The Koran and the Justification for War

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that there is a wide range of interpretation from the moderate Muslims who emphasize the peaceful character of the religion to those who use Islam to support violence. The Koran supports both types. This paper points out that the Koran contains several passages by which the Muslims have been exhorted to fight the unbelievers. The author points out that the Koran is the source of inspiration for the early Muslims, contributed to the remarkable series of Muslim conquests and continues to be the rallying cry of the present day Islamic militants.

Table of Contents
Early Muslim History
The First Revelation
The Early Battles
The Spoils of War and the Hypocrites
Treaties with "Pagans" and their Aftermath
Jihad
Causes of the Early Muslim Conquest
Islam's Message of Unity
Weakness of the Opposition
Is Islam a Peaceful Religion?
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Jihad is an Arabic word that has become internationally known in the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. To most people "jihad" means a Muslim holy war that means killing of all non-Muslims, innocent women and children included. The broader meaning of the word "jihad" is "struggle." To the moderate Muslims "jihad" means the inner struggle that one endures in trying to practice Islam. This point of view by some Muslim scholars propagates that fighting in a war to defend their faith is also called "jihad" because such a fight is also a "struggle." They contend that there are several forms of jihad (struggle) such as the struggle against self-desire, against a tyrant ruler, or even against temptations in life. On the other hand, others, the Islamic militants and opponents of Islam reject the point of view of the moderate Muslims and believe that "jihad" is an all-out, no-nonsense, aggressive war. Let us see what the Koran has to say about "jihad.""

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