September 21 – The International Day of Peace: Islam’s Enduring Message of Justice and Mercy

The International Day of Peace, observed annually on September 21, is a powerful reminder of the urgent global need to end wars, foster dialogue, and build a world grounded in justice, dignity, and coexistence. For us at I.M.A.M. Organization, this day is not merely a symbolic event — it reflects the core values of Islam and the guidance of the Ahl al-Bayt (AS). The proposed theme for 2025, “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” calls upon humanity to transform words into action, echoing Islam’s teaching that true peace requires justice, responsibility, and moral courage.

God the Almighty says in the Holy Quran, “And if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also]” (8:61). And in another verse, “And reconciliation is best” (4:128). Furthermore, the Quran teaches the sanctity of human life in the most powerful terms, “Whoever kills a soul—unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land—it is as if he had slain all of mankind. And whoever saves one life—it is as if he had saved all of mankind” (5:32).

This verse upholds the universal dignity of every human being, regardless of their background. It calls us to deeply reconsider the consequences of war—where thousands of innocent lives are lost—and to reject violence as a means of resolving conflict. When the unjust killing of one person is seen as the killing of all humanity, how can we accept wars that annihilate entire families and cities?

From the perspective of the Ahl al-Bayt (peace be upon them), peace must be rooted in justice to be meaningful and lasting. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) said, “Justice is a protective shield and an everlasting paradise” (Awali al-Laʾali, vol. 1, p. 293, hadith 177).

Imam Ali (AS) also stated, “Justice is the foundation upon which the world stands”(Matalib al-Su’l, p. 61).

And he further said,  “Justice is the stability of the community and the beauty of rulers.” (Amidi, Abd al-Wahid. Ghurar al-ḥikam wa durar al-kalim, vol. 1, p. 340, ḥadith no. 7757.)

These timeless teachings establish a direct relationship between justice and peace. A world lacking justice cannot sustain genuine peace—it will remain fragile and prone to collapse.

Today, armed conflicts rage in many parts of the world—from Gaza and Sudan to Yemen and Ukraine, and from Myanmar to Afghanistan. Millions have been displaced. Entire infrastructures lie in ruins. Generations of innocent people are paying the price for unjust policies and unchecked aggression.

We at I.M.A.M. Organization call upon the warmongers of the world: pause your weapons for a moment.

Let the guns fall silent, if only briefly, so that the voice of your own conscience may be heard…
So that the cries of grieving mothers, orphaned children, and oppressed nations may reach your hearts…
So that the voices of peacemakers may not be drowned in the chaos of destruction.

The International Day of Peace is an opportunity to affirm that in Islam, working for peace is a sacred duty. Guided by the Quran and the Ahl al-Bayt (p), we are committed to:

• Promoting interfaith dialogue and mutual respect,
• Supporting refugees and victims of war and oppression,
• Educating the youth in the ethics of peace and justice,
• And forcefully rejecting all forms of extremism and violence.

For us, peace is not just an ideal. It is a religious and moral obligation, rooted in our love for humanity and submission to the will of God. 

We end with a heartfelt prayer- O God, guide humanity toward justice and coexistence; soften hardened hearts; and count us among those who walk the path of peace, inspired by the Prophet of Mercy, Muhammad (pbuh&hp), and his purified household.