- The poetry of pre-Islamic Arabia
- The life and teachings (Sunnah) of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
- The customs of ancient empires
- The rulings of modern political leaders
The primary sources of Islamic law are the Quran and the Sunnah (the teachings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)). The detailed rules, restrictions, and ethical codes governing jihad are derived from these two sources. The Prophet’s own conduct in war and his specific instructions to soldiers are the definitive guide, not historical customs or modern politics.
