The image depicts a black banner with the shahada (Islamic testimony of faith holding that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is his messenger) and an AK47 underneath. The image might be construed as a jihadist retort to the flag of Saudi Arabia, which bears a classic Arabian sword under the text of the shahada.
According to tradition hadith (prophetic tradition or report), the black flag was the battle flag of the Prophet Muhammad and it was carried into battle by many of his companions. The image of the black flag has been used as a symbol of religious revolt and engagement in battle (i.e., jihad). In the contemporary Islamist movement, the black flag is used to evoke notions of jihad and of reestablishing the Islamic Caliphate.
More Information
Group Type
Jihadist Group
Dominant Colors
Black
Secondary Colors
White
Isolated Phrases / Mottoes / Slogans
Shahada
Image Number
0186
Weapons
Firearms, Automatic / Assault Rifle, AK47
Geopolitical Symbols
Non-country Flag, Slogan
Geopolitical Analysis
Black flag with text of shahada and AK47 underneath
Religious Textual References
Shahada, Use of Calligraphy
Religious Symbols
Black / White / Green Banners
