"Peace"
is the most common word on a Muslim's tongue. Whenever two people
meet, they exchange greetings, wishing each other peace:
"Peace be upon you." But peace cannot prevail except
through justice. Since the concept of justice may differ from one
man to another, or from one society to another, Muslims believe
that real justice is that which is specified by Allah (God).
Islam permits fighting
in self-defense, in defense of the religion, or by those who have
been expelled forcibly from their homes. At the same time, Islam
requires one to treat one's enemy mercifully. It lays down strict
rules of combat which include prohibitions against harming
civilians and against destroying crops, trees, and livestock.
Islam also requires that if an enemy declares his desire to end
hostilities and seek peace, the Muslims must do the same.
The concept of Jihad (struggling in the cause of Allah) is stated in the Qur'an. Allah
said:
"Fight in the cause of God those who fight you, but do not transgress limits. God does not love transgressors." [2:19]
Jihad
is never to be waged to force anybody to choose a particular
religion. On the contrary, it is to be waged to protect his right
to choose freely. Therefore,
if there is a force in the world that tries to prevent a person
from practicing this right, Jihad may lead to fighting the force
that is trying to prevent him from exercising free will.
| The Muslim Beliefs | Introduction to Islam | Understanding Islam | The Holly Qur'aan |
| Islamic Laws | News Concerning Muslims |
Back to Islam Page
If you have any questions or comments, Please E-mail me.