Assalamu-alaikum, Tablighi Jamat people often say that the highest level of Jihad is against the Naafs and it is called Jihad-e-Akbar. Is this correct with reference from any Qur’anic verse or Sahih Hadith or reliable islamic books? Please mention if required. Some Alims say, this is with reference from a week Hadith. And hence, it is not valid. Then why do the Tablighi people act and speech strongly on this matter? Please clarify this fact. Zazakallahu Khairan!
Answer
(Fatwa: 1295/1101=B/1429)
The highest type of Jihad which is known is to wage war against the enemies of Islam in order to raise the words of Allah in which a Mujahid scarifies his life and wealth. It is also Jihad to keep the self suppressed, controlled and going against its will on the path of Shariah. According to the Sufis, it is Jihad-e-Akbar is to struggle for reforming the self and enlightening the heart. والمجاهد من جاهد نفسه
Allah (Subhana Wa Ta’ala) knows Best
Darul Ifta,
Darul Uloom Deoband