The Arabic word “jihad” is one of the most misunderstood and politicized words in the world these days.
Today, New Year’s Day when so many people make resolutions, is a good time to revisit the meaning of “jihad.”
In the Saudi Gazette, Amal Al-Sibai breaks down the meaning of the word and lists what some Muslims see as their personal jihads.
Al-Sibai’s article explains the meaning of inner and outer jihads and writes, “The battlefield for a Muslim’s jihad is not a skyscraper in an American city, or a European street, or the desert, or an airplane; it is in his heart.”
Then, the article lists what some Muslims say are their jihads:
* To stay fit despite a busy schedule.
* To be patient, speak less and listen more.
* To be a better teacher.
* To balance work and family life.
So, what do you think? Is a New Year’s resolution just a jihad by another name?
