Understanding Violence in Islam: Addressing Misunderstandings and Clarifying Key Concepts
One of the most contentious and frequently debated topics in contemporary religious discourse is the relationship between Islam and violence, particularly in light of the
actions of certain individuals claiming to act in the name of Allah. The Quran explicitly forbids the killing of innocent people, yet instances of violence that claim religious justification continue to occur.
Contextualizing Islamic Teachings
In its modern form, Islam has roots in the teachings of the Quran and the traditions (hadith) of the Prophet Muhammad. A significant portion of the Quran's narratives and stories can be traced back to the Holy Bible, illustrating the interconnectedness of religious traditions within Abrahamic context.
Violence and the Quran
The Quran explicitly condemns the killing of innocent people. For instance, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:191) states: Killing any person [unjustly] is [considered] as killing all of mankind, and whoever saves the life of one, it is as if he has saved the life of all of mankind. Such verses unequivocally emphasize the sanctity of life.
However, the concept of defense and jihad is often misconstrued, leading to misunderstandings and wrongful actions. While jihad is generally understood to mean struggle or effort in the path of God, it is often misrepresented by extremist groups. True jihad is the inner and outer struggle to uphold virtue and banish vice, not merely armed conflict.
The Case of Hamas and the Music Concert Attack
The killing of civilians, particularly at events like the music concert in Israel, is haram, or forbidden, according to Islamic principles. The Quran (5:32) states, And those who kill [unjustly] shall not cease to be rewarded [in punishment] therein, while others kill out of ignorance... So whoever kills a believer intentionally - his rewards shall be Hell, wherein he shall abide eternally, and God has become angry with him.
Here, it is crucial to distinguish between lawful and unlawful jihad. The Naksa Battle of 1967 and subsequent defensive actions by the Israeli military, for example, are not identical to the unlawful acts committed by groups like Hamas. The former was a response to invasion and occupation, while latter involves purposeful killing of civilians, which is not permitted under Islamic law.
The Reality of Extremism
The reality is that evil people exist in every society, religion, and culture. Extremist actions committed in the name of religion are usually a result of misinterpretation of texts, marital or familial disputes, mental instability, or political ambitions. It is essential to separate individual acts of violence from the faith itself and understand that such acts misrepresent the teachings of Islam.
Understanding Militant Groups and Their Philosophy
Militant groups such as ISIS and similar organizations have their own ideologies shaped by a distorted understanding of Islam. They often misinterpret the historical context and the rules of engagement, leading to the unprotected killings of non-combatants. This is a far cry from the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who often warned of the consequences of killing innocent people.
For instance, the Prophet said: Whoever kills a Muslim who has a treaty with the Muslims, he shall never smell the fragrance of Paradise, though its fragrance can be smelt at a distance of forty years. (Bukhari)
The Prophet Muhammad would have condemned any form of violence against the innocent. His teachings emphasized justice, mercy, and peace. The acts of extremist groups do not reflect these values but rather a deviation from them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there are tragic and disturbing incidents of violence committed by individuals claiming to act in the name of Islam, it is essential to understand that these acts are a result of twisted interpretations and misunderstandings. The Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad uphold the sanctity of life, and any killing of the innocent is haram and forbidden. Misunderstandings and misrepresentations of the religion should not overshadow the true message of peace, mercy, and justice in Islam.