OFFSTONE JAN EDITION 2026

58 These dimensions are crucial for addressing the conflicts of our time and fostering mutual understanding in a globalised world. Islam at Heart Promotes Peace The word Islam is derived from the Arabic root s-l-m, which signifies peace, wholeness, and submission to God. Peace in Islam is not merely the absence of conflict or war; it refers to an all-encompassing state of peace between the individual, the community, and the divine. The Quran also promotes, in numerous passages, the values of justice, mercy, forgiveness, and reconciliation, which underpin sustainable peace-building. For instance, the Quranic injunction to “repel evil with what is better” foregrounds nonviolent action and moral virtue as pathways to social harmony Peace-building in the Islamic context operates at multiple levels. On a personal level, Islam emphasises one's peace of heart and submission to God, whose plan can be realised through good deeds. This internal change is considered a condition of social peace because only those who practice patience, humility, and fellow feeling can appropriately resolve human friction. At the community level, Islamic doctrine stresses social justice, equitable sharing of resources and care for the vulnerable, understanding that systemic injustice is often the root cause of violence. Institutions such as zakat (mandatory charity) and sadaqah (voluntary giving) are not simply acts of worship in Islam; they are instruments for alleviating inequality and social instability. Historically, in Islamic societies, there have also been mechanisms of mediation, arbitration, and reconciliation to address conflicts. Sulh (amicable settlement), for example, stresses reconciliation, compromise and relationships rather than retributive justice. These principles resonate strongly in contemporary peacebuilding approaches, in which restorative justice and community-based conflict management are emphasised. Today, numerous Muslim scholars, activists, and organisations are using these traditions to challenge radicalism, foster interfaith dialogue, and rebuild societies ravaged by conflict. The role of global communication is paramount in shaping the dominant understanding of Islam and its potential for peacebuilding at present. This is the era of digital media wherein stories leap from one side of the globe to the other, shaping perceptions and policies. Regrettably, the discourse on Islam has more often than not been characterised by otherization, caricature and sensationalism – especially in its discussion of violence and extremism. These representations obfuscate the actual experiences of most Muslims and