose creation
admits of no flaws.
However, in the Qur'an, the abrogating verses mark the end
of the validity of the abrogated verses because their heed and effect was of a
temporary or limited nature. In time the new law appears and announces the end
of the validity of the earlier law. Considering that the Qur'an was revealed
over a period of twenty-three years in ever-changing circumstances, it is not
difficult to imagine the necessity of such laws. It is in this light that we
should regard the wisdom of abrogation within the qur'an: And
when We put a revelation in place of (another) revelation and God knows
best what He reveals - they say: you are just inventing it. Most of them
do not know. Say: The Holy Spirit (Gabriel) has revealed it from your hand
with truth and as a guidance and good news for those who have surrendered
(to god) [xvi:101-102]..