NCJ Number
225151
Date Published
2007
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This paper examines the ideological traditions of Islam that both support and oppose the current use of terrorist tactics against perceived opponents of Islam’s religious values and political objectives.
Abstract
Muslims who engage in and justify terrorism as a mandate of Islam quote this statement in the Qur’an: “Fight and slay the Pagans wherever you find them…O Prophet, strive hard against the Unbelievers and the Hypocrites, and be firm against them.” Those who support the concept of an uncompromising struggle for worldwide Islamic dominance also quote from the Prophet Muhammad, who allegedly permitted the use of violence against unbelievers, as he said, “I was sent to fight people until they testify that there is no god but the God, and Muhammad is His Apostle, until they start praying and pay zakat.” Such a mandate is believed to be Islam’s “jihad.” In opposing this view, prominent Muslim jurists say that jihad is first and foremost a call to achieve self-perfection under the guiding principles, values, and aims of Islamic law, but without violence against others. Armed struggle as one of the forms of jihad is allowed only for defense against physical attacks. In support of this position, they offer this quote from the Qur’an: “Let there be no compulsion in religion,” “Invite (all) to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious.” It is clear that both the supporters of terrorism as an Islamic mandate and the supporters of a peaceful interaction with nonthreatening non-Muslims rely on quotes from the Qur’an. Counterterrorism policy must involve cooperation with moderate Islamic regimes and religious leaders in promoting common values and tolerance of diversity. 12 notes and 11 references