The Book of Jihad - Sunan an-Nasa'i 3192

"The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: 'Strive in Jihad with your hands, your tongues and your wealth.'"

Commentary on the Hadith

This noble hadith from the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) establishes the comprehensive nature of jihad in Islam, which extends beyond physical combat to encompass multiple dimensions of struggle in the path of Allah.

"With your hands" refers to physical jihad when necessary, including military defense and protection of the Muslim community. This is the jihad of action and physical effort.

"With your tongues" signifies the jihad of speech, which includes calling to Islam, teaching knowledge, enjoining good and forbidding evil, defending truth with words, and refuting falsehood through articulate discourse.

"With your wealth" denotes financial jihad through charitable giving, supporting Islamic causes, financing military expeditions when required, and contributing to the welfare of the Muslim community.

Scholarly Insights

The scholars explain that this hadith demonstrates the gradation of jihad according to one's capability. Those unable to fight physically can participate through speech or financial support.

Imam An-Nawawi (may Allah have mercy on him) commented that this hadith shows jihad has multiple forms, and every Muslim can participate according to their capacity and circumstances.

Ibn Hajar al-Asqalani noted that the comprehensive nature of jihad in this hadith reflects the Islamic principle that every Muslim has a role in establishing and defending the faith community.