Understanding Jihad: A Discussion on Holy War
This article explores the concept of jihad, or holy war, across different religions, primarily focusing on its meaning and interpretations within Islam and Christianity. It also delves into the historical context of jihad and its contemporary manifestations, including its controversial association with terrorism.
Jihad: Definition and Types
The Arabic word jihad literally translates to "struggle." In Islamic tradition, jihad is associated with paradise and is seen as a path to salvation. However, there are two distinct types of jihad:
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Greater Jihad: This refers to the internal struggle against one's ego, desires, and negative traits. It's a lifelong endeavor to improve oneself and adhere to God's commandments.
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Lesser Jihad: This involves physical struggle or combat against enemies of Islam or Muslims. This can even extend to conflicts among those who identify as Muslims.
Jihad in Catholicism: The Crusades
The concept of holy war is not exclusive to Islam. Catholicism has its own history of crusades, which were sanctioned by the Pope. These crusades were considered holy wars, and participants were often granted indulgences, essentially pardons for sins. The Pope also had the power to issue decrees for people to engage in war, and sometimes allowed actions that would normally be considered sinful, based on the idea that the act of crusade would cover the sins.
Similarities Between Catholic Crusades and Interpretations of Jihad
Striking similarities exist between the indulgences granted during the crusades and certain interpretations of jihad. In both cases:
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Participants are sometimes absolved of sins for engaging in holy war.
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Extreme actions, like violence and sexual acts, are sometimes justified under the banner of religious duty.
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Religious leaders (Popes, Sheikhs) have historically claimed the authority to issue decrees related to war.
Jihad in Protestant Christianity and Judaism
Although Protestant Christianity doesn't emphasize a central figure like the Pope, the concept of defending the faith and nation is present, often manifesting as supporting military action to protect Christian values. Similarly, the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament is filled with stories of battles commanded by God, portraying him as a warrior leading the Israelites. Modern-day Israel also exemplifies the concept of fighting to defend the homeland without a divinely appointed leader.
Shia Islam's Perspective on Jihad
A crucial divergence arises in Shia Islam's understanding of jihad, particularly after the death of Prophet Muhammad. Unlike Sunni Islam, where expansionist wars were undertaken by early caliphs, Shia Islam emphasizes that:
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Jihad is only permissible under the banner of an infallible Imam (divinely appointed leader). Any jihad outside of this is considered illegitimate. Engaging in Jihad without an infallible Imam is considered as bad as eating pork, dead flesh or any other "haram" action in the Quran.
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Engagement in illegitimate Jihad leads to hellfire.
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In the absence of an infallible Imam, Muslims should remain in a state of peace and patience. Jihad becomes permissible again only with the emergence of the Mahdi.
Exceptions are made for self-defense and protection of one's home and family.
Contemporary Misinterpretations of Jihad
The article critiques the actions of modern-day terrorists and extremist groups who claim to be engaging in jihad. These groups often:
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Seek to impose Sharia law globally.
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Justify violence against non-Muslims.
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Misinterpret historical events to legitimize their actions.
The article also addresses how some Shia clerics, influenced by the doctrine of wilayat al-faqih, might justify participation in wars under their leadership, claiming contact with the hidden Imam. This position is strongly rejected, stating that only infallible Imams have the authority to declare jihad.
A Call to Repentance and True Jihad
The article concludes by condemning all forms of terrorism and unsanctioned violence. It emphasizes that true jihad is only permissible under the direction of a divinely appointed Imam. Anyone engaging in combat without such guidance is following the path of destruction. It calls upon those who have been misled by extremist ideologies to repent, lay down their weapons, and return to the true teachings of Islam. It re-emphasizes that it is permissible for Muslims to protect themselves, their life, their family's life, and their home if an invader was to come to their doorsteps and they found themselves having to defend themselves from anybody from a member of a foreign army all the way to a thief that comes in the middle of the night that seeks to kill them at their own homes.