Definition of jihad

Submitted by zark b (Malaysia), Jun 1, 2004 at 22:52

The definition of jihad is non-exhaustive and certainly not limited to holy war. jihad is to strive for islam and this can mean anything from a father providing for the daily needs of his family, to taking up arms to defend that family or indeed, islam (which means submission and peace).

Regardless of the act, its main principle is that it must be done entirely in name of god, and for god. In the case of holy war (to defend peace), there are clear guidelines; for murder, rape and pillage - as was the means employed by the crusaders to spread christianity in ancient times - could not possibly reflect the way of god.

in the spread of islam, the prophet (pbuh) made it clear of some very strict rules that his conquering army must strictly adhere to. among the most significant is that: there shall be no killing of women, children and the aged; the humane treatment of prisoners; and it is forbidden to burn/destroy crops or houses of the enemy. it must be noted here that it is haram (forbidden) for muslims to commit suicide, which would into put doubt on the jihad of the suicide bombers. the bombers may have acted out of desperation, but even the prophet (pbuh) retreated when in a weak position. the general rule is: to live to fight another day.

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