Peace is essential in both Christianity and Islam. It represents a state of calm and harmony, vital for personal and global well-being. Both religions have always highlighted the importance of peace to prevent conflicts and solve disputes.

Peace in Christianity

Christians follow the teachings of God and Jesus to achieve inner and world peace. The New Testament, centered on Jesus' teachings, emphasizes harmony and forgiveness as keys to inner peace, impacting the world positively.
Two types of peace are explored in the New Testament:

1. Objective Peace – This refers to a person's relationship with God. Christians believe that humans are on Earth due to the Original Sin by Adam and Eve. Jesus saved mankind and restored peace with God (Romans 5:10).
2. Subjective Peace – This is about one’s personal experiences. In John 14:27, Jesus speaks about having a peaceful heart and soul, leading to a positive life.

Jesus is seen as the eternal peace, bridging the gap between humanity and God. Christians are encouraged to live at peace with all (Romans 12:18), underlining forgiveness and non-violence.

Peace in Islam

In Islam, a Muslim is someone who submits to God, finding peace within themselves and their surroundings. Islamic teachings, mainly drawn from the Quran and Prophet Muhammad's Hadiths, stress the significance of peace.
The Quran advises Muslims to make peace with one another (Quran 49:10). The Five Pillars of Islam also contribute to peace:

1. Shahada (Faith) – Declaring belief in God and Muhammad as His messenger brings peace to the heart (Quran 13:28).
2. Salah (Prayer) – Performed five times daily, this practice builds a strong bond with God, fostering inner peace.
3. Zakat (Charity) – Giving 2.5% of annual income to charity aids inner purification and promotes social and economic justice (Hadith - Tirmidhi #626).

Islam encourages Taqwa (God consciousness), with rituals of prayer and charity helping believers steer clear of worldly possessions to achieve inner peace.

Prayer as a Source of Peace in Christianity

Prayer is fundamental in Christianity. It involves connecting with God through thanking, asking for forgiveness, and praising Him. Meditation or contemplation helps many Christians reach higher spiritual levels and attain peace.
Public worship, including preaching, Bible reading, and music, helps Christians come together and feel at ease. This shared experience, especially Holy Communion, deepens their understanding of Christian teachings and Jesus' life, enhancing their inner peace.

The Six Pillars of Iman as a Source of Peace in Islam

The six articles of faith, or the six pillars of Iman (Faith), guide Muslims in achieving inner peace:

1. Tawhid (Belief in God) – Acknowledging there's no God but Allah reassures Muslims of having a purpose and seeking refuge in God during difficulties (Quran 2:163).
2. Belief in Angels – Knowing that angels are always present, recording deeds, helps Muslims strive to do good.
3. Belief in Messengers and Holy Books – Following the prophet’s teachings and reciting the Quran provides tranquility and ethical guidance (Quran 21:25).
4. Belief in the Hereafter – The concept of an afterlife rewards perseverance despite difficulties (Quran 2:201).
5. Belief in Fate or Predestination – Trusting that all events unfold according to God's plan helps Muslims endure challenges patiently, aiming for rewards in the Hereafter.
   

World Peace in Christianity

Once inner peace is attained, Christians influence others through actions reflecting Jesus’ Commandment of Love. Jesus' sacrifice is a cornerstone, bringing salvation and a promise of heaven.
The New Testament teaches love and forgiveness, essential for world peace. Passages like Matthew 22:39 and Mark 12:31 stress loving oneself, God, and neighbors, fostering equality and minimizing conflicts through faithful obedience.

World Peace in Islam

Muslims with inner peace guide others towards world peace. Prophet Muhammad emphasized that peace among people is more fundamental than fasting or charity (Hadith - Ibn Majah #3694).
Greeting others with “Asalam Alaikum” (peace be upon you) spreads peace within the community. The Quran teaches that overcoming personal desires and actively worshiping God leads to salvation (Quran 9:20), promoting peace in the world.

Shared Emphasis on Peace

Both Christianity and Islam advocate for peace through compassion, kindness, empathy, patience, perseverance, and respect. Believers in both religions strive to live by their sacred texts and role models, achieving inner peace before working towards world peace.

Conclusion

Peace is a driving force for Christians and Muslims alike, bringing them serenity and calmness through God's teachings. By implementing these teachings in daily life, they aim to create a harmonious world.

Other Related Articles:

Pathways Of Belief: Islam
Pathways Of Belief: Christianity

Other /Related Exercises:

Islam: A Islamic Prayer
Christianity: A Christian Prayer
Spiritual Pathways: Islamic Faith
Spiritual Pathways: Christian Faith