The Book of Jihad - Sunan an-Nasa'i 3124

"I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say: 'The parable of Mujahid (who strives in the cause of Allah) - and Allah knows best who strives in the cause of Allah - is that of one who fasts and prays Qiyam (continually). Allah has promised Mujahid (who strives in His cause), that He will either cause him to die and admit him to paradise, or, He will bring him back safely with whatever he had earned of reward or spoils of war.'"

Exegesis of the Hadith

This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) establishes the immense spiritual status of the Mujahid in Allah's cause. The comparison to one who perpetually fasts and prays night prayers (Qiyam) indicates that jihad, when performed with proper intention, encompasses the highest forms of worship.

The phrase "and Allah knows best who strives in His cause" serves as a crucial qualification - it reminds us that true jihad requires pure intention (ikhlas) solely for Allah's pleasure, not for worldly gain or reputation.

The dual promise - either martyrdom with immediate entry to Paradise, or safe return with abundant rewards - demonstrates Allah's perfect justice and mercy. This comprehensive guarantee removes all fear from the believer's heart, knowing that both outcomes are victories in the divine balance.

Scholarly Commentary

Imam al-Nawawi comments that this hadith illustrates how jihad combines physical and spiritual struggle, making it the pinnacle of voluntary worship after obligatory acts.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani explains that the comparison to continuous fasting and night prayers emphasizes the sustained spiritual state of the Mujahid, whose entire being becomes immersed in devotion during jihad.

Classical scholars note that "spoils of war" here refers not merely to material gains but includes the spiritual rewards and elevated status granted by Allah to those who strive sincerely in His path.