The Question
How does Shahrur distinguish between jihad, fighting, and terrorism, and why does he link fighting to defense and freedom?
The Idea in the Atlas
This axis rejects turning jihad into a permanent synonym for fighting. Jihad is broader than war, and fighting, in Shahrur’s view, is not legislated to compel people to religion; rather, it is tied to repelling aggression and opening a space for freedom. From here comes his critique of the intellectual roots of violence committed in the name of religion.
Quick Entry Points
- Jihad, Fighting, and Terrorism
- Drying Up the Springs of Terrorism
- Jihad
- Fighting
- Terrorism
- Al-Baqara 216
Questions for Reading
- What is the difference between jihad and fighting?
- How does Shahrur read fighting in light of freedom?
- Where does religious compulsion fit within his critique of violence?
- Is this reading sufficient to confront the fighting verses in the tradition?