المعنى الاصطلاحي :

Breaching the covenant that was given to the disbelievers by transgressing against their lives, wealth, or honor.

الشرح المختصر :

"Ikhfār" (breach of covenant): The Muslims are under obligation to fulfill certain requirements toward the disbelievers whom they gave a covenantof protection. The Muslims have to fulfill their promise of protection, with the intention to acquaint the disbelievers with the laws of Islam and other noble purposes. "Ikhfār" means breaching this covenant by assaulting their lives, properties, or honor. There are two types of "ikhfār": 1. "Ikhfār" with people. This is the category meant in jihad literature. 2. "Ikhfār" with Allah. A Muslim remains under the protection of Allah as long as he obeys Allah. When he disobeys Allah, he has betrayed the covenant. What is meant by the covenant is allowing some of the non-Muslims to keep their own faith in a certain manner in return for paying a head-tax and abiding by the rules of Islam applicable to them. Meanwhile, they enjoy the protection of their lives, properties, and honor under Muslim sovereignty.

التعريف اللغوي المختصر :

"Ikhfār": treachery; breach of covenant. Original meaning: removing protection and security. "Khufrah" and "Khifārah": covenant, security, guarantee, guarding. Other meanings: sending a guard with someone to protect him.