"And of My slaves who goes out as a Mujahid striving in the cause of Allah, seeking my pleasure, I guarantee that I will bring him back with whatever he had earned as reward or spoils of war, and if I take his (soul) I will forgive him and have mercy on him."
The Book of Jihad - Sunan an-Nasa'i 3126
"And of My slaves who goes out as a Mujahid striving in the cause of Allah, seeking my pleasure, I guarantee that I will bring him back with whatever he had earned as reward or spoils of war, and if I take his (soul) I will forgive him and have mercy on him."
Scholarly Commentary
This noble hadith qudsi contains immense glad tidings for the sincere mujahid. The phrase "My slaves" indicates special divine selection and honor bestowed upon those who undertake jihad fi sabilillah.
"Striving in the cause of Allah" encompasses both the greater jihad (struggle against one's ego) and the lesser jihad (physical struggle), but here specifically refers to armed struggle with proper intention.
"Seeking My pleasure" is the essential condition - the mujahid must purify his intention solely for Allah's countenance, not for worldly gain or reputation.
The divine guarantee offers two blessed outcomes: either returning with material and spiritual rewards, or attaining martyrdom with complete forgiveness and divine mercy - both being tremendous successes.
Legal and Spiritual Dimensions
Classical scholars emphasize that this promise applies only when jihad is performed according to Islamic legal requirements: proper authorization, correct methodology, and adherence to Islamic combat ethics.
The "spoils of war" mentioned are subject to distribution according to Quranic guidelines (Surah Anfal), while the spiritual rewards are boundless and multiplied according to one's sincerity.
This hadith serves as immense encouragement for Muslims to prepare spiritually and physically for legitimate jihad while maintaining pure intention and proper conduct throughout.