INTELLIGENCE SYSTEM OF HOLY PROPHET (PBUH) AN IMPORTANT MILITARY TOOL

Abstract

In the modern warfare, intelligence plays a pivotal role, and is, therefore, considered an essential part of defense strategy in all countries. In the Islamic defense system, intelligence has been an important tool right from the days of the Holy Prophet (ﷺ). This paper aims at explaining the importance of intelligence for the defense of an Islamic State according to the teachings of Islam.  The word intelligence in this paper has been used in the military sense. The scope of this paper is limited to the Holy Quran, Hadith and prominent events of the Hijrah, battles of Badr, Uhud, Trench and consequent of Makkah. Intelligence is considered the most important tool of war in modern times. No army can fight without it.  Getting information about enemy’s plans, assets and movement (ops intelligence) and safeguarding own information; morale and loyalty of the troops (counter intelligence) are its two main aspects.  An overview of the Holy Quran, Hadith and life of the Holy Prophet (ﷺ) reveals that both there aspects of intelligence have been given due importance in Islam.