INSPIRING VIOLENCE

Does Islam inspire violence? Decide for yourself.

ISLAM

Quran, hadith,

Sunna:
Just the verses.

PEACE

WAR
0

INSPIRING VIOLENCE

INSPIRING VIOLENCE
QURAN, HADITH & SUNNA: JUST THE VERSES
VERSION 1.0
(All Quran and hadith sources quoted in full, unabridged. Verses/traditions expressing different viewpoints included.) 2011/07/08

Irrefutable.refutation@gmail.com You are free to use, copy or distribute for non-profit purposes.

Table of Contents
PART 1: INSPIRING MARYRDOM ...............................................................4
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. WHO IS REGARDED AS A MARTYR? ................................................ 5 MARTYRDOM ASSURES PARADISE ................................................. 8 DISCRIPTION OF MARTYRDOM ..................................................... 10 THE SHADES OF SWORDS .............................................................. 14 COMFORTED BY MARTYRDOM ..................................................... 16 OTHER BENEFITS OF MARTYRDOM ............................................. 18 A CUT ABOVE................................................................................... 19 MARTYRS DO NOT WANT TO RETURN ......................................... 20 EXCEPT TO BE MARTYRED AGAIN: ............................................... 21 MOHAMMAD DESIRES MARYRDOM ......................................... 22 EXCEPTIONAL CASES ................................................................. 23 EVERYONE MUST FIGHT ................................................................ 26 HYPOCRITES DONT FIGHT ............................................................ 28 WAR AS A TEST ............................................................................... 30 COMMANDS TO FIGHT ................................................................... 32 FIGHT IN THE RIGHT SPIRIT ......................................................... 34 THE BEST DEED .............................................................................. 38 THE BEST MAN................................................................................ 43 JIHAD REPLACES MIGRATION ....................................................... 45 A DAYS FIGHTING .......................................................................... 47 A WARRIORS REWARD ............................................................. 49 SUPPORTING A WARRIOR ......................................................... 53 WIN/WIN SITUATION ................................................................ 54

PART 2: INSPIRING FIGHTING.................................................................. 25

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13. 14. 15. 16. 17. PLEDGING LIFELONG JIHAD ...................................................... 55 JIHAD FOR WOMEN .................................................................... 56 IN ALLAHS CAUSE ...................................................................... 57 DO THIS INSTEAD ....................................................................... 60 COWARDICE ................................................................................ 61

PART 1: MARYRDOM

INSPIRING VIOLENCE
1. WHO IS REGARDED AS A MARTYR?

a. Those who kill themselves accidentally in Allahs cause are martyrs: Narrated by AbuSalam: AbuSalam reported on the authority of a man from the companion of the Prophet (pbuh). He said: We attacked a tribe of Juhaynah. A man from the Muslims pursued a man of them, and struck him but missed him. He struck himself with the sword. The Apostle of Allah (pbuh) said: Your brother, O group of Muslims. The people hastened towards him, but found him dead. The Apostle of Allah (pbuh) wrapped him with his clothes and his blood, and offered (funeral) prayer for him and buried him. They said: Apostle of Allah, is he a martyr? He said: Yes, and I am witness to him. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2533. Chapter: Jihad.) b. Those who suffer ulcers in Allahs cause are martyrs: Narrated by Mu'adh ibn Jabal: The Apostle of Allah (pbuh) said: If anyone fights in Allah's path as long as the time between two milkings of a she-camel, Paradise will be assured for him. If anyone sincerely asks Allah for being killed and then dies or is killed, there will be a reward of a martyr for him. Ibn al-Musaffa added from here: If anyone is wounded in Allah's path, or suffers a misfortune, it will come on the Day of resurrection as copious as possible, its colour saffron, and its odour musk; and if anyone suffers from ulcers while in Allah's path, he will have on him the stamp of the martyrs. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2535. Chapter: Jihad.) (Repeated Elsewhere, once)

c. Those who die of diseases or accidents are also martyrs: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira that the, Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: While a man walks along a path, finds a thorny twig lying on the way and puts it aside, Allah would appreciate it and forgive him The Holy Prophet (may peace be upon him) said: The martyrs are of five kinds: one who dies of plague; one who dies of diarrhoea (or cholera); one who is drowned; one who is buried under debris and one who dies fighting in the way of Allah. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4705. Chapter: About the martyrs.) [The next six hadith are the same.] d. Those who die of diseases or accidents are also martyrs: Narrated by Abu Huraira: Allah's Apostle said, "Five are regarded as martyrs: They are those who die because of plague, abdominal disease, drowning or a falling building etc., and the martyrs in Allah's Cause." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 082.) e. Plague is martyrdom: Narrated by Anas bin Malik: The Prophet said, "Plague is the cause of martyrdom of every Muslim (who dies because of it)." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 083.) f. Death of any kind is martyrdom: Narrated by AbuMalik al-Ash'ari: AbuMalik heard the Apostle of Allah (pbuh) say: He who goes forth in Allah's path and dies or is killed is a martyr, or has his neck broken through being thrown by his horse or by his camel, or is stung by a poisonous creature, or dies on his bed by any kind of death Allah wishes is a martyr and will go to Paradise. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2493. Chapter: Jihad.) 6

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g. Those who seek martyrdom earnestly will have a martyrs reward: It has been narrated on the authority of Anas b. Malik that the Messenger of Allah (may peace he upon him) said: Who seeks martyrdom with sincerity shall get its reward, though he may not achieve it. (The next hadith is the same.) (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4694. Chapter: Desirability of seeking martyrdom.)

2.

MARTYRDOM ASSURES PARADISE

a. The warrior who kills or is killed is guaranteed heaven by a binding promise: "Allah hath purchased of the believers their persons and their goods; for theirs (in return) is the garden (of Paradise): they fight in His cause, and slay and are slain: a promise binding on Him in truth, through the Law, the Gospel, and the Quran: and who is more faithful to his covenant than Allah? Then rejoice in the bargain which ye have concluded: that is the achievement supreme." (9:111) b. Whoever is killed (in the context of battle) goes to paradise: Narrated Al-Mughira bin Shu'ba: Our Prophet told us about the message of our Lord that "Whoever amongst us is killed will go to Paradise." Umar asked the Prophet, "Is it not true that our men who are killed will go to Paradise and theirs (i.e. those of the Pagan's) will go to the (Hell) fire?" The Prophet said, "Yes." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 072.) c. Paradise is assured for martyrs: Narrated by Mu'adh ibn Jabal: The Apostle of Allah (pbuh) said: If anyone fights in Allah's path as long as the time between two milkings of a she-camel, Paradise will be assured for him. If anyone sincerely asks Allah for being killed and then dies or is killed, there will be a reward of a martyr for him. Ibn al-Musaffa added from here: If anyone is wounded in Allah's path, or suffers a misfortune, it will come on the Day of resurrection as copious as possible, its colour saffron, and its odour musk; and if anyone suffers from ulcers while in Allah's path, he will have on him the 8

INSPIRING VIOLENCE
stamp of the martyrs. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2535. Chapter: Jihad.) (Repeated Elsewhere, once) d. Martyrs (and other groups) are in paradise: Narrated by Hasana' daughter of Mu'awiyah: She reported on the authority of her paternal uncle: I asked the Prophet (pbuh): Who are in Paradise? He replied: Prophets are in Paradise, martyrs are in Paradise, infants are in Paradise and children buried alive are in Paradise. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2515. Chapter: Jihad.) (Repeated elsewhere, once) e. The warrior is guaranteed paradise if he is killed: Narrated by Abu Huraira: I heard Allah's Apostle saying, "The example of a Mujahid in Allah's cause... and Allah knows better who really strives in his cause... is like a person who fasts and prays continuously. Allah guarantees that He will admit the Mujahid in His Cause into Paradise if he is killed, otherwise He will return him to his home safely with rewards and war booty." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 046.) f. The warrior receives a great reward whether he is killed or victorious Let those (believers) who sell the life of this world for the Hereafter fight in the cause of Allah, whosoever fights in the Cause of Allah, and is killed or gets victory, We shall bestow on him a great reward. (4:74, Medina, 92/114)

3.

DISCRIPTION OF MARTYRDOM

a. A man is assured paradise and fights until he dies: It has been reported on the authority of Anas b. Malik who said: The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) sent Busaisah as a scout to see what the caravan of Abu Sufyan was doing. He came (back and met the Holy Prophet in his house) where there was nobody except myself and the Messenger of Allah. I do not remember whether he (Hadrat Anas) made an exception of some wives of the Holy Prophet (may peace be upon him) or not and told him the news of the caravan. (Having heard the news), the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) came out (hurriedly), spoke to the people and said: We are in need (of men); whoever has an animal to ride upon ready with him should ride with us. People began to ask him permission for bringing their riding animals which were grazing on the hillocks near Medina. He said: No. (I want) only those who have their riding animals ready. So the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) and his Companions proceeded towards Badr and reached there forestalling the polytheists (of Mecca). When the polytheists (also) reached there, the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: None of you should step forward to (do) anything unless I am ahead of him. The polytheists (now) advanced (towards us), and the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said. Get up to enter Paradise which is equal in width to the heavens and the earth. 'Umair b. alHumam al-Ansari said: Messenger of Allah, is Paradise equal in extent to the heavens and the earth? He said: Yes. 'Umair said: My goodness! The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) asked him: What prompted you to utter these words (i.e., my goodness!)? He said: Messenger of Allah, nothing but the desire that I be among its residents. He said: Thou art (surely) among its residents. He took out dates from his bag and began to eat them. Then he said: If I were to live until I have eaten all these dates of mine, it would be a long life. (The narrator said): He threw away 10

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all the dates he had with him. Then he fought the enemies until he was killed. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4680. Chapter: In proof of the martyr's attaining paradise.) b. A description of martyrs in paradise and their desire to be martyred again: It has been narrated on the authority of Masruq Who said: We asked 'Abdullah about the Qur'anic verse: "Think not of those who are slain in Allah's way as dead. Nay, they are alive, finding their sustenance in the presence of their Lord..." (iii. 169). He said: We asked the meaning of the verse (from the Holy Prophet) who said: The souls, of the martyrs live in the bodies of green birds who have their nests in chandeliers hung from the throne of the Almighty. They eat the fruits of Paradise from wherever they like and then nestle in these chandeliers. Once their Lord cast a glance at them and said: Do ye want anything? They said: What more shall we desire? We eat the fruit of Paradise from wherever we like. Their Lord asked them the same question thrice. When they saw that they will continue to be asked and not left (without answering the question), they said: O Lord, we wish that Thou mayest return our souls to our bodies so that we may be slain in Thy way once again. When He (Allah) saw that they had no need, they were left (to their joy in heaven). (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4651. Chapter: The souls of the martyrs are in paradise: they are alive and find their sustenance from their Lord.) c. A man is assured paradise and fights until he dies: It has been reported on the authority of Jabir that a man said: Messenger of Allah, where shall I be if I am killed? He replied: In Paradise. The man threw away the dates he had in his hand and fought until he was killed (i.e. he did not wait until he could finish the dates).In the version of the tradition narrated by Suwaid we have the words: "A man said to the Holy Prophet (may peace be upon him), on the day of Uhud..." (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith 11

Number 4678. Chapter: In proof of the martyr's attaining paradise.) d. Fulfill your vow to me by dying: Allah said, Some of you have fulfilled your vow to Me by dying; you have finished your work and returned to Me like those who sought martyrdom in prior battles. And some are still waiting to capitalize on Allah's promise of martyrdom. You do not hesitate in your religion and never doubt.' (Ishaq: 468) e. The dead have completed their vow and some still wait: It has been reported on the authority of Anas who said: My uncle and I have been named after him was not present with the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) on the Day of Badr. He felt distressed about it. He would say: I have missed the first battle fought by the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him), and if God now gives me an opportunity to see a battlefield with the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him), God will see what I do therein. He was afraid to say more than this (lest he be unable to keep his word with God). He was present with the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) on the Day of Uhud. He met Sa'd b. Mu'adh (who was retreating). Anas said to him: O Abu 'Amr, where (are you going)?Woe (to thee) ! I find the smell of Paradise beside the Uhud mountain. (Reprimanding Sa'd in these words) he went forward and fought there (the enemy) until he was killed. (The narrator says). More than eighty wounds inflicted with swords, spears and arrows were found on his body. His sister, my aunt, ar-Rubayyi', daughter of Nadr, said: I could not recognise my brother's body (it was so badly mutilated) except from his finger-tips. (It was on this occasion that) the Qur'anic verse: "Among the Believers are men who have been true to their covenant with God. Of them some have completed their vow (to the extreme), and some still wait: but they have never changed (their determination) in the least" (xxxiii. 23). The narrator said that the verse had been revealed about him (Anas b. Nadr) and his 12

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Companions. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4683. Chapter: In proof of the martyr's attaining paradise.) f. A blind man is granted martyrdom: Amr Jamuh was a very lame man. He had four lion-like sons who were present at the Apostles battles. At Uhud he came to the Prophet and told him that his sons wanted to keep him back and prevent his joining the army. Yet, by Allah, I hope to tread in the Heavenly Garden of Paradise despite my lameness. The Apostle said, Allah has excused you, and Jihad is not incumbent on you. Then Muhammad turned to his sons and said, You need not prevent him. Perhaps Allah will favor him with martyrdom. So the lame old man went into battle and was killed. (Ishaq: 385)

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4.

THE SHADES OF SWORDS

a. Paradise is under the shades of swords: Narrated by Salim Abu An-Nadr: (The freed slave of 'Umar bin 'Ubaidullah) I was Umar's clerk. Once Abdullah bin Abi Aufa wrote a letter to 'Umar when he proceeded to Al-Haruriya. I read in it that Allah's Apostle in one of his military expeditions against the enemy, waited till the sun declined and then he got up amongst the people saying, "O people! Do not wish to meet the enemy, and ask Allah for safety, but when you face the enemy, be patient, and remember that Paradise is under the shades of swords." Then he said, "O Allah, the Revealer of the Holy Book, and the Mover of the clouds and the Defeater of the clans, defeat them, and grant us victory over them." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 266A.) b. Paradise is under the shades of swords: Narrated by 'Abdullah bin Abi Aufa: Allah's Apostle said, "Know that Paradise is under the shades of swords." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 073.) c. Do not desire conflict, but paradise is under the shades of swords: Narrated by Salim Abu An-Nadr: The freed slave of 'Umar bin 'Ubaidullah who was 'Umar's clerk: 'Abdullah bin Abi Aufa wrote him (i.e. 'Umar) a letter that contained the following: "Once Allah's Apostle (during a holy battle), waited till the sun had declined and then he got up among the people and said, "O people! Do not wish to face the enemy (in a battle) and ask Allah to save you (from calamities) but if you should face the enemy, then be patient and let it be known to you that Paradise is under the shades of 14

INSPIRING VIOLENCE
swords." He then said,, "O Allah! The Revealer of the (Holy) Book, the Mover of the clouds, and Defeater of Al-Ahzab (i.e. the clans of infidels), defeat them infidels and bestow victory upon us." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 210.) d. Paradise is under the shades of swords: It is Narrated by Abu Nadr that he learnt from a letter sent by a man from the Aslam tribe, who was a Companion of the Holy Prophet (may peace be upon him) and whose name was 'Abdullah b. Abu Aufa, to 'Umar b. 'Ubaidullah when the latter marched upon Haruriyya (Khawarij) informing him that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) in one of those days when lie was confronting the enemy waited until the sun had declined. Then he stood up (to address the people) and said: O ye men, do not wish for an encounter with the enemy. Pray to Allah to grant you security; (but) when you (have to) encounter them exercise patience, and you should know that Paradise is under the shadows of the swords. Then the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) stood up (again) and said: O Allah. Revealer of the Book, Disperser of the clouds, Defeater of the hordes, put our enemy to rout and help us against them. (Muslim, Book 019, Hadith Number 4314. Chapter: One should not desire an encounter with the enemy. but it is essential to show patience during the encounter.)

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5.

COMFORTED BY MARTYRDOM

a. A mother is comforted by Mohammad; her son is a martyr: Narrated by Thabit ibn Qays: A woman called Umm Khallad came to the Prophet (pbuh) while she was veiled. She was searching for her son who had been killed (in the battle) Some of the Companions of the Prophet (pbuh) said to her: You have come here asking for your son while veiling your face? She said: If I am afflicted with the loss of my son, I shall not suffer the loss of my modesty. The Apostle of Allah (pbuh) said: You will get the reward of two martyrs for your son. She asked: Why is that so, Apostle of Allah? He replied: Because the people of the Book have killed him. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2482. Chapter: Jihad.) b. A mother is comforted by Mohammad; her son is a martyr: Narrated by Anas bin Malik: Um Ar-Rubai'bint Al-Bara', the mother of Hartha bin Suraqa came to the Prophet and said, "O Allah's Prophet! Will you tell me about Hartha?" Hartha has been killed (i.e. martyred) on the day of Badr with an arrow thrown by an unidentified person. She added, "If he is in Paradise, I will be patient; otherwise, I will weep bitterly for him." He said, "O mother of Hartha! There are Gardens in Paradise and your son got the Firdausal-ala (i.e. the best place in Paradise)." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 064.) c. A daughter/sister is comforted; her martyred father/brother is shaded by angels wings. Narrated by Jabir: My father's mutilated body was brought to the Prophet and was placed in front of him. I went to uncover his face but my companions forbade me. Then mourning cries of a lady were heard, and it was said that she was either the daughter or the 16

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sister of Amr. The Prophet said, "Why is she crying?" Or said, "Do not cry, for the angels are still shading him with their wings." (AlBukhari asked Sadqa, a sub-narrator, "Does the narration include the expression: 'Till he was lifted?' "The latter replied, "Jabir may have said it.") (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 071.)

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6.

OTHER BENEFITS OF MARTYRDOM

a. Martyrs their deeds will not be lost. But if it had been Allah's Will, He could certainly have exacted retribution from them (Himself); but (He lets you fight) in order to test you, some with others. But those who are slain in the Way of Allah,- He will never let their deeds be lost." (47:3-4) b. The intercession of martyrs is powerful: Narrated by AbudDarda': The Prophet (pbuh) said: The intercession of a martyr will be accepted for seventy members of his family. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2516. Chapter: Jihad.) c. A better and superior house (in paradise) for martyrs: Narrated by Samura: The Prophet said, "Last night two men came to me (in a dream) and made me ascend a tree and then admitted me into a better and superior house, better of which I have never seen. One of them said, 'This house is the house of martyrs." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 049.) d. He now has his two dark eyed virgins: Masud was one of those who found martyrdom at Khaybar. Muhammad said, He has with him now his two dark-eyed virgins. When a martyr is slain, his two virgins pet him, wiping the dust from his face. They say, "May Allah throw dust on the face of the man who did this to you, and slay him who slew you!" (Ishaq: 518)

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE
7. A CUT ABOVE

a. Believers who do not fight are not equal to those who do: "Not equal are those believers who sit (at home) and receive no hurt, and those who strive and fight in the cause of Allah with their goods and their persons. Allah hath granted a grade higher to those who strive and fight with their goods and persons than to those who sit (at home). Unto all (in Faith) Hath Allah promised good: But those who strive and fight Hath He distinguished above those who sit (at home) by a special reward,-" (4:95, Medina, 92/114) b. Those who strive with their wealth and lives in Allahs way are much greater in Allahs sight: "Those who believe, and have left their homes and striven with their wealth and their lives in Allah's way are of much greater worth in Allah's sight. These are they who are triumphant." 9:20

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8.

MARTYRS DO NOT WANT TO RETURN

a. The reward of martyrs in paradise is such that they do not desire to return: Narrated by Anas bin Malik: The Prophet delivered a sermon and said, "Zaid took the flag and was martyred, and then Ja'far took the flag and was martyred, and then 'Abdullah bin Rawaha took the flag and was martyred too, and then Khalid bin Al-Walid took the flag though he was not appointed as a commander and Allah made him victorious." The Prophet further added, "It would not please us to have them with us." Aiyub, a sub-narrator, added, "Or the Prophet, shedding tears, said, 'It would not please them to be with us." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 055.) b. The reward of martyrs in paradise is such that they do not desire to return: Narrated by Anas bin Malik: Allah's Apostle delivered a sermon and said, "Zaid received the flag and was martyred, then Ja'far took it and was martyred, then 'Abdullah bin Rawaha took it and was martyred, and then Khalid bin Al-Walid took it without being appointed, and Allah gave him victory." The Prophet added, "I am not pleased (or they will not be pleased) that they should remain (alive) with us," while his eyes were shedding tears. (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 298.)

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9. EXCEPT TO BE MARTYRED AGAIN:

a. The only reasons martyrs (in paradise) want to return to earth is to be martyred again: Narrated by Anas bin Malik: The Prophet said, "Nobody who enters Paradise likes to go back to the world even if he got everything on the earth, except a Mujahid who wishes to return to the world so that he may be martyred ten times because of the dignity he receives (from Allah)." b. Martyrs only want to return to be martyred again: It has been narrated on the authority of Anas b. Malik (through a different chain of transmitters) that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: Nobody who enters Paradise will (ever like to) return to this world even if he were offered everything on the surface of the earth (as an inducement) except the martyr who will desire to return to this world and be killed ten times for the sake of the great honour that has been bestowed upon him. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4635. Chapter: The merit of Martyrdom.)

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10.

MOHAMMAD DESIRES MARYRDOM

a. Mohammad expresses the desire to be martyred endlessly: Narrated by Abu Huraira: Allah's Apostle said, "Were it not for the fear that it would be difficult for my followers, I would not have remained behind any Sariya, (army-unit) but I don't have riding camels and have no other means of conveyance to carry them on, and it is hard for me that my companions should remain behind me. No doubt I wish I could fight in Allah's Cause and be martyred and come to life again to be martyred and come to life once more." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 216.) b. Mohammad expresses his desire to be martyred again and again: Narrated by Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "By Him in Whose Hands my life is! Were it not for some men amongst the believers who dislike to be left behind me and whom I cannot provide with means of conveyance, I would certainly never remain behind any Sariya' (army-unit) setting out in Allah's Cause. By Him in Whose Hands my life is! I would love to be martyred in Al1ah's Cause and then get resurrected and then get martyred, and then get resurrected again and then get martyred and then get resurrected again and then get martyred. (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 054.)

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11. EXCEPTIONAL CASES

a. Those who fight for wrong motives and die still go to paradise. Narrated by AbuHurayrah: Amr ibn Uqaysh had given usurious loans in pre-Islamic period; so he disliked to embrace Islam until he took them. He came on the day of Uhud and asked: Where are my cousins? They (the people) replied: At Uhud. He asked: Where is so-and-so? They said: At Uhud. He asked: Where is so-and-so? They said: At Uhud. He then put on his coat of mail and rode his horse; he then proceeded towards them. When the Muslims saw him, they said: Keep away, Amir. He said: I have become a believer. He fought until he was wounded. He was then taken to his family wounded. Sa'd ibn Mu'adh came to his sister: Ask him (whether he fought) out of partisanship, out of anger for them, or out of anger for Allah. He said: Out of anger of Allah and His Apostle. He then died and entered Paradise. He did not offer any prayer for Allah. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2531. Chapter: Jihad.) b. New converts get a great reward: Narrated by Al-Bara: A man whose face was covered with an iron mask (i.e. clad in armour) came to the Prophet and said, "O Allah's Apostle! Shall I fight or embrace Islam first? "The Prophet said, "Embrace Islam first and then fight." So he embraced Islam, and was martyred. Allah's Apostle said, A Little work, but a great reward. "(He did very little (after embracing Islam), but he will be rewarded in abundance)." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 063.)

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c. New converts have a great reward: It has been reported on the authority of Bara!' who stated: A man from Banu Nabit (one of the Ansar tribes) came to the Holy Prophet (may peace be upon him) and said: I testify that there is no god except Allah and that thou art His bondman and Messenger. Then he went forward and fought until he was killed. The Holy Prophet (may peace be upon him) said: He has done a little but shall be given a great reward. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4679. Chapter: In proof of the martyr's attaining paradise.) d. A murderer is forgiven if he is later martyred. Narrated by Abu Huraira: Allah's Apostle said, "Allah welcomes two men with a smile; one of whom kills the other and both of them enter Paradise. One fights in Allah's Cause and gets killed. Later on Allah forgives the 'killer who also get martyred (In Allah's Cause)." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 080I.)

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE

PART 2: FIGHTING

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1.

EVERYONE MUST FIGHT

a. Fighting is prescribes for you even though you dont like it: "Fighting is prescribed for you, and ye dislike it. But it is possible that ye dislike a thing which is good for you, and that ye love a thing which is bad for you. But Allah knoweth, and ye know not." (2:216, Medina, 87/114 in order) b. Dont be fainthearted and cry for peace: "Be not weary and faint-hearted, crying for peace, when ye should be uppermost for Allah is with you," (47:35, Medina, 95/114) c. Jihad is incumbent on you with (not against) every ruler, whether pious or impious: Narrated by AbuHurayrah: The Prophet (pbuh) said: Striving in the path of Allah (jihad) is incumbent on you along with every ruler, whether he is pious or impious; the prayer is obligatory on you behind every believer, pious or impious, even if he commits grave sins; the (funeral) prayer is incumbent upon every Muslim, pious and impious, even if he commits major sins. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2527. Chapter: Jihad.) d. Those who do not fight or support fighting will be smitten by Allah: Narrated by AbuUmamah: The Prophet (pbuh) said: He who does not join the warlike expedition (jihad), or equip, or looks well after a warrior's family when he is away, will be smitten by Allah with a sudden calamity. Yazid ibn Abdu Rabbihi said in his tradition: 'before the Day of Resurrection". (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2497. Chapter: Jihad.)

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE
e. Use properties, persons and tongues to strive against polytheists: Narrated by Anas ibn Malik: The Prophet (pbuh) said: Use your property, your persons any your tongues in striving against the polytheists. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2498. Chapter: Jihad.)

27

2.

HYPOCRITES DONT FIGHT

a. Those who do not fight are hypocrites: And the Hypocrites also. These were told: "Come, fight in the way of God, or (at least) drive (The foe from your city)." They said: "Had we known how to fight, we should certainly have followed you." They were that day nearer to Unbelief than to Faith, saying with their lips what was not in their hearts but God hath full knowledge of all they conceal. (3:167) b. Dont let hypocrites join in on the fighting; they refused the first time: If Allah brings you back to a party of them (the hypocrites), and they ask your permission to go out (to fight), say: "Never shall you go out with me, nor fight an enemy with me; you agreed to sit inactive on the first occasion, then you sit (now) with those who lag behind." (Muhsin and Hilali, 9:83) c. Hypocrites try to scare believers into not fighting: Those (i.e. believers) unto whom the people (hypocrites) said, "Verily, the people (pagans) have gathered against you (a great army), therefore, fear them." But it (only) increased them in Faith, and they said: "Allah (Alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs (for us)." (Muhsin and Hilali, 3:173) d. Strive against unbelievers and hypocrites: O Prophet! Strive hard against the Unbelievers and the Hypocrites, and be firm against them. Their abode is Hell,- an evil refuge (indeed). (Yusuf Ali, 66:9)

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE
e. Do not be a hypocrite; respond when Mohammad summons you to war: Allah said, Do not turn away from Muhammad when he is speaking to you. Do not contradict his orders. And do not be a hypocrite, one who pretends to be obedient to him and then disobeys him. Those who do so will receive My vengeance. You must respond to the Apostle when he summons you to war. (Ishaq: 322) f. Those who do not desire martyrdom die as hypocrites: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: One who died but did not fight in the way of Allah nor did he express any desire (or determination) for Jihad died the death of a hypocrite. 'Abdullah b. Mubarak said: We think the hadith pertained to the time of the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him). (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4696. Chapter: Denunciation of one who died but never fought in the way of Allah nor did he ever express a desire or determination for jihad.)

29

3.

WAR AS A TEST

a. Fighting is a choice between this life and the next. Those who refuse to fight will be punished in hell: "O ye who believe! What is the matter with you, that, when ye are asked to go forth in the cause of Allah, ye cling heavily to the earth? Do ye prefer the life of this world to the Hereafter? But little is the comfort of this life, as compared with the Hereafter. Unless ye go forth, He will punish you with a grievous penalty, and put others in your place." This is a warning to those who refuse to fight, that they will be punished with Hell. (9:38-39) b. Fighting is a test to distinguish believers and hypocrites: Allah said, I let them get the better of you to test you. So fear Me and obey Me. If you had believed in what My Prophet brought from Me you would not have received a shock from the Meccan army. But We cause days like this so that Allah may know those who believe and may choose martyrs from among you. Allah must distinguish between believers and hypocrites so that He can honor the faithful with martyrdom. (Ishaq: 394) c. The battle of Uhud was a test: The day of Uhud was a day of trial, calamity, and heart-searching on which Allah tested the believers. He put the hypocrites [peaceful Muslims] on trial, those who professed faith with their tongue and hid unbelief in their hearts. And it was a day in which Allah honored with martyrdom those whom He willed. (Ishaq: 391)

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE
d. Apostles are tested with battle but the victory is always theirs: Narrated by Abdullah bin Abbas: That Abu Sufyan told him that Heraclius said to him, "I asked you about the outcome of your battles with him (i.e. the Prophet) and you told me that you fought each other with alternate success. So the Apostles are tested in this way but the ultimate victory is always theirs. (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 060.)

31

4.

COMMANDS TO FIGHT

a. Fight in the cause of Allah: "Then fight in the cause of Allah, and know that Allah Heareth and knoweth all things." (2:244, Medina, 87/114) b. Those who believe fight: "Those who believe fight in the cause of Allah" (4:76, Medina, 92/114) c. Exhort the believers to fight: "O Prophet, exhort the believers to fight..." (8:65, Medina, 88/114 in order) d. Fight and Allah will punish them by your hands "Fight them, Allah will punish them by your hands and bring them to disgrace..." (9:14, Medina, 113/114 in order) e. Fight unbelievers who are near to you: "O you who believe! Fight those of the unbelievers who are near to you and let them find in you hardness." (9:123, Medina, 113/114 in order) f. Strive hard and be unyielding: "O Prophet! strive hard against the unbelievers and the hypocrites and be unyielding to them; and their abode is hell, and evil is the destination." (9:73, Medina, 113/114) g. Strive with the utmost strenuousness: "Therefore listen not to the Unbelievers, but strive against them with the utmost strenuousness..." (25:52, Mecca, 42/114)

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE
h. Strive with your wealth and lives: "Go forth, light-armed and heavy-armed, and strive with your wealth and your lives in the way of Allah! That is best for you if ye but knew." (9:41)

33

5.

FIGHT IN THE RIGHT SPIRIT

a. Fighting for worldly advantage is not rewarded: Narrated by AbuHurayrah: A man said: Apostle of Allah, a man wishes to take part in jihad in Allah's path desiring some worldly advantage? The Prophet (pbuh) said: He will have not reward. The people thought it terrible, and they said to the man: Go back to the Apostle of Allah (pbuh), for you might not have made him understand well. He, therefore, (went and again) asked: Apostle of Allah, a man wishes to take part in jihad in Allah's path desiring some worldly advantage? He replied: There is no reward for him. They again said to the man: Return to the Apostle of Allah. He, therefore, said to him third time. He replied: There is no reward for him. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2510. Chapter: Jihad.) b. A fighter will be resurrected with the same frame of mind as when he fought: Narrated by Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-'As: Apostle of Allah, tell me about jihad and fighting. He replied: Abdullah ibn Amr, if you fight with endurance seeking from Allah your reward, Allah will resurrect you showing endurance and seeking your reward from Him, but, if you fight for vain show seeking to acquire much, Allah will resurrect you making a vain show and seeking to acquire much. In whatever you fight or are killed, Abdullah ibn Amr, in that state Allah will resurrect you. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2513. Chapter: Jihad.) c. The pious, sincere fighter is rewarded: Narrated by Mu'adh ibn Jabal: The Prophet (pbuh) said: Fighting is of two kinds: The one who seeks Allah's favour, obeys the leader, 34

INSPIRING VIOLENCE
gives the property he values, treats his associates gently and avoids doing mischief, will have the reward for all the time whether he is asleep or awake; but the one who fights in a boasting spirit, for the sake of display and to gain a reputation, who disobeys the leader and does mischief in the earth will not return credit or without blame. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2509. Chapter: Jihad.) d. Allah loves pride in a man while fighting: Narrated by Jabir ibn Atik: The Prophet (pbuh) said: There is jealousy which Allah loves and jealousy which Allah hates. That which Allah loves is jealousy regarding a matter of doubt, and that which Allah hates is jealousy regarding something which is not doubtful. There is pride which Allah hates and pride which Allah loves. That which Allah loves is a man's pride when fighting and when giving sadaqah and that which Allah hates is pride shown by oppression. The narrator Musa said: "by boasting." (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2653. Chapter: Jihad.) e. He who fights so that the word of Allah is exalted is fighting in the way of Allah: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Musa Ash'ari that a desert Arab came to the Holy Prophet (may peace be upon him) and said: Messenger of Allah, one man fights for the spoils of war; another fights that he may be remembered, and another fights that he may see his (high) position (achieved as a result of his valour in fighting). Which of these is fighting in the cause of God? The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: Who fights so that the word of Allah is exalted is fighting in the way of Allah. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4684. Chapter: One who fights that the word of Allah is exalted fights in the way of Allah.) (The next three hadith are the same.) 35

f. Those who fight for the wrong reasons are cast into hell: It has been narrated on the authority of Sulaiman b. Yasar who said: People dispersed from around Abu Huraira, and Natil, who was from the Syrians, said to him: O Shaikh, relate (to us) a tradition you have heard from the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him). He said: Yes. I heard the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) say: The first of men (whose case) will be decided on the Day of Judgment will be a man who died as a martyr. He shall be brought (before the Judgment Seat). Allah will make him recount His blessings (i.e. the blessings which He had bestowed upon him) and he will recount them (and admit having enjoyed them in his life). (Then) will Allah say: What did you do (to requite these blessings)? He will say: I fought for Thee until I died as a martyr. Allah will say: You have told a lie. You fought that you might be called a "brave warrior". And you were called so, (Then) orders will be passed against him and he will be dragged with his face downward and cast into Hell. Then will be brought forward a man who acquired knowledge and imparted it (to others) and recited the Qur'an. He will be brought And Allah will make him recount His blessings and he will recount them (and admit having enjoyed them in his lifetime). Then will Allah ask: What did you do (to requite these blessings)? He will say: I acquired knowledge and disseminated it and recited the Qur'an seeking Thy pleasure. Allah will say: You have told a lie. You acquired knowledge so that you might be called "a scholar," and you recited the Qur'an so that it might be said: "He is a Qari" and such has been said. Then orders will be passed against him and he shall be dragged with his face downward and cast into the Fire. Then will be brought a man whom Allah had made abundantly rich and had granted every kind of wealth. He will be brought and Allah will make him recount His blessings and he will recount them and (admit having enjoyed them in his lifetime). Allah will (then) ask: What have you done (to requite these blessings)? He will say: I spent money in every cause in which Thou wished that it should 36

INSPIRING VIOLENCE
be spent. Allah will say: You are lying. You did (so) that it might be said about (You): "He is a generous fellow" and so it was said. Then will Allah pass orders and he will be dragged with his face downward and thrown into Hell. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4688. Chapter: Who fought for ostentation and vanity deserved (punishment in) Hell loss.) [The next hadith makes the same point as the synopsis.]

37

6.

THE BEST DEED

a. Belief in Allah and Jihad are the most meritorious acts; courageous fighting blots out all sins except debt: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Qatada that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) stood up among them (his Companions) to deliver his sermon in which he told them that Jihad in the way of Allah and belief in Allah (with all His Attributes) are the most meritorious of acts. A man stood up and said: Messenger of Allah, do you think that if I am killed in the way of Allah, my sins will be blotted out from me? The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: Yes, in case you are killed in the way of Allah and you were patient and sincere and you always fought facing the enemy, never turning your back upon him. Then he added: What have you said (now)? (Wishing to have further assurance from him for his satisfaction), he asked (again): Do you think if I am killed in the way of Allah, all my sins will be obliterated from me? The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: Yes, it you were patient and sincere and always fought facing the enemy and never turning your back upon him, (all your lapses would be forgiven) except debt. Gabriel has told me this. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4646. Chapter: One who is killed in the way of Allah will have all his sins blotted out except debt.) [The next four hadith are the same.] b. There is not deed that equals Jihad in reward. Narrated by Abu Huraira: A man came to Allah's Apostle and said, "Instruct me as to such a deed as equals Jihad (in reward)." He replied, "I do not find such a deed." Then he added, "Can you, while the Muslim fighter is in the battle-field, enter your mosque to perform prayers without cease and fast and never break your fast?" The man said, "But who can do that?" Abu- Huraira added, "The Mujahid (i.e. Muslim fighter) is rewarded even for the 38

INSPIRING VIOLENCE
footsteps of his horse while it wanders bout (for grazing) tied in a long rope." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 044.) c. Jihad is the best deed: Abu Dharr reported: I said: Messenger of Allah, which of the deeds is the best? He (the Holy Prophet) replied: Belief in Allah and Jihad in His cause. I again asked: Who is the slave whose emancipation is the best? He (the Holy Prophet) replied: One who is valuable for his master and whose price is high. I said: If I can't afford to do it? He (the Holy Prophet) replied: Help an artisan or make anything for the unskilled (labourer). I (Abu Dharr) said: Messenger of Allah, you see that I am helpless in doing some of these deeds. He (the Holy Prophet) replied: Desist from doing mischief to the people. That is the charity of your person on your behalf. (The next hadith is the same.) (Muslim, Book 001, Hadith Number 0149) d. Jihad is the second-best deed: Abu Huraira reported: The Messenger of Allah was asked about the best of deeds. He observed: Belief in Allah. He (the inquirer) said: What next? He (the Holy Prophet) replied: Jihad (struggle to the utmost) in the cause of Allah. He (the inquirer) again said: What next? He (the Holy Prophet) replied: Pilgrimage accepted into the grace of the Lord. In the tradition narrated on the authority of Muhammad b. Ja'far (the words are) that he (the Holy Prophet) said: Belief in Allah and His Messenger. Muhammad b. Rafi and 'Abd b. Humaid, 'Abdur-Razzaq and Ma'mar and Zuhri have narrated a hadith like this on the authority of the same chain of transmitters. (Muslim, Book 001, Hadith Number 0148) e. Jihad is the third-best deed: Narrated by Abdullah bin Masud: I asked Allah's Apostle, "O Allah's Apostle! What is the best deed?" He replied, "To offer the prayers at their early stated fixed times." I asked, "What is next in goodness?" He replied, "To be good and dutiful to your parents." I 39

further asked, what is next in goodness?" He replied, "To participate in Jihad in Allah's Cause." I did not ask Allah's Apostle anymore and if I had asked him more, he would have told me more. (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 041.) f. Jihad is the third-best deed: It is narrated on the authority of 'Abdullah b. Mas'ud that he observed. I asked the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) which deed was the best. He (the Holy Prophet) replied: Prayer at its appointed hour. I (again) said: Then what? He (the Holy Prophet) replied: Kindness to the parents. I (again) said: Then what? He replied: Earnest endeavour (Jihad) in the cause of Allah. And I would have not ceased asking more questions but out of regard (for his feelings). (The next two hadith are the same.) (Muslim, Book 001, Hadith Number 0151) g. Fighting is equal to constant/perfect prayer and fasting: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira who said: The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) was asked: What deed could be an equivalent of Jihad in the way of Allah, the Almighty and Exalted? He answered: You do not have the strength to do that deed. The narrator said: They repeated the question twice or thrice. Every time he answered: You do not have the strength to do it. When the question was asked for the third time, he said: One who goes out for Jihad is like a person who keeps fasts, stands in prayer (constantly), (obeying) Allah's (behests contained in) the verses (of the Qur'an), and does not exhibit any lassitude* in fasting and prayer until the Mujihid returns from Jihad in the way of Allah, the Exalted. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4636. Chapter: The merit of Martyrdom.) [*Physical or mental weariness; lack of energy Concise Oxford English Dictionary]

40

INSPIRING VIOLENCE
h. Fighting is better than giving water to pilgrims or maintaining the sacred mosque: It has been narrated on the authority of Nu'man b. Bashir who said: As I was (sitting) near the pulpit of the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him), a man said: I do not care if, after embracing Islam, I do not do any good deed (except) distributing drinking water among the pilgrims. Another said: I do not care if, after embracing Islam, I do not do any good deed beyond maintenance service to the Sacred Mosque. Another said: Jihad in the way of Allah is better than what you have said. 'Umar reprimanded them and said: Don't raise your voices near the pulpit of the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) on Friday. When prayer was over, I entered (the apartment of the Holy Prophet) and asked his verdict about the matter in which they had differed. (It was upon this that) Allah, the Almighty and Exalted, revealed the Qur'anic verse: "Do you make the giving of drinking water to the pilgrims and the maintenance of the Sacred Mosque equal to (the service of those) who believe in Allah and the Last Day and strive hard in the cause of Allah. They are not equal in the sight of God. And Allah guides not the wrongdoing people" (ix. 20). This tradition has been narrated on the authority of Nu'man b. Bashir through another chain of transmitters. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4638. Chapter: The merit of Martyrdom.) i. Keeping watch is greater than a months fasting and constant prayer: It has been narrated on the authority of Salman who said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) say: Keeping watch for a day and a night is better (in point of reward) than fasting for a whole month and standing in prayer every night. If a person dies (while, performing this duty), his (meritorious) activity will continue and he will go on receiving his reward for it perpetually and will be saved from the torture of the grave. [The 41

next hadith is the same.] (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4703. Chapter: The merit of keeping watch in the way of Allah, the Almighty and Exalted.)

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE
7. THE BEST MAN

a. The best among the people strives in Allahs cause. Narrated by Abu Said Al-Khudri: Somebody asked, "O Allah's Apostle! Who is the best among the people?" Allah's Apostle replied "A believer who strives his utmost in Allah's Cause with his life and property." They asked, "Who is next?" He replied, "A believer who stays in one of the mountain paths worshipping Allah and leaving the people secure from his mischief." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 045.) b. Those who fight with their wealth and their lives are the best of men: the worshipping hermit is second-best: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Sa'id Khudri that a man came to the Holy Prophet (may peace he upon him) and said: Who is the best of men? He replied: A man who fights in the way of Allah spending his wealth and staking his life. The man then asked: Who is next to him (in excellence)? He said: Next to him is a believer who lives in a mountain gorge worshipping his Lord and sparing men from his mischief. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4652. Chapter: Merit of Jihad and of keeping vigilance (over the enemy). [The next two hadith are the same.] c. The best man is ready to fight, seeking death; the worshipping hermit is second-best: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: Of the men he lives the best life who holds the reins of his horse (ever ready to march) in the way of Allah, flies on its back whenever he hears a fearful shriek, or a call for help, flies to it seeking death at places where it can be expected. (Next to him) is a man who lives with his sheep at a hill-top or in a valley, says his prayers regularly, gives Zakat and worships his Lord until death comes to him. There is no 43

better person among men except these two. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4655. Chapter: Merit of Jihad and of keeping vigilance (over the enemy).) [The next two hadith are the same.]

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE
8. JIHAD REPLACES MIGRATION

a. Fighting in the way of Allah replaces the migration: It has been reported on the authority of Mujashi' b. Mas'ud who said: I brought my brother Abu Ma'bad to the Messenger of Allah (may peace he upon him) after the conquest of Mecca and said: Messenger of Allah, allow him to swear his pledge of migration at your hand. He said: The period of migration is over with those who had to do it (and now nobody can get this meritorious distinction) I said: For what actions will you allow him to bind himself in oath? He said: (He can do so) for serving the cause of Islam, for fighting in the way of Allah and for fighting in the cause of virtue. Abd Uthman said: I met Abd Ma'bad and told him what I had heard from Mujashi'. He said: He has told the truth. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4595. Chapter: No migration after the conquest of Mecca but allegiance could be sworn (to a rightful leader) on serving the cause of Islam, on fighting in the way of Allah and on following the path of virtue.) b. Fighting in the way of Allah replaces the migration: Another version of the tradition transmitted on the authority of Asim has the same wording but does not mention the name of Abu Ma'bad. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4596. Chapter: No migration after the conquest of Mecca but allegiance could be sworn (to a rightful leader) on serving the cause of Islam, on fighting in the way of Allah and on following the path of virtue.) c. Be ready to fight in the cause of Allah: It has been narrated on the authority of Ibn 'Abbas that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said on the day of the Conquest of Mecca: There is no Hijra now, but (only) Jihad (fighting for the cause of Islam) and sincerity of purpose (have great reward); when you are asked to set out (on an expedition undertaken for the cause of Islam) you should (readily) do so. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4597. Chapter: No migration 45

after the conquest of Mecca but allegiance could be sworn (to a rightful leader) on serving the cause of Islam, on fighting in the way of Allah and on following the path of virtue.) d. Be ready to fight in the cause of Allah: The above tradition has been handed down through a different chain of transmitters. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4598. Chapter: No migration after the conquest of Mecca but allegiance could be sworn (to a rightful leader) on serving the cause of Islam, on fighting in the way of Allah and on following the path of virtue.) e. Mo more migration; just jihad and sincere intention: 'Aisha reported that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) was asked about migration, whereupon he said: There is no migration after the Conquest (of Mecca), but Jihad and sincere intention. When you are asked to set out (for the cause of Islam), you should set out, (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4599. Chapter: No migration after the conquest of Mecca but allegiance could be sworn (to a rightful leader) on serving the cause of Islam, on fighting in the way of Allah and on following the path of virtue.)

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE
9. A DAYS FIGHTING

a. A days fighting is better than anything in the world: Narrated by Anas bin Malik: The Prophet said, "A single endeavour (of fighting) in Allah's Cause in the forenoon or in the afternoon is better than the world and whatever is in it." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 050.) b. A days fighting is better than anything in the world: Narrated by Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "A place in Paradise as small as a bow is better than all that on which the sun rises and sets (i.e. all the world)." He also said, "A single endeavour in Allah's Cause in the afternoon or in the forenoon is better than all that on which the sun rises and sets." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 051.) c. A days fighting is better than anything in the world: Narrated by Sahl bin Sad: The Prophet said, "A single endeavour in Allah's Cause in the afternoon and in the forenoon is better than the world and whatever is in it." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 052.) d. A days fighting is better than anything in the world: Narrated by Anas bin Malik: The Prophet said, "Nobody who dies and finds good from Allah (in the Hereafter) would wish to come back to this world even if he were given the whole world and whatever is in it, except the martyr who, on seeing the superiority of martyrdom, would like to come back to the world and get killed again (in Allah's cause)."

47

Narrated Anas: The Prophet said, "A single endeavour (of fighting) in Allah's Cause in the afternoon or in the forenoon is better than all the world and whatever is in it. A place in Paradise as small as the bow or lash of one of you is better than all the world and whatever is in it. And if a houri from Paradise appeared to the people of the earth, she would fill the space between Heaven and the Earth with light and pleasant scent and her head cover is better than the world and whatever is in it." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 053.)

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE
10. A WARRIORS REWARD

a. God loves those who fight: Truly God loves those who fight in His Cause in battle array, as if they were a solid cemented structure. b. Those who strive with their wealth and persons will prosper: "But the Messenger, and those who believe with him, strive and fight with their wealth and their persons: for them are (all) good things: and it is they who will prosper." (9:88) c. Perfect prayer and fasting assures paradise. Paradise has one hundred grades deserved for fighters: Narrated by Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "Whoever believes in Allah and His Apostle, offer prayer perfectly and fasts the month of Ramadan, will rightfully be granted Paradise by Allah, no matter whether he fights in Allah's Cause or remains in the land where he is born." The people said, "O Allah's Apostle ! Shall we acquaint the people with this good news?" He said, "Paradise has one-hundred grades which Allah has reserved for the Mujahidin who fight in His Cause, and the distance between each of two grades is like the distance between the Heaven and the Earth. So, when you ask Allah (for something), ask for Al-firdaus which is the best and highest part of Paradise." (i.e. The sub-narrator added, "I think the Prophet also said, 'Above it (i.e. Al-Firdaus) is the Throne of Beneficent (i.e. Allah), and from it originate the rivers of Paradise.") (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 048.)

49

d. The actions of who fight on the frontier go on increasingly until The day of Resurrection: Narrated by Fadalah ibn Ubayd: The Prophet (pbuh) said: Everyone who dies will have fully completed his action, except one who is on the frontier (in Allah's path), for his deeds will be made to go on increasing till the Day of Resurrection, and he will be safe from the trial in the grave. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2494. Chapter: Jihad.) e. Mohammad grants paradise to those who undertake a naval mission, and forgiveness to the first Muslim to invade Caesars City: Narrated by Khalid bin Madan: That 'Umair bin Al-Aswad Al-Anasi told him that he went to 'Ubada bin As-Samit while he was staying in his house at the sea-shore of Hims with (his wife) Um Haram. 'Umair said. Um Haram informed us that she heard the Prophet saying, "Paradise is granted to the first batch of my followers who will undertake a naval expedition." Um Haram added, I said, 'O Allah's Apostle! Will I be amongst them?' He replied, 'You are amongst them.' The Prophet then said, 'The first army amongst' my followers who will invade Caesar's City will be forgiven their sins.' I asked, 'Will I be one of them, O Allah's Apostle?' He replied in the negative." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 175.) f. Leaving for jihad merits more than the world and everything in it: It has been narrated on the authority of Anas b. Malik that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: Leaving (for Jihad) in the way of Allah in the morning or in the evening (will merit a reward) better than the world and all that is in it. (Muslim, 50

INSPIRING VIOLENCE
Book 020, Hadith Number 4639. Chapter: Merit of leaving for Jihad in the morning and evening.) [The next 5 hadith are the same.] g. Jihad elevates a man in paradise: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Sa'id Khudri that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said (to him): Abu Sa'id, whoever cheerfully accepts Allah as his Lord, Islam as his religion and Muhammad as his Apostle is necessarily entitled to enter Paradise. He (Abu Sa'id) wondered at it and said: Messenger of Allah, repeat it for me. He (the Messenger of Allah) did that and said: There is another act which elevates the position of a man in Paradise to a grade one hundred (higher), and the elevation between one grade and the other is equal to the height of the heaven from the earth. He (Abu Sa'id) said: What is that act? He replied: Jihad in the way of Allah! Jihad in the way of Allah! (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4645. Chapter: The high position reserved by God for mujahids in paradise.) h. Allah takes care of fighters affairs; those who fight will again paradise or booty; the wounded smell good in heaven; Mohammad would love to be martyred. It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira that the Messenger of Allah (may peace upon him) said: Allah has undertaken to look after the affairs of one who goes out to fight in His way believing in Him and affirming the truth of His Apostles. He is committed to His care that He will either admit him to Paradise or bring him back to his home from where he set out with a reward or (his share of) booty. By the Being in Whose Hand is the life of Muhammad. If a person gets wounded in the way of Allah, he will come on the Day of Judgment with his wound in the same condition as it was when it was first inflicted; its colour being the colour of blood but its smell will be the smell of musk. By, the Being in Whose Hand is Muhammad's life, if it were not to be too hard upon the Muslims. I would not lag behind any 51

expedition which is going to fight in the cause of Allah. But I do not have abundant means to provide them (the Mujahids) with riding beasts, nor have they (i.e. all of them) abundant means (to provide themselves with all the means of Jihad) so that they could be left behind. By the being in whose hand is Muhammad's lap, I love to fight in the way of Allah and be killed, to fight and again be killed and to fight again and be killed. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4626. Chapter: The merit of Jihad and campaigning in the way of Allah. i. Allah takes care of fighters affairs; those who fight will again paradise or booty; the wounded smell good in heaven; Mohammad would love to be martyred. The same tradition has been melted through another chain of transmitters. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4627. Chapter: The merit of Jihad and campaigning in the way of Allah.) j. The fighters wounds smell sweet in heaven: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Haraira that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: Every wound received by a Muslim in the way of Allah will appear on the Day of Judgment in the same condition as it was when it was inflicted, and would be bleeding profusely. The colour (of its discharge) will be the colour of blood, but its smell will be the smell of musk. By the Being in Whose Hand is Muhammad's life, if it were not hard upon the Muslims, I would not lag behind any expedition undertaken for Jihad, but I do not possess abundant means to provide the Mujahids with riding animals, nor do they (i.e. all of them) have abundant means (to provide themselves with all the means of Jihad) to follow me, nor would it please their hearts to stay behind me. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4630. Chapter: The merit of Jihad and campaigning in the way of Allah.)

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11. SUPPORTING A WARRIOR

a. Rewards for warriors and those who equip them: Narrated by Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-'As: The Prophet (pbuh) said: The warrior gets his reward, and the one who equips him gets his own reward and that of the warrior. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2520. Chapter: Jihad.) b. Those who look after a warriors wealth and family will get half a warriors reward: It has been narrated (through a still different chain of transmitters) on the authority of Abu Sa'id Khudrl that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) despatched a force to Banu Lihyan. (and said:) One man from every two should join the force. Then he said to those who stayed behind: Those of you who will look well after the family and wealth of those who are going on the expedition will be getting half the reward of the warriors. [Seven previous hadith express similar principles.] (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4672. Chapter: The merit of helping the warrior (fighting in the way of Allah) with something to ride upon and looking after his family in his absence.)

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12.

WIN/WIN SITUATION

a. The fighters wounds smell sweet in heaven: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira that the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: One who is wounded in the way of Allah-and Allah knows better who is wounded in His way-will appear on the Day of Judgment with his wound bleeding. The colour (of its discharge) will be the colour of blood, (but) its smell will be the smell of musk. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4629. Chapter: The merit of Jihad and campaigning in the way of Allah.) b. The fighter will either return home with booty or he will go paradise: It has been narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira who said: Allah has undertaken to provide for one who leaves his home (only) to fight for His cause and to affirm the truth of His word; Allah will either admit him to Paradise or will bring him back home from where he had come out, with his reward and booty. (Muslim, Book 020, Hadith Number 4628. Chapter: The merit of Jihad and campaigning in the way of Allah.)

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INSPIRING VIOLENCE
13. PLEDGING LIFELONG JIHAD

a. Pledging lifelong jihad: Narrated by Anas: Allah's Apostle went towards the Khandaq (i.e. Trench) and saw the Emigrants and the Ansar digging in a very cold morning as they did not have slaves to do that for them. When he noticed their fatigue and hunger he said, "O Allah! The real life is that of the Here-after, (so please) forgive the Ansar and the Emigrants." In its reply the Emigrants and the Ansar said, "We are those who have given a pledge of allegiance to Muhammad that we will carry on Jihad as long as we live." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 085.) b. Pledging jihad: Narrated by Anas: On the day (of the battle) of the Trench, the Ansar were saying, "We are those who have sworn allegiance to Muhammad for Jihad (for ever) as long as we live." The Prophet replied to them, "O Allah! There is no life except the life of the Hereafter. So honour the Ansar and emigrants with your generosity." And Narrated Mujashi: My brother and I came to the Prophet and I requested him to take the pledge of allegiance from us for migration. He said, "Migration has passed away with its people." I asked, "For what will you take the pledge of allegiance from us then?" He said, "I will take (the pledge) for Islam and Jihad." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 208.)

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14.

JIHAD FOR WOMEN

a. For women, the hajj is the same as jihad: Narrated by 'Aisha: (That she said), "O Allah's Apostle! We consider Jihad as the best deed. Should we not fight in Allah's Cause?" He said, "The best Jihad (for women) is Hajj-Mabrur (i.e. Hajj which is done according to the Prophet's tradition and is accepted by Allah)." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 043.) b. A womans jihad is the hajj: Narrated by 'Aisha: The mother of the faithful believers, I requested the Prophet permit me to participate in Jihad, but he said, "Your Jihad is the performance of Hajj." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 127.) c. A womans jihad is the hajj: Narrated by 'Aisha: The mother of the faithful believers: The Prophet was asked by his wives about the Jihad and he replied, "The best Jihad (for you) is (the performance of) Hajj." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 128.)

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15. IN ALLAHS CAUSE

a. A finger bleeds in Allahs cause. Narrated by Jundab bin Sufyan: In one of the holy Battles a finger of Allah's Apostle (got wounded and) bled. He said, "You are just a finger that bled, and what you got is in Allah's Cause." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 058.) b. Allah knows who gets wounded in his cause: Narrated by Abu Huraira: Allah's Apostle said, "By Him in Whose Hands my soul is! Whoever is wounded in Allah's Cause... and Allah knows well who gets wounded in His Cause... will come on the Day of Resurrection with his wound having the colour of blood but the scent of musk." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 059.) c. Paradise is for him who holds the reins of his horse in Allah's Cause: Narrated by Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "Let the slave of Dinar and Dirham of Quantify and Khamisa (i.e. money and luxurious clothes) perish for he is pleased if these things are given to him, and if not, he is displeased!" Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "Let the slave of Dinar and Dirham, of Quantify and Khamisa perish as he is pleased if these things are given to him, and if not, he is displeased. Let such a person perish and relapse, and if he is pierced with a thorn, let him not find anyone to take it out for him. Paradise is for him who holds the reins of his horse to strive in Allah's Cause, with his hair unkempt and feet covered with dust: if he is appointed in the vanguard, he is perfectly satisfied with his post of guarding, and if 57

he is appointed in the rearward, he accepts his post with satisfaction; (he is so simple and unambiguous that) if he asks for permission he is not permitted, and if he intercedes, his intercession is not accepted." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 137.) d. Whoever funds or supports a warrior (in Allahs cause) is given the reward equal to a warrior: Narrated by Zaid bin Khalid: Allah's Apostle said, " He who prepares a Ghazi going in Allah's Cause is given a reward equal to that of) a Ghazi; and he who looks after properly the dependents of a Ghazi going in Allah's Cause is (given a reward equal to that of) Ghazi." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 096.) e. Anyone who gets his feet dusty in Allahs cause will not be touched by hell: Narrated by Abu Abs: (Who is 'Abdur-Rahman bin Jabir) Allah's Apostle said," Anyone whose both feet get covered with dust in Allah's Cause will not be touched by the (Hell) fire." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 066.) f. Anyone who spends in Allahs cause will be honoured in paradise and will not be destroyed: Narrated by Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, "Whoever spends two things in Allah's Cause, will be called by all the gate-keepers of Paradise who will be saying, 'O so-and-so! Come here.' " Abu Bakr said, "O Allah's Apostle! Such persons will never be destroyed." The Prophet said, "I hope you will be one of them." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 094.)

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g. The Muslims wealth is excellent if spent in Allahs cause: Narrated by Abu Said Al-Khudri: Allah's Apostle ascended the pulpit and said, "Nothing worries me as to what will happen to you after me, except the temptation of worldly blessings which will be conferred on you." Then he mentioned the worldly pleasures. He started with the one (i.e. the blessings) and took up the other (i.e. the pleasures). A man got up saying, "O Allah's Apostle! Can the good bring about evil?" The Prophet remained silent and we thought that he was being inspired divinely, so all the people kept silent with awe. Then the Prophet wiped the sweat off his face and asked, "Where is the present questioner?" "Do you think wealth is good?" he repeated thrice, adding, "No doubt, good produces nothing but good. Indeed it is like what grows on the banks of a stream which either kills or nearly kills the grazing animals because of gluttony except the vegetation-eating animal which eats till both its flanks are full (i.e. till it gets satisfied) and then stands in the sun and defecates and urinates and again starts grazing. This worldly property is sweet vegetation. How excellent the wealth of the Muslim is, if it is collected through legal means and is spent in Allah's Cause and on orphans, poor people and travellers. But he who does not take it legally is like an eater who is never satisfied and his wealth will be a witness against him on the Day of Resurrection." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 095.)

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16.

DO THIS INSTEAD

a. Serve your parents rather than jihad: Narrated by 'Abdullah bin 'Amr: A man came to the Prophet asking his permission to take part in Jihad. The Prophet asked him, "Are your parents alive?" He replied in the affirmative. The Prophet said to him, "Then exert yourself in their service." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 248.) b. Go back and perform the hajj: Narrated by Ibn 'Abbas: A man came to the Prophet and said, "O Allah's Apostle! I have enlisted in the army for such-and-such Ghazwa, and my wife is leaving for Hajj." Allah's Apostle said, "Go back and perform Hajj with your wife." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 295.)

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17. COWARDICE

a. Dont turn your back on the enemy: "O ye who believe! When ye meet those who disbelieve in battle, turn not your backs to them. Whoso on that day turneth his back to them, unless maneuvering for battle or intent to join a company, he truly hath incurred wrath from Allah, and his habitation will be hell, a hapless journey's end." (8:15-16) b. Dont be weak in pursuit of the enemy: "And be not weak hearted in pursuit of the enemy; if you suffer pain, then surely they (too) suffer pain as you suffer pain..." (4:104, Medina, 92/114 in order) c. Seeking refuge from cowardice: Narrated by 'Amr bin Maimun Al-Audi: Sad used to teach his sons the following words as a teacher teaches his students the skill of writing and used to say that Allah's Apostle used to seek Refuge with Allah from them (i.e. the evils) at the end of every prayer. The words are: 'O Allah! I seek refuge with You from cowardice, and seek refuge with You from being brought back to a bad stage of old life and seek refuge with You from the afflictions of the world, and seek refuge with You from the punishments in the grave.'(Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 076.) d. Seeking refuge from cowardice: Narrated by Anas bin Malik: The Prophet used to say, "O Allah! I seek refuge with You from helplessness, laziness, cowardice and feeble old age; I seek refuge with You from afflictions of life and

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death and seek refuge with You from the punishment in the grave." (Bukhari, Volume 004, Book 052, Hadith Number 077.) e. God is pleased with those who fight; it is a sin to flee on the battlefield. Narrated by Abdullah ibn Mas'ud: The Prophet (pbuh) said: Our Lord Most High is pleased with a man who fights in the path of Allah, the Exalted; then his companions fled away (i.e. retreated). But he knew that it was a sin (to flee away from the battlefield), so he returned, and his blood was shed. Thereupon Allah, the Exalted, says to His angels: Look at My servant; he returned seeking what I have for him (i.e. the reward), and fearing (the punishment) I have, until his blood was shed. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2530. Chapter: Jihad.) f. Unrestrained cowardice is evil in a man: Narrated by AbuHurayrah: I heard the Apostle of Allah (pbuh) say: What is evil in a man are alarming niggardliness and unrestrained cowardice. (Abu Dawood, Book 008, Hadith Number 2505. Chapter: Jihad.)

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