of Islam.” (1) The hump is the fat that grows above a camel’s back, and its summit is its highest point. The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, called it the highest peak of the camel’s hump of Islam because Islam rises and is elevated through it, just as a camel’s hump stands high above its back.

His statement, “It is a collective obligation”: this is subject to a condition—namely, that the Muslims possess the ability and strength by which they can fight. If they do not have the ability, then throwing themselves into combat would be casting themselves into destruction. For this reason, Allah did not make fighting obligatory upon the Muslims while they were in Mecca, because they were powerless and weak. But when they emigrated to Medina, established the Islamic state, and acquired strength, they were commanded to fight. Therefore, this condition is indispensable; otherwise, it is waived from them, like other obligations. Indeed, all obligations are conditional upon ability, as Allah, Exalted is He, says:

“So fear Allah as much as you are able.” [At-Taghabun 64:16]

And He says:

“Allah does not burden a soul beyond its capacity.” [Al-Baqarah 2:286]

His statement, “and it becomes obligatory when one is present for it”: this is the first of the circumstances in which jihad becomes individually obligatory. Jihad becomes obligatory upon an individual when he is present in combat, due to Allah’s saying:

“O you who believe, when you meet those who disbelieve advancing in battle, do not turn your backs to them. Whoever turns his back to them on that day—unless maneuvering for battle or joining another company—has incurred wrath