In the Name of Allah, The Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful
Praise is due to Allah, Lord of the worlds, may the blessings and peace be upon our master Muhammad, the last of Prophets, on his family, and all his companions.
Dear brothers and sisters! The International Day of Peace, also officially known as World Peace Day, is a United Nations-sanctioned holiday observed annually on 21 September. It is dedicated to world peace, and specifically the absence of war and violence, such as might be occasioned by a temporary ceasefire in a combat zone for humanitarian aid access. The day was first established in 1981 and first observed in September 1982 and is kept by many nations, political groups, military groups, and people.
To inaugurate the day, the United Nations Peace Bell is rung at UN Headquarters (in New York City). The bell is cast from coins donated by people from all continents except Africa, and was a gift from the United Nations Association of Japan, as “a reminder of the human cost of war”; the inscription on its side reads, “Long live absolute world peace.”
In recent years, a searchable map of events has been published at un.org.
Respected brothers and sisters! In Islam, peace is undeniably one of the greatest human needs. Peace is also a fundamental aspect of Islam. In fact, the word Islam means peace and submission. Allah the Most High says:
“Do good to others as Allah has done good to you, and do not seek corruption, and mischief in the land, for Allah does not love those who cause corruption and make mischief.” [Qur’an, 28:77]
“Peace is better.” [Qur’an, 4:128]
“And if they incline toward peace, then you too incline toward it, and put your trust in Allah. Indeed, He is the All-hearing, the All-knowing.” [Qur’an, 8: 61]
“…And settlement is best…” [Qur’an, 4:128]
The Qur’an calls its way “… The ways of peace …” [Qur’an, 5:16]
It describes reconciliation as the best policy (Qur’an, 4:128), and states that Allah hates any disturbance of peace (Qur’an, 2:205).
Similarly, Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) has observed:
“Allah grants to gentleness (Rifq) what He does not grant to violence (Unf).” [Sunan Abu Dawud]
Abu Hurairah reported: The Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) said:
“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak goodness or remain silent. Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him honour his neighbour. Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him honour his guest.” [Bukhari and Muslim]
And one of the ninety-nine names of Allah is Salam which means peace.
It’s clear our actions towards our fellow human beings can help maintain peace. It is critical we practice kindness, treat others with respect, speak gently, avoiding anger and violence – traits displayed by our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).
May Allah guide us in maintaining peace in our lives, blossom peace and kindness in the hearts of the troubled and help us live this life according to the virtues of our religion, ameen.
Fellow Muslims! As mentioned earlier, the International Day of Peace (or Peace Day) is observed around the world each year on 21 September. Established in 1981 by unanimous United Nations resolution 36/37, the General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to “commemorating and strengthening the ideals of peace both within and among all nations and peoples.”
Furthering the Day’s mission, the General Assembly augmented the original resolution in 2001, fixing the date on 21 September.
The Peace Day provides a globally shared date for all humanity to commit to Peace above all differences and to contribute to building a Culture of Peace.
Fellow Muslims! Islam promotes peace through divine commands to act humbly, be kind even to enemies, and forgive others, as highlighted in the Qur’anic verses like:
“When the ignorant address them harshly, they say words of peace.” [Qur’an, 25:63]
And:
“If they incline towards peace, then incline towards it [also].” [Qur’an, 8:61]
The Qur’an emphasises that believers are one brotherhood, urging peace and reconciliation (Qur’an, 49:2). Islam’s principle is peace, with war being a defensive measure, and the act of establishing peace and justice is a highly rewarded deed. Allah Almighty says:
“The servants of the Most Merciful are those who walk upon the earth humbly, and when the ignorant address them harshly, they say words of peace.” [Qur’an, 25:63]
“If they incline towards peace, then incline towards it [also] and rely upon Allah.” [Qur’an, 8:61]
“The Believers are but a single Brotherhood: So, make peace and reconciliation between your two (contending) brothers; and fear Allah, that you may receive Mercy.” [Qur’an, 49:2]
“For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful.” [Qur’an, 60:7]
The Qur’an encourages responding to evil with good, such as:
“Repel evil […] but something that is better (Ahsan) – that is with forgiveness and amnesty.” [Qur’an, 13:22]
“And had your Lord so willed, He could have surely made all human beings into one single community: but (He willed it otherwise and so) they continue to hold divergent views.” [Qur’an, 11:118]
Islamic teachings on peace require Muslims to actively put these principles into practice in their interactions.
There is a strong emphasis on making peace and reconciliation between people, especially during conflict.
Allah’s names, such as “As-Salam” (The Source of Peace), signify His perfection and the peaceful nature of Islam.
War is considered a last resort, defensive in nature, and strictly regulated, not an offensive practice.
Today, let’s all reflect on the importance of peace, unity, and understanding. Every small act of kindness counts in building a more harmonious world.
Wassalamu alaikum wa rahmatullah wa bara ka tuh
All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. Prayers, peace and mercy are upon our beloved master, Muhammad, the son of Abdullah (Peace be upon him), his family and Companions.
Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of Nagazi-Uvete Jumu’ah and the late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okene’s Mosques, Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. He can be reached via: gusauimam@gmail.com or +2348038289761 or +2348024192217.
