Response: I might have misunderstood but
from what I gather, in an article titled ‘Understanding the Qur’ān: A
Fundamental Premise’ published in your Nov2000 issue that the argument in favour
of Jihād is not valid today? Is that what it exactly means?
Comment: The article says that there are
basically two forms of Jihād which an Islamic State can undertake:
FORM 1: Jihād waged on Non-Muslims to
subdue them even if they are living in peace with Muslim countries.
FORM 2: Jihād waged against countries
whether Muslim or non-Muslim if these countries are oppressing and persecuting
their public.
The article further says that the while
the second form is still possible if the need arises, the first form was only
and only meant for the Prophet Muhammad (sws) and his companions. This is based
on a certain law of the Almighty which is specific for His Rusul and their
companions. It is not related to other Muslims.
In other words, we Muslims cannot
undertake Jihād to subdue non-Muslims or to forcibly convert them into Muslims.
We can only politely state our arguments in spreading Islam. We are not
authorised to use force. Only the Prophet (sws) and his companions had this
prerogative. |