Definition of Peace

(absence of violence) and positive peace (presence of justice and cooperation). Maulana Wahiduddin Khan’s Vision of Peace Maulana Wahiduddin Khan (1925–2021) is among the greatest intellectual leaders who presented Islam as a religion of peace and tirelessly worked for the establishment of peace. He argued that peace is not merely a tool for justice—it is a supreme value in itself. Unlike those who linked peace with justice, Maulana emphasized that peace itself is the greatest blessing (Summum Bonum). Without peace, justice, education, or development cannot exist. His principle was: “Peace for the sake of Peace”—not peace for justice or peace for any other condition. He gave the example of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah: first peace was established, then justice followed. Thus, lasting change is only possible once peace is secured. Another of his principles was that although peace is a bilateral matter, it can only be achieved through unilateral initiatives. Without that, peace remains impossible. Maulana transformed peace into a complete philosophy of life, declaring: “Peace is the only way for both Man and the Universe.” He considered peace not merely a political strategy, but a universal, moral, and spiritual necessity. Peace and Islam Islam literally means peace and submission. One of God’s names is As-Salaam (The Source of Peace). The Prophet Muhammad was sent as “Mercy to the worlds”. Paradise in the Quran is called Darus-Salaam (The Home of Peace). Muslims greet each other with As-Salaam-u-Alaikum (Peace be upon you). The Prophet said: “A Muslim is one from whose tongue and hands others are safe.” Thus, Islam is inherently a religion of peace, and its teachings center on establishing harmony, mercy, and justice through nonviolence. Peace in a Plural Society In a diverse country like India, Maulana’s principle was: “Follow one, Respect all.” This means practising one’s own religion while