War is a state of open armed conflict between countries or groups of people. Typically, these arise from the struggle to gain access to and influence over numerous natural resources, such as soil, minerals, and water, and from different political, economic, religious, or social beliefs. There are usually disputes between the parties involved which can lead to wars. Therefore, in contrast, peace is widely used to mean lack of confrontation (like war) and freedom from threats and violence. The vast majority of human beings desire peace and few desire continued violence, war and conflict. The purpose of this report will further investigate and discuss two specific Christian and Islamic viewpoints on the aspect of armed conflict and peace. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay This report will examine peace and conflict providing an in-depth analysis of the chosen topics of Jihad and just war theory. While conducting research to obtain information on these topics, sources and references were used in this report. Various internet searches/websites were accessed, in particular the 'BBC Bitesize' website which provided definitions suitable for school age. As well as finding and using sacred texts from the Bible and the Koran. Class assignments and teachings weeks earlier on Islam, Christianity, peace and war were also used. Jihad is a fundamental concept in the Muslim religion, there are numerous meanings of the term Jihad, but "to struggle" and "to strive" are the most common and direct translation from the Arabic word jahada to English. Many understand Jihad through the controversial translation of "Holy War", but Jihad, in its primary context, is an ideological movement that strives for self-advancement according to the principles of Islam. To fight for the progress of all humanity by increasing the influence of Islam and the Muslim prophet Muhammad. There are two fundamental religious interpretations of the term within Islam: “Great Jihad” and “Small Jihad”. The Great Jihad is defined as moral warfare, a struggle between us between two powers: the body and the mind. This spiritual conflict within each of us is an ongoing jihad. Islam expects its followers to give the soul and conscience preference over the body and its desires. Fasting in the month of Ramadhan is an example of the annual training for this great jihad. However, the Small Jihad is the armed struggle that does not automatically imply the unjustified use of violence. Minor Jihad can be divided into two: aggression and defense. Aggression against any people is not permitted in Islam; however, defense is an absolute right of every individual and nation. The Holy Quran teaches that when war breaks out, it should be conducted in such a way as to cause as little damage as possible to life and property; and that hostilities should be brought to an end as quickly as possible. 'To those against whom war is made, permission is given (to fight), because they have been wronged; - and verily, Allah is Most Mighty for their help.' {(Qur'an\primeno\22:39)}^2 The use of the phrase 'permission has been given' also indicates defensive warfare. The Quran commands Muslims to give refuge to enemies who seek peace be kind to the captives, as the command to feed the captives is mentioned along with that of feeding the poor 'But if the enemy leans towards peace, incline you [also] towards peace and trust in Allah: for He is the Hearer. and knows [all things]'. {(Quran\primeno\ 8:61)}^2 The verse.