[No basis for the ḥadīth: “We have returned from the lesser jihād”]
As for the report that some people circulate—that during the expedition of Tabūk he said, “We have returned from the lesser jihād to the greater jihād”—it has no foundation. None of the scholars versed in the Prophet’s words and deeds has transmitted it.

[Jihād against the disbelievers is among the greatest forms of worship]
Striving against the disbelievers is one of the most exalted deeds; indeed, it is the finest voluntary act a person can offer.

Allah, the Exalted, says:

“Those believers who stay behind—except the disabled—are not equal to those who strive in the path of Allah with their wealth and their lives. Allah has raised those who strive with their wealth and lives above those who sit back, by one degree. To each Allah has promised the best reward, yet Allah has granted those who strive a tremendous reward.” (Q 4:95)

[The highest level of faith]
And He, Most High, also says:

“Do you consider giving water to the pilgrims and maintaining the Sacred Mosque equal to believing in Allah and the Last Day and striving in the path of Allah? They are not equal in the sight of Allah, and Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people. Those who believe, emigrate, and strive in the path of Allah with their wealth and their lives are of higher rank with Allah, and it is they who will triumph. Their Lord gives them glad tidings of mercy…” (Q 9:19–21)