In a world where wars have taken over every corner, it feels as though we need peace now, more than ever before.
In a world where wars have taken over every corner, it feels as though we need peace now, more than ever before.
In a world where wars have taken over every corner, it feels as though we need peace now more than ever before. With certain countries on the brink of nuclear wars that could potentially change the face of the Earth, we all need to understand the importance of peacekeeping. Allah (swt) says in the Holy Quran:
“And if they incline toward peace, then you too incline toward it, and put your trust in Allah. Indeed He is the All-hearing, the All-knowing.” [Surah Al-Anfal, 8: 61]
So what do the hadiths teach us about peacekeeping?
1. Guidelines to governors
The commander of the faithful, Ali ibn Abi Talib (peace be upon him) said [in a letter to Malik Al-Ashtar who he had appointed as governor of Egypt]:
“Do not reject the peace to which your enemy may call you, and wherein the pleasure of Allah lies, for verily peace affords composure to your army, relief to you from your worries, and safety for the country. After the peace entreaty, however, be extremely wary of your enemy, because often the enemy draws near in order to take advantage of your negligence. Therefore, act prudently and entertain good opinion about them, though always being on your guard.” [Nahjul Balagha: Letter 53]
2. You can change the lives of people
The Holy Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) has said:
“Shall I inform you of something that holds a higher status than fasting, praying and giving charity? Making peace between people, for verily sowing dissension between people is indeed calamitous.” [Kenzul Ummal, no. 5480]
3. Extend the hand of peace to your neighbours
The Holy Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) has said:
“Anyone who believes in God and the day of judgement should not harm his neighbour. Anyone who believes in God and the day of judgement should entertain his guest generously and should say what is good, or keep quiet.” [Sahih Bukhari: Vol. 8, book 73, no. 47]
4. Learn from history
The Holy Prophet Muhammed (peace be upon him) has said:
“Avoid cruelty and injustice, and guard yourselves against miserliness, for this has ruined nations who lived before you.” [Riyadh-us-Salaheen, Hadith 203]
5. Help settle disputes
Jaffar Al-Sadiq (peace be upon him) once said to his companion Mufaddal:
“If you see two people from amongst our followers fighting [over property or the like], use my money to settle the dispute.” [Usool Al-Kafi: Vol. 2, pg. 209, no. 3]
Praying for a world of peace and prosperity for all.
