Fight in the way of Allah when required
Verse: 2:216
Arabic Text
كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الْقِتَالُ وَهُوَ كُرْهٌ لَّكُمْ ۖ وَعَسَىٰ أَن تَكْرَهُوا شَيْئًا وَهُوَ خَيْرٌ لَّكُمْ ۖ وَعَسَىٰ أَن تُحِبُّوا شَيْئًا وَهُوَ شَرٌّ لَّكُمْ ۗ وَاللَّهُ يَعْلَمُ وَأَنتُمْ لَا تَعْلَمُونَ
Translation
Fighting has been enjoined upon you while it is hateful to you. But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not.
Description
Sometimes, you might need to do things you find unpleasant, but they could be beneficial because Allah knows what you do not.
Detailed Explanation
This verse teaches that although fighting may be difficult and disliked by you, it can sometimes be necessary for a greater good. Allah encourages believers to trust His wisdom and judgment, as He knows what is best for you, even when you cannot understand it. It's a reminder that while we might see something unpleasant, like fighting, it might bring about positive outcomes in the larger scheme of things.
To provide context, this verse was revealed during a time when Muslims were facing oppression and needed to defend themselves. Tafsir Ibn Kathir explains that the underlying message is not just about physical battles but also the broader concept of striving (Jihad) in the path of what is right and just. Jihad can involve a struggle against injustice, inequality, or even internal battles against one's own desires.
Reflecting further, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized moderation and justice. A relevant Hadith shows this balanced approach: "The strong person is not the good wrestler. Rather, the strong person is the one who controls himself when he is angry" (Al-Bukhari and Muslim). This Hadith encourages us to strive to maintain self-control and balance in our actions and decisions. Therefore, trusting Allah's wisdom and guidance is vital as it helps you to see beyond immediate circumstances and recognize that Allah's knowledge encompasses what you cannot know.