Choose exam board for KS4 Computer Science (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 English
Choose exam board for KS4 French
Choose exam board for KS4 Geography
Choose exam board for KS4 German
Choose exam board for KS4 History
Choose tier for KS4 Maths
Choose exam board for KS4 Music
Choose exam board for KS4 Physical education (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 Religious education (GCSE)
Choose exam board for KS4 Spanish

      The role of Muslims in peacemaking

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain peacemaking and give examples of how Muslims and others promote peace.

      Key learning points

      1. Peacemaking means working to create peace and rebuild relationships, especially after violence or conflict.
      2. Peacemakers reject the use or threat of violence as a means to bring about peace.
      3. Many Muslims believe peacemaking is a religious duty, guided by teachings such as responding to evil with goodness.
      4. Non-religious people also support peacemaking but may question religious reasons.
      5. Peacemakers include civilians, soldiers and faith leaders using protest, aid and education.

      Keywords

      • Peace - the opposite of war; harmony between all in society

      • Peacemaking - working to bring about peace and reconciliation

      • Reconciliation - making up and rebuilding relationships between two groups/sides after disagreement

      Common misconception

      Peacemaking requires the use of violence to restore peace.

      Peacemaking refers to non-violent efforts to build peace, such as reconciliation, negotiation and addressing injustice.

      Teacher tip

      Use video clips of real-life stories to show how peacemaking looks in action.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

      Loading...

      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      4 Questions

      Q1.
      What does 'salaam' mean in Arabic?

      love
      mercy
      Correct answer: peace

      Q2.
      What does the Qur’an teach about conflict between Muslims?

      Correct answer: that it should be resolved fairly and justly
      that it should be ignored
      that it is always wrong

      Q3.
      Prophet Muhammad showed to his enemies at the conquest of Makkah.

      Correct Answer: forgiveness, Forgiveness

      Q4.
      How are Muslims expected to treat the Ummah (community)?

      with strict rules
      with punishment
      Correct answer: with peace and unity

      5 Questions

      Q1.
      What is the main goal of peacemaking?

      avoiding all contact
      Correct answer: rebuilding peace and relationships
      gaining political power

      Q2.
      Non-religious people support peace, even if they question reasons for it.

      Correct Answer: religious, Religious

      Q3.
      What does peacemaking involve?

      using weapons to create peace
      Correct answer: non-violent efforts like reconciliation and negotiation
      ignoring injustice

      Q4.
      Peacemakers may use education, aid, and non-violent to build peace.

      Correct Answer: protest, Protest

      Q5.
      Who can be a peacemaker?

      only religious leaders
      just the government
      Correct answer: anyone; civilians, soldiers, or faith leaders

      To help you plan your 11 religious education lesson on: The role of Muslims in peacemaking, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...