TRUE JIHAD

Modern societies have a number of positive aspects such as the right to freedom of expression, the possibilities opened up by the communications systems, etc. These facilities have rendered possible a peaceful, more effective course of action. As mentioned above, the method of the Prophet is that if it is possible to adopt a peaceful method, it should be put into practice during any struggle. As a result of facilities that have become available in the present age, the peaceful method is not only available at all times but is also the most effective way to spread any message. It would therefore be no exaggeration to say that in present times a violent struggle is not only a hard option but is also impractical, whereas non-violence is not only an easier option, but is also highly effective and result-oriented. Now, a peaceful course of action is not just one of the possibilities: it is the only feasible and result-oriented option. This being so, it would be right to say that violence has been practically abandoned. This is what we call an abrogated command in the language of the shariah (Islamic law). Now believers are, in reality, left with only one choice, and that is indeed the peaceful course of action. According to the Islamic shariah, peace is the rule in matters of jihad, while war is the least desirable option. One celebrated example of the success of such a course is to be found in the life of the Indian leader Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948). Gandhi decided to wage political battles successfully by adopting the principles of non-violence and engaging in peaceful civil disobedience. It is a known principle that the commands of the shariah change according to altered situations. This accepted principle of fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) demands that with the changing times, a new application of the shariah should be sought in order that shariah commands may be in consonance with the changing circumstances. This principle of Islamic jurisprudence relates not only to civic matters, but also to war. This principle demands the practical avoidance of a violent course of action. Only a peaceful course of action should be accorded the status of a shariah command.