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Global Peace – An Islamic Perspective ACET– Global Peace Project
CONCEPT 9 – BEING MERCIFUL
Mercy:
“Compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one’s power to punish
or harm.” (Oxford Dictionary) [72]
The concept of mercy in Islam begins with the fundamental belief that God Himself is all-
merciful and commands humans to be merciful to others. God has 99 names that describe His
attributes. The first of these names is ‘Rahman’ which means the most merciful. This is a basic
translation of what Muslims believe to be God’s most supreme quality that transcends all of
His creation.
Islam puts significant emphasis on the mercifulness of God and orders every human to be kind
and merciful to their fellows. If a person is expecting mercy from God, it is essential for him or
her to show mercy towards others. This act of compassion towards others supports a tolerant
and violence-free society, vital to the core objective of peace for all people living in this world.
Being merciful is seen in Islam as God’s greatest quality, and it is a quality that Muslims are
expected to practice, as it allows relationships to function, repair and flourish.
Quranic references:
“Allah accepts the repentance of those who do evil, in ignorance and repent soon afterwards;
to them, will Allah turn in mercy; for Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom.” (4:17, Translation
from the Quran)
“Seek forgiveness from God. He is All-forgiving and All-merciful.” (4:106, Translation from the
Quran)
“For We had certainly sent unto them a Book, based on knowledge, which We explained in
detail― a guide and a mercy to all who believe.” (7:52, Translation from the Quran)
“Moses said: “O my Lord! Forgive me and my brother, and admit us into Your Mercy, for you
are the Most Merciful of those who show mercy.”” (7:151, Translation from the Quran)
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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