Peacemaking and peacekeeping in today’s world — the Muslim response

By: Tuffy Fields

Last week we looked at peacemaking and
peacekeeping in the Christian world. This
week we will take a look at the largest religion
in the world, Islam, and how peace is viewed
in that faith. Peace is a powerful
word and it is no more craved than in
the nation of Iran. Let us hope that
the inhabitants of that country can
experience the peace and happiness
that their religion teaches.
In the Islamic tradition, peace is
not merely a social ideal but a divine
mandate woven into the very fabric
of faith. The Arabic word Islam itself
shares a root with salam, meaning
peace, wholeness, and safety. This linguistic
connection reflects a deeper theological
truth: to submit to God is to commit oneself
to the pursuit of peace. Yet Islamic teachings
make a crucial distinction between simply
avoiding conflict and actively building reconciliation.
In the Qur’an and the life of the
Prophet Muhammad, peacemakers are honored
as those who uphold justice, heal divisions,
and embody God’s mercy in the world.