Jihad – An Arabic noun used to refer to the Islamic concept for effort and exertion to do good, both one’s individual moral struggle (mujahida) and state-sanctioned defense of territory (jihad). The armed guerilla army in the anti-Soviet war in Afghanistan were referred to globally as mujahideen, those who perform jihad. To designate a jihad as a legitimate state-sanctioned defence of territory the term has to be supported at a state level by other Muslim-majority nations and entities, such as by the OIC. Do not use jihadi, jihadis or jihadist in any context, as these are offensive to mainstream Muslims globally, despite their increasing erroneous use, and are actually embraced and used by Irhabis to give a perception of legitimacy to their actions.
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Reuters: An Islamic holy war or struggle. It can also refer to individual’s moral struggle. Use with extreme care.
AP: Arabic noun used to refer to the Islamic concept of the struggle to do good. In particular situations, that can include holy war, the meaning extremist Muslims commonly use. Use jihadi and jihadis. Do not use jihadis.
