The New Nation - Internet Edition

The 17th Ramzan reminds us of the 'Zihad' of Badar. It was a defensive fight against infidel aggressors. The Muslims, though very small in number and weak in arms and ammunition, became victorious in the battle with the help and grace of Allah.

Al-Quran reveals : "Allah had helped you at Badar, when ye were contemptible little force t.." (3: 123).

"Remember ye your Lord, and he answered you : I will assist you with a thousand of the angels, ranks on ranks." (8:9).

Though Ramzan is the training period of 'zuhd'- 'spiritual purification', it also presents practical performance of 'Zihad' through example of Muslim history. 'Zihad'- 'the exerting of one's power', 'repelling the enemy' and 'struggle to the utmost of one's capacity' is permitted as the last resort for the Muslims to survive as an independent and sovereign nation, in case they become the victims of aggression, tyranny and oppression.

Al-Quran permits Zihad in the following way : "Fight in the name of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress limits ; for Allah loved not transgressors." (2:190).

Thus, Zihad is very much a defensive one and it should not be misinterpreted by the ignorant or vested quarters.

We should have a view of the limitation ordained by Allah. Zihad is not permitted when the enemy is 'inclined towards peace'. Peace is the ultimate goal of Islam. So, the Quran directs the believers : "But if the enemy inclines towards peace, do thou (also) incline towards peace, and trust in Allaht..''(7:61).

With this background of the context of the Zihad of Badar, the Muslim strategy of fighting against aggression is to be framed. They are 'wronged.' They are being massacred and their properties being demolished in the name of war against terror and pre-emptive war. And here the Quran voices for defence. : "To those against whom war is made permission is given (to fight), because they are wrongedt"(22:39).

-Abdul Muqit Chowdhury