According to search-discovered classical Islamic scholarship, the treatment of prisoners of war (الأَسْرَى - Asra) is a critical aspect of Islamic law of warfare (Siyar), primarily governed by Quran 47:4. This verse, revealed after the Battle of Badr, establishes a definitive ethical framework. Ibn Kathir's tafsir clarifies that once combat has ceased and the enemy is subdued, the Muslim authority has two main choices regarding captives: release them as an act of grace (mannan) or in exchange for a ransom (fida'). Al-Qurtubi and other jurists have discussed these options within a broader legal context that also includes enslavement or execution for specific war criminals, with the leader choosing the option that best serves the interest of the state and justice. This framework marked a significant improvement over pre-Islamic norms, mandating humane treatment, provision of food and shelter, and prohibiting torture, as exemplified by the Prophet Muhammad's own conduct. The synthesis of Quranic injunction and Prophetic practice establishes a system that balances justice against aggressors with a strong inclination towards mercy and the sanctity of life after conflict.