"I have been commanded to fight the people until they say La ilaha illallah (there is non worthy or worship except Allah). Whoever says it, his life and his property are safe from me, except for its right, and his reckoning will be with Allah."
Hadith Text & Context
"I have been commanded to fight the people until they say La ilaha illallah (there is none worthy of worship except Allah). Whoever says it, his life and his property are safe from me, except for its right, and his reckoning will be with Allah."
This foundational hadith from Sunan an-Nasa'i 3095 establishes the primary objective of Islamic military engagement - to remove barriers preventing people from accepting Allah's lordship.
Scholarly Commentary on Key Phrases
"Fight the people" - Scholars explain this refers specifically to polytheists (mushrikeen) who actively oppose Islam and prevent its propagation. It does not include People of the Book or those with existing treaties.
"Until they say La ilaha illallah" - The testimony of faith must be uttered with understanding and acceptance, not mere verbal repetition under coercion. The phrase implies sincere acceptance of Islamic monotheism.
"Except for its right" - This crucial qualification means the shahadah carries obligations: establishing prayer, paying zakat, and fulfilling other Islamic duties. Protection is conditional upon fulfilling these rights.
"His reckoning will be with Allah" - Ultimate judgment of sincerity belongs to Allah alone. Earthly authorities judge by apparent submission while Allah knows the secrets of hearts.
Legal Implications & Conditions
Classical scholars emphasize this hadith establishes that the primary purpose of jihad is da'wah (invitation to Islam), not mere territorial conquest. Fighting ceases immediately upon acceptance of Islam.
The protection granted extends to life, property, and honor. However, this protection becomes void if the person apostatizes or willfully violates Islamic law after acceptance.
This ruling applies specifically to combatants. Non-combatants - women, children, monks, and elderly - are generally protected according to detailed Islamic rules of engagement.
Spiritual Dimensions
The hadith reflects Islam's ultimate concern with tawhid (divine unity). Physical struggle serves spiritual liberation from false worship.
The exception "except for its right" reminds believers that faith requires both testimony and practice - the shahadah is not a mere password but a lifelong commitment.
The concluding phrase emphasizes divine omniscence, comforting believers that ultimate justice rests with Allah, encouraging proper intention in all actions.