Rationality and Peace in Islam

Some critics of religion argue that religion is a key factor in creating violence in communities due to its sanctification, dogmatism and irrationalism. This paper intends to review the status of rationalism in Islam and its impact on the behavior of the believers. In this connection, the finding of this paper show that Islam’s straightforward emphasis on rationality in understanding the religious beliefs and codes of conduct wipes away the ignorance and misunderstandings and retards any extremism resulting from misunderstandings in religious life. Moreover, the emphasis on rationality does not attribute to upholding wisdom only, rather, it is expected to remove obstacles to the rule of wisdom on human heart and mind – i.e. removing vices. The cause root of violence and enmity in many cases must be sought in whimsical tendencies of man and therefore, Islam’s double emphasis on removing obstacles to the rule of rationality practically guides human beings towards moderation, tolerance and mutual respect in everyday contacts with one another.