Concept of Divine Compassion and Peace in Islam

By Darul Uloom Deoband

 

Any terrorist activity, which targets innocent persons, is against the concept of Divine Compassion and peace, which are synonyms in Islam. That point has been elucidated from different angles. Islam views any human act that violates Divine Compassion or peace with great contempt and derision. According to Holy Quran the Prophet (Pbuh) is the instrument of Divine Compassion for the whole world.

"We sent thee not, but as a Mercy for all creatures." (Surah Al Anbiyaa, verse No. 1 07). Holy Quran has described the Prophet (Pbuh) as 'very compassionate.'

According to a famous tradition of the Prophet (Pbuh) he has described all creatures as the 'family of Allah' and has instructed that they should be treated well. 'He is the most beloved of Allah, who treats His family well. (Mishkat Shareef, Chapter about Good Behaviour). The Almighty has emphasized that aspect of Divine Compassion. One who is kind to others is qualified for Divine Compassion. The Quran makes it very clear, "My Mercy extendeth to all things." (Surah Al A 'raf, verse 156) Evidently, that points to world peace and not to atmosphere of terror or lawlessness. A climate of anarchy violates Divine Compassion and blessings of the Prophet (Pbuh).

Eradication of Anarchy:

Islamic Shariah has emphasized adoption of every possible step for promotion of peace and checking anarchy. In the verse No.56 of Surah Al Aaraf, it has been made very clear:

"Do not mischief on the earth, after it hath been set in order." The Holy Quran has further elaborated the point at another place; "That Home of the Hereafter we shall give to those who intend not high-handedness of mischief on earth: and the End is (best) for the righteous." (Verse 83 of Surah Al Qasas). Accord­ing to Islamic Shariah, peace should be a priority. Even in the course of battle, the opponent proposes peace, that offer should be im­mediately accepted. It recommends strict punishment for murderers and aggressors, because they disturb peace. The aim is to ensure respect for human life. The books of Sunnah and Islamic jurisprudence contain elaborate instructions for curbing terror and fear in social life.

The Holy Quran states, "0 ye who believe! The law of equality is prescribed to you in cases of murder: The free for the free, the slave for the slave, the woman for the woman. But if any remission is made by the brother of the slain, then grant any reasonable demand, and compensate him with hand­some gratitude. This is a concession and a Mercy from your Lord. After this whoever exceeds the limits shall be in grave chastisement. In the Law of Equality there is (saving of) Life to you. 0 ye men of understanding; that ye may restrain yourselves." (Surah Al Bakarah, verse 178-179)

That provision carries great wisdom. If the assassin knows that he shall receive capital punishment for unjustified murder, he will not dare commit murder pf an innocent person. The fear of the imposition of capital punishment, checks bloodshed, rampage and destruction. Due to that, there is peace and tranquility in social life.

Islamic Shariah provides stringent punishment for highway robbery, because the bandit destroys the trust, security and mental peace of the traveler. Quran describes it as battle against Allah and the Prophet (Pbuh). (For details please refer to Surah al Maidah, Verses 32 & 33). Causing fear and terror in peaceful social atmo­sphere has been held as a crime, Even if that is of minor type, Islam recommends every possible step for checking it for an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.