Why does Islam have the concept of jihad or holy war, which some use to justify violence and terrorism?
Islam and Peace Islam comes from the root word Salaam, which means peace. It also means submitting one’s will to Allah (swt). The word Salaam is also an attribute of God. In this context, it means The Giver of Peace’. Muslims greet each other with Assalaamu alaikum which translates to wishing peace for one another. Even when wronged, the Glorious Qur’an advises Muslims to struggle against the temptation for hostility: And not alike are the good and the evil. Repel (evil) with what is best, when lo! he between whom and you was enmity would be as if he were a warm friend… [Al-Qur’an 41:34] The Qur’an refers to Paradise as the abode of peace. Thus peace is a goal that Muslims are required to strive for, in their own selves, in their families and in their communities. It is ironical therefore, that Islam is perceived by many as being the motivation behind the wanton killing of innocent people. Definition of Jihad While Islam in general is misunderstood in the western world, perhaps no ot
