Participating in Jihaad

QUESTION:

We have been brought up in a ‘soft’ society and I would like to know what our position will be if Jihad becomes necessary. We haven’t been exposed psychologically, and are not physically ready. How should we approach the situation without being regarded or feeling like a hypocrite?

ANSWER:

At times it is Fardh-e-Ain to participate in Jihaad, which means that it is obligatory upon every Muslim male to participate (in Jihaad), like on the occasion of the battle of Tabuk, whilst at other times it is Fardh-e-Kifaayah, meaning that if a sufficient number of individuals participate, then the remainder will be absolved of their responsibility. If the announcement of true Jihaad is made and we are required to defend Islam and the Muslims, then we should participate in Jihaad so that the name of Allah reigns supreme, even though we may not be physically ready. However, if the enemies suddenly attack, then it is obligatory upon all the Muslims to defend. In such an instance, even a woman may participate in Jihaad without the consent of her husband, and a slave without the consent of his master. [Re:- Quduri – Kitaab-us-Siyar]  

We understand from the above that it is important to always keep fit and remain prepared for Jihaad. It is recorded in the Hadith Sharif, “Whoever passes away without participating in Jihaad and the thought of Jihaad didn’t cross his mind, then he has passed away upon a branch of hypocrisy.” [Muslim] This Hadith proves that one should be psychologically prepared to sacrifice one’s life on the battlefield.

Passing away on the battlefield is considered as an honourable death. In fact, the young Sahaabah would vie with each other to participate in Jihaad and attain martyrdom. Even the physically disabled who are exempted from participating in Jihaad went out in the path of Allah.  In conclusion, a Muslim should never fear death, but rather be prepared to sacrifice one’s life for the sake of Deen.     

ALLAH TA’ALA ALONE IN HIS INFINITE KNOWLEDGE KNOWS BEST!

ANSWERED BY:

Mufti Mohammed Desai

Date:- 22 Muharram 1445 / 10 August 2023