In the aftermath of the Time Square car bomb attempt, the Muslim community once again found itself needing to clarify what Islam actually teaches about violence, terrorism, and the sanctity of human life. The response from Islamic scholars is unequivocal: Islam has never and will never justify the targeting of innocent civilians under any label, and the religion that is accused of promoting violence has in fact been the first to declare war against terrorism — 1,400 years ago.
What Jihad Really Means
The word “jihad” in Arabic comes from the root word meaning “to struggle” or “to strive.” It refers to the spiritual struggle against one’s own ego, the effort to live a virtuous life, waking up for prayer while others sleep, and giving charity with sincerity. When the term is used in the context of armed combat, it carries strict rules and limitations that far exceed even the Geneva Convention — including the absolute prohibition of harming non-combatants, women, children, the elderly, religious people, animals, and even plant life.
“Whoever takes an innocent life, it is as though they killed all of humanity. And whoever saves a life, it is as though they saved all of humanity.” — Quran, Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:32), the verse that defines Islam’s uncompromising stance on the sanctity of life.
Islam: The First to Declare War on Terrorism
The Arabic word “fitna” is used in the Quran to describe the kind of horrific acts we call terrorism today. Allah commands Muslims to fight against fitna — not to create it. The Quran orders combat only against those who are actively engaging in violence against you, and it commands Muslims to stop fighting immediately if the aggressor ceases. Any violation of these prophetic orders transforms a legitimate struggle into an act of terrorism that Islam categorically condemns.
“Allah declared war against terrorism 1,400 years ago. Islam doesn’t present anything new when it calls for fighting against those who commit acts of terror — the Quran established this principle long before any modern government did.” — Yusuf Estes, former Christian preacher turned Muslim scholar.
The Truth About Islam and Violence
- The Quran never contradicts itself — verses about combat always include strict conditions and limitations that protect innocent lives
- The Arabic word “qital” means combat, not indiscriminate killing — it refers exclusively to armed engagement within defined rules of warfare
- Allah has forbidden oppression upon Himself and declared that He hates oppression in all its forms — any Muslim who oppresses others violates the core of their faith
- Islam’s rules of engagement are more restrictive than both the Geneva Convention and modern military law
The truth about Islam is available to anyone willing to seek it honestly. Do not accept distortions from those with agendas — go to the Quran, study the life of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), and ask knowledgeable Muslims to explain what they believe. The truth will always destroy falsehood, and Islam has nothing to hide from sincere investigation.
