Is fleeing from battle (Jihad) permissible when encountering the disbelievers?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Jihad
Primary text
It is obligatory to stand firm (thubut) and forbidden to flee when Muslims meet the disbelievers in battle. This is evidenced by the command in the Quran: O you who have believed, when you meet those who disbelieve advancing [in battle], do not turn your backs [to them] (Quran 8:15), and when you meet a company [of disbelievers], stand firm and remember Allah much that you may be successful (Quran 8:45). The Prophet, peace be upon him, counted fleeing on the day of battle among the major sins.
Supporting text
A dissenting view attributes these injunctions solely to the specific circumstances of the Battle of Badr, stating that standing firm is not required in other battles. However, the authoritative position holds that the command is general and the Prophet's statement is comprehensive, thus prohibiting any unwarranted restriction or specification.