Let's Talk Religion What is Jihad?
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Jun 9, 2025 Dive into the multifaceted meaning of jihad, which extends far beyond mere violence. Discover how inner struggles and social justice play pivotal roles in this concept. Unpack the historical context of early Islamic expansion and the ethical guidelines that shaped warfare practices. Explore the impact of Salafism in modern Islamic thought, challenging common misconceptions about violence. This insightful discussion offers a nuanced perspective on a topic often misunderstood.
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Jihad Means Struggle, Not War
- The word jihad means struggle or striving, not holy war as commonly misunderstood.
- Most Muslims see jihad as spiritual or moral effort, not necessarily military conflict.
Greater Jihad is Inner Struggle
- The Prophetic hadith distinguishes between lesser jihad (military) and greater jihad (inner struggle).
- Inner spiritual struggle is often considered more important than external warfare by Muslim scholars.
Jihad Permitted Primarily in Self-Defense
- Early Islamic texts allowed military force primarily in self-defense.
- Quranic verses emphasize fighting only those who fight Muslims first, discouraging aggression.