War and perpetual enmity

It is ordained that Allah in his infinite mercy is capable of planting love and affection between enemies:

 It may be that God will grant love (and friendship) between you and those whom ye (now) hold as enemies. For God has power (over all things); And God is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (60:7)

It follows that enmity may not be stretched to a point of no return, as today’s enemies could be tomorrow’s friends. Haste may be laid aside in invoking enmity. It is desirable to wait for circumstances, wherein a perspective other than that of enmity might emerge. This could happen according to measures determined by Allah. So, one may wait till these measures take shape, as God is Forgiving and Merciful. Patience is essential ingredient for being just and equitable:    

‘’As for those who have not fought against you for you religion, nor expelled you from your homes, God does not prohibit you from dealing with them kindly and equitably. God loves the equitable’’ (60:8)

Allah does not stop you from exhibiting open kindness; it is in fact a desirable trait. You have to deal fairly and justly with all who, on account of your religion have neither waged war against you nor expelled you from your dwellings.  Over and above being just, you should be cordial to those who have not waged war against you. What is so amply ordained finds resonance in another Holy Verse:  

‘’O you who believe! Be upright to God, witnessing with justice; and let not hatred of a certain people prevent you from acting justly. Adhere to justice, for that is nearer to piety, and fear God. God is informed of what you do. (5:8)

For the believers and the faithful, being upright to God entails standing for justice. Hatred should never form an overriding factor in standing for justice and acting justly. Adherence to justice is akin to being pious.  Fear of God is a positive feeling, as it streamlines the path to piety and adherence to Laws of Divinity.