The Strength to Make Peace: A Qur’anic Ethic

Introduction:

In a world where peace is frequently invoked in speeches yet rarely implemented in policy and action, the need for genuine and actionable ethical frameworks has never been more urgent. The United Nations designated 24^th of April as the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace, aiming to promote dialogue, mutual respect, and the resolution of conflicts through cooperation rather than coercion. Yet, many global and national actors continue to weaponise diplomacy, using their power to redefine peace on their own terms, often at the expense of justice and equity.

More than 1400 years ago, the Holy Qur’an presented a remarkably forward-thinking vision of peace—one not grounded in geopolitical dominance, but in divine guidance and ethical restraint. In Surah Al-Anfal, verse 61, Allah SWT commands the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to accept peaceful overtures from adversaries and to place trust in God’s ultimate knowledge and justice:

“وَإِنْ جَنَحُوا لِلسَّلْمِ فَاجْنَحْ لَهَا وَتَوَكَّلْ عَلَى اللَّهِ إِنَّهُ هُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْعَلِيمُ“

“And if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah. Indeed, He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.” (Surah Al-Anfal, 8:61)

This single verse encapsulates the Islamic vision of principled diplomacy: one that is morally grounded, spiritually anchored, and universally relevant. As today’s world grapples with escalating conflicts – from warzones to online spaces – this divine directive offers not only a theological insight but also a blueprint for how Muslims, and indeed all people of conscience, might act justly and ethically in both private and public spheres.

In what follows, this article explores the deeper significance of this verse and articulates tailored, practical messages for youth, parents, and religious leaders—each designed to align with the challenges and opportunities of today’s global society, especially for Muslim minorities living in Western contexts. By rooting these messages in both the Qur’anic worldview and contemporary lived realities, we aim to revive an authentic, actionable vision of peace.

Educational messages of the verse for teenagers and youth

1. Choose Peace Over Provocation, Even When You Feel Strong

This verse was revealed at a time when the Muslim community, despite being in a position to confront hostility, was commanded to accept peace if the other party proposed it—highlighting that restraint in the face of conflict is a sign of strength, not weakness. For teenagers and youth navigating social pressures, online disputes, or cultural misunderstandings, this command offers a timeless ethical compass: seek resolution, not retaliation, even when you feel powerful or justified. Studies in adolescent development confirm that those who practise conflict de-escalation and value-based decision-making are more likely to experience personal success, stronger relationships, and long-term leadership growth.

Challenge: The next time you’re tempted to “clap back” online or in person, take a pause—ask yourself: “Will this bring peace, or just feed the fire?” Choose silence or kind words instead.

2. Be a Voice for Islam’s Peaceful Message

Islam has often been misrepresented in the media and public discourse, particularly in the West, where youth may face Islamophobic narratives. This verse, alongside others such as “اللّهُ لا يُحبُّ المُعتدين” (Allah does not love the aggressors, 2:190), provides compelling evidence that Islam’s default mode is peace, not violence. By internalising and articulating these teachings, young Muslims can correct misconceptions and serve as ambassadors of their faith in multicultural environments.

Challenge: Share this verse with a non-Muslim friend or colleague and engage in a short discussion about what peace means in Islam.

3. Trust God When Doing the Right Thing Feels Risky

Teenagers often face moments where doing what’s morally right—such as apologising first, refusing peer pressure, or speaking up against bullying—feels risky or isolating. This part of the verse reminds us that when we choose the higher road, especially in situations where we feel uncertain or alone, our trust in God’s knowledge and presence becomes our source of strength. Psychologists note that teens who develop spiritual trust and purpose are more resilient in the face of social anxiety and identity challenges.

Challenge: This week, make one decision that feels ethically right but socially hard, and say to yourself, “I will rely on Allah. He hears me. He knows what I’m trying to do.”

Educational messages of the verse for Parents

1. Let Peace Begin at Home

Children learn more from their parents’ behaviours than from verbal instruction; a peaceful home fosters emotional security and moral development. When parents model reconciliation, active listening, and emotional regulation, they create an environment conducive to internalising Islamic ethics. Research in child psychology shows that children raised in low-conflict homes develop better social-emotional intelligence and exhibit lower aggression levels.

Challenge: The next time a family argument arises, take a few deep breaths, and consciously choose calm speech over reactive tones.

2. Model Tawakkul (Trust in Allah) Through Life’s Uncertainties

Life is filled with financial, social, and health-related challenges, but parents who display patience and reliance on Allah teach their children resilience anchored in spirituality. This reliance must be more than a phrase; it should translate into real actions such as consultation (shūrā), duʿā, ethical decision-making, and avoiding panic. Children raised by spiritually grounded parents tend to develop more robust coping mechanisms in the face of adversity.

Challenge: Involve your child in making duʿā with you during a family difficulty, allowing them to see your trust in Allah firsthand.

3. Raise Peace-Minded Global Citizens

Islamic upbringing in the modern world should not be limited to rituals but must include values such as empathy, justice, and peaceful coexistence. As verse 61 of Surah Al-Anfal urges a commitment to peace, parents must cultivate children’s understanding of global injustices and the Islamic imperative to stand against them. Peace is not silence; it is the active promotion of harmony without tolerating oppression.

Challenge: Watch a short documentary or news report with your child about global conflict and discuss what a just Islamic response might look like.

Educational messages of the verse for Imams and Religious Leaders

1. Teach the Spiritual Strength Behind Peace

Imams must educate communities that the decision to accept peace—even when one has power—requires a strong heart grounded in trust in Allah. The Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, though initially unpopular, is a prime example of the Prophet (PBUH) practicing principled restraint for long-term benefit. Teaching this historical and spiritual perspective can help reduce the glorification of confrontation within some community narratives.

Challenge: Deliver a Friday khutbah explaining how the Prophet (PBUH) used diplomacy, not force, to open Makkah and restore justice.

2. Clarify Islam’s Stance on Peace to the Broader Society

In multicultural societies, religious leaders have a dual responsibility: to educate their own communities and to engage meaningfully with interfaith or civic audiences. Islam’s consistent promotion of peaceful resolution, even with former enemies, must be communicated to dispel stereotypes. This bridges social divides and fulfils the Qur’anic role of Muslims as witnesses to truth and mercy.

Challenge: Participate in an interfaith or civic dialogue event and present this verse as a core foundation of Islamic diplomacy.