The word jihad means "to strive." Jihad represents the human struggle to overcome difficulties and do things that would be pleasing to god. Jihad has always been an important Islamic concept. One hadith, or account of Muhammad's life recorded in book form, tells about the prophet's return from a battle. He declared that he and his men carried out the "lesser jihad," the external struggle against opression.
Jihad can also be a physical struggle against other people. The Qur'an tells Muslims to fight to protect themselves from those who would do them harm or to right a terrible wrong.
Shari'ah Law
The body, or collection of Islamic law is called shari'ah, "the way to be followed." It is based on the Qur'an and the Sunnah. (The Sunnah is a collection of sayings and practices that a Muslim must follow to live a life that is pleasing to god.) Shari'ah covers Muslims' duties toward Allah. It guides them in their personal behavior and relationships with others. Shari'ah promotes obedience to the Qur'an and respect towards others.
No comments:
Post a Comment