Course: Fundamentals of Peace Schedule: MW (2:30-5:30), T

Education (11:30-1:30)

Section: B Instructor: Prof. Thamarah tol

Qalbi A. Muhadz, RN

What is Peace in General?

Peace is often defined as:

The absence of conflict or violence, and

The presence of harmony, justice, and well-being in relationships—whether personal,

social, or global.

It has two main dimensions:

1. Negative Peace – simply the absence of war or violence.

2. Positive Peace – the presence of conditions that support justice, equity, mutual respect,
and the fulfillment of human potential.

Key aspects of peace:

Inner peace: Mental and emotional calmness, resilience, and mindfulness.

Social peace: Stable and respectful relations within communities.

Political peace: Just governance, rule of law, and protection of rights.

Global peace: Cooperation among nations, diplomacy, and efforts to end war or
poverty.

Peace is not passive; it involves active efforts like:

Conflict resolution

Empathy and communication

Social justice

Forgiveness and reconciliation

Peace in the Islamic Perspective

Islam places tremendous emphasis on peace—the very word “Islam” shares a root
with “Salam”, which means peace.

1. Core Concept of Peace in Islam

Islam is often interpreted as “submission to the will of God (Allah)” that leads
to peace in both the individual and society.

Greeting of peace: Muslims greet each other with “As-Salaamu Alaikum”

(“Peace be upon you”), reflecting the centrality of peace in daily life.

2. Types of Peace in Islam

Inner peace (sakinah): Achieved through faith, prayer, remembrance of Allah,

and contentment with divine will.
 Social peace: Promoted through justice, compassion, charity (zakat), and
community responsibility.

Global peace: Encouraged through diplomacy, fairness in war (if unavoidable),

and the prohibition of aggression.

3. Qur’anic Teachings on Peace

“And Allah invites to the Home of Peace…” (Qur’an 10:25)

“If they incline to peace, then incline to it [also]…” (Qur’an 8:61)

“Do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just…” (Qur’an 5:8)

4. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Peace

He was known as a peacemaker, often negotiating treaties (e.g., Treaty of

Hudaybiyyah), encouraging forgiveness, and forbidding retaliation.

He said: “Shall I tell you something more excellent in degree than fasting, prayer,
and charity? It is putting things right between people.” (Hadith, Abu Dawood)

Summary Table

Aspect General View Islamic View

Absence of violence;
Submission to God that
Definition presence of harmony &
results in peace
justice
Mindfulness, self- Faith, remembrance (dhikr),
Inner Peace
awareness acceptance of Qadar (fate)
Justice, charity, compassion
Social Peace Respect, justice, inclusion
(rahma)
Conflict Reconciliation, forgiveness,
Dialogue, empathy, law
Resolution mutual consultation (shura)
Ultimate Flourishing societies & Attaining peace in this life
Goal individuals and the Hereafter (Jannah)

Activity Title: "Pathways to Peace"

Type: Group activity with reflection
Time Needed: 40–60 minutes
Materials: Manila paper, markers, sticky notes, Qur'an verses or excerpts (printed),
optional multimedia (video, quotes)

Objective

To understand different dimensions of peace (inner, social, global)

To reflect on Islamic teachings about peace

To foster discussion, empathy, and collaborative learning

Instructions

1. Peace Mapping (15 mins)

 Divide students into small groups (3–5 members).

Give each group a piece of manila paper and markers.

Ask them to draw a large circle labeled “Peace” in the center.

Around it, create three branches: “Inner Peace,” “Social Peace,” and “Peace in
Islam.”

Under each, they should write:

 What it means
 Examples in real life
 Barriers to achieving it
 Islamic quotes or teachings (you can provide sample texts)

 Encourage them to include personal insights, current events,

or even local/community issues.

2. Gallery Walk (10 mins)

Groups hang their posters on the wall.

Students walk around silently and place sticky notes on others' posters:

 something they found inspiring

 something they have a question about
 a connection to their own life or community

3. Open Dialogue (10–15 mins)

Return to seats and open a guided class discussion:

What did you learn from others?

Which aspect of peace is hardest to achieve—and why?

How do Islamic values align or challenge your current understanding of peace?

4. Personal Reflection (optional homework or final 10 mins)

Students answer:
“What does peace mean to me, and how can I contribute to it—in my own way?”
You can collect these as part of their Peace Education portfolio or journal.

Bonus Add-Ons

Show a short video (e.g., TED-Ed or Islamic values and peace)

Include a storytelling segment: invite a guest or use real-life accounts of

peacebuilders

Why Is Peace Education Significant in the

Curriculum?
1. ✅ Responds to Real-World Conflicts

 We live in a time marked by:

  Increasing violence, discrimination, and conflict—locally and globally
 Social and political polarization
 Youth exposure to digital aggression, fake news, and hate speech

Peace education provides students with tools to understand, question, and transform
these realities non-violently.

“If we are to reach real peace in the world… we shall have

to begin with the children.” – Mahatma Gandhi

2. Builds Critical Thinking and Conflict Resolution

Skills

Peace education teaches students:

 To analyze root causes of conflict (not just symptoms)

 To engage in dialogue instead of debate
 To develop nonviolent solutions
 To respond with empathy, not hostility

This cultivates a generation that can de-escalate, not escalate, tension—be it in

classrooms, communities, or future workplaces.

3. Promotes Social Justice and Human Rights

Peace education connects directly with:

Human dignity

Gender equality

Minority rights

Environmental stewardship

It aligns with UNESCO and UN Sustainable Development Goal 16: “Promote peaceful
and inclusive societies…”

4. Fosters Inner Peace and Emotional Intelligence

Many students today face:

 Anxiety
 Burnout
 Social pressure
 Peace education offers tools for:
 Self-awareness
 Mindfulness
 Emotional regulation
 Building positive relationships

This contributes to mental health and well-being, which are foundational to academic
and life success.

5. Makes Education More Holistic and Values-Based

Traditional education often emphasizes grades and output. Peace education adds:

 Character formation
 Ethical decision-making
 Civic responsibility
It asks not only what students know, but how they live and contribute to society.

6. Prepares Students for Global Citizenship

We’re not just educating future employees—we’re shaping citizens of the world. Peace
education equips learners to:

 Respect diversity
 Engage across cultures and faiths
 Participate in peacebuilding, activism, and social innovation

It also supports national goals like social cohesion, interfaith dialogue, and inclusive
development—particularly relevant in countries with historical conflict, such as the
Philippines.

Summary: Why Include Peace Education?

Reason Impact
Reduces school violence, bullying,
Addresses real social issues
extremism
Builds critical & emotional Conflict resolution, empathy,
skills mindfulness
Awareness of rights, respect for
Promotes justice and inclusion
diversity
Supports mental well-being Inner peace, self-regulation, hope
Aligns with global values & SDGs, UNESCO peace agenda, national
frameworks development

How Peace Education Supports Inner

Peace
Inner peace isn’t just a private emotional state—it’s a foundation for how students:

 Respond to conflict
 Handle stress and pressure
 Relate to others
 Make ethical choices

Peace education fosters inner peace by helping learners:

1. Understand Themselves Better

 Encourages self-reflection and self-knowledge

 Teaches students to ask: Who am I? What are my values? What triggers me?
 Builds emotional awareness—the first step to self-control and healing

When students know their inner world, they can manage it more
peacefully.

2. Manage Emotions and Reactions

 Teaches nonviolent communication and emotional regulation

 Uses tools like mindfulness, journaling, breathing, and quiet reflection
 Helps students develop resilience against anxiety, anger, or fear

This is crucial in an age of overstimulation and emotional burnout.

3. Replace Blame with Compassion

 Shifts students’ internal dialogue from judgment to understanding

 Cultivates empathy—not just for others, but for themselves
 Promotes forgiveness, including self-forgiveness, which is a key element of
healing

A peaceful inner life leads to more peaceful external

behavior.

4. Live With Purpose and Meaning

Peace education invites students to:

 Reflect on their role in the world

 Seek balance between personal success and service to others
 Understand that inner peace is tied to justice, not just meditation

It helps them discover peace not by escaping problems, but by facing them with
clarity, values, and courage.

Inner Peace in Islamic Peace Education

In the Islamic perspective, inner peace (sakinah) is a sign of a heart aligned with:

 Tawakkul (trust in Allah)

 Dhikr (remembrance of God)
 Sabr (patience) and shukr (gratitude)

Qur’an 13:28:“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.”

Thus, peace education can also help Muslim students integrate spiritual grounding with
daily realities—offering holistic peace: mind, body, heart, and soul.

Peace education is not just for solving wars.

It’s for helping young people quiet the wars within—so they can live with dignity, self-
respect, and direction.

Ways to Cultivate Inner Peace

1. Mindfulness and Presence

Being fully present in the moment without judgment.

Example: Deep breathing, mindful observation, body

scanning.

2. Self-Awareness and Reflection

Understanding one’s thoughts, feelings, triggers, and values.

Example: Journaling, guided self-reflection, emotion

mapping.

3. Forgiveness (Self & Others)

Letting go of guilt, shame, and grudges that disturb inner calm.

 Example: Writing a forgiveness letter (not necessarily
sent).

4. Gratitude Practice

Focusing on what’s going well rather than what's lacking.

Example: Gratitude jars, “Three Good Things” daily

listing.

5. Spiritual Connection

For many, faith or connection to something bigger than oneself brings deep peace.

Example: Prayer, scripture reading (like Qur'an

reflection), silence.

6. Acts of Kindness

Helping others with no expectation boosts inner peace and meaning.

Example: Kindness challenges, volunteering.

Classroom Activities to Explore Inner

Peace
1. 5-Minute Mindfulness (Daily Opener)

Guide students in 5 minutes of mindful breathing at the start of class.

Ask them to observe their breath and notice their thoughts gently, without
judgment.

Optional: Play soft ambient music or nature sounds in the background.

2. "Storms Inside Me" Journal

Ask: “What are the things that disturb your inner peace right now?”

Let students draw or write their “storm cloud.”

Then on another page, draw their “peaceful place”—what helps calm them?

End with sharing (if they choose) and optional partner reflection.

3. Gratitude Circle

Sit in a circle. Each student shares one thing they’re grateful for today.

Rule: No repeats; they must listen to each other.

The activity builds listening, positivity, and connection.

4. Letter to Myself

Prompt: “Write a letter to your future self who is struggling. What words would
bring peace?”
 Or: “Write an apology to your past self—for being too harsh, too afraid, etc.”

Keep private or submit anonymously for the teacher to return later.

5. Islamic Inner Peace Reflection

For Muslim students:

Provide verses from the Qur'an on sabr (patience), tawakkul (trust in God), or
dhikr (remembrance).

Let them choose one and reflect: How does this guide me toward peace today?

“Indeed, with hardship comes ease.” (Qur’an 94:6)

Optional Long-Term Project: Peace

Journal
Students maintain a weekly log of:

Stressors

Strategies they tried (e.g., breathing, walking, prayer)

Reflections on what helped or didn’t

Add quotes, doodles, verses, or prayers for calm.

The 7 Cs of Peacebuilding
Each “C” represents an essential quality of a peacemaker—someone who doesn’t just
want peace, but lives it and builds it.

1. Compassion

Definition: The ability to feel with others and respond with kindness.

A peacemaker practices empathy and care, especially for those who are suffering
or misunderstood.

It means listening without judgment and being moved to act.

“Peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of

compassion in conflict.”

2. Calmness

Definition: The ability to stay centered and composed in stressful or emotional situations.

Peacemakers manage their emotions, avoid escalation, and remain grounded

during conflict.

Calmness helps you to think clearly and respond wisely.

“Be still in the storm; your calmness becomes another’s

anchor.”

3. Courage
Definition: The strength to stand up for what is right, even when it’s difficult.

Peacebuilders often take risks—speaking against injustice, confronting bullying,

or challenging stereotypes.

Courage means choosing peace even when it's unpopular or dangerous.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) showed courage by

forgiving his enemies and calling for justice with mercy.

4. Critical Thinking

Definition: The ability to analyze situations deeply and make thoughtful choices.

Peacemakers don’t just react—they ask why conflict happens, and how it can be
resolved fairly.

They question bias, challenge fake news, and seek truth.

“Peace comes from understanding the roots, not just

cutting off the weeds.”

5. Communication

Definition: The skill of expressing yourself clearly, respectfully, and actively listening to
others.

A peaceful communicator:

Uses I-messages instead of blame

Listens to understand, not to argue

Seeks common ground instead of winning

“Say that which is better.” – Qur’an 17:53

6. Commitment to Justice

Definition: The willingness to stand up for fairness and equity in relationships, systems,
and society.

Peace without justice is fragile and false.

A real peacemaker seeks to include the marginalized, challenge oppression, and

build a just world.

“O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice…” –

Qur’an 4:135

7. Creativity

Definition: The ability to imagine and create new solutions, paths, or ways of relating.

Peacemakers think outside the box.

They create peace circles, restorative dialogues, storytelling projects, or even

peaceful art.

Creativity opens doors where conflict had closed them.

 Peace is not always found—it’s often designed.

Summary Table
C Peacemaker Quality
Compassion Empathy in action
Calmness Emotional regulation
Courage Standing up for peace & justice
Critical Thinking Understanding root causes
Communication Respectful dialogue
Commitment to
Advocacy and fairness
Justice
Nonviolent, innovative problem-
Creativity
solving

The Four Components of Peace

(Harmony-Based Model)
This model sees peace as living in harmony across four essential relationships—deeply
rooted in many spiritual, cultural, and philosophical traditions, including Islamic and
indigenous worldviews.

1. Harmony with Self

Also called Inner Peace

Involves self-awareness, emotional healing, self-acceptance, and personal

integrity.

When a person is at peace with themselves, they are less likely to harm others.

Practices include:

Mindfulness or prayer

Journaling or reflection

Letting go of guilt or shame

“Indeed, Allah does not change the condition of a people

until they change what is in themselves.” – Qur’an 13:11

2. Harmony with Others

Also known as Interpersonal Peace

Living in peace with family, friends, classmates, neighbors—even those we

disagree with.

Requires communication, empathy, respect, and conflict resolution.

Practices include:

Listening without judgment

Resolving misunderstandings
 Promoting cooperation over competition

“And speak to people good [words]…” – Qur’an 2:83

3. Harmony with Nature

Also called Environmental Peace

Recognizing that peace includes our relationship with the Earth and all living
things.

Caring for nature is seen not just as science—but as moral and spiritual
responsibility.

Practices include:

Reducing waste

Respecting animals and ecosystems

Advocating for climate justice

“And do not cause corruption upon the earth after its

reformation…” – Qur’an 7:56

4. Harmony with God (or a Higher Being)

Also called Spiritual Peace

Being in right relationship with one’s Creator, purpose, and moral compass.

For Muslims, it’s through submission to Allah’s will (Islam), prayer (salah), trust
(tawakkul), and remembrance (dhikr).

For others, it may mean aligning with values or a universal source of goodness.

Practices include:

Worship

Living according to values or faith

Trusting in divine guidance

“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find

peace.” – Qur’an 13:28

Comparison with the First Framework

Harmony-Based
Peace Education Framework
Model
Harmony with self Inner peace
Harmony with
Interpersonal peace
others
Harmony with
Environmental peace
nature
(Often implied or included as part of values or
Harmony with God
spiritual education)
 Final Thought
The "Harmony" model is more relational and spiritual, perfect for cultures that value
faith, community, and connection to nature—like many in the Philippines. It
beautifully complements modern peace education frameworks by adding a heart and
soul dimension to the more structural lens.

The Four Components of Peace

Peace isn’t just the absence of war—it’s made up of interconnected components that
affect both individuals and society. Here are the commonly recognized four:

1. Inner Peace

Personal, emotional, and spiritual harmony within oneself.

Involves self-awareness, self-acceptance, forgiveness, and emotional regulation.

Helps people stay calm and kind—even in conflict.

Why it matters:
You can’t give peace to others if you don’t have it within yourself.

“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find

peace.” – Qur’an 13:28

2. Interpersonal Peace

Harmony in relationships with others.

Includes communication, empathy, mutual respect, conflict resolution, and

forgiveness.

It’s about managing differences without aggression.

Why it matters:
Peaceful relationships build peaceful families, classrooms, and communities.

3. Social Peace

Justice, equity, and nonviolence within societies and systems.

Includes freedom from oppression, poverty, racism, gender violence, and

corruption.

Built through fair laws, human rights, and inclusive institutions.

Why it matters:
Without justice, peace is only temporary.

4. Environmental Peace
Respectful and sustainable relationship with nature.

Involves protecting the Earth, fighting climate change, reducing pollution, and
living in harmony with the environment.

Why it matters:
A damaged planet leads to displacement, disaster, and future conflict.

Culture of Peace (UNESCO Framework)

A Culture of Peace is a set of values, behaviors, and attitudes that reject violence and
aim to prevent conflict by addressing its root causes.

Originally defined by UNESCO, it’s a framework for building lasting peace through
education, justice, and respect.

Key Elements of a Culture of Peace:

1. Promoting peaceful values and education

2. Respect for all human rights
3. Gender equality
4. Democratic participation
5. Tolerance and solidarity
6. Sustainable development
7. Free flow of information
8. Disarmament and nonviolence

It is peace not just for people, but peace by people, through

everyday actions.

Visual Summary
Component Focus Practiced Through
Reflection, mindfulness,
Inner Peace Within the self
spirituality
Interpersonal Between Communication, empathy,
Peace individuals forgiveness
Social Peace Within society Justice, equity, access to rights
Environmental Between humans Sustainability, ecological care,
Peace and nature environmental justice

Why Teach These?

When students understand and practice these four components, they:

 Become more self-aware and emotionally resilient

 Build healthier relationships
 Engage with society more fairly and justly
 See themselves as part of a larger global and environmental story

Below is a comprehensive yet clear explanation of:

1. The Culture of Peace Framework (UNESCO)

2. The Flower Model of Peace Education
3. The Integral Model of Peace Education
4. The Pillars of Peace
1. Culture of Peace Framework (UNESCO)
The Culture of Peace is a global initiative defined by UNESCO in the late 1990s. It
moves beyond just preventing war—it promotes values, attitudes, and behaviors that
actively create peace in everyday life.

Eight Action Areas of a Culture of Peace:

1. Fostering a culture of peace through education

2. Promoting sustainable economic and social development
3. Promoting respect for all human rights
4. Ensuring equality between women and men
5. Fostering democratic participation
6. Advancing understanding, tolerance, and solidarity
7. Supporting participatory communication and free flow of information
8. Promoting international peace and security

In the classroom, this means teaching:

 Conflict resolution
 Human rights
 Global citizenship
 Tolerance of diversity
 Justice and inclusion

"Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men

that the defenses of peace must be constructed." – UNESCO
Constitution

2. Flower Model of Peace Education (Toh

& Floresca-Cawagas)
The Flower Model views peace education as a multi-dimensional, holistic approach. It
uses a flower with petals to represent different areas of learning for peace, all growing
from the same root.

Petals of the Peace Flower (also vary by source):

 Inner Peace – personal growth and well-being

 Social Peace – respect, justice, and equity
 Peace with Nature – sustainability and ecological awareness
 Cultural Solidarity – respect for diversity and intercultural dialogue
 Disarmament and Nonviolence – rejecting war, promoting reconciliation
 Human Rights Education – dignity, freedom, and legal protections
 Global Citizenship – understanding global systems and responsibilities

Root of the flower: Values like love, justice, compassion,

responsibility, and respect.

The idea is that peace must be cultivated in many

dimensions—like a flower needing sun, water, soil, and
care.

3. Integral Model of Peace Education

(Johan Galtung & others)
This model emphasizes that peace is interconnected and dynamic, not just about
"stopping conflict." It focuses on three core types of violence and their corresponding
solutions:

❗ Galtung’s "Violence Triangle":

 Direct Violence – physical harm or war

 Structural Violence – poverty, racism, injustice built into systems
 Cultural Violence – ideologies, language, or media that normalize violence

Integral Peace Education Responds With:

Peacebuilding – long-term social change

Peacemaking – negotiation, dialogue, mediation

Peacekeeping – stopping or containing direct violence

This model teaches students to analyze root causes of conflict—not just symptoms—and
to respond in nonviolent, transformative ways.

4. Pillars of Peace (Institute for

Economics & Peace)
These pillars were developed through global studies identifying what makes a society
truly peaceful. They are not just for education, but very relevant to teaching civic
values.

Eight Pillars of Peace:

1. Well-functioning government
2. Sound business environment
3. Equitable distribution of resources
4. Acceptance of the rights of others
5. Good relations with neighbors
6. Free flow of information
7. High levels of human capital (education, skills)
8. Low levels of corruption

In class, you can explore these by linking them to current events, community issues,
and human rights awareness.

Summary Table
Model Focus Use in Classrooms
Culture of Citizenship, gender
Global values for
Peace equality, rights, media
sustainable peace
(UNESCO) literacy
Holistic, heart-centered Inner peace, ecology,
Flower Model
peace across dimensions justice, cultural dialogue
Critical thinking, root
Structural analysis and
Integral Model causes of conflict,
systems thinking
nonviolence
Societal foundations for Governance, community
Pillars of Peace
peace action, research projects

Final Reflection
These models are not in competition—they’re complementary lenses. Together, they
help students:

 Think critically about injustice

 Feel personally connected to peace
 Act ethically and courageously in their communities

Galtung’s Violence Triangle Explained

Galtung’s model shows that violence doesn’t always come in the form of physical harm.
In fact, direct violence (what we often see in the news) is just the tip of the triangle.
Below it lie deeper, invisible forms of violence that keep the surface conflict alive.

The Three Sides of the Triangle:

1. Direct Violence (Visible)

The most obvious form—physical, verbal, or psychological harm done to a person or

group.

Examples:

War

Murder

Domestic abuse

Bullying

Torture

Police brutality

It’s what we typically think of as "violence."

2. Structural Violence (Invisible but systemic)

When people are prevented from meeting their basic needs due to social structures.

Examples:

Poverty and hunger

Unequal access to education or healthcare

Racism and caste systems

Gender pay gap

Inaccessible public services for persons with disabilities

It’s built into laws, institutions, or systems—not caused by

individuals, but by how society is organized.

3. Cultural Violence (Invisible and normalizing)

Ideas, language, symbols, and traditions that make direct or structural violence seem
acceptable or justified.

Examples:
 Saying “boys will be boys” to excuse aggression

Religious or political rhetoric justifying violence

Media that glorifies war

Stereotypes that dehumanize others (e.g., calling refugees “illegals”)

Slurs or jokes that reinforce discrimination

Cultural violence legitimizes the other two forms—it makes

people believe that violence is "natural" or "deserved."

Why This Triangle Matters

It helps students and teachers move from “Who is to blame?” to “What systems are at
play?”

It shows that peace is not just about stopping war, but transforming unfair systems and
beliefs.

It makes hidden violence visible, which is the first step in dismantling it.

Classroom Analogy
Think of the triangle like an iceberg:

The tip is direct violence—what you can see.

The massive base underwater is structural and cultural violence—what supports the
visible harm.

To stop the visible violence, you must address what’s beneath

the surface.

Suggested Class Activities

1. Violence Mapping
Give students scenarios (e.g., poverty in their community, school bullying,
discrimination). Ask:

What is the direct violence?

What are the structures supporting it?

What are the cultural beliefs making it seem okay?

2. Violence Triangle Reflection Journal

Prompt: Have you ever experienced or witnessed a type of violence that wasn’t
physical? How did it affect you or others?
3. Transforming the Triangle
Flip it: ask students to imagine a triangle of peace:

Direct Peace: Kind actions, peaceful dialogue

Structural Peace: Fair policies, equal access

Cultural Peace: Positive values, inclusive media

What is Jihad in Islam?
The Arabic word jihad comes from the root j-h-d, meaning “to strive” or “to struggle.”
So at its core, jihad means to struggle or strive in the path of Allah.

Jihad is NOT the same as “holy war.”

The term “holy war” comes from European history—not from Islamic sources.

The word “jihad” is never used in the Qur’an to mean terrorism or blind
violence.

Islam strictly forbids the killing of innocent people (Qur’an 5:32).

Types of Jihad in Islam

1. Jihad al-Nafs – Struggle against the self (the greatest
jihad)

The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬said:

“The best jihad is the struggle against your own soul
(nafs) in obedience to Allah.”
– Reported by Bayhaqi (noted in classical commentaries)

This is the internal struggle to:

Fight arrogance, laziness, temptation

Be honest, patient, humble, and consistent in faith

Stay disciplined in worship

2. Jihad bil-Qalam – Struggle through knowledge and

truth

Speaking or writing truthfully, especially when falsehood dominates

Teaching, advocating justice, countering ignorance

3. Jihad bil-Lisan – Struggle through words

Giving wise advice, correcting wrongs with compassion

Spreading peaceful da’wah (invitation to Islam)

4. Jihad bil-Mal – Striving with wealth

Donating for righteous causes

Supporting orphans, building schools, feeding the poor

5. Jihad bil-Sayf – Armed struggle (only in specific, just

conditions)

“Permission [to fight] is given to those who are being

fought because they were wronged…” – Qur’an 22:39
This form of jihad:

Must be defensive, never aggressive

Must protect civilians, property, and environment

Must be under proper authority—not individual or extremist groups

Must follow strict Islamic ethics of war

What Jihad Is Not:

It is not terrorism.

It is not suicide bombing.

It is not forced conversion (Qur’an 2:256 – “No compulsion in religion”).

It is not harming innocent people in any form.

Real-World Examples of Jihad Today:

A student struggling to stay focused and honest in school = jihad al-nafs

A teacher using her voice to promote peace and justice = jihad bil-lisan

A doctor volunteering in crisis zones = jihad bil-mal and nafs

A peaceful protestor demanding justice without violence = jihad for truth

Summary:
Jihad is the lifelong, sincere effort to live
righteously, defend justice, and stay true to Allah.
It is a noble struggle—not a violent one.

How Jihad Is Related to Peace in Islam

1. Jihad is the means—Peace is the goal

The purpose of jihad is not conflict—it is to remove the obstacles to peace:

Peace with yourself (by defeating the ego)

Peace with society (by resisting injustice

Peace with Allah (by obeying and trusting Him)

“O you who believe, enter into peace completely...” –

Qur’an 2:208

Jihad helps us earn and preserve this peace.

2. Inner Jihad Creates Inner Peace

When you battle your ego (nafs), your anger, jealousy, and impatience—
you start to feel a calmness, a clarity, a sense of balance.
This is inner peace, and it’s one of Islam’s most cherished aims.
 “Truly the one who purifies the soul succeeds...” – Qur’an
91:9

3. Social Jihad Builds Just and Peaceful Societies

True peace can’t exist where there is:

Oppression

Poverty

Racism

Corruption

Islam commands believers to strive against these forms of injustice—through words,

action, and resources. That’s jihad too.

“Stand firmly for justice…” – Qur’an 4:135

“Let there be a group who invites to good and forbids
evil…” – Qur’an 3:104

Without justice, peace is a lie.

Jihad is the bridge between Islamic ideals and real-world harmony.

4. When Armed Jihad Happens, It’s to Restore Peace

Even the military form of jihad is:

Only allowed in defense, never as aggression

Tightly regulated, preserving human rights

A last resort when peaceful options fail

The goal is to stop oppression, not to dominate.

“Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you—but do not

transgress. Indeed, Allah does not love transgressors.” –
Qur’an 2:190

In Summary:
Jihad is the active pursuit of peace—within the soul,
in society, and in the world.
It’s not about war. It’s about the courageous struggle to
create a world worthy of peace.

I. Common Concepts of Peace Across

Religions
Religion /
Core Peace Concept
Tradition
Peace through submission to Allah (Salaam); justice
Islam
as a path to harmony
Peace through love, grace, forgiveness (“Blessed are
Christianity
the peacemakers…”)
Religion /
Core Peace Concept
Tradition
Shalom = peace, wholeness, justice; repairing the
Judaism
world (Tikkun Olam)
Peace through inner stillness and compassion
Buddhism
(Ahimsa, non-harm)
Peace through right action (Dharma), nonviolence
Hinduism
(Ahimsa), and unity with all
Indigenous Harmony with nature, ancestors, community, and
traditions spiritual balance
Peace through service, equality, remembrance of God
Sikhism
(Waheguru)
Peace by flowing with nature’s order (Tao); balance
Taoism
and humility

II. Shared Universal Values in Peace

Teachings
1. Inner Peace as Foundation

Islam: “In the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest” – Qur’an 13:28

Christianity: “The peace of God, which transcends all understanding…” –

Philippians 4:7

Buddhism: Meditation and mindfulness as paths to inner peace

2. Justice and Compassion

Islam: “Allah commands justice and excellence…” – Qur’an 16:90

Christianity: “Let justice roll down like waters…” – Amos 5:24

Hinduism/Buddhism: Karma and dharma reflect the importance of right action

3. Nonviolence and Reconciliation

Islam: “Do not let hatred of a people prevent you from being just…” – Qur’an 5:8

Christianity: “Love your enemies… pray for those who persecute you.” –
Matthew 5:44

Jainism: Complete commitment to nonviolence (Ahimsa) in thought, word, and

deed

4. Harmony with Creation

Islam: “Do not cause corruption upon the Earth after its reformation…” – Qur’an
7:56

Indigenous beliefs: Spiritual kinship with nature, land, and animals

Taoism: Living in balance with Tao, the natural flow of the universe

5. Forgiveness and Mercy

Islam: “And whoever forgives and makes reconciliation—his reward is with

Allah.” – Qur’an 42:40
 Christianity: “Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13

Buddhism: Letting go of anger is essential to release suffering

What Unites All:

Despite differences in rituals or theology, nearly all traditions teach that:

Peace begins within

Justice and compassion are inseparable from true peace

Nonviolence is a moral strength

Forgiveness heals individuals and societies

Peace with creation and Creator is the highest goal

Peace, in all traditions, is not the absence of struggle—but

the presence of harmony.

Class Integration Idea:

You could organize a “Circle of Faith and Peace” activity where students:

Explore how different religions define peace

Compare values through quotes and teachings

Reflect on their own spiritual or ethical commitments to peace.