Points derived from the ḥadith

1 – Abu Dawud, al-Tirmidhi, al-Nasaʾi, and others relate—through the narration of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari—that while he was stationed before Constantinople, a man suddenly charged into the enemy camp. Some onlookers said, “He has hurled himself into destruction.” Abu Ayyub replied, “No. This verse was revealed about the Ansar when they thought of abandoning jihad in order to busy themselves with their property. As for this man, he is the one of whom Allah says: ‘And among the people is he who sells himself, seeking the pleasure of Allah’ (Qur’an 2:207).”

2 – The ḥadith indicates that single combat is permissible for someone who knows himself to possess endurance, toughness, and courage in war; his victory over his opponent boosts the Muslims’ resolve and sharpens their determination, while weakening the morale of the enemy.

3 – It has been mentioned earlier that single combat is allowed only with the permission of the commander, and he grants leave only when harmful consequences and dangers have been ruled out. He alone directs the conduct of war, and obeying him in what is right is obligatory. Allah says: “The believers are only those who believe in Allah and His Messenger; when they are with him on a collective affair, they do not depart until they have asked his permission” (Qur’an 24:62). In the two Ṣaḥīḥ collections it is narrated from Abu Hurayrah that the Prophet ﷺ said: “Whoever obeys me has obeyed Allah, and whoever disobeys me has disobeyed Allah; whoever obeys the commander has obeyed me, and whoever disobeys the commander has disobeyed me.”

4 – Al-Ḥāfiẓ stated that the majority of scholars allow a valiant man to charge a large company of the enemy provided he has a sound intention—such as striking fear into the foe or emboldening the Muslims to advance, or any other legitimate purpose. If, however, his assault is sheer recklessness, it is forbidden, especially if it would weaken the Muslims or break their spirit.