Introduction: Islam offers numerous strategies to achieve security, enabling individuals to ensure their own safety as well as the security of the society in which they live. Below, we outline some of the means and methods through which security can be realized.
Ways to Achieve Security from the Perspective of Islam:
One of the longstanding aspirations of humanity is the attainment of security and peace in life. Security is so vital that every individual in society yearns for it and sincerely wishes to live in a place where the blessing of security is present. Life without security is immensely difficult, harsh, and unbearable. Education, business, investment, trade, and research cannot flourish in an environment lacking security.
The Almighty Allah, in numerous instances in the Holy Qur’an, refers to security as a blessing granted to His servants. Therefore, people must strive to attain this great blessing by following the correct paths that lead to it, ultimately achieving profound success.
One of the most significant challenges for human societies in ensuring security is determining the appropriate method to establish a foundation for security, or, in modern terms, achieving sustainable security. In other words, how can security be transformed from a theoretical concept into practical reality? How can it be realized in both individual and social spheres, institutionalized, and lead to a society where individuals feel secure in their private and public lives as well as in their interactions with others?
The Most Important Factors Contributing to Security in an Islamic Society:
1. Faith in Almighty Allah:
Faith, linguistically derived from the root word “amn” (security), carries various meanings, including belief, safety, submission, and acceptance. The faith of believers, the righteous deeds of the pious, and the knowledge of Muslims are among the most crucial sources of enduring security in Islam.
Religion significantly contributes to securing human life by strengthening the concept of “trust in Allah,” thereby reducing feelings of helplessness. When individuals perceive Allah as the provider for all their needs, they feel a greater sense of security because Allah serves as a source of safety and peace for His servants.
The foundation of security in both this world and the hereafter lies in faith in Allah and righteous deeds. This concept is emphasized by the Almighty Allah in numerous Qur’anic verses.
Even a linguistic analysis of the term “faith” reveals its connection to security. Faith implies safety, tranquility, peace, and trust. The greater an individual’s faith, the greater their sense of security. Regarding this, the Almighty Allah states: «فأي الفريقين أحق بالأمن إن كنتم تعلمون الذين آمنوا ولم يلبسوا إيمانهم بظلم أؤلئك لهم الأمن وهم مهتدون» (So if you know which of these two groups is more deserving of security, it is those who believe and do not mix their belief with injustice; they are the ones who have security and are rightly guided.)
Another important factor that contributes to achieving security in Islamic society is the implementation of Islamic law. The Islamic community is obliged to preserve its religion, which is the most important aspect of Muslim life. With the advent of religion in people’s lives, dramatic changes occur in their work and daily activities. The religion of Islam invites its followers to engage in good, worthy, and appropriate deeds while preventing actions that disrupt security, peace, and comfort.
The implementation of Islamic law and adherence to the instructions that Allah has provided for the betterment of humanity is the best solution for achieving security in society. Applying Shari’a means that the governing authorities or forces should follow the divine method and continuously work to prevent wrongdoing and create a safe and secure environment. The authorities should strive to align human lives with divine principles and implement the rules and laws of Islam.
One feature of Islamic law is that its implementation cultivates a sense of security and confidence in human life. Security in Islamic law is established by consulting, repenting, emigrating, and striving (jihad) against disbelief, relying on Allah, and adhering to His commands. All the tenets of Islam promote security, comfort, and confidence in life and the hereafter, while neglecting the remembrance of Allah can lead to true fear and anxiety. This is something that Allah Almighty reminds us of in His beautiful words: «ألا بذکر الله تطمئن القلوب» (Know that hearts find rest in the remembrance of Allah.)