jihad
UK: dʒɪˈhɑːd | US: dʒɪˈhɑːd
n. 1. A struggle or effort, especially in the context of Islam, to uphold or spread the faith.
n. 2. A holy war waged by Muslims in defense of or to spread Islam.
n. 3. A personal spiritual struggle for self-improvement or moral betterment.
The word "jihad" originates from the Arabic root "j-h-d" (جهد), meaning "to strive" or "to struggle." In Islamic theology, it encompasses both the external effort (e.g., defending the faith) and the internal, spiritual struggle for righteousness. The term entered English in the 19th century through colonial and academic discourse, often oversimplified as "holy war" in Western contexts, though its broader meaning includes non-violent striving.
The scholar emphasized that jihad primarily refers to the inner struggle against sin.
Historical accounts describe the jihad as a defensive war against invaders.
Some extremist groups misuse the concept of jihad to justify violence.
For many Muslims, daily prayer and charity are forms of spiritual jihad.
The documentary explored the diverse interpretations of jihad across Islamic cultures.