The Misinterpretation of the Concept of Jihad Is the Reason behind the Clash within Different Sects of Islam Free Essay Example, 1500 words

The misinterpretation of the term jihad beyond its meaning resulted in its double meaning and misuse. As pointed out, misinterpretation altered the basic meaning of jihad beyond its spiritual undertone. In a real sense, the concept of jihad helped the prophet to strengthen cohesiveness among the believers of monotheism. To be specific, jihad was helpful for Islamic believers to maintain supremacy over other religious groups in the Middle East. The prophet depended upon the violent aspect of jihad to maintain his supremacy within his public sphere. Gradually, some of the believers began to consider that holy war is their duty towards their religious belief. Halim Rane states that Many contemporary scholars consider peace to be a certain aim of Islam, but view the use of armed force as necessary in certain circumstances (142). This difference in interpretation resulted in violence and bloodshed related to religious belief. So, one can see that the real aim of jihad is not to kill the non-believers, but to restore peaceful coexistence among different religious groups. One can see that the meaning of jihad differs from groups and individuals. We will write a custom essay sample on The Misinterpretation of the Concept of Jihad Is the Reason behind the Clash within Different Sects of Islam or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/page To be specific, the innocent believers thought that the ultimate aim of the jihadists is to restore peace and to regain the lost popularity of Islam. When the fundamentalists began to introduce strict laws (say, Sharia), the believers protested, but for vain.