(234) Chapter: Obligation of Jihad

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, "The best life is that of the man who holds his horse's rein in Allah's way and flies on its back to the places from whence he hears a war cry or the clatter of arms, seeking martyrdom or slaughter on the battlefield; or that of a person who goes to stay on the top of the hill or in a valley, and there he performs Salat (prayer), pays the Zakat and worships his Rubb till death overtakes him. He has no concern with the affairs of anyone except the doing of good." [Muslim]. Commentary: This Hadith has already been mentioned. See Commentary on Hadith No. 609. Besides highlighting the distinction of the Mujahid, this Hadith mentions the excellence of that person who leaves the cities when they are plagued with mischief and retreats to the valleys or hills and protects his Faith by flock-keeping and devotes himself to the obedience of Allah, adherence to His Commands and His worship. One of his outstanding qualities is that he does what is beneficial to the people and he does nothing which causes harm to anyone.