THE CULTURE OF PEACE — Part VI Teachings of Islam

Through positive actions, every enmity can be ended. It is like a bit of dirt that stains a glass. This bit of dirt can easily be removed—by simply washing it off with some water. A bit of dirt on a glass is not a problem in itself. The problem is created when you do not have clean water to wash it off. It always takes two hands to clap. You cannot clap with just one hand. In the same way, enmity is a two-sided affair. If someone considers you his enemy, you can respond by considering him your potential friend. In this way, his enmity will automatically cease. The most effective way to end the problem of enmity is not to be an enemy of someone who sees you as his enemy. Stockpiling Weapons is Useless A successful businessman was very concerned about the safety of his family from the danger of harm from people of another community in the neighbourhood. His strategy to keep them family safe was to buy a licensed gun for each member of his family. 'Now I think that I and my family are safe,' he said. 'I have no fear of riots now.' If someone considers you his enemy, you can respond by considering him your potential friend. This person might have known the principles of business but he was unaware of the principles for social existence. One cannot protect oneself with a gun or a revolver. The way to be safe in society is to be a good neighbour to others. Let the neighbours be safe from your harm and inevitably, you will find that you will also be safe amongst them. Hatred will beget hatred. If we are concerned about others' well being, in turn we will receive love and concern from them. The futility and repercussions of using a gun are obvious. If riots were to break out, would the action of shooting people with guns end the matter? Impossible. One should know that firing on people is a cognizable offence. Violence against another community may seem like two equal parties fighting each other, but it is a different equation if one were to fight with the police. Using a gun in this scenario is like inviting an angry bull to attack. Obviously, then, this sort of step is not protection, instead it will be self-invited devastation.