In Good Faith #36 - Prof Joel Hayward: The Prophet's ADMIRABLE Approach To CONFLICT
Dec 25, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Professor Joel Hayward, a leading authority on the Prophet Muhammad and warfare ethics, dives into the complexities of conflict and diplomacy. He explores why war persists and contrasts it with the Prophet's balanced approach, emphasizing diplomacy over aggression. Hayward also addresses misconceptions about early Islamic battles, highlighting ethical guidelines that protected noncombatants. Finally, he reflects on the challenges of applying prophetic principles to modern warfare, including the implications of advanced weaponry on ethical conduct.
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Why War Still Persists
- Joel Hayward links his lifelong interest in warfare to seeing the damage it did to his soldier father and family.
- He asks why humans persist in warfare despite diplomatic and economic alternatives.
War Works Sometimes, Diplomacy Usually
- Hayward argues war sometimes 'works' to stop extreme evil, but often fails where diplomacy could suffice.
- He stresses diplomacy is usually more important and effective than warfare except for grave cases like genocide.
Prophetic Warfare Emphasised Restraint
- Hayward notes the Prophet Muhammad led many raids but within strict moral limits protecting non-combatants.
- He contrasts low civilian casualties in 7th-century battles with modern wars' heavy non-combatant toll.