THE FOLLOWING VERSES of the Holy Quran clearly explain the context and limitations for Jihad. Some of these verses have already been presented in the chapter, Is Islam a violent religion? Seeing these verses as a whole helps us understand the context behind Jihad and the fact that this is not an unjust war being committed for militaristic gains.
When can Jihad be fought?
Permission to fight is given to those against whom war is made, because they have been wronged — and Allah indeed has power to help them.64
Who started all the fighting?
…they were the first to commence hostilities against you…65
What is the extent of Jihad?
And fight in the cause of Allah against those who fight against you, but do not transgress. Surely, Allah loves not the transgressors.66
And if you desire to punish the oppressors, then punish them to the extent to which you have been wronged; but if you show patience, then, surely, that is best for those who are patient.67
What was the reason for fighting?
And kill them wherever you meet them and drive them out from where they have driven you out68
What is the end goal for fighting?
And fight them until there is no persecution, and religion is freely professed for Allah.69
Explaining the context of such warfare, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmadas writes:
It should also be remembered that Islam permits the taking up of the sword only in opposition to people who themselves take it up first and it permits the slaughter only of those who embark upon slaughter first. It does not lay down that Muslims, while they are the subjects of a non-Muslim sovereign who deals with them with justice and equity, should take up arms against him as rebels.70
He writes further:
This commandment (to fight) was specific to the period and time. It was not forever. It applied during the time when those entering the fold of Islam were being slaughtered like sheep and lambs. After the time of the Holy Prophet (may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and his Successors, people unfortunately made very grave mistakes in understanding the philosophy of Jihad… The unjust slaughter of God’s creatures was deemed to be a mark of religious virtue.71