For the children of Israel the punishment for crime was Al-Qisas only (i.e., the law of equality in
punishment) and the payment of Blood money was not permitted as an alternate. But Allah said to this
nation (Muslims): 'O you who believe! Qisas is prescribed for you in case of murder, .....(up to) ...end
of the Verse. (2.178)
Ibn `Abbas added: Remission (forgiveness) in this Verse, means to accept the Blood-money in an
intentional murder. Ibn `Abbas added: The Verse: 'Then the relatives should demand Blood-money in
a reasonable manner.' (2.178) means that the demand should be reasonable and it is to be
compensated with handsome gratitude.
Sahih al-Bukhari Book 87, Hadith 20