- admin
- 15-May-2025
- Jihaadn in Islam
Jihad in Islam
1. What is Jihad in Islam?
The term “jihad” originates from the Arabic word Jahada, meaning “to strive” or “to exert effort.”
In everyday life, it refers to personal struggles such as studying, working, or striving to achieve a goal.
However, within Islamic jurisprudence (Shariah), jihad specifically refers to striving for the sake of Islam, whether in belief, practice, reform, or defense. It involves dedication to upholding truth, justice, and righteousness in various forms.
Unfortunately, jihad is often misrepresented in Western narratives as synonymous with violence or terrorism.
In reality, jihad in Islam is a broader concept, deeply rooted in discipline,struggle, and moral responsibility.
Types of Jihad
1. Greater Jihad (Al-Jihad al-Akbar)
This refers to the internal struggle against one’s own ego, temptations, and weaknesses. It is considered the highest form of jihad because it fosters self-discipline, sincerity, and nearness to
Allah.
Quranic Emphasis:
“And whoever strives, strives only for [the benefit of] himself. Indeed, Allah is free from need of the worlds.”
(Quran 29:6)
The Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم said:
“The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, but there is good in both. Strive for what benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not give up.”
(Sahih Muslim)
2. Lesser Jihad (Al-Jihad al-Asghar)
This includes the external effort, which may involve defending Islam and the Muslim community from aggression or injustice. It is bound by strict ethical guidelines and is always regulated by Islamic law. This form of jihad is not about conquest but about protection, justice, and restoration of peace.
In Surah Al-Baqarah Allah says
“Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.”
(Qur’an 2:190)
In Surah Al-Hajj Allah says
“Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought, because they were wronged. And indeed, Allah is competent to give them victory.”(Qur’an 22:39)
Jihad in the Early History of Islam
The concept of jihad can be found throughout the Qur'an and Hadith, particularly gaining prominence after the Battle of Badr. During the earliest days of revelation in Makkah, jihad was primarily spiritual and internal—referred to as the jihad of the heart. At that stage, the Muslim community was small and vulnerable. The following verses from Surah Ankaboot provided reassurance and motivation:
“Whoso looketh forward to the meeting with Allah (let him know that) Allah’s reckoning is surely nigh, and He is the Hearer, the Knower. And whosoever striveth, striveth only for himself, for lo! Allah is altogether independent of (His) creatures. And as for those who believe and do good works, We shall remit from them their evil deeds and shall repay them the best that they did.” [Surah Ankaboot, Verses 5-7] These verses emphasized building a personal connection with Allah, developing self-control, and finding the strength to reject pagan beliefs, even if it meant defying one’s family and tribe.
Another verse offering hope during hardship reads: “In Allah’s help to victory. He helpeth to victory whom He will. He is the Mighty, the Merciful. It is a promise of Allah. Allah faileth not His promise, but most of mankind knows not.” [Surah Rum, Verses 5-6]
Purpose Of Jihad:
Islamic teachings outline several key purposes of jihad, particularly when it comes to the lesser jihad:
1. Defense Against Oppression: The core objective of jihad is self-defense. When Muslims are attacked or oppressed, Islam gives them the right to defend themselves: “Sanction (to fight) is given to those who fight because they have been wronged, and Allah is indeed able to give them victory.” [Surah Hajj, Verse 39]
2. Establishing Freedom of Belief Islam values freedom of thought and belief. Jihad also aims to ensure people can live in peace and practice their religion without coercion. It is never a tool for forced conversion but rather a way to protect communities from oppression and to preserve religious liberty.
