Module 17: Jihad

The historical development of jihad is a complex evolution. While the word originally referred broadly to striving in the path of God, its meaning and application have expanded over time to include spiritual, political, and military dimensions.

The distinction between “greater” and “lesser” jihad is commonly associated with a Hadith in which the Prophet Muhammad speaks to soldiers returning from battle. Some scholars classify this specific Hadith as da‘if (weak), which is why some modern movements prioritize the military definition of jihad.

In the Qur’an, the word jihad from the root j-h-d, meaning “to strive.”

Islam Module 17 explains that jihad in Islam means “striving” or “struggle” and is broader than warfare alone. It can refer to personal moral effort, spiritual discipline, serving others, enduring hardship, and, in some circumstances, armed defense.