What is the rank of Jihad among acts of righteousness?

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There is no act of righteousness superior to Jihad after the obligatory duties. Imam Ahmad stated that he knows of no greater act of goodness than military expedition (Sabil). Direct participation in fighting is considered the best of deeds because those who fight defend Islam and their families. Evidence supporting its high status includes the Hadith where the Prophet peace be upon him listed the best deeds after the obligatory prayer: first, filial piety (Birr al-Walidayn), and then Jihad in the cause of Allah (Hadith narrated by Ibn Mas'ud, considered Hasan Sahih by Tirmidhi). Another report states that after faith in Allah and His Messenger, Jihad is the apex of deeds (Sanam al-Amal), followed by a virtuous Hajj (Hadith narrated by Abu Hurayrah, Hasan Sahih by Tirmidhi). Furthermore, the best of people are described as the believer striving in the cause of Allah with self and wealth (Agreed upon with Abu Sa'id al-Khudri), or one holding the reins of his horse in the cause of Allah (Hadith narrated by Ibn Abbas, Hasan by Tirmidhi). This superiority stems from Jihad involving the sacrifice of life and wealth, and its benefit encompassing all Muslims universally.