Is it obligatory to fight under every leader, whether righteous or wicked?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Jihad

Book 54 · Issue 5 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

Jihad is obligatory upon the Muslim community under every appointed leader, whether he is righteous (Birr) or wicked (Fajir). Refusing to fight under a wicked leader leads to the cessation of Jihad, the dominance of disbelievers, the eradication of Muslims, and the ascendancy of disbelief, which results in immense corruption (Quran 2:251). This obligation is established by the report from Abu Hurayrah: 'Jihad is obligatory upon you with every Amir, whether he is righteous or wicked' (Hadith narrated by Abu Dawud). Moreover, steadfastness in Jihad is an element of faith, alongside withholding condemnation from one who utters the Shahada and believing in divine decree (Hadith narrated by Anas via Abu Dawud).

Supporting text

Imam Ahmad expressed disapproval of joining a campaign under a leader known for leading Muslims to defeat or neglecting their welfare; one should only fight under a leader known for compassion and caution regarding the Muslims. However, if the leader is known for drinking wine or embezzlement, one may still fight under him, as Allah supports the religion even through a wicked man.