Surah 8:12

I will throw fear into the hearts of those who disbelieve. Then smite the necks and smite of them each finger.

actual text -

Other translation from Sahih international

[Remember] when your Lord inspired to the angels, "I am with you, so strengthen those who have believed. I will cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieved, so strike [them] upon the necks and strike from them every fingertip."




You will find many references to decapitation or beheading in the Quran. I'm sure anyone who follows the news is familiar with the common practice of decapitation by Islamic extremist. Is this a misunderstanding? or just the literal interpretation of Islam?