Personal struggle of every Muslim to follow teachings of Islam + resist evil
Sometimes- physical battle against enemies of Islam + willingness to accept martyrdom asultimate submission to Allah.
Physical fighting- not main meaning of Jihad- most of all- lifestyle following example of Muhammad in good conduct + in struggle against evil
Establish Islamic system of life to fulfil + gain Allah's favour
Islam-Peace-practical, peace-loving religion
Muslims-not pacifists- all ways of disputes should be tried before resorting to physical violence.
Muhammad taught followers to defend Islam + led his followers into battle
A war is not Jihad if:
War is declared by a political rather than a religious leader
An individual declares war without support of Muslim community
The war is aggressive not defensive
The purpose is to gain land/power/force conversion to Islam
Peaceful alternatives have not been tried first
Innocent women + children are exposed to physical danger
trees/crops/animals have not been protected