Islam Chapter 4: Peace and conflict - 4.4 Pacifism

Question 1

Pacifism

Answer 1

Pacifism: the belief that disputes should be settled peacefully and war and violence are always wrong

Question 2

Pacifist

Answer 2

Someone who does not believe in war

Question 3

Passive resistance

Answer 3

Non-violent opposition to authority, including civil disobedience or not cooperating with the government

Question 4

Sanctity of life

Answer 4

The belief that life is holy because it is God-given

Question 5

What is the earliest form of non-violence?

Answer 5

When Adam’s two sons Qabil (Cain) and Habil (Abel), had a disagreement. Both had offered. a sacrifice to God but only Habil’s offer was accepted, due to his righteousness. This angered Qabil, who wanted to kill Habil.

One said, “I will kill you,” but the other said, ‘If you raise your hand to kill me, I will not raise mine to kill you.’

Question 6

Absolute Pacifists

Answer 6

Absolute pacifists believe it is never right to participate in a war, even in self-
defence.

Question 7

Conditional Pacifists

Answer 7

Conditional pacifists believe that war is wrong, but fighting might sometimes
be necessary as a last resort.

Question 8

Selective Pacifists

Answer 8

Selective pacifists oppose wars that involve nuclear, chemical, or biological
weapons, due to their devastating effects.

Question 9

Active Pacifists

Answer 9

Active pacifists are involved in non-violent political action, such as
demonstrations, to condemn unjust laws or wars, and are committed to bringing about social change.

Question 10

Obedience to authority is an important Islamic Principle what does the Qur’an teach?

Are there certain conditions which change this ruling?

Answer 10

‘You who believe, obey God and the Messenger, and those in authority among you.’ Surah 4:59

If certain human rights such as freedom to worship are taken away, or Muslims are forced to act against their beliefs, then passive resistance is allowed.
This is because obedience to Allah and the Prophet come first.

Question 11

What is an example of passive resistance within Islam

Answer 11

When the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his followers suffered persecution and injustice in Mecca, they did not resist. They remained committed to non-violence until they had no option but to fight