Human beings are gregarious by nature. Their relationships with
each other assume the form of ever widening circles. Starting from the interactions
within the family nucleus, they develop to encompass clans, tribes, complex social
systems, and political states. Quite logically, world peace lies in the amicability
and cordiality of relations between these states because the world is, after all,
nothing but a large multitude of these socio-cultural groups and states.
The internal harmony of a single group bears the same analogy to the
peace of the total world as the inner serenity (i.e., Iman ) of a person
bears to the external well-being (i.e.,Islam). That is why Islam has put
the greatest emphasis on social peace and political and economic justice. As delineated
by the Holy Prophet (SAW), the character-traits of a Muslim individual, which is
the basic unit of Muslim social polity, are the highest ideals of human
character ever envisaged by any moral philosopher. One can well imagine the
tranquility enjoyed at the social level by a community that is founded on such noble
principles and whose members are so considerate, affectionate, and benevolent
among themselves.
The Islamic social structure is established on the positive foundation of Al-hubb fillah — love for the sake of Allah (SWT) and in obedience to Him. Peace and wellbeing are its marks of distinction. That is why sincerity and companionship of two Muslims for the sake of Allah (SWT) is regarded by Him as the most excellent of religious virtues. This very attitude is amply reflected in the way people greet each other in the Islamic society by wishing each other peace and well-being. Assalamo Alaikum and Wa Alaikum Assalam are the cheering phrases constantly uttered and heard when Muslims meet and part with each other. The Holy Prophet (SAW) described these twin characteristics of a typical Islamic society in one of his sayings thus:
The Islamic social structure is established on the positive foundation of Al-hubb fillah — love for the sake of Allah (SWT) and in obedience to Him. Peace and wellbeing are its marks of distinction. That is why sincerity and companionship of two Muslims for the sake of Allah (SWT) is regarded by Him as the most excellent of religious virtues. This very attitude is amply reflected in the way people greet each other in the Islamic society by wishing each other peace and well-being. Assalamo Alaikum and Wa Alaikum Assalam are the cheering phrases constantly uttered and heard when Muslims meet and part with each other. The Holy Prophet (SAW) described these twin characteristics of a typical Islamic society in one of his sayings thus:
(O Muslims!) You will never
enter Paradise unless you are believers. And you will never achieve genuine
belief unless you love (and respect) each other. Shall I not tell you the way you
can create love amongst yourselves? (That way lies in) frequently greeting each
other with salam . (Reported by Abu Hurairah and narrated by Imam
Muslim)
A major portion of the Surah of the Holy Qur’an entitled
Al-Hujurat, revealed in Madinah, contains meticulously detailed instructions
that help to maintain social harmony and well-being. Respectful behavior
towards the leader and elders, in manner, voice, and demeanor, are the bonds
and cement of an organized community. Rumors should be tested and selfish impatience
should be curbed by discipline. Scandal or slander of all kinds should be
condemned. All quarrels and differences should be patched up and reconciled, by
the force of the community if necessary, but with perfect fairness and justice.
Ridicule, taunts, and biting words should be avoided, whether the person spoken
of is present or absent. Suspicion and spying are unworthy of believers. Mutual respect and confidence are a duty and a privilege
in Islam.
One can well imagine how much importance Islam assigns to social peace by enjoining upon Muslims to shun anything which corrodes it. More than that, the Holy Qur’an delineates such golden principles of social and group life which cannot be found in any other religious book. For example:
One can well imagine how much importance Islam assigns to social peace by enjoining upon Muslims to shun anything which corrodes it. More than that, the Holy Qur’an delineates such golden principles of social and group life which cannot be found in any other religious book. For example:
O believers! Stand out
firmly for justice, as witnesses for the sake of Allah, even (if this may go)
against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin…. (Al-Nisa 4:135)
O believers! Stand out
firmly for Allah, as witnesses for the sake of justice, and let not the enmity
of a people cause you to turn away from justice. Do justice, for that is
closer to piety…. (Al-Ma’ida 5:8)
We have surely sent our
messengers with clear signs (i.e., miracles and proofs), and sent with them the
Book (i.e., revealed guidance) and the Balance (i.e., the Shari‘ah), so
that mankind may stand by justice…. (Al-Hadeed 57:25)
The above verses of the Qur’an make it clear that the four fundamental
principles of Islamic polity are righteousness, piety, justice, and fairness.
The sole aim before a truly Islamic society should be to achieve these so that
people live in peace and harmony.
No comments:
Post a Comment