Peace and Conflict

Forgiveness + reconciliation (Christian)

• Bible teaches that forgiveness is a Christian duty. Jesus taught that Christians should “Forgive seventy times seven” Bible which shows that there should be no limits to how much someone forgives. And it is important to “Love your neighbour” Bible even those who have wronged you.

• The Bible teaches to “love thy neighbour’ this shows that it is important to forgive even those who have wronged you.

• Reconciliation is a sacrament - in Catholic Christianity forgiveness + reconciliation = confessing sins to a priest and receiving forgiveness from God. “if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just.”

• Reconciliation with others - forgiveness should lead to healing broken relationships “if it is possible as far as it depends on you, life at peace with everyone.” Although forgiveness does not mean ignoring wrongdoing, it is important to show grace because revenge goes against Christian love.

Concept of justice

Importance of justice - treating people the way in which God intended “Act justly and walk humbly with your God.” Because all humans are made in the image of God and this means we are all equal.

Importance of challenging injustice - they believe it is important to protect the poor and vulnerable “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves…defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

Importance of peacefully challenging injustice - although it is important to rise against what isn’t right, this must always be done through non violent methods. “Blessed are the peacemakers.”

Forgiveness + reconciliation (Islam)

Forgiveness is strongly encouraged because it is how Allah approaches humans. “Let them pardon and overlook. Would you not love that Allah would forgive you?’’

Responding to harm with goodness because forgiveness can transform relationships- “repel evil with what is better and your enemy may become like a close friend.”

Reconciliation is better than conflict because settling conflicts + having a peaceful approach is the most favourable way to live. “Reconciliation is best.”

Some may oppose forgiveness if justice needs to be met “the recompense for an injury is an injury to equal it.”

Just War

Catholics and Just War - justification to support need for a war can come from the Bible if it is for the aim of ensuring peace. “If you do wrong, be afraid for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason.”

Catholic belief that peace is always the answer - nuclear weapons and war will escalate conflict and lead to more violence “those who live by the sword will perish by the sword.”

Islamic belief that war is only for legitimate defence - fighting is only allowed against aggression in the aim to defend yourself “Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you.”