God says
And when those who believe in Our messages come to you, say “Salamun ‘Alaikum” (Peace be upon you) *…..Q.6:54
* The “peace” referred to in the above expression in 6:54 – which occurs many times in the Qur’an and has become the standard form of Muslim greeting – has a spiritual connotation comprising the concepts of ethical soundness, security from all that is evil and, therefore, freedom from all moral conflict and disquiet.
Islam literally means ‘peace’ and ‘complete submission (to God)’. Hence, maintenance of peace was assured and positive rules were set up for peaceful living. As for neighbours, for instance, The Law of Pre-emption or the Law of Neighbourhood gave right to a non-Muslim over a Muslim. (See topic 29. Duty to Neighbour in previous section). Neglect of peace with them was strictly prohibited by the Prophet of Islam who warned: “One whose neighbour is not safe from being troubled by him shall not enter paradise.” ‘He often stressed a believer’s moral obligation towards his neighbours whatever their faith.’ Even in war-time peace was never lost sight of as can be seen from the verses addressed to the Prophet.
But if they, (i.e., the enemies during war time,) incline to peace, incline thou to it as well, and place thy trust in God: verily He alone is all-hearing, all-knowing! And should they seek but to deceive thee [by their show of peace] – behold God is enough for thee! …. * Q.8: 61,62
* The implication is that “even if they offer peace only with a view to deceiving thee, this (offer of) peace must be accepted, since all judgment (of their intentions) must be based on outward evidence alone” (Razi): in other words, in Islam, mere suspicion cannot be made an excuse for rejecting an offer of peace by an enemy.
Prophet said
1. “A believer is he in whom mankind has an asylum for their lives and properties” -- H: Bukhari and Muslim. N: Abdullah-b-Amr.
2. “… Hence, whoever forsakes his brother (a Muslim) beyond three (days) and then dies shall enter the Fire.” – H: Abu Daud and Ahmed. N: Abu Hurairah.
3. “O people! Spread peace, give food, keep blood-connection, and perform (voluntary) prayer at night while others sleep; you will then enter paradise with peace.”
