Cutting off hands for theft is heresy

If I say 'to cut off the road' – قطع الطريق – you would think 'well it is obviously not literal'.

If God says 'His Hands are outspread; He spends as He wills' (5:64) you would understand that it is not hands really, but wealth, source of income.

Finally, if God used both of these words together (5:38), it can be understood either literally 'cut off hands' or 'cut off source of income'.

Now, orthodox Muslims made up stories in attempt to ease this ruling and to prove that Quran is not detailed enough, saying: "If one only steals something above 250 euros then his hand should be cut." As if stealing something for 150 euros doesn't make one a thief.

But Quran clearly says, this is a punishment for a thief – nothing to do with the value of stolen item, but the action itself.

What if he stole twice and lost both hands and replaced them with ultra-modern artificial hands? Can he go on stealing forever if he just goes on replacing fake hands every time you cut them off?

What if he doesn't have hands but uses his robots or his tongue, or computer technologies and intellect to steal?

Should a child stealing a bread out of hunger face the same punishment as a ruler that stole nation's money and caused this poverty?

Okay, then why would God use such words knowing that many would interpret it literally as 'cutting off hands'?

Because, Quran is meant for those who think, not one that just accepts anyone's made up hadith explaining how to cut off hands and what should be the price of a stolen item.

As Quran finalises 12th chapter that mentions story of a theft and its punishment as detention practiced by prophet's sons (12:75), it says:

"There was certainly in their stories a lesson for those of understanding. Never was the Qur’an a narration invented, but a confirmation of what was before it and a detailed explanation of all things and guidance and mercy for a people who believe." (12:111)

At the end,

And if you punish, punish with an equivalent of that with which you were harmed. But if you are patient – it is better for those who are patient. (16:126)

Would you sell your hands for millions? Nope, because this gift is priceless and has no equivalent. Then, imagine living on a planet where no one has hands left. 🤭