Society has arisen out of the works of peace; the essence of

Hear the wise words of Ludwig von Mises, who declared: “Society has arisen out of the works of peace; the essence of society is peacemaking.” In this truth lies a revelation often forgotten in the tumult of history. Kingdoms have risen on conquest, and empires have spread through the sword, yet it is not war that builds the enduring foundations of civilization. It is peace. Only in the stillness after conflict, only in the covenant between men to lay down arms and extend hands, does true society begin to flourish.

The ancients knew this well. When the cities of Greece warred among themselves, they grew weary, fractured, and weak. Yet when they honored treaties and gathered at the Olympic Games under the truce of peace, they found not only strength but shared identity. Rome too was mighty in war, but it was the Pax Romana, the Roman peace, that allowed trade, art, philosophy, and law to spread across vast lands. Thus, Mises teaches us that the essence of society is not in the clash of armies, but in the weaving of bonds that make life together possible.

Consider the story of Japan after the Second World War. Once devastated by fire and ruin, the nation chose a path not of renewed conquest, but of rebuilding in peace. From this choice flowed innovation, prosperity, and cultural flowering. Within a generation, Japan became a beacon of progress not through war, but through the works of peace—the labor of citizens, the trust among communities, and the harmony of shared purpose. Here, Mises’ words are proven: the rise of society comes not from destruction, but from reconciliation.

Yet many still cling to the illusion that war creates greatness. They see glory in conquest and honor in bloodshed. But history speaks otherwise. The spoils of war fade, while the fruits of peace endure. A city may be conquered in a day, but to raise it from ruin into a dwelling of families, markets, and temples requires generations of peace. Peacemaking is the labor of civilization itself—the constant choosing of dialogue over strife, of compromise over hatred, of creation over destruction.

The meaning is clear: without peace, there is no trust; without trust, there is no trade; without trade, no prosperity; without prosperity, no culture. Every art, every science, every bond of friendship is born in the soil of peace. When Mises declares that the essence of society is peacemaking, he calls us to remember that each act of reconciliation, each word of forgiveness, each bridge built between peoples is more powerful than any army. For such acts do not merely win battles—they win the future.

The lesson for us, O listener, is to be peacemakers in our own time. In your home, sow peace by gentleness and patience. In your community, seek reconciliation where divisions run deep. In the world, support those who build bridges instead of walls. Do not be deceived by the fleeting glamour of conflict, for it is peace that strengthens and sustains. Every soul has the power to nurture peace, and by doing so, to strengthen the very fabric of society.

Therefore, let von Mises’ words be engraved upon our hearts: “Society has arisen out of the works of peace; the essence of society is peacemaking.” For it is not the clash of swords, but the clasp of hands that makes civilization. Let us remember this truth, live it, and pass it down to those who follow. In peace, the world blooms; in peace, humanity finds its purpose; in peace, society is made eternal.

And so, O children of tomorrow, know this: war may destroy, but only peace can build. Guard it, cherish it, and live it, for in peace lies the true destiny of mankind.