Can a Muslim refuse to fight alongside a leader if the leader is accompanied by certain detrimental individuals?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Jihad

Book 54 · Issue 6 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

A leader must not bring along individuals who discourage the army, such as those who exaggerate heat, cold, or hardship, or state that defeat is certain. Likewise, a rumor-monger (Murfij) who claims the Muslim contingent is destroyed, lacks aid, or is inferior to the enemy must be excluded. It is also forbidden to bring along spies who aid disbelievers by revealing Muslim vulnerabilities or correspond with the enemy, or those who sow discord among Muslims. If any of these individuals join the campaign, even if they outwardly aid the Muslims, they should receive no share of the spoils or compensation because their outward support might conceal hypocrisy, and they are fundamentally harmful. If the commander himself belongs to this group, joining him is not recommended, as preventing his subordinate participation implies preventing his leadership role is preferable, and harm to companions cannot be avoided.