Definition
Jihād (جهاد) refers to an Arabic term whose root verb “jahada” means “to strive” or “to exert effort.” In Islamic theology, Jihād denotes a multifaceted concept encompassing internal, personal struggle towards spiritual perfection (the “greater Jihād”) and external, physical struggle against oppression or injustice (the “lesser Jihād”).
Etymology
Derived from the root “ج ه د” (j-h-d), the term linguistically aligns closely with exertion and endeavor, revered across various religious texts and interpretations.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Middle Eastern Culture: Often emphasizes the communal and active resistance aspects of Jihād, colored by historical contexts of defense and state-building during the rise of Islam.
- Western Perceptions: Frequently misconstrued as synonymous solely with ‘holy war,’ significantly impacted by geopolitical conflicts and media portrayal.
- Sufi Tradition: Highlights the ‘greater Jihād,’ focusing on personal, internal purification and striving for spiritual improvement.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Spiritual Struggle, Holy Endeavor, Resistance
- Antonyms: Complacency, Inaction, Passivity
Related Terms with Definitions
- Jizyah (جزية): Poll-tax levied in Islamic empires on non-Muslim subjects, delineating a socio-political and economic contract involving protection and allegiance in exchange for taxation.
- Ṣūfīsm (تصوف): Islamic mysticism, stressing inner purification and connection with the divine, which contextualizes Jihād in terms of personal spiritual progress.
Exciting Facts
- Dual Dimensions: The classification of Jihād into “greater” (spiritual) and “lesser” (physical) by Ṣūfī writers profoundly influences religious and scholastic discourse within Islamic societies.
- Canonical Basis: Grounded on numerous Qurʾānic verses and Hadith that delineate conditions and intentions behind both peaceful and combative stances.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “The greatest Jihād is to battle your own soul, to fight the evil within yourself.” - Prophet Muhammad (Hadith)
- “In truth, it is not a Jihād when men blindly take to arms but when they strive for justice, enhancement of knowledge, and personal betterment.” - Ibn Khaldun
Suggested Literature and Sources for Further Studies
- “Understanding Islam: The First Ten Steps” by Zakaria Bashir
- “Jihad in Islamic History: Doctrines and Practice” by Michael Bonner
- “Ṣūfīsm: Love & Wisdom” edited by Jean-Louis Michon and Roger Gaetani
- “The Qurʾān: A New Translation” by Thomas Cleary
References
- Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, Book of Jihād
- Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, Book of Jihād
- “The History of Islamic Political Thought” by Antony Black
- “Islam and War: A Study in Comparative Ethics” by John Kelsay
### Which of these is considered the 'greater Jihād'?
- [x] Struggle against one’s own lusts
- [ ] Fight against non-believers
- [ ] Economic struggle
- [ ] Physical combat
> **Explanation:** The 'greater Jihād' refers to the personal internal effort to overcome one's own limitations and sins.
### What is Jizyah?
- [ ] A type of prayer
- [ ] A form of pilgrimage
- [x] Poll-tax levied on non-Muslims
- [ ] A section of the Qurʾān
> **Explanation:** Jizyah is the tax levied on non-Muslims within an Islamic state, allowing them protection and autonomy in exchange for this tax.
### True or False: Jihād solely implies violent combat.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** Jihād encompasses both the internal struggle towards virtue and external efforts, including non-violent means, towards justice.
### Which term is often confused with Jihād in the Western context?
- [ ] Ṣālat
- [x] Holy War
- [ ] Fāṣil
- [ ] Mihrab
> **Explanation:** Jihād is frequently misrepresented as Holy War, overshadowing its broader spiritual connotations.
### According to Islamic teachings, which war is permissible?
- [ ] Unprovoked invasions
- [ ] Aggressive annexation
- [x] Defensive war for protection
- [ ] Predatory raids for resources
> **Explanation:** Islamic doctrine primarily permits war in the context of defense, protection of the ummah (Muslim community), and fighting oppression.
Farewell Thought:
“Strive in such a way that your internal and external efforts illuminate the path for others to follow. Knowledge, engagement, and mindfulness are your guides to understanding the vast expanse of what Jihād truly embodies.”
-Islamic Studies Lexicon, Volume I, Ibrahim El-Nouri, 2023
