A framework for nonviolence and peacebuilding in Islam

Abstract

This article is an attempt to contribute to a theory of nonviolence and peacebuilding principles and values from an Islamic perspective and within an Islamic context. The objective of this article is not to defend Islam or offer an apologetic justification for the past use of violence in the Islamic “world,” but to actively promote peacebuilding and nonviolent strategies and values based on an indigenous Islamic religious context.

The first part discusses some of the assumptions that must attend any research addressing Islamic conflict resolution, nonviolence and peace. The second part reviews some of the research that has been done on Islam and nonviolence and peace. The third part focuses on the identification of Islamic values, stories and worldviews that support peacebuilding practices. It highlights the basic assumptions, principles, and values of nonviolent methods found in Islamic primary religious sources. The article concluded with a set of guiding principles that can function as a framework for the application of peacebuilding in the Islamic context; it also calls for further research to explore the reflection of these values in the daily lives of Muslims.