Unless enemies outnumber twofold the Muslims, a Muslim is not allowed to turn his back to them. Similarly, unless it is in a stratagem of war, or to retreat to a troop (of his own), a Muslim is also forbidden to flee from the battlefield. Allah the Almighty says, {If any do turn hi; back to them on such a day -unless it be in a stratagem of war, or to retreat to a troop (of his own) he draws on himself the wrath of Allah, and his abode is Hell, -an evil refuge (indeed).} (Al-Anfal: 16)
Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported the Prophet (peace be upon him) to have said, “Avoid the seven destroyers, The listeners asked, “O Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him), what are they? ‘! He said, ”Associating partners with Allah (shirk), sorcery, taking a life which Allah has made sacred except in the course of justice, devouring usury, appropriating the property of the orphan, fleeing from the battlefield, and slandering chaste believing women who would not expect to be accused of adultery.”