THE CULTURE OF PEACE — Part II Teachings of Islam

From this Quranic verse we learn that, not disputing with someone means not giving the other person the chance to dispute. That is to say, whenever differences arise between two parties, they should keep them within the limits of peaceful dialogue. They must never let these differences go beyond their initial limits and transform into a violent conflict. We must completely abstain from violence and lead our lives entirely on the basis of the principle of peace. In this world, tensions constantly arise on various grounds between individuals and groups. In itself, this sort of tension is something quite natural. It happens everywhere, and under all sorts of conditions. The real thing to consider here is that we should make sure that these tensions or differences do not go beyond their limits. For differences to turn into physical confrontation or violence is for them to transgress their limits. No differences are in themselves wrong if they remain within their limits. But when they go beyond their limits they become unacceptable. The above-quoted Quranic verse tells us something about how a person inspired by a worthy and positive purpose in life conducts himself. For such a person to succeed, the only thing that should be a matter of discussion with others is his purpose. For anything else to become a matter of discussion between him and others is futile. Now, the question arises as to how can such a person, who is motivated by a positive purpose in life, establish a non-conflictual atmosphere in his relationship with others. The answer is that this is possible only by his exercise of patience in a unilateral manner. In practical terms, there is simply no other way. A person with a purpose in life adopts a policy of unilateral avoidance of confrontation, through which he is able to establish a balanced atmosphere in his relationships with others so that his journey continues uninterrupted. War Only For Defence The Quran tells us: Permission to fight is granted to those who are attacked, because they have been wronged […]. THE QURAN 22: 39