What is the preferable action for a Muslim facing capture?
General Chapter
Al-Mughni
Book of Jihad
Primary text
If capture is feared, it is preferable for the Muslim to fight until death rather than surrender, as this secures the reward of the highest station and saves them from potential torture, servitude, and temptation by the disbelievers. However, surrendering is permissible (ja'iz).
Supporting text
Surrender is permissible, as evidenced by the incident involving 'Asim ibn Thabit and his companions, where seven preferred fighting until death based on resolve ('azima), while three others surrendered based on concession (rukhsa). Both courses of action were deemed praiseworthy and without blame.