Chapter: Those Who May Lawfully Stay Behind from Fighting the Enemy

Anyone who is sick with an ailment that prevents him from rising, or who is blind or lame, is excused from joining the expedition, and no blame rests on them even if they are well-to-do. The same licence applies to a strong, healthy man who lacks the means to finance the journey, or to one who remains behind to provide for his dependants.

None of these categories are obliged to go out for jihad. Likewise, if a person is physically able to leave but carries a debt he cannot repay, or if he has two Muslim parents— or even one of them— who object to his departure, he is not permitted to go; he may only set out with their consent.

The imam should not allow any of the weak or sick to march with him if he fears they will be unable to keep pace with the army. He ought to enlarge his forces only with those who are healthy, strong, and self-sufficient, not with the weak.

Nor may the imam retain in the ranks anyone whom the Muslims fear could act as a spy against them or expose any of their vulnerabilities, and it is not proper for him to seek assistance.