Islam and the Ethics of War: Deconstructing Jihad through the Principle of Humanism in Theological Discourses

Abstract

Warfare has become a problematic discourse in social life and theology. The research aims to identify the malfunction of war through the ethics of jihad contained in Islamic teachings that emphasise the principle of humanism. This article uses a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach. The data in this study are verses of the Qur'an, tafsir books, and journals directly related to jihad and war. Tafsir Maudhu'i analysis is used to provide relevant correlations through Islamic teachings. The results showed that in the Qur'an, the terms jihad and war are divided into four classifications, namely: Self-defence, Eliminating Fitnah, Fighting Oppressors and War with Allah's permission. Some of the ethics of war contained in the Qur'an are Protection of Non-Combatants, Prohibition of Brutal Killings and Cruelty, Protection of Environment and Property, Protection of Prisoners of War, Responsibility of Military Leaders and Prohibition of Attacks on Places of Worship and Civilians. In theological discourse, cases such as genocide and massacres of civilians are becoming increasingly complex. This research reimagines humanist values in the context of war ethics which sets the stage for Islam to contribute positively to conflict resolution and peacekeeping.