Hadith Text & Reference

The Prophet (ﷺ) said: "Go in Allah's name, trusting in Allah, and adhering to the religion of Allah's Apostle. Do not kill a decrepit old man, or a young infant, or a child, or a woman; do not be dishonest about booty, but collect your spoils, do right and act well, for Allah loves those who do well."

Reference: Sunan Abi Dawud 2614 | Book: Jihad (Kitab Al-Jihad)

Context & Occasion of Revelation

This noble hadith was delivered by the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) as instructions to military expeditions sent for jihad. It establishes the foundational principles of Islamic warfare ethics, distinguishing it from the barbaric practices common in pre-Islamic Arabia.

The occasion was typically when the Prophet dispatched a company of Muslims for legitimate jihad, providing them with both spiritual and practical guidance for their mission.

Commentary on Spiritual Foundations

"Go in Allah's name" signifies that the expedition's purpose must be purely for Allah's pleasure, not for worldly gain or personal glory. "Trusting in Allah" emphasizes tawakkul - relying on Allah while taking necessary means. "Adhering to the religion of Allah's Apostle" requires strict compliance with Islamic teachings throughout the campaign.

Prohibited Categories in Combat

The prohibition against killing non-combatants is absolute: the decrepit old man (unable to fight), young infant (innocent of conflict), child (not of fighting age), and women (unless they actively participate in fighting). Scholars note these protections extend to monks, farmers, and other civilians not engaged in warfare.

Ethics of War Booty

"Do not be dishonest about booty" forbids ghulul (misappropriation before distribution). "Collect your spoils" indicates the permissibility of taking lawful war booty through proper channels. The collective distribution ensures justice and prevents individual greed from corrupting the mission's spiritual purpose.

Moral Excellence in Conduct

"Do right and act well" encompasses general excellence in conduct toward allies, enemies, and neutrals. This includes keeping promises, respecting treaties, and displaying noble character even toward combatants. The concluding reminder that "Allah loves those who do well" connects external actions to internal spiritual states.

Scholarly Conclusions

This hadith establishes that jihad in Islam is a disciplined, ethical struggle - not unrestrained warfare. It demonstrates Islam's concern for human dignity even during conflict. The comprehensive guidance covers spiritual preparation, combat restrictions, economic ethics, and moral conduct, making it a complete charter for Islamic warfare.