In everyday language, the term “Jihad” is often misunderstood or associated with ideas that have no foundation in the religious doctrine. In the Sunni Islamic tradition, upheld by the four legal schools – Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi‘i and Hanbali – the word “Jihad” fundamentally refers to a moral and spiritual effort. It is an inner struggle through which the believer seeks to improve himself, control personal weaknesses, and cultivate sincerity, justice and compassion.
Classical scholars described this path as the “greater Jihad”, meaning the internal struggle of the human being in pursuing what is right in the sight of God. This effort includes the search for knowledge, self-discipline, respect for others, the promotion of peace, and the rejection of injustice. In this sense, Jihad is closely linked to the foundational principles of Islam: personal responsibility, righteousness and the common good.
There is also an “outer Jihad”, governed by precise rules established by Sunni jurisprudence. These rules – which require legitimate authority, defensive purposes and strict limits to protect civilians – cannot under any circumstance be interpreted as a justification for arbitrary violence. The four Sunni schools have consistently affirmed that any action violating justice, the protection of innocents or human dignity cannot be considered part of the religion.
Throughout history, the concept of Jihad has contributed to building more just and compassionate communities, emphasising personal improvement and social responsibility. For the European Muslims League, it is essential to clarify this meaning so that the term may be understood within its authentic context, rather than distorted by ideological misuse. Jihad, in its true essence, is an effort toward goodness, inner peace and the moral elevation of individuals and society.
