What is Islam and why is Islam called a religion of peace?

Islam is a major world religion founded in the 7th century CE by the Prophet Muhammad in the Arabian Peninsula. It is based on the teachings of the Islamic holy book, the Qur'an, as well as the Hadith, which are the recorded sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad.

Islam is often referred to as a religion of peace due to its teachings and principles. The word "Islam" itself is derived from the Arabic word for peace, "salaam." The concept of peace is central to Islamic teachings, and Muslims are encouraged to cultivate peace in their personal lives, relationships, and interactions with others.

There are several reasons why Islam is called a religion of peace:

1. Submission to God: The word "Islam" also means submission or surrender to the will of God. Muslims believe that by surrendering to God and following His guidance, they can attain inner peace and harmony.

2. Non-violence: Islam emphasizes non-violence and condemns aggression and the unjust taking of life. The Qur'an states, "Whoever kills a person, it is as if he has killed all of humanity, and whoever saves a life, it is as if he has saved all of humanity" (Qur'an 5:32). Muslims are encouraged to resolve conflicts peacefully and promote justice.

3. Compassion and Mercy: Islam teaches compassion, kindness, and mercy towards all living beings. Muslims are instructed to show empathy, help those in need, and treat others with fairness and respect.

4. Preservation of Life and Creation: Muslims are taught to value and protect all forms of life. The Qur'an highlights the sanctity of life and the responsibility of humans to be stewards of the Earth. Environmental sustainability and conservation are important principles in Islamic teachings.

5. Peaceful Coexistence: Islam promotes peaceful coexistence and encourages Muslims to build bridges of understanding and cooperation with people of other faiths and cultures. The Qur'an emphasizes the need for dialogue and mutual respect among different communities.

While Islam upholds peace as a core value, it is essential to note that there have been instances where individuals or groups have misused religious teachings for political or ideological purposes, leading to conflicts and violence. However, these actions do not reflect the true teachings of Islam, just as similar actions in other religions do not represent the core principles of those religions.

It is important to approach the study of any religion with an open mind, seeking knowledge from diverse sources and engaging in respectful dialogue to gain a comprehensive understanding of its beliefs and practices.