Radical Islamism and Jihad
JIHAD – Then and Now: The Myth and Reality
“Kill the Non-believers wherever you find them!”
JIHAD – Then and Now: The Myth and Reality
By: Aftab Ahmad Khan
The verb Jahida means ‘to be tried as a result of exerting an effort’. Moreover, the term presupposes that such an effort will be made against resistance. The term “Jihad” has much wider significance than a military campaign and open warfare as commonly perceived. Jihad could be with “the heart” (intentions or feelings), with “the hand” (weapons etc) a simple action, such as standing firm in defence of the cause of Islam or “with tongue” (expression through speech or writing etc). This may require speaking out in public, against ignoring Islamic principles, and writing articles or publishing books to promote Islam. Islam is the faith of “Peace”, the early Muslim community was urged to conduct the Bigger Jihad (Jihad Kabira), through Qur’an, i.e. preaching of Allah’s message, they were not permitted to fight their opponents despite excessive oppression. It was only when Islam gained strength at Medina, Jihad by sword was permitted to defend the frail expanding Muslim community. Qur’an says; “To those against whom war is made permission is given (to fight) because they are wronged and verily Allah is Most powerful for their aid. (They are) those who have been expelled from their homes in defiance of right (for no cause) except that they say "Our Lord is Allah." Did not Allah check one set of people by means of another there would surely have been pulled down monasteries churches synagogues and mosques in which the name of Allah is commemorated in abundant measure. Allah will certainly aid those who aid His (cause); for verily Allah is Full of Strength Exalted in Might.(Qur’an, 22:39-40).”
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