Islamiat 50

Q1. Define the term jihad? Write a detailed note on its concept in Islam. Add
reference as well.
Ans. The word Jihad has been derived from Arabic word "Jahada" which
means to struggle, to strive or work hard for some specific purpose. In
Islamic terminology it is defined as struggle in the way of Allah that is good
and abstaining from which is evil. Jihad may be internal i.e. the waging of
war between the forces of good and evil within oneself, or external, which
may the efforts to do good and stop evil. Jihad also means to struggle in the
way of Allah to achieve and establish righteousness and shun evil. Allah had
placed both good and evil within the soul (Al Shanrs; 9 1:S)
Concept of jihad in Islam: Jihad is a permanent part of a believer's life. The
Holy Quran stipulates jihad as one of the conditions of Eman (faith). The
Holy prophet pbuh himself is the best example for Muslims to follow. His
entire life was spent in striving for the sake of Allah in different ways under
different circumstances. In Islam Jihad is considered a Holy war. Jihad is
not performed for the achievement of victory nor the acquisition of the
enemy's property; But it is the fulfillment of a duty-Jihad in Allah's way.
Fighting is prescribed upon you, though you may dislike it. But it is possible
that you dislike a thing which is good for you, and that you love a thing
which is bad for you. But Allah knows and you do not know" (2:216)
Q2. Differentiate between Jihad and war.
Jihad War
Jihad is a Holy war This is worldly war which is fought
for personal worldly benefit.
Jihad is fought to eliminate evil This is performed for wealth or
power.
Participants of jihad whether Participants have the intention of
martyred or alive will be highly worldly reward.
rewarded in heaven.
There is proper guideline to save No mercy is shown during fighting
humanity and avoid bloodshed or participants just want to destroy the
unnecessary killing. opponent.

Q3. Unlike war, jihad has specific rules and regulation set by Holy Prophet
(pbuh). Reflect on them.
Ans. Rules and regulation
Rules and regulation for Jihad can be described in three ways.
(1) Before war (2) During war (3) After War
Before War: - Enemies are given three option first to accept Islam second to
pay tax third Jihad. Muslims were instructed to negotiate rather fighting.
During war: - Muslim shall not be the first to initiate fighting; women,
children, old people not to be harmed, fruit bearing trees are not to be cut
clown, places of worship are not to be destroyed, corpse of the enemy should
not be mutilated; treaties should be respected, and ambassadors should not
be mistreated or killed. when the enemy stops fighting the Muslims should
do same.
After War - Captives should be treated kindly. In the battle of badr Holy
Prophet pbuh Asked his companion "treat the prisoners of war as you treat
yourselves.' Captives are released on payment of Fidia (Ransom).