What attributes are mentioned for those who strive in the way of God (Jihad)?

In the Holy Quran, Jihad in the way of God is understood not merely as physical combat, but as a comprehensive and continuous struggle in all aspects of life to uphold the word of truth and combat one’s lower self (nafs). Therefore, the attributes mentioned for true strivers in the way of God extend far beyond mere bravery on the battlefield, encompassing deep spiritual, ethical, and behavioral dimensions. These qualities signify the essence of faith, commitment, and submission to the Divine Will, molding them into insightful, resolute, and purposeful individuals. The Quran enumerates these attributes in various verses, allowing us to form a complete picture of a genuine Mujahid. One of the most comprehensive verses outlining the attributes of those who strive is Surah At-Tawbah, verse 111. This verse speaks of a divine transaction where Allah has purchased the lives and wealth of believers in exchange for Paradise. In this verse, the fundamental characteristics of these believers are listed: “The repentant, the worshippers, the praisers [of Allah], the travelers [for His cause], those who bow, those who prostrate, those who enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong, and those who observe the limits [set by] Allah. And give good tidings to the believers.” These attributes indicate that Jihad is not solely a military operation, but a symbol of a life brimming with servitude and social responsibility. **“The Repentant (At-Ta'iboon)”**: These are individuals who constantly return to Allah, regretting their sins. This attribute signifies continuous self-purification and attention to inner purity, which is the foundation of all righteous deeds, including Jihad. **“The Worshippers (Al-'Abidoon)”**: Those who make the servitude to Allah the guiding principle of their lives at all times. Worship encompasses not only prayer and fasting but every act performed with sincere intention for Allah. This quality demonstrates the deep connection of the Mujahid with their Creator, who is the source of their strength and steadfastness. **“The Praisers [of Allah] (Al-Hamidoon)”**: Those who are grateful for Allah’s blessings under all circumstances. This attribute expresses inner contentment and trust in divine decree, which gives the Mujahid an elevated spirit and makes them resilient in the face of hardships. **“The Travelers [for His cause] (As-Sa'ihoon)”**: There are various interpretations for this attribute; some understand it as those who fast, thereby controlling their desires and ego, while others interpret it as those who journey in the path of Allah (like emigrants or seekers of knowledge and wisdom). This attribute signifies self-purification and readiness to abandon comfort for Allah’s sake. **“Those who bow (Ar-Raki'oon) and those who prostrate (As-Sajidoon)”**: Those who demonstrate utmost humility and submission to their Lord in their prayers. These attributes symbolize a continuous connection with Allah and seeking refuge in Him at every moment, which brings peace and reassurance to the heart of the Mujahid. **“Those who enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong (Al-Amirun bil Ma'ruf wan-Nahuna anil Munkar)”**: This attribute highlights the social dimension of Jihad. Mujahideen actively work not only on the battlefield but also within society to establish justice and eradicate corruption. This quality signifies religious zeal and social responsibility. **“Those who observe the limits [set by] Allah (Al-Hafidhuna li Hudoodillah)”**: Those who respect and adhere to Allah’s boundaries and laws, not transgressing them in their actions or words. This attribute expresses piety, inner discipline, and order, which are essential for any successful endeavor, whether individual or collective. In addition to these comprehensive attributes, other verses also point to the characteristics of Mujahideen. For instance, **perseverance and steadfastness (Sabr and Thabat)** are prominent attributes of those who strive. In Surah Al-Imran, verse 146, it states: “And they did not lose courage, nor did they weaken, nor did they give in. And Allah loves the patient.” This verse indicates that a true Mujahid never succumbs to weakness, despair, or faltering in the face of difficulties, hardships, or even temporary setbacks. With reliance on Allah, they continue their path. Patience and steadfastness are core pillars of Jihad, without which victory and success would not be possible. **Reliance on Allah (Tawakkul) and trust in Divine support** are also crucial characteristics. In Surah Al-Anfal, verse 45, it says: “O you who have believed, when you encounter a [strong] party [of disbelievers], stand firm and remember Allah much that you may succeed.” Frequent remembrance of Allah on the battlefield is a sign of deep reliance on Him. The Mujahid knows that ultimate victory comes not from their own strength, but from Allah's aid and support. This reliance grants them courage, tranquility, and confidence. Ultimately, the attributes of those who strive in the way of God are a collection of ethical, spiritual, and practical virtues that lead a person to perfection in both individual and societal aspects. These attributes include purity of intention and repentance, pure servitude, gratitude, self-purification, humility and submission before Allah, social responsibility through enjoining good and forbidding evil, and adherence to divine limits. Furthermore, patience, steadfastness, reliance on Allah, and constant remembrance of Allah are considered other foundational elements of their character. These are not merely necessary characteristics for those who are present on the battlefield, but rather models for every believer who wishes to dedicate their life in the way of Allah and for the exaltation of truth.