A Study on the Role of the Media and Its Effects on the Identity of Muslims (Part 27)
Psychological Warfare and Propaganda in Light of Quranic Verses
Psychological warfare, which is often referred to as the “war of nerves,” is more destructive than conventional military weapons; it requires special skills and expertise. This type of warfare does not rely on physical weapons but is conducted in a peaceful environment using propaganda tools. Psychological warfare is typically employed alongside military operations. In previous sections, some of the propaganda methods used in psychological warfare by disbelievers and their principles from the perspective of the Qur’an were discussed. This research will now explore the methods by which the Qur’an addresses the propaganda and psychological warfare of its opponents.
C. The Methods of the Qur’an in Dealing with Propaganda and Psychological Warfare of Opponents
1. An Invitation to Challenge:
The Prophet and the believers, confident in their truth, sometimes invite their enemies to “challenge” and engage in a cultural struggle. One notable instance involves the authenticity of the Qur’an. Allah says: “If you are in doubt about what We have revealed to Our servant (the Prophet), then bring a surah similar to it. And if you do not do this — which you will never be able to do — then fear the Fire, whose fuel is people and stones” (Al-Baqarah, verses 23-24).
Another example of this struggle is “Mubahela.” The Christians of Najran claimed that Jesus, peace be upon him, is the son of Allah. After recognizing the truth, they still argued with the Holy Prophet and avoided accepting it. Then the verse was revealed, “O Prophet, tell them: Let us call our sons and your sons, our women and your women, and ourselves and yourselves. Then let us pray earnestly and invoke the curse of Allah upon the liars” (Al-Imran, verse 61). When the preparations for Mubahela were made, the Christians of Najran understood the consequence of their stance and ultimately refused to participate, accepting the Jizya instead.
2. Strengthening the Spirits of Believers with Supernatural Help:
In the Battle of Badr, believers were significantly outnumbered and under-resourced compared to the disbelievers. Muslims sought Allah’s help in their struggle, and Allah sent a thousand angels to assist them for their comfort and peace of mind (Al-Anfal, verses 9-10). That night, a soothing sleep enveloped them. Rain fell from the sky, cleansing them of impurities and strengthening their hearts and resolve (Al-Anfal, verse 11). Allah instilled fear in the hearts of the unbelievers, encouraging the believers to fight with greater determination (Al-Anfal, verse 12).
3. Celebrating Divine Rituals:
Allah says, “Celebrating divine rituals is a sign of the piety of the heart” (Al-Hajj, verse 32). These rituals encompass the chapters of divine practice and public programs. Some examples of divine rituals in the Qur’an include the sacrifice of fat camels (Al-Hajj, verse 36) and the act of walking between Safa and Marwah (Al-Baqarah, verse 158). However, divine rituals extend beyond these examples. Celebrating religious ceremonies, particularly in a collective manner, serves as a form of propaganda in counteracting psychological warfare.
D. Prevention and Resistance of Believers Against Psychological Warfare of Enemies
1. Constant Attention to Cultural and Social Fields:
No method of psychological warfare can succeed in an inappropriate context. Cultural and social fields can be likened to a large protective umbrella. Every mistake and distraction creates a hole in it. The more errors and oversights occur, the more holes multiply, leading to a point where the protective umbrella can no longer shield us from enemy influence. If we neglect to teach religious beliefs to society, allow our words to diverge from our actions, or fail to engage the younger generation, each of these lapses inflicts a damaging blow on our collective defense. If public morality diverges from spirituality, even a protective umbrella for believers can no longer be sustained.
2. Emphasizing Solidarity and Harmony:
Islam strongly emphasizes unity and solidarity. This should not merely be seen as a slogan but as a strategy. If harmony within society falters, it is akin to the protective umbrella being torn. Should these inconsistencies escalate into confrontations, the umbrella will not just lose its protective power but may also become a source of harm. Several verses in the Qur’an emphasize this: “Allah loves those who fight in His cause, in a row, like solid walls” (As-Saff, verse 4). Through His support and by creating peace among the believers, Allah strengthens His Prophet, achieving a unity that spending all wealth could not accomplish (Al-Anfal, verse 63). Allah also describes believers as brothers (Al-Hujurat, verse 10).
3. Maintaining Readiness and Mobilization of Forces:
Readiness must encompass military, economic, political, and cultural dimensions, just as comprehensive preparation is essential in military contexts (Al-Anfal, verse 60). The Islamic society must be scientifically advanced enough to deter potential attackers.
4. Informing People About the Methods of Psychological Warfare:
It is crucial to inform people about the propaganda and psychological tactics used by the enemy so they can avoid being easily deceived. When the means and goals of such tactics are clarified, these methods lose their effectiveness. Thus, highlighting the ultimate distinction between faith and disbelief (As-Saff, verses 4-5) and cautioning against exaggeration in religious matters (An-Nisa, verse 171) serve as reminders to remain vigilant against Satan, who is a clear enemy of humanity (Yusuf, verse 5). This awareness is vital in preventing and fortifying individuals against the psychological warfare waged by enemies.
By admin2
