stereotype about jehad;

Submitted by shani (United States), Apr 8, 2008 at 00:47

In light of recent events in the global community, one word that is used frequently but rarely truly understood is the Islamic word ‘Jihad'. Jihad has become a very volatile word, so it is necessary that those who use it should understand exactly what it means, what it entails, and what significance it has in current global events. There are many interpretations of the word Jihad, but the most common literal translation from Arabic to English is "struggle". It is originated from Arabic word "jahada" which means "to strive for a better way of life". In its primary sense, Jihad is an internal struggle to rid oneself of debased actions or inclinations and devote oneself to achieving a higher moral standard through prayer, study, and spreading the Islamic Faith.

Most Muslims condemn violence as heartily as any non-Muslim. Muslims often ask, "Did Timothy Mc Veigh's bombing of a federal building in Oklahoma City mean all Christians are terrorists?"

New stories about "Islamic Terrorism" often imply that Islam upholds the idea of jihad as a holy war fought against non-Muslims. For most Muslims, the most important meaning of "jihad" is intensely personal; it is the internal struggle to be a moral person. The holy Quran permits war to defend and expand the Islamic community, but it sets strict limits: No one should be forced to convert and in battle, the lives and livelihood of noncombatants must be protected.

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