Islam and Peace
Social Aspect of Islamic Mysticism
~ 82 ~
Islamic mysticism elevates people. It makes them
think spiritually rather than materially. This
spiritual elevation generates tolerance. People feel
good about forgiving others. They eschew taking
revenge. They return love for hatred. This kind of
temperament is bound to establish peace and
mutual respect. In this way, Islamic mysticism, in
the practical sense, is the key to a good and peaceful
society.
Now I should like to say a few words about prayer
and meditation. Let me begin with a quotation from
the Qur’an:
“When My servants question you about Me, tell
them that I am near. I answer the prayer of the
suppliant when he calls to Me; therefore, let them
answer My call and put their trust in Me, that they
may be rightly guided (2:186).
This verse of the Qur’an tells us that, in Islam, there
is no need for any intermediary to establish contact
between God and man. At any time and place man
can contact God directly. The only condition is that
man should turn to God with sincere devotion.
