Does Islam mean peace?

In a Nutshell: Islam, meaning submission to God (swt), inherently promotes peace within oneself, between communities and as a global ideal. While war is permitted under specific circumstances, the ultimate objective remains establishing lasting peace. Table of Contents: In a Nutshell Introduction Evidences Does Islam mean Peace? 5 Misconceptions about Islam and Peace 5 Objections to the Idea of Islam as Peaceful FAQs on Islam and Peace Introduction The concept of peace occupies a central place in Islam. Muslims often greet each other with Assalamu alaykum (peace be upon you), reflecting the religion's emphasis on fostering peace within oneself, in families and communities and throughout the world. This answer explores the meaning of Islam in relation to peace, examining Quranic verses, hadiths of the Prophet (pbuh) and the insights of Islamic scholars. Evidences Quranic Verses: He [Allah] has ordained for you the same religion as He ordained for Noah and what We have revealed to you [Muhammad] and what We ordained for Abraham, Moses and Jesus: 'Worship Allah [alone] and be not divided therein.' (Quran 42:13) - Unity in faith is a cornerstone of peace. And fight in the way of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors. (Quran 2:190) - Permission for war is conditional and defensive. And the believers are, of each other, brothers. So make settlement between your brothers and fear Allah that you may receive mercy. (Quran 49:10) - Muslims are called to reconcile and build brotherhood. Hadiths of the Prophet (pbuh): "The strong man is not the one who overcomes people by his strength, but the one who controls himself when he is angry." (Sahih Bukhari) - Inner peace is a form of strength. "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him not harm his neighbor and whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him show good hospitality to his guest." (Sahih Bukhari) - Peace requires good neighborliness. "Jihad is not only fighting. The best form of jihad is the struggle within oneself (against evil)." (At-Tirmidhi) - The pursuit of peace includes self-improvement. Opinions of the Companions (ra): Abu Bakr (ra): Spread peace among the people. Umar ibn Al-Khattab (ra): A true believer is one from whose tongue and hands the people are safe. (Both reported by Imam Malik) - Companions emphasized peace in words and actions. Quotes from Traditional Scholars: Imam Al-Ghazali: True Islamic peace is not merely the absence of war, but a peace that is produced by the just equilibrium of the human soul's faculties and a peace that results from the harmony of human relations." Imam Ibn Taymiyyah: War is only permissible to establish peace, security and justice. - Scholars highlight the purpose of war as leading to a greater peace. Does Islam mean Peace? The Arabic word Islam derives from the root salaam, meaning peace, submission and safety. This linguistic connection suggests Islam's fundamental purpose: achieving peace through submission to God (swt). This aligns with the Quran's description of Islam as a religion of primordial nature, given to all prophets for peace's establishment (42:13). Peace exists on three levels in Islam. The first is inner peace achieved by complete submission to God (swt). This manifests in tranquility of the soul, regardless of life's trials. Second, Islam emphasizes peace between individuals and communities. Muslims are enjoined to be just, kind and forgiving to uphold social harmony. Finally, Islam strives for international peace, ideally encompassing all humanity in a peaceful global order. While Islam permits defensive warfare under strict limitations (2:190), peace is the ultimate goal. The Prophet (pbuh) exemplified this, favoring peace treaties, seeking reconciliation even with prior enemies and emphasizing dialogue. Scholars like Ibn Taymiyyah clarify that war can only be a means to end violence, not an end in itself. True victory is fostering a just order where peace and security prevail. Islamic history features periods of conflict and expansion, yet these must be understood within historical context. Islamic empires often provided stability and tolerance that allowed diverse groups to coexist compared to surrounding regions. Scholars stress that conflicts attributed to religion often have underlying political or economic causes and that misinterpretations of Islam by individuals or groups do not negate its peaceful core. Misconceptions about Islam and Peace Islam is inherently violent: This oversimplification conflates actions of extremists with the essence of the faith, disregarding its emphasis on peace, justice and self-control. Jihad means holy war: Jihad's primary definition is the struggle for self-improvement. While a component can be defense, its purpose is establishing justice, not forced conversion. Islam oppresses women: Islam elevated women's status in 7th-century Arabia, granting property and inheritance rights. Distortions of these rights in some cultures do not equal Islamic teachings. Islamic law is barbaric: Sharia punishments are part of a broad system focused on deterrence. The high bar of evidence aims to prevent unjust punishment and mercy is paramount. Islam is incompatible with democracy: Islamic history includes consultative governance and basic principles like justice and protection of rights resonate with democratic ideals. Objections to the Idea of Islam as Peaceful Some verses seem to promote violence: These verses must be interpreted in their historical context of self-defense and they do not nullify the overarching message of peace. Historical conflicts in the name of Islam: Political motives often drove conflicts. Blaming the entire faith for the actions of some rulers or groups is an unjustified generalization. Intolerance in some Muslim-majority countries: Authoritarian regimes or cultural practices may distort Islamic teachings. It's vital to separate these from the faith itself. Actions of modern-day extremists: Terrorism stemming from misinterpretations cannot define Islam, which unequivocally condemns the killing of innocents. Islam's incompatibility with Western culture: Many Muslims live peacefully in Western societies. Islam stresses core values that can coexist with different cultural practices. FAQs on Islam and Peace Does Islam permit violence? Islam permits defensive warfare when specific conditions are met, such as imminent attack or oppression. This is intended to deter further violence. However, aggression, civilian harm and war for territory or power are strictly forbidden. Is peace with non-Muslims possible? Islam promotes peace with all, regardless of faith. The Quran says, There is no compulsion in religion (2:256), advocating peaceful coexistence and respect for religious diversity. The Prophet (pbuh) himself made peace treaties with non-Muslims. What does Islam say about terrorism? Islam categorically condemns terrorism. The killing of innocent civilians is a grave sin. Numerous Quranic verses and hadith emphasize the sanctity of life and demand justice. Extremist groups twisting Islamic teachings are condemned by the overwhelming majority of Muslims and scholars worldwide. ***What is the role of Jihad? *** Jihad's primary meaning is the struggle for self-improvement and building a just society. It entails actions like striving against evil inclinations, caring for the poor and working for social justice. Lesser jihad refers to defensive warfare, strictly governed by rules forbidding harming civilians or destroying property. How does Islam view religious tolerance? Islam upholds tolerance and respect for other faiths. The Prophet (pbuh) lived peacefully with Jewish and Christian communities and historic Muslim empires often allowed religious minorities considerable autonomy. Forced conversion is expressly forbidden. Conclusion Islam, at its core, is a deen of peace seeking world peace through the divine sharia. The word itself is rooted in the concept of peace and submission to Allah (swt). The Quran, the Prophet's (pbuh) teachings and the vast scholarly tradition all emphasize peace as a fundamental value and a goal.