Towards the Role of Islamic Education in Promoting Peace and Harmony in a Society: An Analysis

Abstract

This paper mainly focuses on the role of religious education, particularly Islamic education in promoting peace and harmony in a society. The basic aim of religious education is to promote the obedience of Allah Almighty and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the form of true believers of Islam for a peaceful and harmonious society. Indeed, religious education lays down sound foundations for individual, family, and social life to produce good citizens in a society. This paper, however, reveals a real picture of the impacts of Islamic education on the development of peaceful masses and harmonious environment. Therefore, the role of Islamic education is being discussed with respect to, how to attain individual, family, and social peace. The study employs qualitative research methodology to find out the relevant verses of the Holy Qur’an and the traditions (Hadiths) of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The paper also addresses the misunderstandings and misconceptions about religious education that it leads towards extremism and terrorism. Overall, this study provides an insight into the significance of Islamic education for Muslim societies and its role in producing sound masses for the individual, family, and social life.