Islamic Concept of Peace(Salaam):

 Islamic Concept of Peace:

Peace has been a long cherished dream of humanity since times immemorial;  but its relevance and scope inn the modern world has increased manifolds. The term "peace" has innumerable connotations. The oldest understanding of peace is that synonymous to equilibrium and stability. Peace is the greatest concern of man;all religions attach much importance to it. But Islam's concept of peace needs to be studied in more spoken of with reference to Islam. The primary texts of Islam; the Holy Quran and the Hadith of Prophet are replete with instructions.

An escalation of violence i recent in recent years and its attribution to Islam in the  name of jihad has drawn attention of religious scholars all over the world. Many western and Muslims scholars have been taken to study of primary Islamic texts afresh,  to make an analysis to sift from fiction and suggest remedies for this malaise.

Maulana Wahiduddin khan is a noted Islamic scholar, scholastic theologian philosopher and peace activist. He has developed his own, in some ways unique, understanding of Islam and its place in the modern world. Having made significant contributions to the cause of Islam particularly in form of his scientific theology and response to modern challenges, he for the past few decades has focused his efforts on Spirituality, Peace and Dialogue with other communities. This paper, tries to analyze with scientific objectivity, his perspective pf peace in Islam and the way and means for achieving this goal. The paper concludes with the argument that taken in right perspective, the recommendations made by Maulana are both practicable and result oriented making it possible for Muslims to reap the dividends of peace with patience and wisdom.

Since Allah is the source of Peace , He invites all human beings to dar as-Salam, the abode of peace.In fact, according to the Quran, all human beings are born Muslim and thus in a state of primal peace.

Islam  saying about Peace:

Quran discloses that peace is one of the names of God himself: "He is God, other than  whom there is no god, the King, the Holy the Peace, the Defender, the Guardian the Mighty, the omnipotent, the Supreme."

Islamic word for Peace:

They should identify the letters S L M. In Arabic, this word, slm, means peace when Muslims greet each other, they say "As salaam alaikum."

The Islamic concept of peace, known as "Salam," is deeply embedded in the religion's teachings, encompassing both spiritual and social dimensions. The root of the word "Salam" comes from the Arabic root "S-L-M," which means peace, safety, and security. In Islam, peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but a holistic state of tranquility and harmony, achieved through submission to the will of Allah (God), adherence to His guidance, and fostering positive relationships with others.

At the core of Islamic peace is the idea of internal peace, where an individual submits to Allah’s will, seeking purity of heart and mind. The pursuit of peace is encouraged through worship, reflection, and living a life of justice, humility, and compassion.

Social peace is equally significant, as Islam stresses the importance of justice, equality, and the resolution of conflicts in a manner that maintains harmony within the community. Muslims are encouraged to practice kindness, forgiveness, and patience, and to strive for peaceful coexistence with others, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or background.

Furthermore, the greeting of "As-Salaam-Alaikum" ("Peace be upon you") is a common expression among Muslims, symbolizing a sincere wish for the well-being and peace of others. Peace in Islam is not merely a personal pursuit but extends to society, with an emphasis on the prevention of harm, the promotion of cooperation, and the resolution of disputes through peaceful means.

The Islamic concept of peace integrates personal, social, and global dimensions, urging individuals and communities to live in harmony, guided by the principles of justice, mercy, and respect.

In Islam, the concept of peace is deeply rooted in both the spiritual and social dimensions of the religion. The word "Islam" itself is derived from the Arabic root word "Salaam", which means peace, safety, and submission to the will of God (Allah). This highlights the centrality of peace within the faith, both as a state of harmony with the divine will and as an ideal for human relationships.

1. Peace with God (Allah)

The foundational aspect of peace in Islam is achieving peace with God through submission to His will. This submission, referred to as "Islam," is considered the path to spiritual tranquility. Muslims believe that peace is attained by following the teachings of the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), living a life that aligns with God's guidance, and striving for inner harmony. The belief in God’s sovereignty and mercy fosters a sense of calm and assurance for believers, even in the face of challenges.

2. Peace within the Self (Inner Peace)

Islam places great emphasis on achieving peace within the individual. Spiritual peace is attained through worship (such as prayer, fasting, and charity), remembrance of God (dhikr), and seeking closeness to God through good deeds. The Quran mentions in Surah Ar-Ra'd (13:28) that “verily, in the remembrance of God do hearts find rest." This suggests that peace is closely tied to mindfulness of God and the purification of the heart. Islam encourages self-reflection and self-restraint, urging individuals to seek balance in their emotions, thoughts, and actions to cultivate inner peace.

3. Peace in Society

Islamic teachings advocate for peace in social relations, promoting justice, compassion, and tolerance. The Quran calls on believers to be fair, honest, and merciful towards others. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of kindness, forgiveness, and non-violence. For instance, he said, “The strong man is not the one who is able to wrestle, but the one who controls himself when angry” (Sahih al-Bukhari).

Islam also promotes the resolution of conflicts through dialogue, arbitration, and forgiveness. The Quran encourages the peaceful resolution of disputes (Surah Al-Hujurat 49:9), and it also emphasizes the sanctity of life, urging the avoidance of harm and the promotion of welfare. The religion recognizes that peace requires justice and equality, which are essential components of a peaceful society.

4. Peace in the World (Global Peace)

Islamic principles also extend to the global level, advocating for peace among nations. The Quran speaks of peace in the context of war, setting clear limits and calling for peaceful resolutions whenever possible. War is allowed only in self-defense or to protect religious freedom, and even then, the rules of engagement are designed to minimize harm and protect innocent life. Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190) says: “Fight in the way of Allah against those who fight you, but do not transgress. Indeed. Allah does not like transgressors.”

Moreover, Islam teaches that peace is achieved when individuals and communities live harmoniously, fostering good relations with neighbors and people of all faiths. The concept of "Ahl al-Dhimma" refers to the protection and peaceful coexistence between Muslims and non-Muslims, emphasizing the importance of tolerance and mutual respect.

5. The Role of Jihad and Peace

The concept of Jihad, often misunderstood, is integral to the Islamic understanding of peace. It refers not only to physical struggle (such as self-defense) but also to the inner struggle against one’s own weaknesses and the striving for a righteous life. The greater jihad is the internal spiritual struggle for self-improvement and living a life in accordance with Islamic values. In the context of peace, Jihad can be understood as the pursuit of justice, peace, and moral integrity.

6. The Prophet Muhammad's Teachings on Peace

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is often referred to as a "Mercy to the worlds" (Quran, Surah Al-Anbiya 21:107). His teachings and actions consistently emphasized peace, mercy, and reconciliation. His famous saying, “The best among you are those who bring the most benefit to others”, reflects the Islamic commitment to peace as a tool for social well-being.

Moreover, the Prophet's actions during times of conflict showed a preference for reconciliation over war. Even during battles, the Prophet instructed his followers to avoid harming non-combatants, including women, children, and the elderly, and to honor peace agreements. His actions laid the groundwork for the Islamic ideal of peaceful coexistence.

7. Peace in the Hereafter

In the afterlife, Islam promises ultimate peace for those who have followed God's guidance. The Quran describes Paradise (Jannah) as a place of eternal peace, where there is no pain, sadness, or suffering. The greeting of Paradise is "Salam"—a peace greeting—indicating the peaceful nature of the eternal life promised to the righteous (Quran, Surah Al-A'raf 7:46).

The Islamic concept of peace is multifaceted, encompassing peace with God, inner peace, social peace, and global peace. It emphasizes submission to God’s will, justice, mercy, and peaceful conflict resolution, while also advocating for the well-being of all of humanity. Peace is seen as not only an external condition but also as an internal state, achieved through faith, righteous living, and harmonious relations with others.

Maintain Peace in Islam:

It's clear our actions towards our fellow human beings can help maintain peace. It is critical we practice kindness, treat others with respect, speak gently, avoiding anger and violence traits displayed by our Prophet Muhammad.

Hadith about Peace:

Anas said: Whoever made peace between two, Allah gives him foe every word the freeing a slave." Abu Umama said: Walk a mile to visit a sick person and walk two miles to visit your brother for the sake of Allah and walk three miles to make peace between two."

Symbol of peace in Islam:

Crescent and Star: The faith of Islam is symbolized by the Crescent and Star. The Crescent is the early phase of the moon and represents progress. The star signifies illumination with the light of knowledge. Islam by definition means submission and has the extended meaning of peace.

Properties about Islamic Concept of Peace:

The Islamic concept of peace is deeply embedded in the teachings of the Qur'an, the Hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad), and the broader traditions of Islam. Here are some key properties of the Islamic concept of peace:

1. Peace as Submission to God (Islam)

• The term "Islam" itself is derived from the Arabic root word "S-L-M," which means peace, submission, and surrender. In this context, peace is achieved by submitting to the will of God (Allah) and following His guidance.
• True peace is attained when individuals align their actions, thoughts, and behavior with divine commands.

2. Inner Peace (Peace of the Heart)

• Islam emphasizes the importance of inner peace or tranquility (sakinah). This is the peace found in one's heart when they trust in God's plan and guidance, remain patient in times of hardship, and seek refuge in prayer and supplication.
• The Qur'an often mentions that remembering God brings peace to the hearts: "Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest." (Qur'an 13:28).

3. Peace in Society

• Islam promotes peace as a key value in social relations. The Qur'an advocates for justice, kindness, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Muslims are encouraged to build harmonious relationships within their communities.
• The principles of fairness, compassion, and respect for others contribute to a peaceful and just society.

4. Peaceful Coexistence

• Islam encourages peaceful coexistence with others, regardless of their faith, race, or ethnicity. The Qur'an acknowledges the diversity of human beings and calls for tolerance and mutual respect.
• The Islamic teachings on treating others with dignity and fairness, such as the famous Hadith "None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself," highlight the importance of empathy and respect.

5. Peace as the Absence of Oppression

• Islam condemns all forms of oppression (zulm), injustice, and violence. The teachings stress that peace cannot exist in environments where injustice and harm are prevalent.
• The Qur'an emphasizes the importance of standing up against oppression, both for oneself and for others: "And if anyone saves a life, it is as if he has saved the life of all mankind." (Qur'an 5:32).

6. Peace through Forgiveness

• Forgiveness is a central theme in Islamic teachings. The Qur'an and Hadith highlight the value of forgiving others as a means to create peace within oneself and between people.
• The act of forgiveness can heal conflicts and foster understanding, promoting harmony and peace within society.

7. Peaceful Conflict Resolution

• Islam provides guidance on resolving conflicts in a peaceful and fair manner, emphasizing reconciliation, dialogue, and mediation.
• The Qur'an encourages the peaceful settlement of disputes: "If two parties among the believers fall into a dispute, then make peace between them..." (Qur'an 49:9).

8. Social Justice

• Islam's concept of peace is inseparable from justice. The pursuit of justice is seen as a foundation for achieving peace. This includes ensuring equality, addressing the needs of the poor, and preventing harm to others.
• The promotion of social welfare, including the giving of alms (zakat) and charity, is seen as a pathway to peace by helping to reduce poverty and inequality.

9. Peace and Mercy

• The Islamic concept of peace is also closely tied to mercy (rahmah). The Qur'an describes God as "The Most Merciful" (Ar-Rahman) and encourages Muslims to emulate divine mercy in their own dealings with others.
• Acts of kindness, mercy, and compassion are fundamental to fostering peaceful relations among individuals and communities.

10. Peace as a Goal in the Afterlife

• In Islamic eschatology, peace is also a central element in the afterlife. Paradise (Jannah) is described as a place of eternal peace and tranquility, where believers are free from suffering and live in harmony with God.
• Striving for peace in this world is seen as a way to attain peace in the hereafter.

The Islamic concept of peace is multifaceted, encompassing peace with God, peace within oneself, peace in society, and peace in the afterlife. It is deeply linked to principles of justice, mercy, forgiveness, and social harmony, all of which contribute to creating a peaceful world.

Peaceful word in Islam:

The words as-Sakam-u-Alaikum re generally suffixed with these words Rahmat Allah wa Barakaatuh.These three words:" peace mercy" and "blessings of Allah" in fact form the sum and  substance of Islam and Muslim are asked  to shower upon one another these these benedictions.

Quran say about peacemakers:

And when it is said to them,"they say,"We are only peacemakers!And when it is said to them, Create not disorder in the earth, they say We are only promoters of peace. When it is said to them: 'Do not spread disorder in the land, they say: It is we who reform.

Significance about Islamic Concept of Peace:

The Islamic concept of peace, often embodied in the word "Salaam," carries profound significance both spiritually and socially. In Islam, peace is not merely the absence of conflict but encompasses a state of inner tranquility, harmony with others, and alignment with God's will. Below are key aspects of the Islamic concept of peace:

1. Peace as a Divine Attribute:
• In Islam, peace is considered one of the divine attributes of God (Allah). The name "As-Salaam" is one of the 99 names of Allah, signifying that God is the source of all peace. Muslims seek peace through submission to God's will, trusting in His wisdom and mercy.
2. Inner Peace (Sakinah):
• The Quran emphasizes the importance of inner peace (Sakinah), which is achieved through faith, patience, and trust in God. This tranquility is a result of surrendering one's will to God and maintaining a state of contentment with whatever He decrees.
3. Social Peace and Justice:
• Islam encourages not only individual peace but also social peace. It advocates for justice, fairness, and the resolution of conflicts. The concept of peace in Islam is closely tied to the establishment of justice (Adl) and the protection of human dignity, as seen in Quranic injunctions and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
4. Peaceful Relationships:
• The Quran and Hadiths emphasize the importance of peaceful interactions with others. Muslims are encouraged to forgive, reconcile, and promote harmony. The Prophet Muhammad’s teachings stress the significance of kind treatment towards family, neighbors, and even strangers, fostering a society of peace and mutual respect.
5. Peace in Jihad:
• The concept of Jihad in Islam is often misunderstood. While it includes the idea of striving in the way of God, it is fundamentally about peace, self-purification, and striving for a just society. The greater Jihad is the internal struggle to maintain peace within oneself, while the lesser Jihad, which can involve defense, is meant to protect peace and justice in society.
6. Peace in the Hereafter:
• Peace in Islam extends beyond this life. Muslims believe in the ultimate peace of Paradise (Jannah), which is a state of eternal peace and joy that is the reward for those who live righteous lives and submit to God’s will.

Peace in Islam is a holistic concept, encompassing inner serenity, social harmony, and divine submission. It is a central goal of the Islamic faith, both for individuals and societies, and is sought through faith, justice, forgiveness, and striving towards righteousness.

Aspects about Islamic concept of Peace:

The Islamic concept of peace is deeply rooted in both spiritual and social dimensions, and it encompasses various aspects that contribute to the well-being of individuals, communities, and the world. Here are some key aspects of peace in Islam:

1. Peace through Submission to Allah (Islam)

• The very name "Islam" itself is derived from the root word "Salaam," meaning peace. In Islam, peace is achieved by submitting to the will of Allah (God). This submission fosters inner tranquility, as believers place their trust in Allah and follow His guidance through the Qur'an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

2. Inner Peace (Tazkiyah and Sakinah)

• Inner peace is essential in Islam, achieved through spiritual purification (Tazkiyah) and seeking contentment (Sakinah) through remembrance of Allah (Dhikr). By focusing on spirituality, reflection, and maintaining a strong relationship with Allah, Muslims experience inner peace despite external challenges.

3. Peace in Family and Society

• Islam promotes peace within the family, as it is considered the cornerstone of a harmonious society. Strong family ties, mutual respect, and love are emphasized in Islam, as is peaceful communication and resolution of conflicts.
• The Qur'an and Hadith emphasize the importance of justice, kindness, and compassion toward others, which are vital for creating peaceful societies.

4. Peace in Justice (Adl)

• Islam stresses the importance of justice as a foundation for peace. Allah commands believers to act justly in all their dealings, whether with fellow Muslims or non-Muslims. This includes fair treatment, respect for rights, and the pursuit of equality, ensuring that peace is built on a framework of justice and fairness.

5. The Role of Forgiveness and Reconciliation

• Islam encourages forgiveness as a means of maintaining peace. The Qur'an and Hadith speak about the value of pardoning others, as this leads to reconciliation and the removal of conflict. The concept of "Salah" (reconciliation) is highly valued, and Muslims are encouraged to seek peace through dialogue, mutual understanding, and compromise.

6. Peace in the Community (Ummah)

• The concept of the Ummah (global Muslim community) is a vital element of peace in Islam. It promotes solidarity and cooperation, advocating for the well-being of all members. Islam teaches that Muslims should not only care for their own families but also for the wider community, ensuring peace, harmony, and mutual support.

7. Peace through Non-violence

• Islam is fundamentally a religion that seeks to promote peace through non-violence. The Qur'an permits self-defense in the face of aggression but strictly limits the use of force, urging Muslims to avoid aggression and violence. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the importance of resolving disputes peacefully and promoting reconciliation.

8. Global Peace and Interfaith Dialogue

• Islam encourages peaceful coexistence with people of different faiths. The Qur'an teaches respect for people of all religions, highlighting the importance of peaceful interaction and understanding with others, rather than engaging in conflict or hostility. Promoting interfaith dialogue and mutual respect is an essential component of global peace in Islam.

9. Peace as a Collective Effort

• Islam views peace not only as an individual responsibility but as a collective one. The community (Ummah) is responsible for working together to establish justice, eradicate oppression, and resolve conflicts peacefully. It calls for the elimination of poverty, inequality, and injustice as steps toward achieving social peace.

10. The Role of Prayer and Spirituality

• Daily prayers (Salah) are central to a Muslim’s life, helping to maintain personal peace and connection with Allah. These prayers serve as moments of reflection and self-discipline, providing believers with the strength to cope with life's challenges and maintain peace in their hearts.

The Islamic concept of peace is holistic, extending from personal inner peace to social harmony, justice, and global coexistence. It involves submission to Allah, promoting justice, forgiveness, non-violence, and working for the collective good of society.

Role of Islamic concept of Peace:

The Islamic concept of peace, known as Salam, plays a central role in the faith and practice of Muslims. It encompasses much more than the absence of conflict; it represents a holistic approach to individual, societal, and global harmony. Here are several key aspects of how peace is understood and promoted in Islam:

1. Peace with God (Reconciliation and Submission)

In Islam, peace begins with submission to the will of Allah (God). The word "Islam" itself is derived from the Arabic root S-L-M, which means peace, submission, and safety. To achieve peace, Muslims are encouraged to submit to God’s will and follow His guidance, leading to inner peace and a sense of security in life and the afterlife.

2. Peace within the Self (Inner Peace)

Islam emphasizes personal tranquility and mental peace. By following the teachings of the Quran and the Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), a Muslim aims to achieve inner peace through acts of worship, prayer (Salat), fasting (Sawm), charity (Zakat), and remembrance of God (Dhikr). These practices help to purify the soul, calm the mind, and foster a sense of spiritual fulfillment.

3. Peace in Family and Social Relationships

Islam stresses the importance of maintaining peace and harmony within family and social relationships. The family is seen as the cornerstone of a peaceful society. Muslims are encouraged to show kindness, respect, and love toward their parents, children, and spouses, fostering an environment of peace and mutual understanding.

4. Peace through Justice and Equity

Justice is one of the fundamental pillars of Islam, and true peace cannot exist without it. The Quran and Hadith urge Muslims to uphold justice in all aspects of life, whether in personal conduct, business dealings, or governance. This focus on justice helps prevent exploitation, oppression, and inequality, which can lead to conflict and discord.

5. Peace in Society (Social Peace)

Islam advocates for social peace through cooperation, tolerance, and respect for others. The concept of Ummah, or community, emphasizes the importance of solidarity among Muslims and encourages the resolution of conflicts in peaceful and just manners. Muslims are urged to promote peace through mutual respect, dialogue, and cooperation with people of different faiths and backgrounds, emphasizing tolerance and understanding.

6. Peace in Conflict Resolution

In situations of conflict, Islam encourages peaceful resolution through dialogue, negotiation, and reconciliation. The Quran and Hadith highlight the importance of seeking peace and avoiding aggression. If peace cannot be achieved immediately, Islam permits self-defense but emphasizes that war and violence should always be the last resort. The Prophet Muhammad is regarded as a model of forgiveness and diplomacy, often choosing peaceful methods to resolve disputes.

7. Universal Peace

Islam also promotes a universal peace that extends beyond the Muslim community. The Quran calls for peaceful coexistence with all people, regardless of their religion, and highlights the dignity of every human being. Muslims are encouraged to work toward global peace by promoting justice, understanding, and cooperation, and by opposing oppression, violence, and injustice.

8. Peace in the Afterlife

In Islamic theology, the ultimate peace is the eternal peace found in the afterlife, where the faithful will be rewarded with paradise (Jannah). Muslims believe that through faith, good deeds, and adherence to the teachings of Islam, they can attain a state of everlasting peace and tranquility in the presence of God.

The Arabic word Salaam "peace"  originates from the same root as the word Islam. The word silm also means the religion of Islam in Arabic, and the phrase "he entered as silm "peace" means "he entered Islam."One Islamic interpretation is that individual personal peace is attained by submitting one;s will to the Will of Allah.

The Ideal society according to the Quran is Dar as-salam, literally "the house of Peace" of which it intones: And Allah invites to the abode of peace and guides whom He pleases into the right path.

According to Ibn  Hahar al-Haythami there will be an era  in which justice, plenty and brotherhood will prevail among humanity, and one in which people will experience love, self-sacrifice, tolerance, compassion, mercy, and loyalty. Muhammad said that this blessed period will be experienced through the mediation of the Mahdi, who will come in the end times to save world from chaos, injustice and moral collapse. He will eradicate godless ideologies and bring an end to the prevailing injustice. Morever, he will make religion like it was in the days of Muhammad, cause the Quran's moral teachings to prevail among humanity and establish peace and well-being through out the world.

Conclusion:

The Islamic concept of peace is deeply rooted in the principles of submission to the will of Allah (God), harmony, justice, and compassion. At its core, Islam promotes peace both on an individual and societal level. The term "Islam" itself derives from the Arabic word "salaam," which means peace, highlighting the centrality of peace in the faith. This peace is not only the absence of conflict but a holistic state of well-being that encompasses physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. The Islamic concept of peace is multi-faceted, encompassing inner peace, social harmony, justice, and the pursuit of universal tranquility. Islam views peace as not just the absence of war, but as a deep and comprehensive state of well-being that permeates all aspects of life, from individual spiritual fulfillment to societal harmony.

Islam teaches that true peace comes through submission to God's guidance, following the teachings of the Quran and the example of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and fostering positive relationships with others. The religion advocates for the peaceful resolution of conflicts, the importance of justice, and the practice of forgiveness and tolerance. Furthermore, peace is seen as an essential aspect of the relationship between humanity and the natural world, emphasizing balance and respect for all creation.

 

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