ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the work of several current scholars in this area and discusses the core Islamic values and principles of nonviolence identified by them. The centrality of peace in Islam is evident in the Qur’an's numerous references to peace. Positive peace, as affirmed by Islam, entails the use of nonviolent methods, a set of attitudes, actions, or behaviors intended to persuade the other side to change its opinions, perceptions, and actions. A closer examination of Islamic approaches to building a just and peaceful society reveals that in Islam there is a preference for nonviolent methods. Islam's preference of nonviolence is also evident in the Hadith tradition. Scholars such as Wahiduddin Khan point out that the greatest successes of Islam were achieved through nonviolence. Tawhid is thus the basis of Islamic universalism, tolerance, and inclusivity. The principle of ummah has been a powerful mechanism of social and political transformation and justice since the time of the Prophet.
