1) The document discusses common myths about Jihad in Islam, including that it means "holy war" or that Islam was spread by the sword.
2) It explains that Jihad actually means to strive or struggle, and identifies four main types - striving of the soul, against Satan, against enemies, and against injustice.
3) It argues that Islam promotes peace, not a "clash of civilizations", and prohibits violence against civilians like suicide bombings. Muslims are called to be peacemakers who resolve conflicts through dialogue and cooperation between civilizations.
I’la-yi Kelimetullah Emr bil Maruf Nehy anil Munker
"Aisha, wife of the Prophet asked, “O Messenger of Allah, we see jihad as the best of deeds, so shouldn't we join it?” He replied, 'but the best of jihad is a perfect Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah).'" (Sahih Al-Bukhari #2784) At another occasion, a man asked the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): "Should I join the jihad?” He asked, “Do you have parents?” The man said, “Yes!” The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Then strive by serving them!" (Sahih Al-Bukhari #5972). Yet another man asked the Messenger of Allah (PBUH): "What kind of jihad is better?” He replied, “A word of truth in front of an oppressive ruler!" (Sunan Al-Nasa'i #4209). The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: "the mujahid (one who carries out jihad) is he who strive against himself for the sake of Allah, and the muhajir (one who emigrates) is he who abandons evil deeds and sin." (Sahih Ibn Hibban #4862).
"Do not burn a plant, nor cut a tree, nor kill an older man, a young child, or a woman... nor monastery dwellers… in the territory of combatants." 2:190 Fight in the cause of God those who fight you, but do not transgress limits; for God loveth not transgressors.