The Meaning of Islam
By Abidullah Ghazi
Skokie , Illinois
The essential meaning of Islam is peace and obedience to Allah, subhanahu wa t’ala. In other words, Islam represents a faith which is premised on man’s safety, security, and submission to Allah. A Muslim is one who chooses for him/herself this way of peace and resolves to obey the commandments of Allah. Accordingly, when Muslims meet one another they greet with “assalamu alaikum” (Arabic for ‘peace be upon you’). This greeting is returned by the listener in almost the same terms, “wa alaikum as-salam” (Arabic for ‘and upon you be peace also). In social life Muslims are concerned about salam and general welfare for all.
“As-Salam” is one of the ninety-nine most excellent names of Allah. He is the ultimate source of all peace, harmony and security. He gives us life, sustains us here and to Him, the ultimate source of peace, is our return. “Dar as-Salam” (The House of Peace) is one of the names of paradise. Our felicity consists in accepting the way of al-Islam for the pleasure of As-Salam, leading a life of salam and preparing to enter Dar-As-Salam, our eternal heavenly abode of peace.
Through its message, al-Qur’an, and by its true role model, the Prophet (S), Islam is characterized by peace and harmony. A true Muslim follows the way of peace prescribed by Islam; in his individual life he abides by Islamic teachings and in his collective life he seeks to establish and maintain peace and justice. For enjoying the fruits of the heavenly abode of peace in the next Life, he acts on Islam in this life. It is indeed strange that this distinct feature of Islam is little known among non-Muslims. The enemies of Islam are not blameworthy on this count. Rather, Muslims’ own inaction and misdeeds account for it.
All faiths instruct man in peace. Islam, however, provides an elaborate system operating at both individual and collective levels.
Some interpret peace in mere spiritual terms. They rule out the body from its scope. For others, peace consists in adhering to social laws and norms. They pay no heed to its spiritual essence. In our modern civilized society it is equated with the gratification of an individual’s desires; but after this material gratification one does not enjoy any spiritual peace and tranquility. Communism speaks of class war and workers’ revolution. Yet it deprives man of the love and guidance of the Creator. Islam alone presents a perfect way of peace encompassing both personal and social life. Apart from granting peace in this life, it promises peace and enjoyment in the Hereafter.
The way of peace in Islam has three aspects – ideological, spiritual, and practical. The first one is closely related to faith, of which the essence is monotheism. The affirmation that God is one, the only Creator, and is due everyone’s obedience is a radical concept. No ideology or revolution could ever challenge the radical message of Islam. Nor can any do so in the future.
Islam emphasizes that there is only one Creator of the universe; this understanding, in turn, indicates a single origin of all mankind, a single rallying point of monotheism and a single axis of rights and duties. Social justice and human rights naturally flow from this all-embracing concept of monotheism. The spiritual aspect of peace represents the affirmation of this concept by the heart. As monotheism is imbibed by a believer, he wants to see its manifestations not only in his own being but also in all fellow human beings. He experiences a close, cordial relationship with the Creator and all of His creatures. Accordingly he acts sincerely towards the whole of mankind. Once this spirit permeates collective life, a healthy, vibrant social order may be constructed.
If a virtuous person appreciates the philosophy of monotheism and adheres to it, he will transcend the narrow confines of his self and turn into an immense social power. However, the human mind has its limitations and power tends to express itself. If this power is subject to the regulations of a system, it may bring about radical changes. However, in its unbridled form it may result in destruction and devastation. It is therefore imperative that power be channeled properly. It should be oriented to a way which may benefit all humankind and meet individual, family, and collective needs. Islam seeks to guide individuals, institutions, and society in the above manner.
Only monotheism can equip man with such an all-embracing thought. Monotheism stands also for gaining the gnosis of the Almighty, Who invests life with meaning. Divine revelation is the source of such guidance. Since the very beginning, revelation has provided man with intellectual content, spiritual solace, and social justice. Islam is synonymous with this revelation. Thus Islam is not specific to any particular community, class or country. Rather, it signifies the way of life which the Creator of the universe has prescribed at various points of time in history for the guidance and security of His servants. The same message in its final and perfect form was transmitted to mankind through the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The Qur’an stands out as the final unalterable Word of Allah/God. The Prophet’s life demonstrates the essence of the Qur’an. Likewise, the society created by him in Madina, is its practical, concrete manifestation.
Allah has made peace and safety inherently dear to us. Whoever recognizes his true self is drawn towards Islam. This faith enables him to accomplish what he naturally seeks.
Allah has promised the security of Islam. State, government, power and authority are not essential for its survival. We need not participate in processions or hold meetings or go on strikes for its defense. We have the eternal message of the Qur’an. We should emulate the Prophet’s example and that of his Companions, for the latter were characterized with sound faith and good deeds. Islam is valid for every milieu, season, territory, age, and for every human being. In the words of Iqbal, Islam is not confined to any specific context. Its eternal message blossoms at every time and place.
