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Global Peace – An Islamic Perspective ACET– Global Peace Project

“There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion.” (2:256, Translation from the

Quran)

“For you is your religion, and for me is my religion.” (109:6, Translation from the Quran)

Several other verses in the Quran further promote the concepts of peace and equality, and

promise rewards to those who are righteous, kind, and just. The teachings of Islam also

promote justice and to avoid personal emotions in the provision of justice.

“Let not the enmity and hatred of others make you avoid justice. Be just; that is next to piety.”
(5:8 Translation from the Quran)

“So fear Allah, and keep straight the relations between yourself.” (8:1 Translation from the

Quran)

The Quran also states that truth and justice should receive preference over any emotions

towards our relatives, loved ones, and even towards ourselves.

“O you, who believe, stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to God, even if it is against
yourselves, your parents or your relatives.” (4:135 Translation from the Quran)

In view of Quranic verses and the teachings of the holy prophets, it can be clearly seen that the

teachings of Islam are focused on creating and maintaining global peace and harmony among

people. Any person claiming to be a Muslim and upholding Islam as his/her religion should

be committed to ensuring peace and rejecting anything that brings about disunity, corruption,

and violence.

THE CONCEPT OF JIHAD

It is important to have an understanding of the concept of jihad as mentioned in the Quran, in

order to understand what Islam teaches about peace. Jihad does not refer to a holy war, as is

commonly perceived. Its literal meaning is “to struggle or strive”. Correctly interpreted, jihad
is actually a personal endeavour to be a better human being by overcoming evil forces within

oneself. When one fights with his or her own ego to become a better person that is said to

be an act of jihad. In the hierarchy of five forms of jihad, purification of the soul is said to be

This free publication has been compiled by ACET–Global. Please feel free to use and distribute it as an original version without changes.

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