War and Peace: Islam

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  • War and Peace: Islam
    • There are two ideas in Muslim teaching that relate to war – Jihad (to struggle in the way of Allah) and Harb al-Muqadis (Holy War).
      • Jihad
        • Greater Jihad
          • the personal spiritual struggle or effort of every Muslim to follow the teachings of Allah (God) in their own lives
        • Lesser Jihad
          • The struggle to build a good Muslim society; also Holy War (the struggle to defend against oppression; with force if necessary).
      • Harb al-Muqadis - Holy War
        • ‘The Qur’an makes it clear that Muslims may fight in self-defence but should not start a fight or war
          • Other reasons for a military Jihad
            • To strengthen Islam
            • To protect the freedom of muslims to practice their faith
            • To put right a wrong
            • To protect muslims against attack
        • A military Jihad must follow strict rules in order to be legitamate
          • The opponent must have started the fighting
          • It must not be fought to gain territory
          • It must be launched by a religious leader
          • It must be fought to bring about good
          • It must be a last resort
          • Wounded enemy soldiers must be treated in exactly the same way as one’s own soldiers
            • Hate your enemy mildly; he may become your friend one day.
    • Islam is a religion which advocates peace and peace-making. However, it is not a pacifist religion; fighting and war is permitted in certain circumstances when all else has been tried and failed

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