Was the Spread of Islam Driven by the Sword or Peaceful Means?

Today, many non-Muslims believe that Islam's global spread is primarily attributable to a holy campaign orchestrated by early Muslims aimed at converting non-Muslims. This widespread misunderstanding is largely rooted in a significant lack of knowledge and awareness regarding the rich and complex history of Islam. In reality, a comprehensive examination of historical events reveals that Islam was not driven by the sword, rather it spread through a myriad of means, including trade, cultural exchange, and peaceful dialogue, rather than through the forceful imposition of beliefs as some may assume.

A notable example that exemplifies this peaceful spread is the conquest of Jerusalem in 638 C.E. during the reign of Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab (May Allah be pleased with him). This pivotal event is renowned for its remarkably peaceful nature, a stark contrast to many historical conquests characterized by violence and bloodshed. Caliph Umar entered the city on foot, a gesture that symbolized humility and respect for the sacredness of the city, which holds significant religious importance for Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. There was no bloodshed, no massacres, and no forced conversions during this event. The terms of surrender allowed those who wished to leave the city to do so with their possessions, while those who chose to remain were granted protection for their lives, properties, and places of worship. This historical moment stands in stark contrast to the later actions of the Crusaders in Jerusalem, who exhibited a far different approach.

Years later, when the illustrious leader Salahuddin Ayyubi recaptured the city, he continued this tradition of respect and tolerance. The Christian residents were again granted protection, and the Muslim Army ensured that they were safely escorted out of the city if they chose to leave. Yet, despite these historical realities, some still perpetuate the narrative that Islam is a cruel and intolerant religion.

Another significant example of Islam's peaceful expansion can be observed during the nearly eight centuries of Muslim presence in Southern Spain, known as Al-Andalus. During this golden age, Christians and Jews flourished alongside Muslims, with their rights and beliefs respected. Many individuals from these communities held influential positions within the court, contributing to a vibrant and diverse society. Christians maintained their bishops, churches, and monasteries, and were judged by their own laws in matters concerning their community. This coexistence and mutual respect starkly contrast with the actions of the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella when they reconquered Southern Spain. Upon their return, they first targeted the Qurtuba Mosque, entering it on horseback, a symbol of disrespect. They forcibly converted all Muslims and Jews, with King Ferdinand boasting, "there are neither any Muslims nor unbelievers left in Spain." This act of intolerance and coercion stands in direct opposition to the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), who emphasized the protection of non-Muslims, ensuring they had equal rights and the freedom to practice their religion without fear of persecution.

Furthermore, this commitment to protection and coexistence was honored for centuries across the Muslim world. For instance, in 642 C.E., when General Amr ibn Al-Aas entered Egypt, he built Africa's first mosque in Cairo and underscored the importance of safeguarding Christian rights, further exemplifying the principles of justice and respect that are integral to Islamic teachings.

Clearly, the historical evidence suggests that Islam spread not by force, but rather through the compelling power of truth, reason, and logic. The notion that force was a primary driver of Islam's expansion is fundamentally flawed.

Mahatma Gandhi states: The more I study, the more I realize Islam's strength does not lie in the sword. This assertion highlights the essence of Islam's appeal, which is rooted in its ethical teachings and the integrity of its followers.

Today, Indonesia stands as the world's most populous Muslim country, home to approximately 240 million Muslims. Historical records indicate that no Muslim army ever ventured to Indonesia; instead, Islam arrived through the efforts of merchants. The honesty, integrity, and ethical conduct of these early Muslim traders left a profound impression on the local populace, leading many to embrace Islam voluntarily and wholeheartedly.

Similarly, in East Africa, Islam spread rapidly without any military intervention. The influence of trade, intermarriage, and cultural exchange facilitated the peaceful introduction of Islamic beliefs and practices, further illustrating the non-coercive nature of Islam's expansion.

Current statistics indicate that Islam is the fastest-growing religion in America and Europe, with no Muslim army involved in this growth. The only "sword" that Muslims possess is the sword of truth, which has been instrumental in converting thousands to Islam through understanding and dialogue.

An article in the Reader's Digest Almanac yearbook from 1986 revealed that between 1934 and 1984, Islam's growth rate was an astounding 235%, compared to Christianity's 47%. During this period, there was "no Islamic conquest," yet Islam flourished and expanded rapidly, demonstrating the effectiveness of peaceful outreach and the appeal of its message.

A BBC News blog article reported that research conducted by the Pew Forum Research Centre from 2010 to 2020 showed that Islam grew by an impressive 347 million individuals within a single decade. Notably, during these years, no Muslim army was deployed for conversions, further reinforcing the argument against the notion that Islam spread through coercion.

Therefore, it is illogical to maintain the belief that Islam spread by force. Force may conquer the body, but it cannot conquer the spirit. While it is possible to subdue individuals or entire communities through force, true conviction and belief cannot be instilled through coercion; they must come from a place of understanding and acceptance.

Factors contributing to the spread of Islam.

The question arises: What factors contributed to the spread of Islam and continue to do so in contemporary society? Among the many reasons, one of the most significant factors is the exemplary lifestyles of Muslims and their relentless efforts to share the message of Islam with the world. This commitment to embodying Islamic principles in daily life is at the heart of Islam's conquest of hearts and minds. The universalism inherent in Islam aligns with the principle of Amr bil al ma'ruf, which emphasizes enjoining good and promoting moral and ethical behavior. This principle aims to convey Islam's message to all of humanity and establish a model community that exemplifies Islamic values to the world.

Muslims, both individually and collectively as a community, have specific goals that guide their actions: communicating the essence of Islam to others, conveying the truth about their beliefs, striving to prevent oppression and tyranny, and living lives that serve as a testament to the moral and ethical values of Islam. Thus, the moral teachings and ethical framework of Islam have played a pivotal role in its spread and acceptance across diverse cultures and societies.

Moreover, the principles of Islam are consistent and cohesive, devoid of contradictions, and resonate with established truths. For instance, Islam teaches that Allah (God) does not hold individuals accountable for the actions of their ancestors, nor does He condemn humanity for sins committed prior to the existence of any human generation. Instead, Islam posits that every human being is born pure and sinless, and it is only upon reaching adulthood that they may choose to commit sin.

Professor Hodgson elucidates this point by stating:

"Muslims made a personal appeal to people's religious consciousness through straightforward argument, often highlighting Islam's clarity. They ridiculed, in the name of intellectual good sense, the more convoluted teachings of older traditions. This straightforwardness appealed to those dissatisfied with taking things on faith from priests whose mysteries they could not grasp. A single creator to be worshipped individually, based on revelations given to a renowned prophet already acknowledged by millions? This was both intelligible and plausible."

Thus, the historical evidence, coupled with the moral and ethical teachings of Islam, underscores the reality that the religion spread through understanding, respect, and the genuine desire to share the truth with others. This approach not only facilitated the growth of Islam but also fostered a sense of community and belonging among its followers, creating a legacy that continues to thrive in the modern world.