Islam is often referred to as the religion of peace, a faith that promotes submission to the will of Allah, peace with others, and harmony within society. The word "Islam" itself is derived from the root "S-L-M," which means peace, submission, and safety. Below, we explore one of the key Ayahs in the Qur'an that speaks about Islam being the religion of peace and submission to Allah's will.
One of the most significant Ayahs that emphasizes the concept of peace and the sanctity of life is found in Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:32). This verse is often quoted to highlight the value of human life and the importance of peace in Islam. The verse reads:
"Because of that, We decreed upon the Children of Israel that whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land – it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one – it is as if he had saved mankind entirely."
This Ayah underscores the importance of preserving life and avoiding harm to others. The verse explicitly prohibits murder and emphasizes that taking an innocent life is equivalent to killing all of humanity. Conversely, saving a single life is equated with saving all of humanity, emphasizing peace, mercy, and the preservation of life in Islam.
This verse highlights that Islam is a religion that advocates for the protection of life, justice, and peace. It condemns violence and any form of corruption that leads to harm or injustice and promotes a society based on harmony, compassion, and respect for all individuals.
Another important verse that emphasizes the peaceful submission to Allah is found in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:208). It speaks directly to Muslims, calling them to enter into Islam completely and peacefully, submitting to Allah’s will in all aspects of their lives. The verse reads:
"O you who have believed, enter into Islam completely and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy."
This Ayah emphasizes the total submission to Allah, which is a core principle of Islam. It encourages Muslims to embrace all aspects of the faith without hesitation, thereby ensuring peace and harmony in both personal and societal matters. The verse highlights that true peace comes from surrendering to the will of Allah and avoiding the misleading temptations of Satan.
It also indirectly points to the peaceful nature of Islam, emphasizing that full submission to Allah’s guidance leads to a life of peace, avoiding the conflicts that arise from disobedience or following wrong paths.
Surah An-Nisa (4:1) is another verse that speaks about the importance of peace, justice, and the protection of all individuals in society. It emphasizes the unity of humankind and the need for peace and equality. The verse reads:
"O mankind, fear your Lord, who created you from one soul and created from it its mate and dispersed from both of them many men and women. And fear Allah, through whom you ask one another, and the wombs [that bore you]. Verily, Allah is ever over you, Observer."
This verse highlights the unity of humanity, created from a single soul, and calls for peaceful coexistence, justice, and mutual respect among people. It emphasizes that peace should govern relationships between men and women, families, and communities. This concept of unity is foundational to Islam’s teachings on peace, as it encourages believers to treat one another with dignity, respect, and compassion.
Additionally, the verse calls on Muslims to fear Allah and maintain justice in all their dealings, which is central to fostering peace within society. The message is clear: peace in Islam is not just an individual experience but a societal one, achieved through justice, equality, and mutual respect.
Surah Al-Furqan (25:63) describes the qualities of the true believers, highlighting that they are people of peace, humility, and kindness. The verse reads:
"And the servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth easily, and when the ignorant address them [harshly], they say [words of] peace."
This Ayah presents a beautiful image of the believers in Islam. It describes them as humble, peaceful, and calm individuals who do not engage in conflicts or respond to harshness with aggression. Instead, when confronted with ignorance or hostility, they respond with peace. This is a powerful reminder that true peace comes from inner humility and strength, and believers should strive to embody these traits in all aspects of their lives.
The verse reinforces the idea that Islam encourages peace not just in personal interactions but in how one responds to the world. By responding to adversity with peace and patience, the believer reflects the core values of Islam—humility, kindness, and the pursuit of harmony.
Another famous Ayah that speaks about peace and harmony within the Muslim community is found in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10). The verse reads:
"The believers are but brothers, so make peace between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy."
This verse emphasizes the importance of brotherhood among Muslims. It calls for reconciliation and peace in cases of conflict, urging Muslims to work towards resolving disputes and restoring harmony within the community. The verse stresses that believers are part of a larger family, and maintaining peace is a responsibility of every Muslim.
Islam encourages believers to approach each other with love, respect, and compassion. When conflicts arise, Muslims are urged to seek peaceful resolutions, as Allah’s mercy and blessings are tied to maintaining peace and unity within the community.
Surah Al-Anfal (8:61) speaks about the importance of peace in times of conflict. It encourages believers to seek peace and reconciliation, even with those who have wronged them. The verse reads:
"And if they incline to peace, then incline to it and trust in Allah. Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the Knowing."
This Ayah encourages Muslims to seek peace and reconciliation, especially when the other party shows a willingness to make peace. It is a reminder that peace should be the ultimate goal, and even when faced with opposition, Muslims should remain open to reconciliation and trust in Allah to guide the process.
The verse also highlights Allah’s role as the ultimate authority over all matters, including the pursuit of peace. Muslims are taught to put their trust in Allah while working towards peace and harmony in society.