What constitutes *Ribat* (guarding the frontier), and what is its status compared to Jihad?

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Ribat means stationing oneself at the frontier (*Thaghr*), which is any place where the inhabitants fear the enemy and the enemy fears them. The term originates from tethering horses (*ribat al-khayl*), as both parties prepare for confrontation. The virtue and reward of Ribat are immense. Ahmad stated that Jihad and Ribat are not equal in his view, as Ribat involves defending Muslims and their sanctity, strengthening the frontier dwellers and the raiding parties. Thus, Ribat is the foundation, and Jihad is its branch, although Jihad is considered superior due to the hardship, toil, and difficulty involved. A narration from Salman states that 'One night of Ribat in the path of God is better than a month of fasting and night vigil.' Furthermore, one who dies while stationed in Ribat will have his deeds recorded and his provision sent until the Day of Resurrection, and he will be safe from the trials of the grave. The best of rewards is also attested to by the Prophet's saying: 'One day of Ribat in the path of God is better than a thousand days in any other station.'