The Summit for Muslim World Leaders: Islam and a Future World of Peace Jakarta, Indonesia - December 21 - 23, 2001

In the name of Allah, Most Beneficent, Most Merciful

Jakarta Declaration 1422 H/2001

Preamble

          We begin by invoking the blessings of Allah on this effort and with salutations on the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) We, the participants and guests of the Summit of World Muslim Leaders gathered to reaffirm the teachings of the Holy Qu¡¡an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), under the theme Islam and a Future World of Peace, on 6 - 8 Shawwal, 1422 (20 - 23 December, 2001) in Jakarta, Indonesia.

          We affirm that: Islam is a religion of peace and justice. From its core values emanate respect for life and human dignity, affecting all ideals and actions that guide the day to day life of the Muslim.Our understanding of religion and spirituality grows from the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). These resources provide the basis for resolving all challenges of this and every age, as well as all social circumstances.

          The universality of the teachings of Islam affirms the sanctity of humankind, and thus enjoins on us an enduring dialogue of faiths and civilizations.

          Deliberations proceeded along three lines of inquiry: Religion and Spirituality, Civic Responsibility in Political Society, and Interfaith, Intercultural, and International Relations.

1. Religion and Spirituality

          We affirm that: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent as mercy for all humankind. The message he delivered aims to produce peace and prosperity, promote love, compassion and forgiveness, and create a humane society. It is an important source of guidance in a changing and shrinking world and must be recognized as such. To fulfill the ideals of the Prophet (PBUH) Muslims must recognize these teachings and his example as a guiding principle of their moral and spiritual development.

          Islam rejects violence in any form against the innocent. In fact, it promotes justice and exhorts Muslims to be just even it be against their own selves, their parents, or kinfolk. Thus implementation of justice for and by the Muslims will be the single most important factor in the elimination of violence and terrorism. To be just is the spiritual obligation of all faiths and nations.

          Muslim leaders and scholars are responsible for, and have a moral obligation to teach and promote knowledge about the fundamental ethics of Islam, thus providing the foundation for peace and peaceful coexistence and harmony in the world.

2. Civic Responsibility in Political Society

          We affirm that: Muslim nations must devote their energies toward education of their masses, and improvement of economic opportunities for their people. They must enhance their interaction with other Muslim countries in joint projects for the welfare of their populations.

          All nations of the world must apply their energies to conflict resolution globally, and be consistent at both home and abroad in their concern for justice, freedom and human rights.In any system of government, the protection of the freedoms and rights of the citizens is paramount.