14/06/2026
JIHAD VS TERRORISM: A CLEAR DISTINCTION IN ISLAM.
Many people confuse Jihad with terrorism. However, according to the Quran and authentic Sunnah, they are completely different.
1. PURPOSE
Jihad is a legitimate struggle carried out to defend truth, justice, and the oppressed under Islamic principles.
Allah says:
"Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought because they have been wronged."
(Quran 22:39)
Terrorism seeks to spread fear, chaos, and destruction among innocent people for political, ideological, or personal goals.
Reference: Quran 22:39
2. TARGETS
Islam strictly forbids the killing of non-combatants.
The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:
"Do not kill women, children, the elderly, or monks."
Reference: Sunan Abi Dawud 2669
Terrorists intentionally target innocent civilians, including women, children, and the elderly.
3. PROTECTION OF HUMAN LIFE
Allah says:
"Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption in the land, it is as if he had slain all mankind."
(Quran 5:32)
Terrorism violates the sanctity of human life and disregards the rights given by Allah.
Reference: Quran 5:32
4. TREATMENT OF NON-MUSLIMS
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"Whoever kills a Muahid (a non-Muslim under protection) shall not smell the fragrance of Paradise."
Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 3166
Terrorism often attacks innocent people regardless of their rights, agreements, or protection.
5. RULES OF WAR
Islam prohibits:
1. Killing civilians.
2. Torture.
3. Mutilation of bodies.
4. Betrayal of treaties.
5. Destruction of crops and property without necessity.
References:
Quran 2:190
Quran 5:8
Sahih Muslim 1731
Terrorism ignores moral laws and ethical restrictions.
6. SPREADING FEAR
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
"It is not lawful for a Muslim to frighten another Muslim."
Reference: Sunan Abi Dawud 5004
Terrorism is based on spreading fear and panic among innocent people.
7. ISLAM'S VERDICT
Jihad is an act of worship when performed according to the Quran and Sunnah under legitimate Islamic conditions.
Terrorism is a major sin and a crime against humanity.
Allah says:
"And do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not love the transgressors."
(Quran 2:190)
Reference: Quran 2:190
CONCLUSION
Jihad protects innocent lives.
Terrorism destroys innocent lives.
Jihad is governed by divine laws.
Terrorism rejects divine laws.
Jihad seeks justice.
Terrorism spreads injustice.
Therefore, equating Jihad with terrorism is a serious misunderstanding of Islamic teachings.
Prepared by
Ustath MiftauDeen Muritadoh Arikewusola
Chief Lecturer, AIRARCD-WORLDWIDE
Association of Islamic Research and Religious Comparative Da'wah Worldwide (AIRARCD-WORLDWIDE)