The recent barbaric killing of school children in Peshawar, Pakistan, by terrorists waging what they call a Jihad, or religious war, once again puts the spotlight on a religion which has taken a beating because of its followers not really understanding the true essence of their faith…
Islam Means Peace, Not Violence
To understand Islam’s stance on terrorism, one must go back to the holy scripture of the religion – the Quran – as well as the Hadith – the teachings of Prophet Muhammad. So, let’s revisit these to understand what they really say about killings in the name of religion…
Quran Speak
Indeed, the Quran emphasises upon the high value of human life, be it a Muslim or non-Muslim, and forbids the killing of an innocent life. The gravity of such a crime is equated, in the Quran, with the killing of all humanity!
Killing One Is Akin To Killing All
“We have ordained for the children of Israel that if anyone slew a person – unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land – it would be as if he slew the whole people. And if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole people. Then, although there came to them our apostles with clear signs, yet, even after that, many of them continued to commit excesses in the land.” (5:32)
Avoid Disrupting Others’ Peace
Not only is human life considered sacred in Islam, but property, wealth, family and dignity of all individuals in society are to be respected and protected. Those who transgress these rights and sow “fasad” (literally, disruption), incur the wrath of none less than Allah himself…
Don’t Pollute The Earth
“…and seek not corruption in the earth; lo! Allah loveth not corrupters ” (28:77)
A Grievous Penalty
“The blame is only against those who oppress men and wrong-doing, and insolently transgress beyond bounds through the land, defying right and justice: for such, there will be a penalty grievous.” (42:42)
Practice Kindness And Compassion
Islam goes further. Instead of just prohibiting oppression and safeguarding rights, it, in fact, commands its faithful to deal kindly and compassionately with everyone who seeks to live in peace and harmony.
Be Fair, Above All
“Allah forbids you not with regard to those who fight you, not for your faith, nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: For Allah loves those who are just” (60:8)
All Should Be Fair In War…
In times of war and conflict, where enmity can obstruct an individual’s judgement to act morally, Islam commands that justice be upheld even towards one’s enemies.
..And In Love
“O ye, who believe! Stand firmly for Allah, as witnesses to fair dealing, and let not the hatred of others towards you, make you swerve towards wrong and depart from justice. Be Just: That is next to Piety: and fear Allah. For, Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do.” (5:8)
Especially Not Women, Children, The Elderly
Beyond the Quran, Prophet Muhammad himself forbade the killing of women, children and the elderly in war. In an authentic narration, the Prophet warned that he who kills anyone who has a covenant of peace with the Muslims, will not smell the scent of Paradise…
Show Justice To Animals And Birds Too
The Prophet also taught that justice should not only be shown towards fellow humans, but also shown to animals and all living things…
Ten Commandments Of A Different Kind
“I advise you ten things: Do not kill women, children, or an aged and infirm person. Do not cut down fruit-bearing trees. Do not destroy an inhabited place. Do not slaughter sheep or camels, except for food. Do not burn bees and do not scatter them. Do not steal from the booty, and do not be cowardly.”
Message From The Terrorist’s Gun
Thus, the message from the terrorist’s gun is not the same as the message from the Quran. The terrorist believes in taking lives to prove a confused point, while the Quran upholds mercy as the supreme message. “We sent thee (Prophet Muhammed as a mercy for the people.” (21:107)
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