by Muhammad Mohsin Iqbal
Peace is the brightest expression of human civilization. It nurtures prosperity, builds nations, and enables societies to flourish. But when an enemy transgresses all bounds and aims to suppress dignity, faith, and sovereignty, history testifies that Muslims have never shied away from standing up for justice—even through the harshness of war. Islam is not a religion of aggression, but when compelled, its followers have displayed unmatched courage and strategic brilliance, embodying the highest ideals of sacrifice and unity.
The life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) offers the clearest example of balance between peace and resistance. Though he preached mercy, patience, and diplomacy, he also led his followers through key battles such as Badr, Uhud, and Khandaq. In these, he not only led with divine wisdom but also raised the spirits of his companions with faith-charged words. Before the Battle of Badr, he invoked divine support through heart-wrenching supplication, and when the enemy vastly outnumbered his followers, he reminded the Muslims that Allah’s help is with those who stand firm in truth. As the Qur’an declares:
“O you who have believed, when you encounter a company [from the enemy forces], stand firm and remember Allah much that you may be successful.” (Surah Al-Anfal, 8:45)
In another verse, Allah reminds the believers: “Fighting has been enjoined upon you while it is hateful to you. But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:216)
The Prophet (PBUH) once said: “Do not wish to meet the enemy, but when you meet them, be steadfast and know that Paradise lies under the shade of swords.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
This spiritual guidance and valor are part of the Islamic tradition. In 711, when Tariq bin Ziyad landed on the shores of Spain, he made an irreversible decision to burn all his boats—an act that immortalized his mission. His speech to his troops is remembered as one of the most stirring addresses in Islamic military history: “Behind you is the sea, before you the enemy. You have no option but victory.” That moment changed the fate of Europe and introduced a new era of Muslim contributions to art, science, and philosophy across the continent.
In South Asia, the Battle of Khanwa in 1527 remains another powerful example. Zahiruddin Babur, founder of the Mughal Empire, faced the combined armies of 15–20 major Rajput kings and chieftains who far outnumbered his own. Babur addressed his troops with remarkable frankness and faith, encouraging them to abandon alcohol, pray with discipline, and rely solely on Allah. That speech transformed his army’s morale. The battle ended with a decisive Mughal victory, laying the foundation for centuries of Muslim rule in the Sub Continent based on justice, architecture, and administration.
Fast forward to modern times—September 6, 1965. When India launched an attack on Lahore, the President of Pakistan, Field Marshal Muhammad Ayub Khan, addressed the nation through radio. His firm voice echoed in every home, becoming a call of duty not just for soldiers, but for citizens across Pakistan. “We are in a state of war,” he declared, “but not because we sought it. We are defending our honor, our sovereignty, and our belief in Allah.” His speech was more than mere words; it mobilized an entire nation. The people of Pakistan stood shoulder to shoulder with their army, and the world witnessed a small but determined country resisting a much larger adversary with unmatched resilience.
Today, as our nation once again faces a grave situation where war clouds hover due to the reckless aggression of a hostile neighbor, our Prime Minister has rightly informed the public about the seriousness of the threat and the resilience of our defense forces. His address has set the tone, but the moment demands even more. In these testing times, it is imperative that our Sipah e Salaar—who symbolize honor, strategy, and sacrifice—rise to the occasion not only through battlefield strength but also through the power of words. A speech rooted in faith, courage, and the historical legacy of Muslim valor can do more than boost morale—it can become an enduring part of national consciousness.
One cannot forget the inspirational speech of Salahuddin Ayyubi in the historic Battle of Hattin before the recapture of Jerusalem in 1187. Facing the Crusaders who had desecrated Al-Aqsa Mosque, he reminded his troops of their duty to faith, their accountability before Allah, and the justice of their cause. The victory against forces of King Guy of Lusignan that followed was not just military—it was moral. He entered Jerusalem not as a conqueror, but as a reformer, ensuring the safety of all religious communities, displaying the true Islamic spirit of justice and tolerance.
Let us remember that the Qur’an repeatedly promises divine help to those who defend justice with sincerity: “Indeed, Allah defends those who have believed. Indeed, Allah does not like the treacherous or ungrateful.” (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:38)
And the Prophet (PBUH) said: “Whoever is killed while protecting his property is a martyr; whoever is killed while protecting his religion is a martyr; whoever is killed while protecting his life is a martyr; and whoever is killed while protecting his family is a martyr.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi)
From the sands of Arabia to the hills of Spain, from the fields of Panipat to the trenches of Lahore, Muslims have always preferred peace—but never at the cost of honor. When forced into war, they have turned adversity into triumph with the help of unity, faith, and exceptional leadership. That leadership has often manifested not just in strategy and swordplay, but in the electrifying energy of speeches that moved hearts and redefined destinies.
In this decisive hour, the legacy of those words must live on. Our Sipah e Salaar, entrusted with the sacred duty of defense, must now speak as torchbearers of that legacy. Their message should not merely address ranks and files but must speak to every Pakistani—from a soldier at the front line to a student in a classroom—infusing them with pride, clarity, and purpose. The nation awaits such a voice that will echo in history, inspire coming generations, and remind the world that when peace is threatened, the people who believe in justice and God never bow—they rise.
