The term Jihad is derived from Jahada which means to strive. It is such a broad term that includes a wide range of meanings. For instance, to have a subtle level of morality is a Jihad, to learn or teach is a Jihad and to defend one’s rights is a Jihad even if it involves violent application provided it is not transgression.
The Islamic jihad is the noblest of endeavours and its method of realisation is the most sublime and exalted. For Allah has forbidden aggression. He, the Almighty, has said:
وَلاَ تَعْتَدُواْ إِنَّ اللّهَ لاَ يُحِبُّ الْمُعْتَدِينَ
‘But transgress not the limits. Truly, Allah likes not the transgressors.’(2:190)
Allah commanded that justice be observed, even towards the enemy and the adversary. He, the Almighty, has said:
وَلاَ يَجْرِمَنَّكُمْ شَنَآنُ قَوْمٍ عَلَى أَلاَّ تَعْدِلُواْ اعْدِلُواْ هُوَ أَقْرَبُ لِلتَّقْوَى وَاتَّقُواْ اللّهَ إِنَّ اللّهَ خَبِيرٌ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ
“And let not the enmity and hatred of others make you avoid justice. Be just: that is nearer to piety.”(5:8)
Muslims conduct Jihad while observing the utmost mercy. When they fight, they should not instigate hostilities, nor should they steal nor plunder property,

nor should they violate someone's honour, nor should they indulge in wanton destruction. In their warfare they should be the best of fighters, just as in peace they should be the most excellent of peacemakers.
Buraydah reported:
‘Whenever the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) appointed a commander over an army or a band of raiders, he told him, the Prophet said to him: "Strive in the name of Allah in Allah's way! Campaign, but do not indulge in excesses, do not act treacherously, do not mutilate, and do not slay children."’
Abu Hurayra, May Allah be pleased with him, reported:
‘The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: "When one of you fights, let him avoid [striking] the face."’ (Transmitted by Bukhari and Muslim)
On the authority of Abdullah bin Yazid al Ansari, may Allah be pleased with him, who said:
‘The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) forbade plundering and mutilation.’
It is forbidden to slay women, children, and old people, to kill the wounded, or to disturb monks, hermits, non-combatant and the peaceful who choose not to fight.