Nonviolence Manifestations in Hauran
Nonviolence Manifestations in Hauran
Abu Walid Al-Omar – Naseeb
Violence leads to the killing of human emotions, the destruction of dignity and freedom. Therefore, the culture of nonviolence became a form of reclaiming rights and self-defense. Nonviolence is the most important means of regaining rights, surpassing even the most powerful weapons in its effectiveness and strength. Respecting others is one of its most important characteristics, preserving dignity, and achieving justice.
In Islamic culture, there are many texts promoting the culture of peace, nonviolence, and acceptance of others. Allah says: “By mercy from Allah, you were lenient with them. Had you been harsh, hard-hearted, they would have dispersed from around you.” The Prophet, peace be upon him, said: “The strong person is not the one who can wrestle, but the strong person is the one who can control himself when he is angry.” Imam Ali, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “The most intelligent among people is the most forgiving.”
Mahatma Gandhi, the Indian leader known for spreading the culture of nonviolence among people, said: “The victory obtained through violence is equal to defeat.” Whether the victory is military, political, or economic, our reality has proven this with many losses that have befallen us. For this reason, the United Nations designated October 2, the day Mahatma Gandhi was born, as the International Day of Non-Violence in 2007.
The negative effects of violence are severe, including killing, destruction, ignorance, displacement, and homelessness, which can affect all members of society, as witnessed in the Syrian people due to the prolonged war. Violence was a broad theme in all social, cultural, economic, ethical, and physical aspects. Thus, it became necessary to promote the culture of nonviolence among all segments of society and in all regions, a responsibility that falls on everyone without exception, each in their own field.
In Hauran, there were many examples of promoting this culture through local and international organizations, educational institutions, scientific and religious figures, tribal leaders, and charitable associations. They conducted pioneering experiences to support the culture of nonviolence and spread it widely within and beyond the Hauran regions.
Examples of Experiences in Hauran:
1. Collaboration between international organizations such as Human Rights Organization and UNICEF to implement central training courses aimed at graduating trainers in various nonviolence topics. Training youth is effective in this field, as they are the most affected by the violence policy prevalent in society. These courses were held in most educational institutions in Hauran regions, addressing physical, ethical, and intellectual nonviolence culture.
2. Resolving major conflicts and enduring conflicts between individuals or tribes through influential social figures, requiring a rational dialogue language.
3. Significant financial spending on developmental charity projects in collaboration between local and international organizations. The aim is to provide job opportunities for many residents of the region, offering material and moral assistance to eliminate unemployment, which is one of the main pillars of violence. These organizations also work diligently to eliminate drug use and trafficking, which can destroy both individuals and society, representing another major pillar of violence.
Nonviolence is considered a source of the will for change, as it helps individuals change their situation and make their own decisions. When a person chooses this path, they courageously struggle to kill their aggressive impulses, revealing the oppressor and defending justice.
