Jihad is an Arabic word that means "struggle" or "effort". Its meaning depends on the context in which it is used. In Islam, jihad is a complex set of doctrines and practices that have changed over time and continue to evolve today. Here are some of the key points about jihad:
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Internal Struggle: During the Meccan period, the emphasis was on the internal dimension of jihad, which refers to the practice of "patient forbearance" by Muslims in the face of lifes difficulties and toward those who wish them harm.
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Military Duty: In their articulation of international law, classical Muslim jurists were primarily concerned with issues of state security and military defense of Islamic realms, and accordingly, they focused primarily on jihad as a military duty, which became the predominant meaning in legal and official literature.
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Legitimate Goals: The definition of legitimate goals and conduct during jihad, and the authority required to invoke it, have been contested. In a variety of historical contexts, the invocation of jihad has served as a vehicle to defend557007_EN.pdf).
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Not Necessarily Violent: Many different movements which have at some point invoked jihad are not necessarily considered jihadist organizations. For instance, militant groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Palestinian Hamas adhere to a more conservative understanding of jihad557007_EN.pdf).
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Personal Struggle: Jihad also refers to the obligation incumbent on all Muslims, individuals and the community, to follow and realize Gods will: to lead a virtuous life and to extend the Islamic community through preaching, education, example, writing, etc. .
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Defense of Islam: Jihad also includes the right, indeed the obligation, to defend Islam and the community from aggression. Throughout history, the call to jihad has rallied Muslims to the defense of Islam.
It is important to note that the primary aim of jihad as warfare is not the conversion of non-Muslims to Islam by force, but rather the expansion and defense of the Islamic state.
