Islamic Rules of War: The Ethics and Guidelines of War

What is Jihad?

Jihad in Islam is a noble effort or struggle in the path of Allah (SWT). It can mean striving to become a better person, helping others, or standing up against injustice. While Islam emphasizes peace and kindness, it acknowledges that conflicts may sometimes become unavoidable. When Jihad involves armed struggle, it must follow strict Islamic rules to ensure that it is only for self-defense or to protect others from harm and oppression. The rules of war in Islam stand as a profound testament to the religion’s emphasis on justice, mercy, and the sanctity of life. Rooted in the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), these principles aim to ensure that humanity and morality are preserved even in the harshest circumstances of conflict.

Unlike the unrestrained disorder often associated with war, Islamic teachings establish strict ethical boundaries that govern the conduct of battle. These rules emphasize restraint, protecting non-combatants, and seeking peace over violence. Islam permits warfare only as a last resort—when oppression, aggression, or injustice leaves no other alternative. Even then, the rules of engagement prioritize minimizing harm and fostering reconciliation.

Learn more about the true meaning and principles of Jihad in Islam in our comprehensive guide about the: Islamic Jihaad: Concept of Jihad in Islam.

Explore the significance of Ghazwa in Islam and its historical impact in our detailed article: Ghazwa in Islam.

The Rules of War in Islam

Islam has clear rules for how wars should be fought, and these rules are based on the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Islamic scholars have also explained them over time. These rules focus on justice, kindness, and protecting innocent people who are not part of the fighting.

Here are 10 important rules of war in Islam that show how Muslims are guided to fight with fairness and mercy.

Only Fight When Necessary

Islam allows War only as a last resort when all peaceful routes have been examined. Muslims must try to avoid conflict unless they defend themselves or protect others from oppression.

Islam teaches that fighting is allowed only when there is no other way to protect people from harm or unfair treatment. Muslims should always try to solve problems peacefully first, like through talking or making agreements. The Quran says:

This verse shows that Islam allows Muslims to fight only in self-defense, and not for power or revenge. Muslims must balance any aggression by their enemies before engaging in battle. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) always prioritized peaceful solutions and dealt with opponents to prevent conflicts whenever possible.

Muslims must try every peaceful solution before turning to War. This rule ensures that wars are fought to protect justice and maintain order, not to gain power or territory.

No Harm to Non-Combatants

Islam teaches that during war, innocent people must never be harmed. This includes women, children, older people, and anyone who is not fighting. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“Go in Allah Almighty’s name, trusting in Allah (SWT), and adhering to the religion of Allah Almighty’s Apostle. Do not kill a decrepit old man, or a young infant, or a child, or a woman; do not be dishonest about booty, but collect your spoils, do right, and act well, for Allah (SWT) loves those who do well.” [Sunan Abi Dawud 2614]

This means that Muslims must only fight those who attack them and avoid hurting people who are not part of the fight. It protects the lives of the weak and helpless and reminds Muslims to be fair and kind, even during war.

In Islamic history, Muslim armies followed this rule by making sure no harm came to innocent people. This shows how Islam values justice and compassion, even in the most difficult times.

Offer Peace Before Fighting

Islam teaches that Muslims should always try to make peace before fighting. If there is a chance to solve problems peacefully, they must take it. The Quran says:

This rule shows Islam’s focus on avoiding conflict whenever possible. If the enemy expresses a desire for peace, Muslims must honor that agreement. This approach prevents unnecessary bloodshed and prioritizes dialogue over violence. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) consistently offered peace agreements, even during wartime, showing his preference for diplomacy.

Islamic history is filled with examples where Muslims spread peace offers, showing a commitment to reducing conflict and suffering. The Islamic war rules require Muslims to spend every possibility for reconciliation before engaging in War.

Respect for Places of Worship

Islamic law instructs Muslims to protect places of worship during conflict. This includes churches, synagogues, temples, and mosques. The Quran states:

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stressed that these sacred sites should not be attacked. Respecting these places promotes religious tolerance and ensures that wars do not become a means of religious persecution. Destroying or attacking these spaces goes against the rules of war in Islam, which seeks to protect humanity and promote religious freedom.

Muslim leaders historically respected places of worship, as seen in many conquests where religious sites remained untouched. This respect reinforces the Islamic value of protecting spiritual shelters and supporting religious coexistence.

No Harm to Nature and Animals

Islamic teachings emphasize protecting nature and animals, even during war. Cutting down trees, destroying crops, or harming animals is forbidden. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) instructed his followers to avoid damaging the environment. This principle ensures that war does not harm the natural resources that people depend on for survival. It shows that even in the heat of battle, Muslims are expected to act responsibly and preserve God’s creation. The rule promotes environmental stewardship and compassion, even in challenging situations.

The natural environment is viewed as a trust (Amanah) from Allah (SWT), and its destruction would harm future generations. These guidelines underscore that war should not create destruction of the earth and its resources. This Islamic rule of war highlights environmental responsibility, even in the most challenging times.

No Torture or Mutilation

Islam does not allow torture or harming enemies in cruel ways, whether they are alive or dead. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught Muslims to treat their enemies with kindness and avoid causing unnecessary pain. This rule shows the importance of mercy, even during war. No matter what the enemy has done, Islam says they should still be treated fairly and with respect.

Islam promotes the humane treatment of the enemy and their bodies, even after death. The dignity of every individual, including enemies, must be upheld. Historically, Muslim leaders like Caliph Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA) ensured their soldiers were attached to these instructions, promoting ethical conduct during battles.

Fair Treatment of Prisoners of War

Islamic law instructs Muslims to treat prisoners of War with fairness and humanity. Prisoners must receive food, shelter, and basic necessities. The Quran emphasizes:

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) showed this by treating prisoners with respect and sometimes even setting them free. Muslims are not allowed to harm or mistreat prisoners because Islam values kindness over revenge.

Muslims must ensure prisoners’ well-being, reflecting the value Islam places on humanity. Historically, Muslim armies treated captives with kindness, often allowing them to earn freedom through service, like teaching others to read.

War Must Not Be for Power or Wealth

Islam forbids Muslims from waging War for power, wealth, or personal gain. The purpose of War in Islam should be to protect the oppressed and establish justice. The Quran declares:

This verse shows that Muslims should never fight because of greed or the desire to control others. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) showed this by focusing on justice and peace instead of material rewards.

Muslims must always check their intentions to make sure they are fighting only for the sake of Allah Almighty. Islam does not allow wars to be started for selfish reasons and teaches that all battles must help create a fair and just society.

End the War When the Opponent Surrenders

In Islam, if the enemy surrenders or asks for peace, Muslims must stop fighting right away. The Quran says:

“If the enemy is inclined towards peace, make peace with them. And put your trust in Allah Almighty. Indeed, He ˹alone˺ is the All-Hearing, All-Knowing.” [Surah Al-Anfal verse 61]

This rule reflects Islam’s preference for peace. Continuing to fight after the opponent has surrendered goes against Islamic principles, as it is considered unjust aggression. The goal is to stop bloodshed and seek a peaceful resolution. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) showed this principle during the Conquest of Mecca, where he granted forgiveness to his opponents.

Muslims must honor surrender offers to end wars ethically. The rules of War in Islam highlight reconciliation and mercy over continued conflict.

Avoid Killing in Excess

Islam teaches that fighting should only be done when necessary, and Muslims must never go too far in war. The Quran says:

“Fight in the cause of Allah Almighty ˹only˺ against those who wage war against you, but do not exceed the limits. Allah (SWT) does not like transgressors.” [Surah Al Baqarah verse 190]

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stressed discipline, urging Muslims to fight only when necessary. Excessive violence, revenge, or mass killings violate the Islamic rules of War, which focus on justice and mercy. Islam promotes control to ensure conflicts do not cause unnecessary suffering and destruction.

Conclusion

The rules of war in Islam serve as a moral guide, ensuring that conflicts are conducted justly and with humanity. Islam emphasizes that war must only be a last resort, and even then, it must follow strict ethical guidelines to protect lives, nature, and places of worship. By sticking to these principles, Muslims can engage in conflicts that align with the values of mercy, justice, and restraint.

Understanding these principles provides insight into how Islam seeks to limit the damage of warfare, ensuring that peace and reconciliation remain its ultimate goal. It is a powerful reminder that Islam, as a religion of peace, promotes fairness even in the most challenging situations.

Last Updated on January 6, 2025 by Jamshed Anwer