NON-VIOLENCE AND ISLAM

~ 5 ~ word sabr exactly expresses the notion of nonviolence as it is understood in modern times. That patient action is non-violent action as has been clearly expressed in the Qur'an. According to one tradition, the Prophet Muhammad, may peace be upon him, observed: God grants to rifq (gentleness) what he does not grant to unf (violence). (Abu Dawud, Sunan, 4/255) The word rifq has been used in this hadith as an antithesis to unf. These terms convey exactly what is meant by violence and non-violence in present times. This hadith clearly indicates the superiority of the non-violent method. God grants to non-violence what He does not grant to violence is no simple matter. It has very wide and deep implications. It embodies an eternal law of nature. By the very law of nature all bad things are associated with violence, while all good things are associated with non-violence. Violent activities breed hatred in society, while nonviolent activities elicit love. Violence is the way of destruction while non-violence is the way of construction. In an atmosphere of violence, it is