Lesser Jihad

Submitted by O. Meyers (United States), May 25, 2005 at 16:28

I find it disturbing that only one aspect of jihad - the lesser jihad, which is used externally - is given as the modern definition in this article. Simply because greater jihad - the jihad that exists internally and mentally - is more subtle does not mean that it is less powerful. By showing the radical islamists that we agree with their definition of this holy concept, we do not counteract terrorism, we merly encourage it. And by labeling Muslims as a violent people who cannot be at peace until WE use our own "moral" violence against them will not help much either, and in fact, it will encourage the hatred - some of it rightful - that many Muslims have for the west.

Jihad, translated, literally means "to strive". Not "holy war".

---

Note: Opinions expressed in comments are those of the authors alone and not necessarily those of Daniel Pipes. Original writing only, please. Comments are screened and in some cases edited before posting. Reasoned disagreement is welcome but not comments that are scurrilous, off-topic, commercial, disparaging religions, or otherwise inappropriate. For complete regulations, see the "Guidelines for Reader Comments".