Islam’s Firm Stand Against Terrorism: Upholding Peace and Justice

y New Age Islam Staff Writer 15 November 2024 Terrorism, Viewed as Fasad Fil Ard (Corruption on Earth), Is Explicitly Forbidden in Islam, A Religion That Upholds Justice, Peace, And the Sanctity of Life. This Essay Examines Islam’s Firm Opposition to Terrorism, Emphasizing That Acts of Violence and Terror, Often Justified Under the Guise of Jihad or In the Name of Islam, Are in Direct Conflict with The Core Teachings of The Faith. It Highlights How Terrorism Is Considered a Grave Form of Fasad Fil Ard, Condemned in The Qur'an, And Stresses the Importance of Justice, Compassion, And the Protection of Life. The Essay Concludes with A Call for Muslims to Repeatedly Counter Extremism by Promoting Islam's True Message Through Education, Dialogue, And Active Social Engagement. ---- (From Files) Terrorism, as we know it today, remains one of the most significant threats to global security, bringing untold suffering and instability to nations around the world. Despite the concerted efforts to combat extremist ideologies, acts of violence and terror continue to wreak havoc on innocent lives. The misconception that terrorism is somehow justified by religious teachings, particularly Islam, is a dangerous distortion of the faith. In fact, terrorism, in all its forms, is explicitly condemned in Islam as Fasad fil Ard, meaning corruption or disorder on the earth. It is essential to understand that the violence perpetrated by extremist groups is not a reflection of Islam's true teachings but rather a misrepresentation that must be addressed by scholars, Ulama, intellectuals, and media platforms. Terrorism and Its Incompatibility with Islam At its core, terrorism is defined by the use of violence to create fear, chaos, and disrupt societal harmony. These actions are in direct opposition to Islam's fundamental principles of peace, justice, and the protection of human dignity. The Qur'an speaks clearly about Fasad fil Ard, condemning any act that causes harm to others or disrupts peace. The verse: "Do not cause corruption on the earth after it has been set in order." (Qur'an 7:56) underscores the severity of such acts in the eyes of Islam. Terrorism, which results in destruction, death, and widespread fear, undoubtedly falls under the category of Fasad fil Ard and is categorically forbidden. Islamic scholars and leaders have long emphasized that peace and justice are integral to the Islamic worldview. The Qur'an urges Muslims to work towards reconciliation, not violence. Therefore, any act of terrorism is a severe violation of these principles and cannot be justified under any circumstances in the name of Islam. The Sanctity of Life in Islam The Qur'an further underscores the sacredness of human life, emphasizing that the unjust taking of life is a grave sin: "Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [Fasad] in the land—it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one—it is as if he had saved mankind entirely." (Qur'an 5:32) This verse highlights that killing an innocent person is equivalent to killing all of humanity. Terrorist attacks that target civilians, including women, children, and the elderly, are not only violations of basic human rights but are also direct transgressions of Islamic law. These acts are unequivocally prohibited in the Qur'an and Hadith. Islam prohibits the killing of innocent people under any circumstances. "And do not kill the soul which Allah has forbidden, except by right." (Qur'an 17:33) Terrorism often targets innocent civilians, which is explicitly forbidden in this verse. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was explicit about the protection of life, and the Qur'an makes it clear that those who kill unjustly face severe consequences: "And whoever kills a believer intentionally, their reward will be Hell—where they will stay indefinitely." (Qur'an 4:93) Such acts of terrorism, which deliberately target civilians, cannot be classified as legitimate acts of Jihad but are instead clear violations of the core values of Islam. The Distortion of Jihad by Extremists One of the most egregious misinterpretations made by terrorist groups is the hijacking of the term Jihad. True Jihad, according to Islamic teachings, involves striving in the way of Allah through personal growth, charity, and the defence of justice and peace—not violence and terror. However, extremist groups have twisted this concept to justify their attacks on innocent civilians. Islamic jurisprudence is crystal clear that Jihad does not permit the harming of innocent people. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that non-combatants, including women, children, and the elderly, must never be harmed in warfare. He famously said: “Do not kill women or children or non-combatants.” (Sahih Muslim) Therefore, any act of terrorism carried out under the guise of Jihad is a misrepresentation of the religion. Such actions are criminal, not only in terms of international law but also in the eyes of Islamic ethics. Islam's Emphasis on Justice and Social Harmony The Qur'an stresses the importance of justice as a foundation for peace: “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.” (Qur'an 5:8) This verse highlights the imperative of fairness and justice, regardless of personal or collective animosities. Terrorism, which often thrives in environments of injustice and inequality, can only be prevented by creating societies based on fairness, dialogue, and mutual respect. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of just leadership: “The best of leaders are those who are just, and the worst of leaders are those who oppress the people.” (Sahih Bukhari) Thus, the fight against terrorism also requires addressing underlying issues of injustice, inequality, and oppression, which often provide fertile ground for extremist ideologies to flourish. The Role of Muslims in Combating Terrorism Muslims have a collective responsibility to work against the spread of terrorism and extremism. This is not only a social or political duty but also a religious one. The Qur'an calls on Muslims to be exemplars of righteousness and to promote peace: “You are the best nation produced [as an example] for mankind. You enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and believe in Allah.” (Qur'an 3:110) Islamic scholars, intellectuals, and media outlets play a crucial role in countering the spread of extremist ideologies and promoting a message of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect. These groups are essential in providing accurate interpretations of Islamic teachings and dispelling misconceptions that fuel violence and terrorism. Platforms like New Age Islam serve as a critical counter-narrative by challenging the misuse and distortion of religious texts often employed by extremist groups to justify their actions. Through thoughtful analysis and scholarship, these platforms advocate for Islam’s true message—a message rooted in peace, justice, compassion, and coexistence among all people. New Age Islam, in particular, has been at the forefront of efforts to counter radicalization by regularly inviting scholars, writers, and columnists to focus on topics of deradicalisation and counter-terrorism. The platform emphasizes the importance of presenting Islamic principles in their proper context, highlighting the core teachings of peace, the sanctity of life, and the importance of justice. By providing a space for open dialogue and critical engagement with Islamic texts, New Age Islam plays a pivotal role in challenging extremist narratives and offering a more balanced and accurate understanding of Islam. This approach is essential for fostering a broader, more informed public conversation about Islam’s true stance on violence, and it serves as an important tool in the global effort to prevent radicalization and combat terrorism. Additionally, combating radicalization within communities is essential. This can be achieved through education, community engagement, and a return to the core Islamic values of compassion and respect for human life. By fostering understanding and cooperation, Muslims can help prevent the spread of extremism and mitigate the appeal of terrorist ideologies. A Call for Justice, Peace, and Unity The prevention of terrorism and Fasad fil Ard is an obligation for all Muslims. Islam offers clear guidance on maintaining peace, upholding justice, and protecting human life. Terrorism, which breeds fear and destruction, is absolutely prohibited and must be universally condemned. Islamic scholars, intellectuals, and media platforms play a critical role in correcting the misperceptions of Islam and countering the rhetoric of extremist groups. By promoting the teachings of peace, justice, and compassion, Muslims can contribute to a world where terrorism is rejected, and harmony prevails. As the famous saying goes, “If you want peace, work for justice.” Muslims must lead the way in promoting justice, dignity, and unity to prevent the rise of terrorism and ensure a better future for all. 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