What is the ruling on Muslims standing firm when facing an enemy more than double their number, provided they expect to win?

General Chapter

Al-Mughni

Book of Jihad

Book 54 · Issue 1 · Bab 1

Open in Qurani

Primary text

When the enemy outnumbers the Muslims by more than double, and the Muslims expect to achieve victory, it is preferable for them to remain steadfast due to the inherent benefit in doing so. However, withdrawing is permissible because they cannot be certain of destruction. The ruling regarding the obligation to stand firm is contingent upon the prevailing assumption that they are less than half the enemy's number. Consequently, steadfastness becomes obligatory upon them if they are more than half the enemy's number and destruction is strongly anticipated.