Make peace between your brothers [49:10]

In verse 10 of Chapter 49, Surah Al-Hujarat, the Quran says:

إِنَّمَا الْمُؤْمِنُونَ إِخْوَةٌ فَأَصْلِحُوا بَيْنَ أَخَوَيْكُمْ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ

"The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy." Surah Al-Hujurat (49:10)

This verse was revealed after the battle of Badr when Muslims had differences between themselves regarding the splitting of war booty. It is one of the most significant in the Quran regarding the structure of the Muslim community (ummah) and its emphasis on unity and reconciliation. Islam does not merely describe believers as friends or associates—it defines them as spiritual siblings, bound by faith, regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, or geography.

The Prophet Muhammad (saw) reinforced this concept, saying: "The believers are like a single structure, each part supporting the other."

Just as a family thrives when its members avoid grudges and resentment, the Muslim community flourishes when we resolve disputes, build bridges of understanding and foster peace. Differences are inevitable, but the bond of faith demands that we do not let them escalate into division or hostility.

Conflict resolution as an act of worship

In any close relationship—whether within families, friendships, or the broader Muslim community—disagreements will inevitably arise. It is to be expected.

The Quran does not just ask us to manage our own disagreements and disputes; it calls us to be peacemakers for others. When we act as peacemakers and are God conscious, it attracts Allah's mercy on us. Peacemaking is so important that in Islamic communities in the past, resources from the public treasury could be used to settle disputes.

When conflicts arise amongst friends, colleagues or community members, it is easy to take sides, gossip, or ignore the issue altogether, but Islam teaches that an active role in reconciliation is an act of devotion.

Imam Ali (as) beautifully emphasized this in his final will: "I have heard your grandfather, the Prophet of Allah, say: To reconcile differences between people is better than much recommended acts of worship." (Nahjul Balāgha, Letter 47)

Imam Sadiq (as) also highlights this as one of the most beloved deeds to Allah: "A charity that Allah loves is reconciling people when their relationships are spoiled and bringing them closer when they have become distant from each other."

The psychological & spiritual benefits of unity

Modern psychology affirms that belonging and social connection are fundamental human needs. Research shows that when people feel disconnected or in conflict with their close relationships, they experience higher stress, loneliness, and even physical health decline.

Islam’s emphasis on brotherhood and sisterhood is more than a social ideal—it is a spiritual and emotional necessity for well-being. Harmony between fellow believers makes life’s journey sweeter, fosters companionship, and provides strength during hardship. Discord on the hand, makes us vulnerable to hostile forces [more on this tomorrow inshallah].

This verse in action:

1. Resolve Personal Disputes:We need to start with ourselves and model healthy relationships ourselves before we can have an impact on others. Reflect on any strained relationships in your life. Is there a conversation, an apology, or an act of kindness that can bring healing?

2. Be a Peacemaker:When you see others in conflict, rather than taking sides, be a friend of the relationship. Step back and see the big picture. Recognize that the wellbeing of all parties consists in mending the relationship. Encourage and advocate for reconciliation.

3.  Promote Understanding:In a diverse ummah, differences in culture, background, and perspective are natural. Can we strive to understand rather than judge? Can we build bridges between differing viewpoints? How can we approach each other with an attitude of curiosity rather than judgement?

Let this verse remind us that we are connected by faith to the Umma of believers across the globe. Let us wish for them what we wish for ourselves and work towards fostering understanding, healing wounds, and strengthening our community. Let us be peacemakers

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Wishing you a day full of spiritual fulfillment, positivity, purpose and peace.