92. Why is justice essential for a peaceful society?

Famous people have made the following statements about peace:

a) ‘Peace is not merely a distant goal we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal’ – Martin Luther King Jr

b) ‘When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world will know peace’- Jimi Hendrix. Without justice there can be no peace. Justice is the way in which a society can operate so everyone is cared for and everyone cares for others. Justice demands a response when injustice prevails. Truth and righteousness must be the strong desire of the hearts of the citizens of a just society. The Prophet Micah said: ‘He has told you O Man what is good; and what does the Lord require of you; But to do justice and to love kindness, and to walk humbly before your God?’ (Micah 6 verse 8: NASB). Note that this Word from God says that we are to do justice. Justice requires action. When injustice occurs, it is essential that righteous people act to restore justice. Justice requires a peaceful resolution to conflict, so that no further injustice occurs. The application of justice should result in peace.

However, in human history the rebellious have refused justice, and continued to make war and disturb the peace. In Islâm, Satan or Iblis is seen as the one who excites enmity and hatred – Surah Al Ma’idah 5 ayah 91.