MCQ Detailed View

In Islamic terminology, Jihad primarily means “to struggle” or “to strive” in the path of Allah. It refers to any sincere effort made by a believer to live according to the commandments of Allah (SWT), resist wrongdoing, promote good, and improve oneself spiritually and morally.

Although the word Jihad is sometimes misunderstood in modern times, its core meaning in the Qur’an and Hadith is much broader and deeply spiritual. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) referred to the internal spiritual struggle against sin (nafs) as the “greater Jihad” (Jihad al-Akbar). This includes battling personal desires, maintaining patience, avoiding prohibited acts, spreading knowledge, and standing for justice.

There is also a lesser form, known as Jihad al-Asghar, which may include defending the faith or community under specific ethical guidelines defined in Shariah. However, physical Jihad is always subject to strict conditions, intentions, and rules of engagement, and cannot be initiated for personal gain or aggression.

Islam encourages every Muslim to engage in peaceful efforts of education, charity, social reform, and moral discipline — all considered forms of Jihad. Therefore, the comprehensive meaning of Jihad is about striving with sincerity, truth, and consistency to please Allah and benefit society.

🟩 Key Facts:

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  Jihad in Arabic literally means “struggle” or “effort”.

  
  


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  The greater Jihad refers to the internal spiritual struggle (against sin).

  
  


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  Jihad also includes spreading truth, justice, knowledge, and good character.

  
  


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  Physical Jihad is allowed only under strict ethical guidelines in Islam.

  
  


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  Jihad is not synonymous with violence or terrorism; it includes peaceful actions.

  
  


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  The concept promotes moral, social, and spiritual betterment of individuals and society.