The Hadith: 'We have come back from the lesser to the greater Jihad'

Q 3: What is the degree of authenticity of the following Hadith: We have come back from the lesser to the greater Jihad (fighting or striving in the Cause of Allah). What does this Hadith mean especially that some people interpret it according to their own inclinations to turn Muslims away from Jihad against the enemies of Islam and direct them to mild Jihad against oneself, money, desires and temptations?

A: According to this Hadith: We have come back from the lesser to the greater Jihad. The lesser Jihad means fighting against the Kafirs (disbelievers), whereas the greater one means striving against oneself. This Hadith was not authentically reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him). In fact, it is Da`if (weak) according to the views of Hadith scholars. (Part No. 3; Page No. 224) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family and Companions.