Islam and War

Question 1

What are the strict rules (8) in Islam about when a war (lesser jihad) can be fought justifiably by Muslims?

Answer 1

It must be fought for a just cause: Islam is being attacked, people are suffering an injustice, in self-defence, it must be the last resort
All possible non-violent methods of solving the problem must have been tried
It must be authorised and led by a Muslim authority but Islam teaches Muslims they must not be the first to declare war
It must be fought in such a way as to cause the minimum amount of suffering
The aim of the war must be to bring about good: Muslims are taught that it is wrong to fight as an act of aggression or to conquer another country; the aim has to be to bring about a just society
Innocent civilians (especially the old, young, and women) must not be attacked
It must be ended as soon as the enemy lays down his arms
It must not be used to colonise, suppress or impose Islam on non-believers

Question 2

Quote Qur’an 8:61 about peace

Answer 2

“If they incline to peace, make peace with them, and put your trust in God. It is surely He who hears all and knows all.”

Question 3

Quote Qur’an 2:190 about fighting

Answer 3

“Fight for the sake of God those that fight against you. But do not attack them first.”

Question 4

Explain Muslims obligation to fight

Answer 4

The Qur’an and the teachings of Muhammad tell Muslims that if all the criteria of a holy war are fulfilled, it is their religious duty to go to war
Any Muslim killed whilst fighting a holy war is a martyr and will go directly to paradise

Question 5

Muslim Peace Fellowship’s aims?

Answer 5

To work against injustice
Reach out to people of all faiths with a message of understanding and mutual respect
Work with everyone to bring about world peace

Question 6

Quote Surah 5:32 about killing lives

Answer 6

“Whoever kills one person, it would be as if he killed all of mankind.”