The paramount significance of reconciliation and peace accord in Islam
NEWS DIGEST–Islam is not a religion of ritual devotions and worships only, but teaches of the best methods to bring peace, tranquility and harmony between people. Therefore, as sinister as secret discussions could appear to be, Islam has recommended and made it permissible for people to strategize covertly when it comes to reconciliation between warring factions or individuals. Allah the Exalted said:
{لَا خَيْرَ فِي كَثِيرٍ مِنْ نَجْوَاهُمْ إِلَّا مَنْ أَمَرَ بِصَدَقَةٍ أَوْ مَعْرُوفٍ أَوْ إِصْلَاحٍ بَيْنَ النَّاسِ وَمَنْ يَفْعَلْ ذَلِكَ ابْتِغَاءَ مَرْضَاتِ اللَّهِ فَسَوْفَ نُؤْتِيهِ أَجْرًا عَظِيمًا } [النساء: 114]
“There is no good in most of their undisclosed discussions: except if one commands to a charity or a deed of good or reconciliation between people, and whoever will do that seeking the good pleasure of Allah, We shall soon give a great reward.”
Al-Baihaqy narrated that the prophet – peace be upon him- said: “I witnessed in the house of Abdullah bin Jud’aan a treaty I would not prefer that I have a group of precious camels instead of attending it, and also if I would be invited to it in islam I will answer the invitation” sunan 12859 – (6/ 367)
Because of this I felt obliged to witness and participate in the reconciliation meeting between the former president Olusegun Obasanjo and his vice president Abubakar Atiku on Thursday 11th of October 2018 at Abeokuta.
I sincerely hope and pray; this epic reconciliation will be a lesson for the whole nation to emulate.
Politicians should reconcile themselves, leadership is a burden and not a do or die affair.
There is no estimable value or a price tag too expensive for peace. We should encourage intra-political party, extra party, tribal, ethnic, regional and religious reconciliations based on justice, fairness, forgiveness and understanding. It’s a good deed and don’t be distracted by cynics.
May Allah bring peace, tranquility and prosperity to this nation. Amin.
