Primordial Goodness in Islam: A Path to Peace and Harmony

By Syed Asad, MD FACP, New Age Islam

18 October 2023

Islam, As A Monotheistic Abrahamic Faith, Teaches The Concept Of Primordial Goodness. This Concept Is Rooted In The Belief That Humans Are Created With An Innate Predisposition Toward Goodness, Guided By The Will Of The Creator.

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We must recognize primordial goodness to foster peace and harmony in a world often divided by religious, cultural, and ideological differences. Here are some practical steps and strategies to promote peace and harmony among people:

Islam, as a monotheistic Abrahamic faith, teaches the concept of primordial goodness. This concept is rooted in the belief that humans are created with an innate predisposition toward goodness, guided by the will of the Creator. In a world often fraught with division and conflict, understanding and embracing this concept can be a powerful tool for promoting peace and harmony. This essay will explore the idea of primordial goodness in Islam and discuss how it can foster unity and understanding among people of diverse backgrounds and beliefs.

In Islamic theology, the concept of primordial goodness is closely linked to the idea of Fitrah, which can be defined as the innate, natural disposition with which all human beings are created.

 The Quran refers to this concept when it states, "So direct your face toward the religion, inclining to truth. Adhere to the Fitrah of Allah upon which He has created [all] people" (Quran 30:30). This verse emphasizes that human beings are inherently inclined toward the truth and goodness.

Recognition of Human Dignity:

The concept of Fitrah recognizes the inherent dignity and worth of every human being. Acknowledging this makes individuals more likely to treat others with respect, compassion, and fairness.

Standard Ground:

Understanding that all humans share this primordial goodness offers a foundation for common ground. Recognizing this shared attribute can bridge divides and promote unity regardless of cultural or religious background.

Abraham Maslow: The Hierarchy of Needs( American Psychologist (1908-1970)

Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs provides another lens through which we can perceive the innate goodness in people. At the pinnacle of his hierarchy is self-actualization, representing the realization of one's full potential. This concept implies that individuals naturally aspire to be the best versions of themselves. Maslow's perspective emphasizes that pursuing goodness and self-improvement is not a luxury but an essential human drive. It is a testament to our inherent worth that we seek to transcend mere survival and strive for personal growth, creativity, and self-fulfilment.

Modern thinkers have provided compelling insights into the notion of innate goodness in people. A common thread emerges from Carl Rogers and his actualizing tendency to Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs and from Karen Horney's authentic self to the field of positive psychology. These thinkers assert that within us resides a wellspring of goodness and potential. Nurturing and harnessing this inherent goodness can lead to personal fulfilment, greater societal well-being, and a more compassionate and harmonious world. Embracing this perspective challenges, us to celebrate the best in ourselves and others, ultimately leading to a brighter future for humanity.

Tolerance and Acceptance:

Embracing the concept of primordial goodness encourages tolerance and acceptance of differences. When we see the goodness within each person, we are more likely to look beyond external distinctions and engage with others in a spirit of mutual respect.

Conflict Resolution:

 When disputes and conflicts arise, the belief in primordial goodness can serve as a reminder that, underlying disagreements and misunderstandings, there is a shared goodness that can be harnessed for conflict resolution and peace-making.

Interfaith Dialogue:

Primordial goodness provides a foundation for interfaith dialogue and cooperation. Recognizing the excellence inherent in all faith traditions allows for a deeper understanding of different beliefs and encourages collaboration for the common good.

Quran 30:30 is a powerful verse that invites us to contemplate the inherent goodness within each individual and encourages adherence to the Fitrah, the natural disposition inclined toward righteousness. This verse has profound implications for understanding human nature, unity among diverse communities, respect for human dignity, ethical conduct, personal responsibility, and interfaith cooperation. By embracing the wisdom of the Quran 30:30, we can cultivate a more harmonious and compassionate society guided by the recognition of the inherent goodness of humanity as a gift from the Divine Creator.

 

URL:    https://newageislam.com/islam-tolerance/primordial-goodness-islam-peace-harmony/d/130919

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