Lesser Jihad
Lesser Jihad
Introduction
Jihad, or "holy war", though a new concept to the western world has a long-standing
tradition in Arabia predating the foundation of Islam as a religion but incorporated into it
as a primary tenet of the religion. The concept served a legitimate purpose in the
Jahiliyya period of Arabic history and perhaps even in Muhammad 's time, but has
become a dangerous force in the present day world, presenting an increasing threat to the
developed world just as national animosities are cooling down among the larger powers.
Definition
The term jihad stems from the root J.H.D. meaning to strive, exert oneself, or take
extraordinary pains (R. Firestone, p. 16). Considered a sixth pillar of Islam, jihad
actually takes two forms within Islam, lesser jihad and greater jihad. Greater jihad refers
to a personal struggle within oneself, a struggle to remain pure of heart, to attempt to
keep one 's base instincts at bay, and to remain devoted to God and to keep the faith of
Islam. Lesser jihad, the one familiar now to westerners and the topic of this paper, is the
struggle against outside oppressors, enemies, and detractors from Islam. Lesser jihad,
though ostensibly to be undertaken only in self defense, encompasses all forms of
resistance, including armed combat.
Early origins
In Jahiliyya Arabia, raiding was a common practice between different clans. The
nomadic life and paucity of arable land made it virtually an economic necessity to acquire
the goods and breeding stock unavailable to them otherwise. Clan solidarity and loyalty
was a primary aspect of nomadic life. In addition, personal honor was paramount. As a
consequence, retribution against raiding clans became the norm. Personal honor was at
stake, and so began a long tradition of exacting revenge for perceived wrongs. As
Arabian society gradually embraced Muhammad and his new
Introduction
Jihad, or "holy war", though a new concept to the western world has a long-standing
tradition in Arabia predating the foundation of Islam as a religion but incorporated into it
as a primary tenet of the religion. The concept served a legitimate purpose in the
Jahiliyya period of Arabic history and perhaps even in Muhammad 's time, but has
become a dangerous force in the present day world, presenting an increasing threat to the
developed world just as national animosities are cooling down among the larger powers.
Definition
The term jihad stems from the root J.H.D. meaning to strive, exert oneself, or take
extraordinary pains (R. Firestone, p. 16). Considered a sixth pillar of Islam, jihad
actually takes two forms within Islam, lesser jihad and greater jihad. Greater jihad refers
to a personal struggle within oneself, a struggle to remain pure of heart, to attempt to
keep one 's base instincts at bay, and to remain devoted to God and to keep the faith of
Islam. Lesser jihad, the one familiar now to westerners and the topic of this paper, is the
struggle against outside oppressors, enemies, and detractors from Islam. Lesser jihad,
though ostensibly to be undertaken only in self defense, encompasses all forms of
resistance, including armed combat.
Early origins
In Jahiliyya Arabia, raiding was a common practice between different clans. The
nomadic life and paucity of arable land made it virtually an economic necessity to acquire
the goods and breeding stock unavailable to them otherwise. Clan solidarity and loyalty
was a primary aspect of nomadic life. In addition, personal honor was paramount. As a
consequence, retribution against raiding clans became the norm. Personal honor was at
stake, and so began a long tradition of exacting revenge for perceived wrongs. As
Arabian society gradually embraced Muhammad and his new
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