A man came to the Prophet (ﷺ) and asked, "O Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)! What kind of fighting is in Allah's cause? (I ask this), for some of us fight because of being enraged and angry and some for the sake of his pride and haughtiness." The Prophet (ﷺ) raised his head (as the questioner was standing) and said, "He who fights so that Allah's Word (Islam) should be superior, then he fights in Allah's cause."
Hadith Commentary: The True Meaning of Jihad
This profound narration from Sahih al-Bukhari (Book: Knowledge, Hadith: 123) addresses the fundamental question of intention in Islamic warfare. The questioner demonstrates remarkable spiritual insight by recognizing that outward actions may appear identical while inner motivations differ substantially.
The Questioner's Wisdom
The companion's inquiry reveals deep self-awareness, acknowledging three impure motivations: rage (ghadab), personal anger (ghayth), and tribal pride (riya'). This demonstrates the Islamic emphasis on purifying intentions before undertaking significant actions.
His question reflects the teaching that deeds are judged by intentions, as established in the famous hadith: "Actions are but by intentions, and every person will have only what they intended."
The Prophet's Clarification
The Prophet's response, "He who fights so that Allah's Word should be superior," establishes the sole legitimate purpose of Islamic warfare: the elevation of divine truth (kalimat Allah). This excludes personal vendettas, nationalistic pride, or material gain.
The phrase "Allah's Word" refers specifically to the testimony of faith (shahadah) and the establishment of Islamic governance where God's laws are implemented, not forced conversion of individuals.
Scholarly Interpretation
Classical scholars like Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explain that this hadith establishes the criterion for distinguishing true jihad from mere fighting. The objective must be establishing divine justice and removing obstacles to the practice of Islam.
Imam al-Nawawi emphasizes that this teaching applies to all forms of struggle in Islam's path, whether military, intellectual, or spiritual. The common element is the sincere intention to elevate God's religion above all other considerations.
Contemporary Relevance
This teaching remains essential for Muslims today, reminding us that any struggle undertaken in Islam's name must be purified of personal agendas, political ambitions, and worldly desires. The ultimate goal remains making Allah's guidance paramount in individual and collective life.