When Jihad Becomes Individual Duty

There are situations when jihad becomes **Fard 'Ayn** (individual obligation): **Case 1: When Enemies Attack Muslim Lands** - If enemies attack and descend upon Muslim lands or besiege them - Fighting them and repelling their harm becomes obligatory on all Muslims in that land **Case 2: When Present at the Battle** - When the two armies meet and the two rows face each other - Jihad becomes obligatory on those present - It is forbidden to retreat or turn away from the enemy - **Quran:** "O you who have believed, when you meet those who disbelieve advancing [for battle], do not turn to them your backs [in flight]" [8:15] - The Prophet ﷺ counted fleeing from battle among the grave destructive sins [Bukhari & Muslim] **Exceptions to Fleeing:** 1. Maneuvering for attack (going to return with more force) 2. Joining a Muslim group for support **Case 3: When Summoned by the Imam** - When the Imam specifically calls for jihad - **Quran:** "O you who have believed, what is [the matter] with you that, when you are told to go forth in the cause of Allah, you adhere heavily to the earth?" [9:38-39] - **Hadith:** "And if you are called to march forth, then march forth" [Bukhari & Muslim] **Case 4: When Needed** - If the person is needed for jihad, it becomes obligatory on them