Preventing Terrorism and Violence: A Compulsory Duty in Islam

By Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi, New Age Islam 24 June 2024 In Islam, Muslims Are Obligated to Prevent Terrorism, Violence, and Corruption on Earth Main Point: 1. In Islam, it is imperative for Muslims to actively participate in endeavours intended to prevent acts of terrorism, violence, and corruption, referred to as Fasad, on the Earth. This duty stems from the core principles of peace, justice, and compassion in Islam. Muslims are obligated to create a peaceful world by actively removing destructive elements from society. This responsibility is not just a suggestion or advice; instead, it is viewed as a fundamental duty that must be fulfilled by every individual who claims to adhere to the principles of Islam. -------- In Islamic teachings, the responsibility to prevent terrorism is deeply ingrained as a fundamental duty that all followers must uphold. This obligation not only stems from the moral framework of Islam but is also emphasized in the Quran and the Hadiths, where peace and harmony are promoted as core principles. Muslims are encouraged to stand against any form of violence or extremism and to actively participate in efforts that promote understanding and compassion among people of different faiths and beliefs. By adhering to these teachings, individuals demonstrate their commitment to upholding justice, compassion, and unity in society, thereby contributing to a more peaceful and harmonious world. The holistic approach of Islam towards preventing terrorism encompasses both individual actions and collective efforts within the community. Through educating others about the true nature of Islam and fostering interfaith dialogue, Muslims can help bridge divides, dispel misconceptions, and counter radical ideologies that fuel acts of terrorism. By promoting peace, tolerance, and mutual respect, Muslims uphold the true essence of Islam, which fundamentally rejects violence and advocates for the well-being of all humanity. In essence, preventing terrorism is a sacred duty in Islam that extends beyond mere words, requiring active engagement and unwavering commitment to creating a world free from fear and conflict. In numerous instances throughout the Quran, Allah Almighty emphasizes the grave importance of preventing Fasad, which pertains to causing mischief or disorder on Earth. This directive extends beyond mere disruption, encompassing various destructive manifestations such as terrorism, violence, and injustice. The term Fasad encapsulates a wide spectrum of harmful actions that undermine peace, harmony, and justice in society. Terrorism epitomizes Fasad by instilling fear and chaos through reprehensible acts. Similarly, violence represents a form of Fasad that inflicts harm and distress upon individuals or communities, perpetuating a cycle of aggression and suffering. Moreover, injustice stands as a prime example of Fasad as it fosters inequity and unfairness, leading to societal discord and discontent. By admonishing against Fasad, the Quran guides believers to uphold righteousness, compassion, and integrity, striving to foster a world free from the destructive forces of terrorism, violence, and injustice. The message is clear: to combat Fasad in all its manifestations is to actively promote peace, justice, and harmony, cultivating a society built on values of respect, compassion, and fairness for all. Terrorism and Islam stand as diametrically opposed forces within the modern world. Just like the inseparability of night and day, these two entities cannot share the same space. The fundamental truth lies in the fact that where terrorism thrives, the essence of Islam fades away, and conversely, where Islam flourishes, terrorism finds no place to latch onto. This irrefutable reality underscores the complete disconnect between terrorism and the tenets of Islam. The unfortunate reality is that terrorist groups manipulate and distort the principles of Islam to justify their abhorrent actions, tarnishing the true essence of this peaceful faith. It is essential to recognize that the actions of these extremist organizations are not a reflection of Islam as a religion of peace and compassion but rather a perversion designed to further their sinister agendas. Combatting this misrepresentation requires a collective effort to educate and promote harmony, emphasizing the peaceful teachings of Islam and disassociating them from the violent and destructive nature of terrorism. Only through understanding and unity can we dispel the fallacies propagated by those who seek to distort the image of Islam, and truly embrace the values of peace, tolerance, and coexistence that lie at the core of this faith. Instances of suicide bombings, senseless killings of innocent individuals, and the wanton destruction of property regardless of the location are acts that evoke strong repugnance. It is imperative to underscore that individuals who carry out terrorist activities under the guise of representing Islam are defying the dictates of Allah. In a profound revelation, Allah Almighty emphatically states, “Whoever takes a life—unless as a punishment for murder or mischief in the land—it will be as if they killed all of humanity; and whoever saves a life, it will be as if they saved all of humanity.” (5:32) This divine instruction accentuates the sanctity of life and unequivocally denounces any form of violence that leads to the unwarranted loss of life, stressing the universal significance of cherishing and protecting the gift of life above all else. Furthermore, the edict elucidates that the preservation of life supersedes all other considerations, reinforcing the notion that the wanton taking of lives through heinous acts of terror not only defies the core teachings of Islam but also transgresses the fundamental tenets of humanity itself. As such, these reprehensible acts of violence stand in stark contrast to the peace, compassion, and respect for life that lie at the heart of Islam, underscoring the imperative for individuals to uphold the sanctity of life and strive for harmony and understanding among all people, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural differences. Allah also says, “And whoever kills a believer intentionally, their reward will be Hell—where they will stay indefinitely. Allah will be displeased with them, condemn them, and will prepare for them a tremendous punishment.” (4:93) In this verse (4:93), Allah provides clear guidance regarding the sanctity of life, emphasizing the severe consequences of intentionally taking the life of a believer. According to Allah's decree, those who commit the grave act of killing a believer will face the ultimate punishment of Hell, a place where they will be destined to dwell indefinitely, bearing the wrath and displeasure of the Almighty. It is a solemn warning of the severe repercussions of such heinous actions, as Allah condemns those who unjustly take the life of a believer, promising a dreadful punishment that has been explicitly prepared for them. The stern language used in this verse serves as a stark reminder of the magnitude of this sin and the gravity of such transgressions. By highlighting the everlasting punishment awaiting those who violate the sanctity of life through intentional harm, Allah underscores the profound respect and value that should be accorded to every individual. This admonition echoes the broader themes of justice, mercy, and accountability that run through the teachings of Islam, emphasizing the importance of upholding righteousness and safeguarding the lives of others. Ultimately, this verse serves as a profound admonition against the heinous crime of murder, reminding believers of the eternal consequences that await those who disregard the sanctity of life and commit such grievous acts. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) reportedly said, “Do not be envious of one another; do not artificially raise prices against one another; do not hate one another; do not turn one’s back on each other and do not undercut one another in business transactions. And be [O] servants of Allah, brethren. A Muslim is the brother of a Muslim. He does not wrong him. He does not fail him [when he needs him]. He does not lie to him. And he does not show contempt for him. Piety is here” – and he pointed to his chest three times. “It is enough evil for a person to hold his brother Muslim in contempt. All of a Muslim is inviolable to another Muslim: his blood, his wealth and his honour.” (Sahih Muslim) The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of fostering brotherhood and unity among believers by advising them against behaviours that sow discord and animosity in society. In his teachings, he spoke against envy, warning against the harm it brings to relationships and communities. Additionally, he highlighted the unjust manipulation of prices and the importance of fair trade practices that uphold integrity and honesty. The Prophet (peace be upon him) also emphasized the significance of maintaining mutual respect and support, urging Muslims to stand by one another in times of need, without deception or betrayal. By pointing to his chest, he symbolically emphasized the importance of nurturing piety within one's heart, as the ultimate safeguard against transgressing against fellow believers. This profound guidance underscores the sanctity and dignity that every Muslim should uphold towards their brethren, recognizing each other's rights to safety, possessions, and reputation. Therefore, the essence of Islamic teachings lies in cherishing and upholding the bonds of brotherhood, promoting a harmonious and righteous community where every individual is valued and protected as a precious part of the Muslim Ummah. But certain extremist groups, under the guise of Islam, Sharia, and Jihad, persistently sow chaos and destruction across the globe. Their despicable actions primarily target innocent civilians, and non-combatants, including vulnerable groups such as women and children. Such deliberate and heinous attacks, which aim to instil fear and propagate violence, starkly contrast with the values of Islam, jihad or Sharia. According to Islamic principles, those who perpetrate such atrocities are unequivocally viewed as criminals. It is vital to emphasize that these perpetrators do not represent Islam but rather stand in stark opposition to its core values of peace, compassion, and justice. The misuse of religion as a cloak for violence not only tarnishes the teachings of Islam but also defies the fundamental tenets of humanity. Genuine jihad advocates for righteousness, selflessness, and the protection of all life from oppression and injustice, unequivocally condemning acts of terror that indiscriminately harm innocent individuals. By unequivocally denouncing terrorism and clarifying the stark distinction between jihad and criminal acts, it is possible to foster understanding, combat extremism, and uphold the true principles of Islam. Allah Almighty says in the Quran, “And do not obey the order of the transgressors, Who cause corruption in the land [Yufsiduna Fil Al-Ard’] and do not amend.” (26:151-152) The Qur'an, considered by Muslims as the ultimate guidance for leading a righteous life, emphasizes various strategies aimed at preventing acts of terrorism and injustice known as Fasad fil Ard. One of the key teachings within the Qur'an is the prohibition against following the corrupt practices that lead to chaos on Earth. Allah's explicit commandment urges believers to refrain from obeying those who engage in transgression and corruption, leading to disorder and disharmony in society. This profound guidance serves as a constant reminder for Muslims to uphold justice and righteousness, preventing the spread of Fasad fil Ard in all its forms. By strictly adhering to these teachings and principles, individuals can contribute to creating a society based on virtue, peace, and communal well-being. It is through such adherence to the divine injunctions and moral standards that individuals can actively combat terrorism and injustice, thereby fostering a harmonious and ethical existence. Upholding these teachings not only benefits the individual believer but also has a broader impact on the larger community, leading to a significant reduction in acts of Fasad fil Ard and promoting a culture of compassion, understanding, and respect for all. Ultimately, by heeding the Qur'an's teachings, believers can play a crucial role in establishing a society that is free from the scourge of terrorism and injustice, embodying the true essence of Islamic principles and values. Allah Almighty says, “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is acquainted with what you do”. (5:8) To prevent chaos and strife from taking hold on Earth, it is imperative for Muslims to actively strive towards upholding peace and justice, guided by the teachings of God Almighty. This sacred duty is reiterated in the Quran, where believers are encouraged to be unwavering in their commitment to Allah and serve as fair witnesses in all matters. The verse (5:8) emphasizes the importance of maintaining impartiality and not allowing personal biases or animosities to cloud one's judgment when it comes to dispensing justice. By adhering to these principles, Muslims can contribute to a world where righteousness prevails, and where individuals are treated with equity and respect. It is a call to action for believers to embody the values of justice and to always act in a manner that is pleasing to Allah, knowing that He is aware of every action and intention. This reminder serves as a beacon of guidance for Muslims, inspiring them to be agents of positive change and to stand up against oppression and injustice wherever they may encounter it. Ultimately, by embodying the virtues of justice and fairness, Muslims can fulfil their duty as advocates for peace and harmony in a world that is in dire need of such values. One of the emirs under the rule of Hazrat Umar Farooq (May Allah be pleased with him) voiced concern over the abandonment of his city, seeking financial aid from Amir al-Muminin Hazrat Umar to restore it. In response, Hazrat ‘Umar Farooq emphasized the importance of upholding justice, and fairness and eliminating oppression within the city to prevent further desertion. He advised the emir to prioritize establishing a system of governance that prioritizes justice and fairness, as he believed that the presence of oppression within the city would lead to its eventual abandonment. Hazrat ‘Umar Farooq's guidance highlighted the critical role of maintaining a just and equitable society in sustaining the well-being and prosperity of the city, stressing that addressing issues of injustice and oppression was fundamental to preventing its decline. This insightful advice underscored the understanding that a city's strength and resilience lie in its ability to foster a community built on fairness, respect, and the protection of basic rights. By instilling values of justice and integrity in the governance of the city, Hazrat ‘Umar Farooq reinforced the notion that a society free from oppression and inequality is essential for its long-term sustainability and growth. It is indisputably factual that within the boundaries of a country, there exists a formidable army that stands ready to defend its sovereignty. This army, in turn, boasts considerable wealth that fuels its operations and ensures its efficiency. Behind this wealth lies a network of bustling cities, each with its unique character and contribution to the country's prosperity. These cities teem with a diverse population, where individuals of various backgrounds and talents converge to create a vibrant tapestry of society. Within these city walls, the concept of justice reverberates through every corner and alleyway, ensuring that the rights and freedoms of the populace are safeguarded and upheld. Thus, the interconnected nature of the country's army, wealth, cities, people, and justice underscores a harmonious symbiosis that forms the backbone of this country's strength and resilience. In the above-mentioned text, Hazrat Umar, the renowned Caliph and Leader of Muslims issued a stern command to his appointed governor, emphasizing the critical importance of upholding justice and preventing any form of oppression or injustice within the city. He warned that failure to maintain a just society could lead to catastrophic consequences, even the potential destruction of the entire city. It is widely recognized that the absence of justice creates a breeding ground for oppression, pushing individuals towards criminal behaviour as a desperate response to unfair treatment. Therefore, the establishment of a fair and just system is paramount, regardless of the challenges it may pose. In a broader context, the ripple effects of injustice extend beyond individual actions; they can have far-reaching implications at a societal level. When a country or nations experience systemic injustices, it becomes a breeding ground for acts of violence and terrorism, resulting in unspeakable tragedies such as the loss of innocent lives and the devastation of countless families' homes. The vicious cycle of oppression begetting violence is a stark reminder of the critical need to prioritize justice in all aspects of governance and societal structure. Therefore, Hazrat Umar's directive serves as a timeless reminder of the crucial role justice plays in maintaining social harmony and preventing the proliferation of heinous acts stemming from unchecked injustices. Upholding justice at all costs is not merely a moral imperative but a foundational necessity for preserving the fabric of civilized society and protecting the inherent dignity and rights of all individuals. A renowned English proverb [If you want peace, work for justice] wisely states that the pursuit of peace is intricately intertwined with the active pursuit of justice, shedding light on the essential connection between these two fundamental elements of a harmonious society. In alignment with this timeless wisdom, the ethical principles ingrained in Islam emphasize the sanctity of all life and the imperative duty to safeguard the well-being and possessions of others. Central to Islamic teachings is the unequivocal prohibition of the unjust taking of another human being's life, underscoring the grave significance of upholding justice in all aspects of human interaction. Furthermore, Islam unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms, recognizing it as a heinous act that contradicts the very essence of faith and moral righteousness. As a universal and peace-loving religion, Islam emphasises disseminating accurate knowledge and understanding of its core tenets and teachings. By fostering awareness and enlightenment regarding the true essence of Islam and the profound ethical values espoused by its founder, we can effectively combat misconceptions and ignorance that often fuel acts of violence and conflict. Therefore, it becomes a noble obligation for adherents of Islam and proponents of peace to proactively engage in educational efforts aimed at preventing Fasad on earth, and terrorism, and promoting the virtuous principles and teachings of Islam. Through enlightened discourse and dialogue, we can foster a climate of mutual respect, understanding, and harmony, echoing the timeless wisdom encapsulated in the English proverb in line with Islam that advocates for the inseparable link between peace and justice. ----- A regular Columnist with NewAgeIslam.com, Ghulam Ghaus Siddiqi Dehlvi is a Classical Islamic scholar with a Sufi background and English-Arabic-Urdu Translator. 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