A term used to describe the struggle to uphold and defend the principles of Islam, including both individual and collective efforts.
Jihad al-Nafs (Jihad against oneself): This is the struggle and effort to purify oneself from evil thoughts and actions through moral and spiritual growth.
Jihad al-Talab (Jihad of seeking knowledge): This is the struggle for knowledge and the desire to learn and understand the teachings of Allah and His Messenger.
Jihad bil-Lisan (Jihad of the tongue): This type of Jihad refers to the effort to speak the truth, refute falsehood, and to stop evil and promote goodness.
Jihad al-Qital (Jihad of fighting): This is the physical struggle to defend Islam or to protect oneself, family, and property from aggression and oppression.
Jihad al-Saif (Jihad of the sword): This has been controversial, but some interpret the Quranic passage “fight against them until there is no more persecution and religion is only for Allah” (Quran 2:193) to advocate for armed struggle in the defense of Islam.