The Concept of War in Jewish Law: A Comparative and AnalyticalStudy in the Light of Ṣaḥīḥ Ḥadīth

Abstract

War is a significant religious, social, and political phenomenon that has been interpreted
differently by various religious traditions. This research presents a comparative and analytical
study of the concept of war in Jewish Law in the light of the Torah and Talmudic traditions and
compares it with the principles of warfare mentioned in Ṣaḥīḥ Ḥadīth. The study examines the
foundations, types, ethical principles, peace agreements, and treatment of non-combatants in
Jewish sources, while also analyzing the justification, conditions, lawful and unlawful forms, and
moral limits of war in the light of Ṣaḥīḥ Ḥadīth. Using a comparative and analytical approach,
the research finds that both traditions consider war as a regulated and exceptional act rather than
an unrestricted practice. However, Jewish Law mainly relates war to the history of Israelites, the
Promised Land, divine commands, and religious identity, whereas Ṣaḥīḥ Ḥadīth presents war as
a limited measure for defense, removal of oppression, establishment of justice, protection of human
life, and preservation of peace. The study highlights the similarities and differences between the
two religious perspectives and provides an analytical understanding of their concepts of warfare.