islam vs. chrisitainity

islam vs. chrisitainity


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Introduction

All praise is due to Allah , we praise Him and we seek his help and ask His forgiveness. We seek refuge with Allah from the evil of our selves and from the evil results of our actions. I testify that Allah alone is worthy of worship and that Muhammad is His slave and final Messenger. May Allah's salawaat (peace and blessings) be upon the last and final messenger Muhammad, his family and his followers. Ameen!

To begin: The best discourse is the book of Allah, and the best way is the way of Muhammad, and the worst of the matters in the religion are those newly introduced innovations, for every innovation in the religion is misguidance, and every misguidance is going astray and every going astray is in the Hellfire.

I have embarked on my commentary on The Economist magazine's survey "Islam and the West" (large insert in August 6th 1994 issue) after some considerable deliberation, and find myself confronted with a considerable task, and indeed Allah is the best of helpers. Brian Beedham is able to rely on what Noam Chomskey calls "manufactured consent". While dictatorships use force in order to achieve consent from the people and prevent opposition, "democracies" manufacture consent through the media by using it to providing a particular world view which conforms to the interests, by and large, of the ruling elite. He is able to get away with a short, condensed, article because he doesn't need to prove much of what he is saying, he only has to repeat the prefabricated conventional platitudes. For example, when he talks the Algerian Muslims as "a singularly intransigent bunch of Islamic rebels, fundamentalists of the most bloody minded sort" he doesn't have to prove it, because the establishment has already ensured that people believe this is the case. In fact the statement in not at all true. The Algerian fundamentalists proved willing to go to elections and seek a peaceful way re-establish the Islamic Sharee'ah . Recent events, such as the meeting of the opposition groups, including the "rebel fundamentalists", in Rome, calling for talks and a return to free elections - which was even supported by the French government and was rejected by the Algerian government - shows that it is the Algerian government that has proved bloody minded. In spite of such obvious discrepancies Mr. Beedham is able to get away with it because consent has already been manufactured that the fundamentalists are rebellious and bloody minded.

Similarly he never feels he has to prove that democracy is an advantage, it is taken almost completely for granted, knowing his audience is already "captive" so as to speak. In the age of the "sound-bite" (or perhaps in this case "word-bite"), opposing the conventional wisdom is not easy, for what the likes of Mr. Beedham can say in a sentence opposing it would take a book. Even then it would be of doubtful effectiveness, for opposing the norms of society is perhaps one of the hardest paths to take for an instinctively societal creature like ourselves. Thus I shall be writing a series of letters, and not just one, thus enabling me to break down the commentary into more manageable pieces. I shall also refer certain topics to appendices, which may include video and audio tapes.

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Islam and Christianity -- part3

Non Muslims' Tributes to the prophet
With the passing of Oriental Studies from the hands of Christian
missionaries and divines into those of independent scholars the
appreciation of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his message is growing in
the West.
Here arc two extracts about Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) from a recent hook
by a learned American professor:
"Pure-hearted and beloved in his circle, he was, it is said, of sweet
and gentle disposition. His bereavements having made him sensitive to
human suffering in every form, he was always ready to help others,
especially the poor and the weak. His sense of honour, duty and
fidelity won him as he grew older the high and enviable title of "The
True', The Upright', The Trustworthy One'. Yet despite his concern for
others he remained removed from them in outlook and ways, isolated in
the midst of an effetic and chaotic society. As he grew from childhood
to youth and from youth to manhood the lawless strife of his
contemporaries, the repeated outbursts of pointless quarrels among the
tribes frequenting the Meccan fairs, and the general immorality and
cynicism of the day combined to produce in the prophet-to-be sustained
reaction of horror and disgust. Silently, brooding, his thoughts
turned inward"."( Huston Smith, The Religions of Man, Mentor Books,
p.203.) "In an age charged with a supernaturalism, when miracles were
accepted as the stock-in-trade of the most ordinary saint, Muhammad
refused to traffic with human weakness and credulity. To
miracle-hungry idolaters seeking signs and portents he cut the issue
clean: 'God has not sent me to work wonders; He has sent me to preach
to you. My Lord be praised! Am I more than a man sent as an apostle?' From
first to last he resisted every impulse to glamorize his o»-n person.
'1 never said that Allah's treasures are in my hand, that 1 knew the
hidden things, or that I was an angel ... 1 am only a preacher of
God's words, the bringer of God's message to mankind.' If signs be
sought, let them be not of Muhammad's greatness, but of God's, and for
these one need only open one's eyes. The heavenly bodies holding their
swift silent course in the vault of heaven, the incredible order of
the universe, the rain that falls to relieve the parched earth, palms
bending with golden fruit, ships that glide across the seas laden with
goodness for man - can these be the handiwork of gods of stone? What
fools to cry for signs when creation harbuors nothing else! In an age
of credulity, Muhammad taught respect for the world's incontrovertible
order which was to awaken Muslim science before Christian." (luston
Smith. The. Religions ufMan, Mentor Books, pp. 205, 206)
And this is how the well-known historian, Lanc-Poole, sums up the
character of Prophet Muhammad:
"He who, standing alone, braved for years the hatred of his people, is
the same who was never the first to withdraw his hand from another's
clasp; the beloved of children, who never passed a group of little
ones without a smile from his wonderful eyes and kind word for them,
sounding all the kinder in that sweet-toned voice... He was one of
those happy few who have attained the supreme joy of making one great
truth their very life-spring. He was the messenger of the One God; and
never to his life's end did he forget who he was, or the message which
was the marrow of his being. He brought his tiding to his people with
a grand dignity sprung from the consciousness of his high office
together with a most sweet humility whose roots lay in the knowledge
of his own weakness."*'*
Major A.G. 1-conard refers to the sincerity of the Prophet and the
truth of his message in these words in his book Islam, Her Moral and
Spiritual Value.
"He must at the outset recognise that Mohammed was no mere spiritual
pedlar, no vulgar time-serving vagrant, but one of the most profoundly
sincere and earnest spirits of any age or epoch. A man not only great
but one of the greatest - i.e., truest-men that humanity has ever
produced. Great i.e., not simply as a prophet but as a patriot and a
statesman: a material as well as a spiritual builder who constructed a
great nation, a great empire, and more even than all these, a still
greater Faith. Trtic, moreover, because he was true to himself, to his
people, and above all to his God. Recognising this, he will thus
acknowledge that Islam Ls a profound and true cult, which strives to
uplift its votaries from the depths of human darkness into the higher
realms of Light and Truth.'"-'
Finally, this is what Lamartine. one of the greatest poets of France,
writes about the greatness of Muhammad (phuh):
"Never has a man set himself, voluntarily or
involuntarily, a more sublime aim, since this aim was superhuman: to
subvert superstitions which had been interposed between man and his
Creator, to render God unto man and man unto God; to restore the
rational and sacred idea of divinity amidst the chaos for the material
and disfigured gods of idolatry then existing. Never has a man
undertaken a work so far beyond human power with so feeble means, for
he had in the conception as well as in the execution of such a great
design no other instrument than himself, and no other aid, except a
handful of men living in a comer of the desert. Finally, never has a
man accomplished such a huge and lasting revolution in the world,
because in less than two centuries alter its appearance. Islam, in
faith and arms, reigned over the whole of Arabia, and conquered in
God's name Persia, Khurasan, Transoxania, Western India, Syria,
Abyssinia, all the known continent of Northern Africa, numerous
Islands of the Mediterranean, Spain, and a part of Gaul."
"If greatness of purpose, smallness of means, and astounding results
are the three criteria of human genius, who could dare to compare any
great men in modern history to Muhammad? The most famous men created
arm, laws, and empires only. They founded, if anything, at all, no
more than material powers which often crumbled away before their eyes.
This man moved not only armies, legislation, empires, peoples, and
dynasties, but millions of men in one-third of the then inhabited
world; and more than that, he moved the altars, the gods, the
religions, the ideas, the beliefs and the souls. On the basis of a
Book, every letter of which has become law, he created a spiritual
nationality which has blended together peoples of every tongue and of
every race. He has left to us as (he indelible characteristic of this
Muslim nationality, the hatred of false gods and the passion lor the
One and Immaterial God. This avenging patriotism against the
profanation of Heaven formed the virtue of the followers of Muhammad:
the conquest of one-third of the earth to his dogma was his miracle;
or ralher it was not the miracle of a man but that of reason. The idea
of the unity of God proclaimed amidst the exhaustion of fabulous
theogenies, was in itself such a miracle that upon its utterance from
his lips it destroyed all the ancient temples of idols and set on fire
one-third of the world. His life, his meditations, his heroic
revilings against the superstitions, of his country, and his boldness
in defying the furies of idolatry; his firmness in endurring them for
fifteen years at Mecca, his acceptance of the role of public scorn and
almost of being a victim of his fellow-countrymen: all these and,
finally his incessant preaching, his wars against odds, his faith in
his success and his superhuman security in misfortune, his forbearance
in victory, his ambition which was entirely devoted to one idea and in
no manner striving for an empire; his endless prayer, his mystic
conversations with God, his death and his triumph after death; all
these attest not to an imposture but to a firm conviction. It was his
conviction which gave him the power to restore a dogma. This dogma was
two-fold, the unity of God and the immateriality of God; the former
telling what God is; the latter telling what God is not. 'Philosopher,
orator, apostle, legislator, warrior, conqueror of ideas, restorer of
rational dogmas, of a cult without images; the founder of twenty
terrestrial empires and of one spiritual empire, that is Muhammad'. As
regards all standards by which human greatness may be measured, we may
well ask: is there any man greater than he?
' Complete Model
Although on the basis of the Glorious Qur'an I regard the characters
of Jesus and Prophet Muhammad to be equally godly, pure, noble and
inspiring, yet Jesus did not get the opportunity to become a perfect
model for men in all walks of life as Prophet Muhammad did. We have no
doubt that if Jesus had got the chance, he would have behaved exactly
as Prophet Muhammad did; for both of them were prophets of the same God.
Jesus never married and so he could not become an ideal husband and
father. He did not triumph over his enemies and so had no chance of
showing how a victor should behave towards his vanquished foes who
have spared no pains to annihilate him and his followers. He did not
have his persecutors at his mercy and so had no occasion to show real
forbearance and forgiveness. Jesus did not rise to power to become the
model of a benevolent and just ruler and judge.
We must turn to Prophet Muhammad, and not Jesus, if we want to see the
picture of an ideally happy and pious married life and of a wise, just
and benevolent ruler whom nothing could corrupt or divert from working
for the material and moral amelioration of his people. Prophet
Muhammad witnessed the phases of both persecution and success. He
showed rare patience, fortitude, courage and love for his foes as a
persecuted preacher of religion and in the hours of deepest gloom, and
unparalleled self-control and mercy when his bitterest foes were
helpless before him.
Jesus did not get the chance to put into practice many of his precepts
and teachings. For instance, he advised his followers to sell their
garments and purchase swords (Luke 22:36), but he could not
demonstrate to them the right use of the sword. To resist violence and
aggression sometimes becomes our highest duty - for instance, when
helpless men, women and children are being slaughtered and the freedom
to believe and practice the religion of their own choice is denied by
fanatics and tyrants. It was Prophet Muhammad who showed how a true
soldier of God, the protector of the victims of intolerance and cruel
violence, should behave on the battlefield and in moments of defeat
and triumph.
The life of Jesus runs parallel to the early life of Prophet Muhammad,
but Jesus did not live long enough to give a practical shape to his
teachings and work out the social implications of his message. He did
not have the chance to enlarge his teachings to cover all the
situations of life and to bring about the tremendous social reforms
that Prophet Muhammad did. The modern man, who has to lead a life as a
son, a husband, a father, a poor worker, a citizen, a neighbor, a
despised advocate of new ideas and ways, a victim of religious and
political bigotry, a man with authority, a successful leader, a
soldier, a business-man, a judge, and a ruler, will find Prophet
Muhammad as a perfect model for him in all situations and walks of life.
God's Justice:
The second part of the Christian doctrine of the Atonement is that
God's Justice requires that a price must be paid for the original and
other sins of man. If God were to pardon a sinner without punishing
him would be a denial of His Justice. The Rev. W. Goldsack writes in
this connection:
"It should be clear as day light to anyone that God cannot break His
own Law: He cannot forgive a sinner without first giving him an
appropriate punishment. For if He did so, who would call Him Just and
Equitable.""'
This view shows complete ignorance God. God is not a mere judge or
king. He is, as the Qur'an describes Him, "Master of the Day of
Judgment". He is not only Just but also Merciful and Forgiving. If He
finds some real good in a man or sees that he is sincerely repentant,
having a real urge to conquer the evil within him, then He may forgive
his failings and sins altogether. And this stretch of imagination can
be called a violation of His Justice. After all, the only proper
motive for punishment is to check evil and reform the offender. To
punish a person for his past sins, even after he has repented and
reformed himself, is a sign of vengeance and not of justice. A God,
Whose 'Justice' requires compensation for every fall and sin of man is
no better than Shylock. The God that we worship - the Creator and
Sustainer of all the worlds - is the God of Love and Mercy. If He
prescribes a law and a way and demands obedience, it is not for His
own benefit, but for the benefit of mankind. And if He punishes a man
for his faults and sins it is not for His own satisfaction or
compensation, as the Christian dogma proclaims,
but to check evil and purify the sinner. Hell itself is like a
hospital, where the spiritually ill - those afflicted with the
diseases of malice, hatred, selfishness, callousness, falsehood,
dishonesty, greed, impurity, arrogance, etc. - are cured through the
fire of suffering and remorse. But those who have the persistent urge
to do good and the sincerely repentant will find God Ever-Ready to
forgive their failures and sins without demanding any compensation
from them, or from any one else. Is this not what the prophet Ezekiel
proclaimed in the verses of the Bible that we have quoted above? And
is this not what Jesus taught in his beautiful parables of the Lost
Sheep, the Lost Coin and the Prodigal Son? Can we trace the origin of
the doctrine that unless every sin is compensated for and someone
punished, God's Justice would be outraged to the man who taught us to
pray to God in these words "Forgive us our debts as we have forgiven
our debtors"? Forgiveness of a sinner after punishing him, or someone
else on his behalf, is no forgiveness at all. God can and does forgive
the faults and sins of those in whom He. sees real goodness and those
who have turned away from their sins and reformed themselves without
punishing them or any other person on their behalf, and this is not
against God's Justice. In fact this alone is true forgiveness. Thus we
read in the Glorious Qur'an:
( Say: O My people, who have acted extravagantly against your own
souls, despair not of the Mercy of God, for He forgiveth the sins
altogether. Lo! He is All-Forgiving, All-Merciful. So tarn unto Him
repentant, and surrender unto Him, before there come unto you the
chastisement, when ye cannot be helped. )
(39:53.54)

4 Whoso doeth evil or wrongeth his own soul, then seeketh Pardon of
God (and reformeth himself), will find God Forgiving, Merciful. Whoso
committeth sin, committeth it only against himself. God is
All-Knowing, All-Wise. §
(4:110-111)
The Blood Atonement.
The third part of the Christian dogma of the Atonement is that Jesus
paid the penalty for the original and other sins of men by his death
on the cross of Calvary, and that salvation cannot be obtained without
belief in the saving power of his blood. This is what we read in the
First Epistle of St. Peter:
"Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible
things, as silver and gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, as
of a lamb without blemish and without spot."'"
And this is what two modern Christian apologists (a Protestant
and a Roman Catholic) have written,:
"We pass on now to the doctrine of the Atonement, which is that
Christ's death was in some sense a sacrifice for sin, and thus
reconciled (or made 'at - one') God the Father and sinful man. And
though not actually stated in the Creeds, it is implied in the words,
was crucified also for us, and who suffered for our salvation"'2'
"Since Christ, God and man, had taken upon Himself our sins (by His
death on the cross) in order to atone for them by giving satisfaction
to God's outraged justice, he is the mediator between God and man.
"(1) This dogma is not only a denial of the Mercy of God but also of
His Justice. To demand the price of blood in order to forgive the sins
of men is to show a complete lack of mercy, and to punish a man who is
not guilty for the sins of others, whether the former is willing or
not, is the height of injustice.
Christian apologists try to defend this by saying that Jesus Christ
willingly suffered death to pay the price for the sins of men. To this
our reply is:
Firstly, it is not historically correct to say that Jesus had come to
die willingly and deliberately for the sins of men. We read in the
Bible that he did not wish to die on the cross. For, when he knew that
his enemies were plotting against his life, he declared that his "soul
was exceedingly sorrowful unto death", he asked his disciples to keep
watch over him to protect him from his enemies and he prayed to God,
"Abba, Father, all things are possible unto Thee; take '••• away this
cup from me; nevertheless not what 1 will, but what Thou wilt."
(Mark 14:36)
Secondly, we fail to see how the suffering and death of one man can
wipe out the sins of others. It sounds something like the physician
breaking his own head to cure the headache of his patients. The idea
of substitutionary or vicarious sacrifice is illogical, meaningless
and unjust.
Thirdly, the idea that shedding of blood is necessary to appease the
Wrath of God has come into Christianity from the primitive man's image
of God as an all-powerful demon. We see no connection at all between
sin and blood. What is necessary to wash away sin is not blood but
repentance, remorse, persistent struggle against evil inclinations,
development of greater sympathy for mankind and determination to carry
out the Will of God as revealed to us through the prophets. The Qur'an
says:
<^ To God does not reach the flesh or the blood I of animals they
sacrifice), but unto Him is acceptable righteousness on , your
part, fy'1 (22:37>
The doctrine of the Atonement makes the First Person of Godhead into a
blood-thirsty tyrant in order to demonstrate the self-sacrificing love
of the Second Person. To a dispassionate critic, the sacrifice of the
Second Person appears as much misplaced and meaningless as the demand
of the First Person is cruel and sadistic.
Arthur Weigall makes the following significant comment on the doctrine
of the Atonement:
"We can no longer accept the appalling theological 'j: doctrine that
for some mystic reason a propitiatory * sacrifice was necessary. It
outrages either our conception '•' of God as Almighty or else our
conception of Him as i :?l All-Loving. The famous Dr. Cruden
believed that for the : purpose of this sacrifice 'Christ suffered
dreadful pains inflicted by God', and this of course, is a standpoint
which nauseates the modem mind and which may well be termed a hideous
doctrine, not unconnected with the sadistic tendencies of primitive
human nature. Actually, it is of pagan origin, being, indeed, perhaps
the most obvious relic of heathendom in the Faith."11'
The Christian scheme of salvation is not only morally and rationally
unsound, but also has no support of the words of Jesus. Jesus may be
said to have suffered for the sins of men in the sense that, in order
to take them out of darkness into light, he incurred the wrath of the
evildoers and was tortured by them; but that does not mean that his
death was an atonement for the sins of others and that only those who
believe in his blood would be forgiven. Jesus had come to rescue men
from sin by his teaching and the example of his godly life, and not by
deliberately dying for them on the cross and offering his blood as a
propitiation for their sins. When a young man came and asked him "Good
Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?" he mentioned
nothing about his atoning sacrifice and the redeeming power of Iris
blood. His reply was the same as that of every other prophet. For he said:
"Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God;
but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments."
(Matthew 19:17)
"Keep the commandments" that, according to Jesus, was the way to
eternal life. Salvation could be gained by believing in God, eschewing
evil and doing good, and not by accepting Jesus as the redeemer and
believing in his blood atonement.
The dogma of the Atonement is unsound, for (1) man is not bom in sin.
(2) God does not require a price to forgive the sinners, and (3) the
idea of substitutionary or vicarious sacrifice is unjust and cruel. By
sinning we do not harm God, but ourselves. The stain of sin on our
souls can be removed, not by the suffering or death of any other
person, whether the latter be willing or unwilling, but by our own
repentance, turning away from evil and doing good. And so, when Adam,
after the act of disobedience, repented and submitted himself
completely to God, his sin was forgiven. Neither is the sin of Adam
inherited by the children of Adam, nor did it require the suffering
and death of Jesus Christ to be forgiven. The truth is that Jesus did
not die on the cross at all. The doctrine of the Atonement is a denial
of the Justice and Mercy of God.
Islam rejects this dogma. It declares that the forgiveness of sins
cannot be obtained by the suffering and sacrifice of any other person,
human or divine, but by the Grace of God and our own sincere and
persistent efforts to fight against evil and do good:
(that no laden one shall bear another's load, and that man hath only
that for which he maketh effort, and that his effort will be seen)
(The Glorious Qur'un 53:38,40)
(Whosoever goeth right, it is only for the good of his own soul that
he goeth right, and whosoever erreth, erreth only to its hurt. No
laden soul can bear another's load)
(17:15)

----------------------
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Islam and Christianity -- part2

Form the book
((Islam and Christianity /
by Ulfat 'Aziz-Us-Samad –
published by Al-Falah Foundation
www.falahonline.com ,
ISBN: 977-5813-14-X ))
The Prophet Muhammad
The Comforter, the spirit of truth, the Messenger of God about whose
coming Jesus (pbuh) had given the good news, was born in Arabia in the
year 571 A.C. At the time of his birth the true Religion had been
forgotten or distorted all over the world. The people among whom he
was born, the Ishmaelite Arabs, were polytheists and idolaters. They
were sunk in vice and superstitions of every kind. There was no law
among them except the law of the jungle and, perchance, a few
primitive tribal mores.
Among these people who had drifted far from God's Way, Prophet
Muhammad (pbuh) grew up to be a Man of God. He was conspicuous among
them by his pure and spotless character, his love of truth and
compassion towards the poor and the downtrodden. They called him
Al-'Amin the trustworthy, the faithful.
As he grew older the superstitions and evil ways of the people caused
greater and greater sorrow to his heart. He spent many hours in
communion with his Creator and in meditation on the end or object of
man's life, he longed to bring people to the Straight Path, to "render
God unto man and man unto God". When he was forty years of age
Gabriel, the Messenger of God, shone the Divine light in its full
resplendence in Muhammad's heart.
He preached to them One and Only God, the Loving Creator and
Sustainer of all the worlds. He exhorted them to shun all kinds of
evil and cruelty and to love one another. He told them that real
Religion was the removal of the want and suffering of others and the
selfless service of fellow-men, that the religious ceremonies were
entirely useless if they did not train and discipline man to become
more righteous and to work for the good of others:
(Hast thau observed him who belieth religion? That is he who repelleth
the orphan, and urgeth not the feeding of the needy, Ah, woe unto
worshipers who are heedless of their Prayers; who would be seen at
worship, yet refrain from works of mercy!)
(Qur'an 107)
He struck the root of the false superiority based on color, caste,
race or nationality, declaring that all human beings were equal brothers.
The treatment meted out to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) by his people was
not different from that meted out to earlier prophets. He was rejected
by people with vested interests and subjected to all kinds of
cruelties. Many of those that believed in him were badly tortured. A
combined attempt was made by all the tribes of Mecca to put an end to
his life. After bearing these tortures and cruelties for thirteen long
years with almost superhuman patience and forbearance, Prophet
Muhammad (pbuh) at last migrated to Medina, where a large number of
people had already embraced Islam and become his followers. This was
the turning point in his life. The people of Medina not only believed
in him and his message but also made him the head of their new Islamic
state. Here Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), in addition to his moving appeals
for individual change of heart and transformation of character, worked
out the social implications of his message. The many revolutionary
changes that he introduced included the raising of women to a position
of equality with men, taking steps to abolish slavery, total
prohibition of all kinds of intoxicating drinks and of gambling,
putting an end to exploitation of every kind, doing away with
priesthood and granting religious freedom to all individuals and
communities, bringing into force the most enlightened code of laws
ever known to man and the establishment of a welfare state and a form
of administration which was an ideal blend of justice and mercy. He
brought into being a universal brotherhood in which there was no
distinction whatsoever on the basis of race, color, language, wealth
or sec. The distinguishing feature of those who joined this fold was
zeal for the Worship of One God and humanity. After accomplishing his
mission, Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) the last prophet of God, departed
form this world in the year 632 A.C., leaving behind the Glorious
Qur'an which was revealed to him by God, and his own sayings, to guide
people for all times to come.
The Ideal Character
The Prophet of Islam lived a life which can only be described as
godly. He was the model par excellence for men in various situations
and walks of life, as the Glorious Qur'an says:
(Verily in the Messenger of God ye have a perfect example for him who
looketh unto God and the Last Day and remembreth God much)
(33:21)
(O Prophet! Lo! We have sent thee as a witness and a bringer of good
tidings and a warner, and as a summoner unto God by his permission,
and as a lamp that giveth light)
(33:45.46)
He lived up to the highest ideals of the Glorious Qur'an and
exemplified in his life the virtues mentioned in the book of God. When
his wife, 'Aishah, was questioned about his morals, her reply was,
"His morals are the Qur'an". Conversely, when she asked to explain
certain ethical injunctions in the Qur'an she did so by illustrating
them from the Prophet's life and behavior.
To say that he was sinless would be only a negative description of the
Man of God who had conquered all temptations and passions and lived
only for the sake of God and in complete accord with the Will of God:
(Say: Lo! my worship and my sacrifice and my living and my dying are
for God, Lord of the worlds)
(Qur'an 6:162)
He was, as the Qur'an describes him, a "mercy to all nations". His
compassion extended to friends and foes alike, "Do you love your
Creator? Love your fellow creatures first", was his advice to his
followers. He felt extremely concerned at the depraved and corrupt
state of the people around him. It grieved his heart very much when as
the head of the state, he had to pass an order of punishment on any
one for the sake of justice or for the security of the young republic.
But for his own sake he never even lifted his finger against any one.
When at a critical moment some one asked him to cure his enemies and
persecutors, he replied:
"I have not been sent to curse but as mercy to mankind. O Lord, guide
my people for they know not."
(As-Suyuti, Aj-Jami` As-Saghir)
At the conquest of Mecca (to give just one instance out of many) he
freely forgave all his enemies, who had spared no effort to annihilate
him, his Religion and his followers, and were guilty of murder and
persecution. He told them. "this day there is no reproof against you".
Here is a practical example of the maxim "Love your enemies". He had
come to reclaim and reform the fallen humanity and he won the hearts
of the anti-social elements of his time by love and kindness. His
charity and readiness to help the people in all possible ways were
proverbial. He was the greatest friend of the poor and the downtrodden.
He strove all his life to lead mankind to One True God, to make them
godly, to rescue them from error, superstitions and sins, but in
inviting them to the truth he faithfully observed the Qur'anic injunction,
(There is no compulsion in religion)
(2:256)
He had imbued himself with Divine qualities and caused his fellow-men
to sake the greatest step towards the Divine. Yet he remained humble
and modest, conscious always of his nothingness before God, and from
the highest peak of moral and spiritual perfection to which he had
attained, he cried out to the people,
(Iam only a mortal like you)
(Qur'an 41:6)
next time we will talk about Non Muslims' tributes to the Prophet

Islam and Christianity -- part1

Form the book
((Islam and Christianity /
by Ulfat 'Aziz-Us-Samad –
published by Al-Falah Foundation
www.falahonline.com ,
ISBN:977 -5813-14-X ))

It is therefore with a feeling of deep love and respect for both Jesus
and Muhammad (pbut), and for the religions which they preached, that I
embark upon a comparative study of Islam and Christianity. If at times
I find myself disagreeing with the Christians, it is not over the
religion of Jesus, but over the altered shape and features that they
developed after his departure. In the words of Lord Headley, "Islam
and Christianity, as taught by Christ himself, are sister religions,
only held apart by dogmas and technicalities which might very well be
dispensed with" ((Lord Headley : A Western Awakening to Islam, P.15))

The Authenticity of the Qur'an
On the other hand, there is no such doubt about the Glorious Qur'an.
It contains nothing but the revelations received by the Prophet
Muhammad (pbuh). The revelations came to him in fragments, from time
to time. As soon as he received any, he used to communicate it to his
Companions and ask then not only to commit it to memory, but also to
write it down. Muhammad (pbuh) used to indicate in a precise manner
the place to which the revelation belonged. Thus the complete Qur'an
was committed to writing and also preserved in the hearts of hundreds
of Muslims in the life time of the Prophet.
After the demise of the Prophet, Abu Bakr, the first Caliph, charged
Zaid ibn Thabit with the task of preparing an authentic copy of the
entire text in the form of a book. The Companions of the Prophet wrote
the revelations that had come to the prophet on parchment or pieces of
leather. Zaid ibn Thabit collected all these and after comparing them
with what the followers of the Prophet had learnt by heart, compiled a
copy, called Mushaf (bound leaves). About the genuineness or
correctness of which there was absolutely no doubt.
At the order of 'Uthman, the third Caliph, seven copies of the Mushaf
edition of the Glorious Qur'an, again confined by the memory of those
who had learnt it by heart (hafiz), were prepared and sent to the
different centers of the vast Islamic world. One of these seven copies
is still in existence in Tashkent. The Czarist government of Russia
had published it with a facsimile reproduction; and we see that there
is a complete identity between this copy and the text otherwise in use
all over the world. The same is true of the other extant MSS of
Qur'an, complete or fragmentary, dating from the first century of the
Muslim era.
From the time of the Prophet to our own time the practice of learning
the whole of the Qur'an by heart has continued unbroken, and the
number of huffaz can now be counted by hundreds of thousands all over
the world. The result is that no scholar, Eastern or Western, Muslim
or non-Muslim, has ever cast any doubt on the purity of the text of
the Glorious Qur'an. Even such an unfriendly critic as Sir William
Muri (( The life of Mohamet, Introduction, p.18)) writes about the
Qur'an:
" There is probably in the world no other book which
has remained twelve centuries with so pure a text"

next time we will talk about (The Prophet Muhammad phuh)

Women in Islam Versus Women in The Judaeo-Christian Tradition: The Myth & The Reality

Four and a half years ago, I read in the Toronto Star issue of July 3, 1990 an article titled "Islam isn't alone in patriarchal doctrines", by Gwynne Dyer. The article described the furious reactions by the participants of a conference on women and power held in Montreal to the comments of the famous Egyptian feminist Dr. Nawal Saadawi. Her politically incorrect statements included : "the most restrictive elements towards women can be found first in Judaism in the Old Testament then in Christianity and then in the Quran"; "all religions are patriarchal because they stem from patriarchal societies"; and "veiling of women isn't a specifically islamic practice but an ancient cultural heritage with analogies in sister religions". The participants couldn't bear sitting around while their faiths were being equated with Islam. Thus, Dr. Saadawi received a barrage of criticism. "Dr. Saadawi's comments are unacceptable. Her answers reveal a lack of understanding about other people's faiths", declared Bernice Dubois of the World Movement of Mothers. "I must protest" said panelist Alice Shalvi of Israel women's network,"there is no conception of the veil in Judaism." The article attributed these furious protests to the strong tendency in the west to scapegoat Islam for practices that are just as much part of the west's own cultural heritage. "Christian and Jewish feminists were not going to sit around being discussed in the same category as those wicked Muslims" wrote Gwynne Dyer.

I wasn't surprised that the conference participants had held such a negative view of Islam, especially when women's issues were involved. Islam is believed , in the West, to be the symbol of the subordination of women par excellence. In order to understand how firm this belief is, it is enough to mention that the Minister of Education in France, the land of Voltaire, has recently ordered the expulsion of all young muslim women wearing the veil from french schools [1]! What intrigued me the most about the conference was one question : Were the statements made by Saadawi, or any of her critics, factual ? In other words, do Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have the same conception of women? Are they different in their conceptions ? Do Judaism and Christianity , truly, offer women a better treatment than Islam does? What is the Truth?

It is not easy to search for and find answers to these difficult questions. The first difficulty is that one has to be fair and objective or, at least, that one does one's utmost to be so. This is what Islam teaches. The Quran has instructed us to say the truth even if those who are very close to us don't like it:

"Whenever you speak, speak justly, even if a near relative is concerned"
(Qur'an 6:152)

"O you who believe stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against yourselves, or your parents or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor"
(Qur'an 4:135)

The other great difficulty is the overwhelming breadth of the subject. Therefore, during the last few years, I have spent many hours reading the Bible, The Encyclopedia of Religion, and the Encyclopedia Judaica searching for answers. I have also read several books discussing the position of women in different religions written by scholars, apologists, and critics. Today, I am here to present some of the important findings of this humble research. I don't claim to be absolutely objective. This is beyond my limited capacity. All what I can say is that I have been trying, throughout this research, to approach the Quranic ideal of "speaking justly".

Before we start, I would like to emphasize that my purpose from this presentation is not to denigrate Judaism or Christianity. As Muslims, we believe in the divine origins of both. No one can be a Muslim without believing in Moses and Jesus as great prophets of Allah. My goal is only to vindicate Islam and pay a tribute ,long overdue in the West, to the final truthful Message from God to the human race. I would also like to emphasize that I concerned myself only with Doctrine. That is, my concern is, mainly, the position of women in the three religions as it appears in their original sources not as practiced by their millions of followers in the world today. Therefore, most of the evidence cited comes from the Quran, the Bible, the Talmud , and the sayings of some of the most influential Church Fathers whose views have contributed immeasurably to defining and shaping Christianity. This interest in the sources relates to the fact that understanding a certain religion from the attitudes and the behaviour of some of its nominal followers is misleading. Many people confuse culture with religion, many others don't know what their religious books are saying, and many others don't even care.

Eve's Fault?

The three religions agree on one basic fact : Both women and men are created by God The Creator of the whole universe. However, disagreement starts soon after the creation of the first man, Adam and the first woman, Eve. The Judaeo-Christian conception of the creation of Adam and Eve is narrated in detail in Genesis 2:4-3:24. God prohibited both of them from eating the fruits of the forbidden tree. The serpent seduced Eve to eat from it and Eve, in turn, seduced Adam to eat with her. When God rebuked Adam for what he did, he put all the blame on Eve "The woman you put here with me --she gave me some fruit from the tree and I ate it." Consequently, God said to Eve "I will greatly increase your pains in childbearing; with pain you will give birth to children. Your desire will be for your husband and he will rule over you." To Adam he said,"Because you listened to your wife and ate from the tree .... Cursed is the ground because of you; through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life..."

The Islamic conception of the first creation is found in several places in the Quran, for example

"O Adam dwell with your wife in the garden and enjoy as you wish but approach not this tree or you run into harm. Then Satan whispered to them your Lord only forbade you this tree lest you become angels or such beings as live forever. And he swore to them both that he was their sincere adviser.So by deceit he brought them to their fall: when they tasted the tree their shame became manifest to them... Their Lord called unto them did I not forbid you that tree...They said: our Lord we have wronged our own souls and if You forgive us not and bestow not upon us Your mercy, we shall certainly be lost..."
(Qur'an 7:19-25)

A careful look into the two accounts of the story of the Creation reveals some essential differences. The Quran, contrary to the Bible, places equal blame on both Adam and Eve for their mistake. Nowhere in the Quran can one find even the slightest hint that Eve tempted Adam to eat from the tree or even that she had eaten before him. Eve in the Quran is no temptress, no seducer, and no deceiver. Moreover, Eve isn't to be blamed for the pains of childbearing. God, according to the Quran, punishes no one for another's faults. Both Adam and Eve committed a sin and then asked God for forgiveness and He forgave them both.

Eve's Legacy

The image of Eve as temptress in the Bible has resulted in an extremely negative impact on women throughout the Judaeo-Christian tradition. In order to understand how negative the impact on women was we have to look at the writings of some of the most important Jews and Christians of all time. Let us start with the Old Testament and listen to excerpts from what is called the Wisdom Literature in which we find," I find more bitter than death the woman who is a snare, whose heart is a trap and whose hands are chains. The man who pleases God will escape her, but the sinner she will ensnare....while I was still searching but not finding, I found one upright man among a thousand but not one upright woman among them all." (Ecclesiastes 7:26-28) One has to ask what is the wisdom in denying the existence of even one upright woman on earth ? In another part of the Hebrew literature which is found in the Catholic Bible we read," No wickedness comes anywhere near the wickedness of a woman.....Sin began with a woman and thanks to her we all must die"(Ecclesiasticus 25:19,24) Orthodox Jewish men in their daily morning prayer recite "Blessed be God King of the universe that Thou has not made me a woman." The women, on the other hand, thank God every morning for "making me according to Thy will" [2].

The same severe tone is found also in the New Testament. Listen to St. Paul," A woman should learn in quietness and full submission. I don't permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man; she must be silent. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam wasn't the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner, but women will be saved through childbearing...."(I Timothy 2:11-15) St. Tertullian was even more blunt than St. Paul, while he was talking to his 'best beloved sisters' in the faith, he said," Do you not know that you are each an Eve? The sentence of God on this sex of yours lives in this age: the guilt must of necessity live too. You are the Devil's gateway: You are the unsealer of the forbidden tree: You are the first deserter of the divine law: You are she who persuaded him whom the devil wasn't valiant enough to attack. You destroyed so easily God's image ,man."

St. Augustine was faithful to the legacy of his predecessors, he wrote to a friend, " What is the difference whether it is in a wife or a mother, it is still Eve the temptress that we must beware of in any woman."

Centuries later, St. Thomas Aquinas still considered women as defective, "As regards the individual nature, woman is defective and misbegotten, for the active force in the male seed tends to the production of a perfect likeness in the masculine sex; while the production of woman comes from a defect in the active force or from some material indisposition, or even from some external influence."

Finally, the renowned reformer Martin Luther couldn't see any benefit from a woman but bringing into the world as many children as possible regardless of the possible side effects," If they become tired or even die, that doesn't matter. Let them die in childbirth, that's why they are there" [3]. Again and again all women are denigrated because of the image of Eve the temptress, thanks to the Genesis account.

If we now turn our attention to what the Quran has to say about women, we will soon realize that the Islamic conception of women is radically different from that of the Judaeo-Christian tradition. Let the Quran speak for itself.

"For muslim men and women, for believing men and women, for devout men and women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient, for men and women who humble themselves, for men and women who give in charity, for men and women who fast, for men and women who guard their chastity, and for men and women who engage much in Allah's praise-- For them all has Allah prepared forgiveness and great reward"
(Qur'an 33:35)

"Whoever works evil will not be requited but by the like thereof, and whoever works a righteous deed -whether man or woman- and is a believer- such will enter the Garden of bliss"
(Qur'an 40:40)

"Whoever works righteousness, man or woman, and has faith, verily to him/her we will give a new life that is good and pure, and we will bestow on such their reward according to the best of their actions"
(Qur'an 16:97)

It is clear that the Quranic view of women is no different than that of a man. They, both, are God's creatures whose sublime goal on earth is to worship their Lord, do righteous deeds, and avoid evil and they, both, will be assessed accordingly. The Quran never mentions that the woman is the devil's gateway or that she is a deceiver by nature. The Quran, also, never mentions that man is God's image, all men and all women are his creatures, that's all. According to the Quran, a woman's role on earth isn't limited only to childbirth. She is required to do as many good deeds as any other man is required to do. The Quran never said that no upright women had ever existed. To the contrary, the Quran has instructed all the believers, women as well as men, to follow the example of those ideal women such as the Virgin Mary and the Pharoah's wife (66:11-13)

Shameful Daughters?

In fact, the difference between the Biblical and the Quranic attitude towards the female sex starts as soon as a female is born. For example the Bible states that the period of the mother's ritual impurity is twice as long if a girl is born than if a boy is (Leviticus 12:2-5). The Catholic Bible does state explicitly that "The birth of a daughter is a loss" (Ecclesiasticus 22:3) In contrast to this shocking statement, boys receive special praise, "A man who educates his son will be the envy of his enemy." (Ecclesiasticus 30:3) A daughter is considered a painful burden, a potential source of shame to her father "Your daughter is headstrong? Keep a sharp look-out that she doesn't make you the laughing stock of your enemies, the talk of the town, the object of common gossip, and put you to public shame."(Ecclesiasticus 42:11)

It was this very same idea of treating daughters as sources of shame that led the pagan Arabs, before the advent of Islam, to practice female infanticide. The Quran severely condemned this heinous practice

"When news is brought to one of them of the birth of a female child, his face darkens and he is filled with inward grief. With shame does he hide himself from his people because of the bad news he has had! Shall he retain her on contempt or bury her in the dust? Ah! what an evil they decide on?"
(Qur'an 16:59)

It has to be mentioned that this sinister crime would have never stopped in Arabia if it were not to the power of the scathing terms the Quran used to condemn this practice (16:59, 43:17, 81:8-9). The Quran, moreover, makes no distinction between boys and girls. In contrast to the Bible, the Quran considers the birth of a female as a gift and a blessing from God, same as the birth of a male. The Quran even mentions the gift of the female birth first,

"To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. He creates what he wills. He bestows female children to whomever he wills and bestows male children to whomever he wills"
(Qur'an 42:49)

Female Education?

The difference between the Biblical and the Quranic conceptions of women is not limited to the newly born female, it extends far beyond that. Let's compare their attitudes towards a female trying to learn her religion. The heart of Judaism is the Torah, the law. However, according to the Talmud, "women are exempt from the study of the Torah." In the first century C.E., Rabbi Eliezer said: "If any man teaches his daughter Torah it is as though he taught her lechery" [4]. The attitude of St. Paul in the New Testament isn't brighter "As in all the congregations of the saints, women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission as the law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church."(I Corinthians 14:34,35) How can a woman learn if she is not allowed to speak? How can a woman grow intellectually if she is obliged to be in a state of full submission? How can she broaden her horizons if her one and only source of information is her husband at home?

Now, to be fair, we should ask: is the Quranic position any different? One short story narrated in the Quran sums its position up concisely. Khawlah was a Muslim woman whose husband Aws at a moment of anger pronounced this statement: "You are to me as the back of my mother." This was held by pagan Arabs to be a statement of divorce which freed the husband from any conjugal responsibility but didn't leave the wife free to leave the husband's home or to marry another man. Having heard these words from her husband, Khawlah was in a miserable situation. She went straight to the Prophet of Islam to plead her case. The prophet was of the opinion that she should be patient since there seemed to be no way out. Khawla kept arguing with the prophet in an attempt to save her suspended marriage. Shortly, the Quran intervened; Khawla's plea was accepted. The divine verdict abolished this iniquitous custom. One full chapter (Chapter 58) of the Quran whose title is *Almujadilah* or "The woman who is arguing" was devoted to this incident,

"Allah has heard and accepted the statement of the woman who pleads with you (the prophet) concerning her husband and carries her complaint to Allah, and Allah hears the arguments between both of you for Allah hears and sees all things...."
(Qur'an 58:1)

A woman in the Quranic conception has the right to argue even with the Prophet of Islam himself. No one has the right to instruct her to be silent. She is under no obligation to consider her husband the one and only reference in matters of law and religion.

Adultery

Women's position, role, rights, and duties in the Quran are very different from those found in the Bible. Let us take some examples. Adultery and fornication are considered sins in all religions. The Bible decrees the death sentence for both the adulterer and the adulteress (Leviticus 20:10). Islam also equally punishes both the adulterer and the adulteress (24:2). However, the Quranic definition of adultery is very different from the Biblical definition. Adultery, according to the Quran, is the involvement of a married man or a married woman in an extramarital affair. The Bible only considers the extramarital affair of a married woman as adultery (Leviticus 20:10, Deuteronomy 22:22, Proverbs 6:20-7:27). The extramarital affair of a married man isn't per se a crime in the Bible. Why this dual moral standard?

According to Encyclopedia Judaica, the wife was considered to be the husband's possession and adultery constituted a violation the husband's exclusive right to her; the wife as the husband's possession had no such right to him [5].

The New Testament echoes the same attitude in Matthew 5:31-32, where it is attributed to Jesus to have said," I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery." Why didn't he label the man who divorces his wife and marries another woman as adulterer? To the present day in Israel, if a married man indulges in an extramarital affair with a woman, his children by that woman are considered legitimate. But, if a married woman has an affair with another man, her children by that man are not only illegitimate but are forbidden to marry any other Jews except converts and other bastards. This ban is handed down to the child's descendants for 10 generations until the taint of adultery is presumably weakened [6].

The Quran, on the other hand, never considers any woman to be the possession of any man. The Quran eloquently describes the relationship between the spouses by saying,

"And among His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility with them and He has put love and mercy between your hearts: verily in that are signs for those who reflect"
(Qur'an 30:21)

This is Quranic conception of marriage: love, mercy, and tranquility, not possession and double standards.

Bearing Witness

Another issue in which the Quran and the Bible disagree is the issue of women bearing witness. It is true that the Quran has instructed the believers dealing in financial transactions to get two male witnesses or one male and two females (2:282). However, it is also true that the Quran in other situations accepts the testimony of a woman as equal to that of a man. In fact the woman's testimony can even invalidate the man's. If a man accuses his wife of unchastity, he is required by the Quran to solemnly swear five times as evidence of the wife's guilt. If the wife denies and swears similarly five times, she isn't considered guilty and in either case the marriage is dissolved (24:6-11).

On the other hand, women were not allowed to bear witness in early Jewish society [7]. Women in Today's Israel are not allowed to give evidence in Rabbinical courts because the Talmud says: "Women are temperamentally light-headed" [8]. The Rabbis, also, justify why women can't bear witness by citing Genesis 18:9-16, where it is stated that Sara, Abraham's wife had lied. The rabbis use this incident as evidence that women are unqualified to bear witness. It should be noted here that this story narrated in Genesis 18:9-16 has been mentioned more than once in the Quran without any hint of any lies by Sara (11:69-74, 51:24-30).

If a man accuses his wife of unchastity, her testimony will not be considered at all according to the Bible. The accused wife has to be subjected to a trial by ordeal (Numbers 5:11-31). In this trial, the wife faces a complex and humiliating ritual which was supposed to prove her guilt or innocence. If she is found guilty after this ordeal, she will be sentenced to death. Also, if a man takes a woman as a wife and then accuses her of not being a virgin, her own testimony will not count. Her parents had to bring evidence of her virginity before the elders of the town. If the parents couldn't prove the innocence of their daughter, she would be stoned to death on her father's doorsteps. If the parents were able to prove her innocence, the husband will only be fined one hundred shekels of silver and he must not divorce his wife as long as he lives (Deuteronomy 22:13-21). Why should the poor woman live with the man who slandered her in public for the rest of his life?

Female Inheritance

One of the most important differences between the Quran and the Bible is their attitude towards female inheritance of the property of a deceased relative. According to Numbers 27:1-11, widows and sisters don't inherit at all. Daughters can inherit only if their deceased father had no sons. Otherwise the sons receive the entire inheritance. Among the pagan Arabs before Islam, inheritance rights were confined exclusively to the male relatives. The Quran abolished all these unjust customs and gave all the female relatives their just share (4:7,11,12,176).

Plight of Widows

Because of the fact that the Old Testament recognized no inheritance rights to them, widows were among the most vulnerable of the Jewish population. The male relatives who inherited all of her deceased husband's estate were to provide for her from that estate. However, widows had no way to ensure this provision was carried out and lived on the mercy of others. Therefore, widows were among the lowest classes in ancient Israel and widowhood was considered a symbol of great degradation (Isaiah 54:4). But the plight of a widow in the Biblical tradition extended even beyond her exclusion from her husband's property. According to Genesis 38, a childless widow must marry her husband's brother, even if he is already married, so that he can produce offspring for his dead brother, thus ensuring his brother's name will not die out. The widow's consent to this marriage is not required. The widow is treated as part of her deceased husband's property whose main function is to ensure her husband's posterity. This biblical law is still practiced in today's Israel [9]. The pagan Arabs before Islam had similar practices. The widow was considered a part of her husband's property to be inherited by his male heirs and she was, usually, given in marriage to the deceased man's eldest son from another wife. The Quran scathingly attacked and abolished this degrading custom (4:22).

Widows and divorced women were so looked down upon in the biblical tradition that the high priest must not marry a widow, a divorced woman, or a prostitute (Leviticus 21:13). In Israel today, a descendent of the Cohen caste (the high priests of the days of the Temple) cannot marry a divorcee, a widow, or a prostitute [10]. In the Jewish legislation, a woman who has been widowed three times with all the three husband's dying of natural causes is considered 'fatal' and forbidden to marry again [11]. The Quran, on the other hand, recognizes neither castes nor fatal persons. Widows and divorcees have the freedom to marry whomever they choose. There is no stigma attached with divorce or widowhood in the Quran (2:231,232, 234, 240).

Polygamy

Let's now tackle the important question of polygamy. Polygamy is a very ancient practice found in many human societies. The Bible didn't condemn polygamy. To the contrary, the Old Testament and Rabbinic writings frequently attest to the legality of polygamy. King Solomon is said to have had 700 wives and 300 concubines (1 Kings 11:3) Also, king David is said to have had many wives and concubines (2 Samuel 5:13). The Old Testament does have some injunctions on how to distribute the property of a man among his sons from different wives (Deut. 22:7). The only restriction on polygamy is a ban on taking a wife's sister as a rival wife (Leviticus 18:18). The Talmud advices a maximum of four wives [12]. European Jews continued to practice polygamy until the sixteenth century. Oriental Jews regularly practised polygamy until they arrived in Israel where it is forbidden under civil law. However, under religious law which overrides civil law in such cases, it is permissible [13].

What about the New Testament? According to Father Eugene Hillman in his insightful book 'Polygamy reconsidered'," No where in the New Testament is there any explicit commandment that marriage should be monogamous or any explicit commandment forbidding polygamy" [14]. Moreover, Jesus hasn't spoken against polygamy though it was practiced by the Jews of his society. Father Hillman stressed the fact that the church in Rome banned polygamy in order to conform to the Greco-Roman culture (which prescribed only one legal wife while tolerating concubinage and prostitution). He cited St. Augustine, "Now indeed in our time, and in keeping with Roman custom, it is no longer allowed to take another wife" [15].

African churches and African christians often remind their European brothers that the Church's ban on polygamy is a cultural tradition and not an authentic Christian injunction.

The Quran, too, allowed polygamy, but not without restrictions,

"If you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with the orphans, marry women of your choice, two or three or four but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with them, then only one"
(Qur'an 4:3)

The Quran, Contrary to the Bible, limited the maximum number of wives to four under the strict condition of treating the wives equally and justly. It should not be understood that the Quran is exhorting the believers to practice polygamy, or that polygamy is considered as an ideal. In other words, the Quran has "tolerated" or "allowed" polygamy, and no more, but why? Why is polygamy permissible or allowed? The answer is simple, there are places and times in which there are compelling reasons for polygamy. Islam as a universal religion suitable for all places and all times couldn't ignore these compelling reasons.

In most human societies, females outnumber males. In the U.S. there are, at least, eight million more women than men. In a country like Guinea there are 122 females for every 100 males. In Tanzania, there are 95.1 males per 100 females [16]. What should a society do towards such unbalanced sex ratios? There are various solutions, some might suggest celibacy, others would prefer female infanticide (which does happen in some societies in the world today !). Others would think the only outlet is that the society should tolerate all manners of moral decadence : prostitution, sex out of wedlock, homosexuality ...etc. Other societies (like most African societies today) would see the most honourable outlet is to allow polygamous marriage as a culturally accepted and socially respected institution. The point that is often misunderstood in the west is that women in other cultures don't necessarily look at polygamy as a sign of women's degradation.

For example, many young African brides (whether Christians or Muslims or otherwise), would prefer to marry a married man who has already proved himself to be a responsible husband. Many African wives urge their husbands to get a second wife so that they don't feel lonely [17]. The problem of the unbalanced sex ratios becomes truly problematic at times of war. Native American Indian tribes used to suffer highly unbalanced sex ratios after wartime losses. Women in these tribes, who in fact enjoyed a fairly high status, accepted polygamy as the best protection against indulgence in indecent activities. European settlers, without offering any other alternative, condemned this Indian polygamy as 'uncivilized' [18].

After the second world war, there were 7,300,000 more women than men in Germany (3.3 million of them were widows). There were 100 men aged 20 to 30 for every 167 women in that age group [19]. Many of these women needed a man not only as a companion but also as a provider for the household in a time of unprecedented misery and hardship. The soldiers of the victorious Allied Armies exploited these women's vulnerability. Many young girls and widows had liaisons with members of the occupying forces. Many American and British soldiers paid for their pleasures in cigarettes, chocolate, and bread. Children were overjoyed at the gifts these strangers brought. A 10 year old boy on hearing of such gifts from other children wished from all his heart for an 'Englishman' for his mother so that she need not go hungry any longer [20]. We have to ask our own consciences at this point: What is more dignifying to a woman? An accepted and respected second wife as in the native Indians' approach, or a virtual prostitute as in the 'civilised' Allies approach? In other words, what is more dignifying to a woman, the Quranic prescription or the theology based on the culture of the Roman Empire?

The world today possesses more weapons of mass destruction than ever before and the European churches might, sooner or later, be obliged to accept polygamy as the only way out. Father Hillman has thoughtfully recognized this fact," It is quite conceivable that these genocidal techniques (nuclear, biological, chemical..) could produce so drastic an imbalance among the sexes that plural marriage would become a necessary means of survival....Then contrary to previous custom and law, an overriding natural and moral inclination might arise in favour of polygamy. In such a situation, theologians and church leaders would quickly produce weighty reasons and biblical texts to justify a new conception of marriage" [21].

It has to be added also that polygamy in Islam is a matter of mutual consent. No one can force a woman to marry a married man. The Bible, on the other hand, sometimes resorts to forcible polygamy. A childless widow must marry her husband's brother, even if he is already married, regardless of her consent (Genesis 38).

It should be noted that in many Muslim societies today the practice of polygamy is rare since the gap between the numbers of both sexes is not huge. One can, safely, say that the rate of polygamous marriages in the Muslim world is much less than the rate of extramarital affairs in the West. In other words, Men in the Muslim world today are far more strictly monogamous than men in the Western world !

The Veil

Finally, let us shed some light on what is considered in the west as the greatest symbol of women's oppression and servitude, the veil or the head cover. Is it true that there is no such thing as the veil in the Judaeo-Christian tradition? Let's set the record straight. According to Rabbi Dr. Menachem M. Brayer (Professor of Biblical Literature at Yeshiva University) in his book 'The Jewish woman in Rabbinic literature', it was the custom of Jewish women to go out in public with a head covering which, sometimes, even covered the whole face leaving one eye free [22]. He quotes some famous ancient Rabbis saying," It is not like the daughters of Israel to walk out with heads uncovered" and "Cursed be the man who lets the hair of his wife be seen....a woman who exposes her hair for self-adornment brings poverty." Rabbinic law forbids the recitation of blessings or prayers in the presence of a bareheaded married woman since uncovering the woman's hair is considered "nudity" [23]. Dr. Brayer also mentions that "During the Tannaitic period the Jewish woman's failure to cover her head was considered an affront to her modesty. When her head was uncovered she might be fined four hundred zuzim for this offense." Dr. Brayer also explains that veil of the Jewish woman wasn't always considered a sign of modesty. Sometimes, the veil symbolized a state of distinction and luxury rather than modesty. The veil personified the dignity and superiority of noble women. It, also, represented a woman's inaccessibility as a sanctified possession of her husband [24]. It is clear in the Old Testament that uncovering a woman's head was a great disgrace and that's why the priest had to uncover the suspected adulteress in her trial by ordeal (Numbers 5:16-18).

What about the Christian tradition? It is well known that Catholic Nuns have been covering their heads for hundreds of years, but that's not all. St. Paul in the New Testament made some very interesting statements about the veil," Now I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonours his head. And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonours her head - it is just as though her head were shaved. If a woman doesn't cover her head, she should have her hair cut off; and if it is a disgrace for a woman to have her hair cut off or shaved off, she should cover her head. A man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but the woman is the glory of man. For man didn't come from woman, but woman from man; neither was man created for woman, but woman for man. For this reason, and because of the angels, the woman ought to have a sign of authority on her head." (I Corinthians 11:3-10) St Paul's rationale for veiling women is that the veil represents a sign of authority of the man, who is the image and glory of God, over the woman who was created from and for the man. St. Tertullian in his famous treatise 'On The Veiling Of Virgins' wrote," Young women, you wear your veils out on the streets, so you should wear them in the church, you wear them when you are among strangers, then wear them among your brothers..." Among the Canon laws of the Catholic church today, there is a law that require women to cover their heads in church [25]. Some Christian denominations, such as the Amish and the Mennonites for example, keep their women veiled to the present day. The reason for the veil, as offered by their Church leaders, is "The head covering is a symbol of woman's subjection to the man and to God" : The same logic introduced by St. Paul in the New Testament [26].

From all the above evidence, it is obvious that Islam didn't invent the head cover, but Islam endorsed it. The Quran urges the believing men and women to lower their gaze and guard their modesty and then urges the believing women to extend their head covers to cover the neck and the bosom

"Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty......And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what ordinarily appear thereof; that they should draw their veils over their bosoms...."
(Qur'an 24:30,31)

The Quran is quite clear that the veil is an essential part of a recipe designed for the purposes of modesty, but why modesty? The Quran is still clear

"O prophet, tell your wives and daughters and the believing women that they should cast their outer garments over their bodies (when abroad) so that they should be known and not molested"
(Qur'an 33:59)

This is the whole point, modesty is prescribed to protect women from molestation or simply, modesty is protection.

Thus, the only purpose of the veil in Islam is protection. The Islamic veil, unlike the veil of the Christian tradition, is not a sign of man's authority over woman nor is it a sign of woman's subjection to man. The Islamic veil, unlike the veil in the Jewish tradition, is not a sign of luxury and distinction of some noble married women.The Islamic veil is only a sign of modesty with the sole purpose of protecting women, all women. The Islamic philosophy is that it is always better safe than sorry. In fact, the Quran is so concerned with protecting women's bodies and women's reputation that a man who dares to falsely accuse a woman of unchastity will be severely punished,

"And those who launch a charge against chaste women, and produce not four witnesses (to support their allegations)- Flog them with eighty stripes; and reject their evidence ever after: for such men are wicked transgressors"
(Qur'an 24:4)

Compare this strict Quranic attitude with the extremely lax punishment for rape in the Bible " If a man happens to meet a virgin who is not pledged to be married and rapes her and they are discovered, he shall pay the girl's father fifty shekels of silver. He must marry the girl, for he has violated her. He can never divorce her as long as he lives" (Deut. 22:28-30). One must ask a simple question here, who is really punished? The man who only paid a fine for rape, or the girl who is forced to marry the man who raped her and live with him until he dies? Another question that also should be asked is this: which is more protective of women, the Quranic strict attitude or the Biblical lax attitude?

Some people, especially in the West, would tend to ridicule the whole argument of modesty for protection. Their argument is that the best protection is the spread of education, civilised behaviour, and self restraint. We would say: Fine but not enough. If 'civilization' is enough protection, then why is it that women in North America, dare not walk alone in a dark street - or even across an empty parking lot ? If Education is the solution, then why is it that a respected university like ours has a 'walk home service' for female students on campus? If self restraint is the answer, then why are cases of sexual harassment in the workplace on the news media every day? A sample of those accused of sexual harassment, in the last few years, includes: Navy officers, Managers, University professors, Senators, Supreme Court Justices, and the President of the United States! I couldn't believe my eyes when I read the following statistics, written in a pamphlet issued by the Dean of Women's office at Queen's University:

• In Canada, a woman is sexually assaulted every 6 minutes",

• 1 in 3 women in Canada will be sexually assaulted at some time in their lives",

• 1 in 4 women are at the risk of rape or attempted rape in her lifetime",

• 1 in 8 women will be sexually assaulted while attending college or university, and

• A study found 60% of Canadian university-aged males said they would commit sexual assault if they were certain they wouldn't get caught."

Something is fundamentally wrong in the society we live in. A radical change in the society's life style and culture is absolutely necessary. A culture of modesty is badly needed, modesty in dress, in speech, and in manners of both men and women. Otherwise, the grim statistics will grow even worse day after day and , unfortunately, women alone will be paying the price. Therefore, a society like France which expels young women from schools because of their modest dress is, in the end, simply harming itself.

Conclusion

In the light of the evidence presented above, there is no doubt that Islam has immensely improved the status of women compared to the Judaeo-Christian tradition. The Quran has offered women dignity, justice, and protection which ,for long, have remained out of their reach. That's why it is no surprise to find that most converts to Islam, today, in a country like Britain are women. In the U.S. women converts to Islam outnumber men converts 4 to 1 [27].

The problem is that the majority of the population in the West do not know these facts. They easily believe the media's distorted image of Islam. Therefore, it is a must that we change our defensive attitude towards the whole issue of women in Islam. We must stop being apologetic. We have nothing to be ashamed of. What the Quran has given to women is unparalleled in the history of religion. Instead of always reacting to the consistent barrage of articles defaming Muslim women, we have to take the initiative. We have to act first and let others react. We should boldly initiate discussions with our friends and colleagues regarding the true status of women in Islam. Tell them how the Quran has ended so many injustices against women found in other scriptures. We have to talk to the media, write to the press, and Invite the whole world to read the Quran, read other scriptures and compare for themselves. It goes without saying that the sisters' role is far more important than the brothers' in this respect. The Quran is an incredibly powerful book and it is our task to spread its impressive message to the world. But, are we up to this task ?

Foot Notes

[1] The Globe and Mail, Oct. 4,1994.
[2]Thena Kendath, "Memories of an Orthodox youth" in Susannah Heschel, ed. On being a Jewish Feminist (New York: Schocken Books, 1983), pp. 96-97.
[3] For all the sayings of the prominent Saints, see Karen Armstrong, The Gospel According to Woman (London: Elm Tree Books, 1986) pp. 52-62. See also Nancy van Vuuren, The Subversion of Women as Practiced by Churches, Witch-Hunters, and Other Sexists (Philadelphia: Westminister Press) pp.28-30.
[4] Leonard J. Swidler, Women in Judaism: the Status of Women in Formative Judaism (Metuchen, N.J: Scarecrow Press, 1976) pp. 83-93.
[5] Jeffry H. Togay, "Adultery," Encyclopaedia Judaica, Vol. II, col. 313. Also, see Judith Plaskow, Standing Again at Sinai: Judaism from a Feminist Perspective (New York: Harper & Row Publishers, 1990) pp. 170-177.
[6] Lesley Hazleton, Israeli Women The Reality Behind the Myths (New York: Simon and Schuster, 1977) pp. 41-42.
[7] Swidler, op. cit., p. 115.
[8] Hazleton, op. cit., p. 41.
[9] Ibid., pp. 45-46.
[10] Ibid., p. 47.
[11] Ibid., p. 49.
[12] Swidler, op. cit., pp. 144-148.
[13] Hazleton, op. cit., pp 44-45.
[14] Eugene Hillman, Polygamy Reconsidered: African Plural Marriage and the Christian Churches (New York: Orbis Books, 1975) p. 140.
[15] Ibid., p. 17.
[16] Ibid., pp. 88-93.
[17] Ibid., pp. 92-97.
[18] John D'Emilio and Estelle B. Freedman, Intimate Matters: A history of Sexuality in America (New York: Harper & Row Publishers, 1988) p. 87.
[19] Ute Frevert, Women in German History: from Bourgeois Emancipation to Sexual Liberation (New York: Berg Publishers, 1988) pp. 263-264.
[20] Ibid., pp. 257-258.
[21] Hillman, op. cit., p. 12.
[22] Menachem M. Brayer, The Jewish Woman in Rabbinic Literature: A Psychosocial Perspective (Hoboken, N.J: Ktav Publishing House, 1986) p. 239.
[23] Ibid., pp. 316-317. Also see Swidler, op. cit., pp. 121-123.
[24] Ibid., p. 139.
[25] Clara M. Henning, " Cannon Law and the Battle of the Sexes" in Rosemary R. Ruether, ed., Religion and Sexism: Images of Woman in the Jewish and Christian Traditions (New York: Simon and Schuster, 1974) p. 272.
[26] Donald B. Kraybill, The riddle of the Amish Culture (Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, 1989) p. 56.
[27] The Times, Nov. 18, 1993.

The True Narrative of Jesus the Son of Mary as revealed in the Qur'aan

The True Narrative of Jesus the Son of Mary as revealed in the Qur'aan
the following is the Story of Jesus in translations-of-the-meanings of the verses of the Holy Qur'aan

‘The Noble Qur’ân’ is the title of a verse-by-verse translation into English of the Qur’ân, and is available from most Islamic bookshops. The Qur'aan only exists in the Arabic language and is preserved in the form it was revealed in, consequently a translation into another language is only refered to as a translation-of-the-meanings of the Qur'aan, the translation loses some of the meanings and most of the rythm and style. Allâh (Arabic): from a contraction of Al (the) + ILâh (god: equivalent to Hebrew: Elâh, Alâh) meaning the one and only God, pronounced with a deep, stressed, slightly-rolled double ‘L’ sound. "And this Qur'ân is not such as could ever be produced by other than Allâh (Lord of the heavens and the earth), but (on the contrary) it is a confirmation of (the revelation) which was before it [i.e. the Taurât (Torah), and the Injeel (Gospel), etc.], and a full explanation of the Book (i.e. laws and orders, etc, decreed for mankind) - wherein there is no doubt, from the Lord of the 'Alamîn (mankind, jinns,and all that exists)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Yûnus (no.10), Verse 37] "Do they not consider the Qur’ân carefully? Had it been from other than Allâh, they would surely, have found therein many a contradiction." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter An-Nisâ’ (no.4), Verse 82] First mention of Jesus (may the peace and blessings of Allâh be upon him) in the Qur'an

"And indeed, We gave Mûsa (Moses) the Book and followed him up with a succession of Messengers. And We gave 'Iesa (Jesus), the son of Maryam (Mary), clear signs and supported him with Rûh-ul-Qudus [Jibrael (Gabriel)]. Is it that whenever there came to you a Messenger with what you yourselves desired not, you grew arrogant? Some, you disbelieved and some, you killed." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Baqarah (no.2), Verse 87]

Mention made of some of the Prophets of Allâh

"And that was Our Proof which We gave Ibrâhim (Abraham) against his people. We raise whom We will in degrees. Certainly your Lord is All­Wise, All­Knowing. ( ) And We bestowed upon him Ishâque (Isaac) and Ya'qûb (Jacob), each of them We guided, and before him, We guided Nûh (Noah), and among his progeny Dawûd (David), Sulaimân (Solomon), Ayub (Job), Yûsuf (Joseph), Mûsa (Moses), and Hârûn (Aaron). Thus do We reward the good­doers. ( ) And Zakariyâ (Zachariya), and Yahya (John) and 'Iesa (Jesus) and Iliyâs (Elias), each one of them was of the righteous. ( ) And Ismâ'il (Ishmael) and Al-Yas'â (Elisha), and Yûnus (Jonah) and Lout (Lot), and each one of them We preferred above the 'Alamîn (mankind and jinns) (of their times)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-An’âm (no.6), Verse 83-86]

The religion followed by the Messengers was one and the same.

"He (Allâh) has ordained for you the same religion (Islâm) which He ordained for Nûh (Noah), and that which We have inspired in you (O Muhammad (may the peace and blessings of Allâh be upon him)), and that which We ordained for Ibrahîm (Abraham), Mûsa (Moses) and 'Iesa (Jesus) saying you should establish religion (i.e. to do what it orders you to do practically), and make no divisions in it (religion) (i.e. various sects in religion). Intolerable for the Mushrikûn [Those who worship others along with Allâh], is that to which you (O Muhammad) call them. Allâh chooses for Himself whom He wills, and guides unto Himself (he) who turns to Him in repentance and in obedience." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Ash-Shûra (no.42), Verse 13]

"Say (O Muhammad): "We believe in Allâh and in what has been sent down to us, and what was sent down to Ibrâhim (Abraham), Ismâ'il (Ishmael), Ishâque (Isaac), Ya'qûb (Jacob) and Al-Asbât [the twelve sons of Ya'qûb (Jacob)] and what was given to Mûsa (Moses), 'Iesa (Jesus) and the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between one another among them and to Him (Allâh) we have submitted (in Islâm)." ( ) And whoever seeks a religion other than Islâm, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers. ( ) How shall Allâh guide a people who disbelieved after their belief and after they bore witness that the Messenger (Muhammad) is true and after clear proofs had come unto them? And Allâh guides not the people who are Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Âl-‘Imrân (no.3), Verse 84-86]

What was this message?

"And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): "Worship Allâh (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Tâghût (all false deities, etc. i.e. do not worship Tâghût besides Allâh)." Then of them were some whom Allâh guided and of them were some upon whom the straying was justified. So travel through the land and see what was the end of those who denied (the truth)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter An-Nahl (no.16), Verse 36]

Summary of Allâh's message sent first to the Jews then to the Christians and then to the Muslims

"Indeed Allâh took the covenant from the Children of Israel (Jews), and We appointed twelve leaders among them. And Allâh said: "I am with you if you perform As-Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât [establish the prayer]) and give Zakât [compulsory religious charity] and believe in My Messengers; honour and assist them, and lend to Allâh a good loan. Verily, I will remit your sins and admit you to Gardens under which rivers flow (in Paradise). But if any of you after this, disbelieved, he has indeed gone astray from the Straight Path." ( ) So because of their breach of their covenant, We cursed them, and made their hearts grow hard. They change the words from their (right) places and have abandoned a good part of the Message that was sent to them. And you will not cease to discover deceit in them, except a few of them. But forgive them, and overlook (their misdeeds). Verily, Allâh loves Al­Muhsinûn (good­doers - see V.2:112). ( ) And from those who call themselves Christians, We took their covenant, but they have abandoned a good part of the Message that was sent to them. So We planted amongst them enmity and hatred till the Day of Resurrection (when they discarded Allâh's Book, disobeyed Allâh's Messengers and His Orders and transgressed beyond bounds in Allâh's disobedience), and Allâh will inform them of what they used to do. ( ) O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Now has come to you Our Messenger (Muhammad) explaining to you much of that which you used to hide from the Scripture and passing over (i.e. leaving out without explaining) much. Indeed, there has come to you from Allâh a light (Prophet Muhammad) and a plain Book (this Qur'ân). ( ) Wherewith Allâh guides all those who seek His Good Pleasure to ways of peace, and He brings them out of darkness by His Will unto light and guides them to a Straight Way (Islâmic Monotheism). ( ) Surely, in disbelief are they who say that Allâh is the Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary). Say (O Muhammad): "Who then has the least power against Allâh, if He were to destroy the Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary), his mother, and all those who are on the earth together?" And to Allâh belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them. He creates what He wills. And Allâh is Able to do all things. ( ) And (both) the Jews and the Christians say: "We are the children of Allâh and His loved ones." Say: "Why then does He punish you for your sins?" Nay, you are but human beings, of those He has created, He forgives whom He wills and He punishes whom He wills. And to Allâh belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth and all that is between them, and to Him is the return (of all). ( ) O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Now has come to you Our Messenger (Muhammad) making (things) clear unto you, after a break in (the series of) Messengers, lest you say: "There came unto us no bringer of glad tidings and no warner." But now has come unto you a bringer of glad tidings and a warner. And Allâh is Able to do all things." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Mâ’idah (no.5), Verse 12-19]

Allâh's covenant with his Prophets

"And (remember) when We took from the Prophets their covenant, and from you (O Muhammad), and from Nûh (Noah), Ibrâhim (Abraham), Mûsa (Moses), and 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary). We took from them a strong covenant. ( ) That He may ask the truthfuls (Allâh's Messengers and His Prophets) about their truth (i.e. the conveyance of Allâh's Message that which they were charged with). And He has prepared for the disbelievers a painful torment (Hell-fire)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Ahzâb (no.33), Verse 7-8]

The ones who truly believe in Allâh and his Messengers, strive to obey him. While those who reject belief are deceived by the wealth and the possessions of this short life.

"O (you) Messengers! Eat of the Taiyibât [all kinds of Halâl (legal) foods which Allâh has made legal (meat of slaughtered eatable animals, milk products, fats, vegetables, fruits, etc.], and do righteous deeds. Verily! I am Well-Acquainted with what you do. ( ) And verily! This your religion (of Islâmic Monotheism) is one religion, and I am your Lord, so keep your duty to Me. ( ) But they (men) have broken their religion among them into sects, each group rejoicing in its belief. ( ) So leave them in their error for a time. ( ) Do they think that We enlarge them in wealth and children, ( ) We hasten unto them with good things (in this worldly life so that they will have no share of good things in the Hereafter)? Nay, but they perceive not. ( ) Verily! Those who live in awe for fear of their Lord; ( ) And those who believe in the Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of their Lord, ( ) And those who join not anyone (in worship) as partners with their Lord; ( ) And those who give that (their charity) which they give (and also do other good deeds) with their hearts full of fear (whether their alms and charities, etc., have been accepted or not), because they are sure to return to their Lord (for reckoning). ( ) It is these who race for the good deeds, and they are foremost in them [e.g. offering the compulsory Salât (prayers) in their (early) stated, fixed times and so on]. ( ) And We tax not any person except according to his capacity, and with Us is a Record which speaks the truth, and they will not be wronged. ( ) Nay, but their hearts are covered (blind) from understanding this (the Qur'ân), and they have other (evil) deeds, besides, which they are doing. ( ) Until, when We grasp those of them who lead a luxurious life with punishment, behold! They make humble invocation with a loud voice. ( ) Invoke not loudly this day! Certainly, you shall not be helped by Us. ( ) Indeed My Verses used to be recited to you, but you used to turn back on your heels (denying them, and with hatred to listen to them). ( ) In pride (they Quraish pagans and polytheists of Makkah used to feel proud that they are the dwellers of Makkah sanctuary Haram), talking evil about it (the Qur'ân) by night." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Mu’minûn (no.23), Verse 51-67]

The mission of Jesus

"And in their footsteps, We sent 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), confirming the Taurât (Torah) that had come before him, and We gave him the Injeel (Gospel), in which was guidance and light and confirmation of the Taurât (Torah) that had come before it, a guidance and an admonition for Al-Muttaqûn (the pious)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Mâ’idah (no.5), Verse 46]

The endurance of Moses, Jesus and Muhammad

"And (remember) when Mûsa (Moses) said to his people: "O my people! Why do you hurt me while you know certainly that I am the Messenger of Allâh to you? So when they turned away (from the Path of Allâh), Allâh turned their hearts away (from the Right Path). And Allâh guides not the people who are Fâsiqûn (rebellious, disobedient to Allâh). ( ) And (remember) when 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), said: "O Children of Israel! I am the Messenger of Allâh unto you confirming the Taurât [(Torah) which came] before me, and giving glad tidings of a Messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmed. But when he (Ahmed i.e. Muhammad) came to them with clear proofs, they said: "This is plain magic." ( ) And who does more wrong than the one who invents a lie against Allâh, while he is being invited to Islâm? And Allâh guides not the people who are Zâlimûn (polytheists, wrong-doers and disbelievers) folk. ( ) They intend to put out the Light of Allâh (i.e. the religion of Islâm, this Qur'ân, and Prophet Muhammad) with their mouths. But Allâh will complete His Light even though the disbelievers hate (it). ( ) He it is Who has sent His Messenger (Muhammad) with guidance and the religion of truth (Islâmic Monotheism) to make it victorious over all (other) religions even though the Mushrikûn (polytheists, pagans, idolaters, and disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh and in His Messenger Muhammed) hate (it). ( ) O You who believe! Shall I guide you to a commerce that will save you from a painful torment. ( ) That you believe in Allâh and His Messenger (Muhammad), and that you strive hard and fight in the Cause of Allâh with your wealth and your lives, that will be better for you, if you but know! ( ) (If you do so) He will forgive you your sins, and admit you into Gardens under which rivers flow, and pleasant dwelling in Gardens of 'Adn ­ Eternity ['Adn (Edn) Paradise], that is indeed the great success." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter As-Saff (no.61), Verse 5-12]

The upbringing of Maryam (Mary) and the blessing she received due to the supplication of her mother

"(Remember) when the wife of 'Imrân said: "O my Lord! I have vowed to You what (the child that) is in my womb to be dedicated for Your services (free from all worldly work; to serve Your Place of worship), so accept this, from me. Verily, You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knowing." ( ) Then when she delivered her [child Maryam (Mary)], she said: "O my Lord! I have delivered a female child," - and Allâh knew better what she delivered, - "And the male is not like the female, and I have named her Maryam (Mary), and I seek refuge with You (Allâh) for her and for her offspring from Shaitan (Satan), the outcast." ( ) So her Lord (Allâh) accepted her with goodly acceptance. He made her grow in a good manner and put her under the care of Zakariyâ (Zachariya). Every time he entered Al-Mihrâb to (visit) her , he found her supplied with sustenance. He said: "O Maryam (Mary)! From where have you got this?" She said, "This is from Allâh." Verily, Allâh provides sustenance to whom He wills, without limit." ( ) At that time Zakariyâ (Zachariya) invoked his Lord, saying: "O my Lord! Grant me from You, a good offspring. You are indeed the All-Hearer of invocation." ( ) Then the angels called him, while he was standing in prayer in Al-Mihrâb (a praying place or a private room), (saying): "Allâh gives you glad tidings of Yahya (John), confirming (believing in) the Word from Allâh [i.e. the creation of 'Iesa (Jesus), the Word from Allâh ("Be!" - and he was!)], noble, keeping away from sexual relations with women, a Prophet, from among the righteous." ( ) He said: "O my Lord! How can I have a son when I am very old, and my wife is barren?" Allâh said: "Thus Allâh does what He wills." ( ) He said: "O my Lord! Make a sign for me." Allâh said: "Your sign is that you shall not speak to mankind for three days except with signals. And remember your Lord much (by praising Him again and again), and glorify (Him) in the afternoon and in the morning." ( ) And (remember) when the angels said: "O Maryam (Mary)! Verily, Allâh has chosen you, purified you (from polytheism and disbelief), and chosen you above the women of the 'Alamîn (mankind and jinns) (of her lifetime)." ( ) O Mary! "Submit yourself with obedience to your Lord (Allâh, by worshipping none but Him Alone) and prostrate yourself, and Irkâ'i (bow down etc.) along with Ar-Râki'ûn (those who bow down etc.)." ( ) This is a part of the news of the Ghaib (unseen, i.e. the news of the past nations of which you have no knowledge) which We inspire you with (O Muhammad). You were not with them (the angels), when they cast lots with their pens as to which of them should be charged with the care of Maryam (Mary); nor were you with them when they disputed. ( ) (Remember) when the angels said: "O Maryam (Mary)! Verily, Allâh gives you the glad tidings of a Word ["Be!" - and he was! i.e. 'Iesa (Jesus) the son of Maryam (Mary)] from Him, his name will be the Messiah 'Iesa (Jesus), the son of Maryam (Mary), held in honour in this world and in the Hereafter, and will be one of those who are near to Allâh." ( ) "He will speak to the people in the cradle and in manhood, and he will be one of the righteous." ( ) She said: "O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man has touched me." He said: "So (it will be) for Allâh creates what He wills. When He has decreed something, He says to it only: "Be!" and it is. ( ) And He (Allâh) will teach him ['Iesa (Jesus)] the Book and Al-Hikmah (i.e. the Sunnah, the faultless speech of the Prophets, wisdom, etc.), (and) the Taurât (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel). ( ) And will make him ['Iesa (Jesus)] a Messenger to the Children of Israel (saying): "I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, that I design for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it, and it becomes a bird by Allâh's Leave; and I heal him who was born blind, and the leper, and I bring the dead to life by Allâh's Leave. And I inform you of what you eat, and what you store in your houses. Surely, therein is a sign for you, if you believe. ( ) And I have come confirming that which was before me of the Taurât (Torah), and to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden to you, and I have come to you with a proof from your Lord. So fear Allâh and obey me. ( ) Truly! Allâh is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him (Alone). This is the Straight Path. ( ) Then when 'Iesa (Jesus) came to know of their disbelief, he said: "Who will be my helpers in Allâh's Cause?" Al-Hawâriûn (the disciples) said: "We are the helpers of Allâh; we believe in Allâh, and bear witness that we are Muslims (i.e. we submit to Allâh)." ( ) Our Lord! We believe in what You have sent down, and we follow the Messenger ['Iesa (Jesus)]; so write us down among those who bear witness (to the truth i.e. Lâ ilâha ill-Allâh - none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh). ( ) And they (disbelievers) plotted [to kill 'Iesa (Jesus)], and Allâh planned too. And Allâh is the Best of the planners." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Âl-‘Imrân (no.3), Verse 35-54]

The creation of Jesus, his birth and the first miracle of defending his mother, Mary, from slander

"And mention in the Book (the Qur'ân, O Muhammad), the story of) Maryam (Mary), when she withdrew in seclusion from her family to a place facing east. ( ) She placed a screen (to screen herself) from them; then We sent to her Our Ruh [angel Jibrael (Gabriel)], and he appeared before her in the form of a man in all respects. ( ) She said: "Verily! I seek refuge with the Most Beneficent (Allâh) from you, if you do fear Allâh." ( ) (The angel) said: "I am only a Messenger from your Lord, (to announce) to you the gift of a righteous son." ( ) She said: "How can I have a son, when no man has touched me, nor am I unchaste?" ( ) He said: "So (it will be), your Lord said: 'That is easy for Me (Allâh): And (We wish) to appoint him as a sign to mankind and a mercy from Us (Allâh), and it is a matter (already) decreed, (by Allâh).'" ( ) So she conceived him, and she withdrew with him to a far place (i.e. Bethlehem valley about 4-6 miles from Jerusalem). ( ) And the pains of childbirth drove her to the trunk of a date-palm. She said: "Would that I had died before this, and had been forgotten and out of sight!" ( ) Then [the babe 'Iesa (Jesus) or Jibrael (Gabriel)] cried unto her from below her, saying: "Grieve not! Your Lord has provided a water stream under you; ( ) "And shake the trunk of date-palm towards you, it will let fall fresh ripe-dates upon you." ( ) "So eat and drink and be glad, and if you see any human being, say: 'Verily! I have vowed a fast unto the Most Beneficent (Allâh) so I shall not speak to any human being this day.'" ( ) Then she brought him (the baby) to her people, carrying him. They said: "O Mary! Indeed you have brought a thing Fariya (an unheard mighty thing). ( ) "O sister (i.e. the like) of Hârûn (Aaron) [not the brother of Mûsa (Moses), but he was another pious man at the time of Maryam (Mary)]! Your father was not a man who used to commit adultery, nor your mother was an unchaste woman." ( ) Then she pointed to him. They said: "How can we talk to one who is a child in the cradle?" ( ) "He ['Iesa (Jesus)] said: Verily! I am a slave of Allâh, He has given me the Scripture and made me a Prophet;" ( ) "And He has made me blessed wheresoever I be, and has enjoined on me Salât (prayer), and Zakât (charity), as long as I live." ( ) "And dutiful to my mother, and made me not arrogant, unblest. ( ) "And Salâm (peace) be upon me the day I was born, and the day I die, and the day I shall be raised alive!" ( ) Such is 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary). (it is) a statement of truth, about which they doubt (or dispute). ( ) It befits not (the Majesty of) Allâh that He should beget a son [this refers to the slander of Christians against Allâh, by saying that 'Iesa (Jesus) is the son of Allâh]. Glorified (and Exalted be He above all that they associate with Him). When He decrees a thing, He only says to it, "Be!" and it is. ( ) ['Iesa (Jesus) said]: "And verily Allâh is my Lord and your Lord. So worship Him (Alone). That is the Straight Path. (Allâh's Religion of Islâmic Monotheism which He did ordain for all of His Prophets)." [Tafsir At-Tabarî]( )Then the sects differed [i.e. the Christians about 'Iesa (Jesus)], so woe unto the disbelievers [those who gave false witness by saying that 'Iesa (Jesus) is the son of Allâh] from the meeting of a great Day (i.e. the Day of Resurrection, when they will be thrown in the blazing Fire). ( ) How clearly will they (polytheists and disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh) see and hear, the Day when they will appear before Us! But the Zalimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers) today are in plain error. ( ) And warn them (O Muhammad) of the Day of grief and regrets, when the case has been decided, while (now) they are in a state of carelessness, and they believe not. ( ) Verily! We will inherit the earth and whatsoever is thereon. And to Us they all shall be returned," [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Maryam (no.19), Verse 16-40]

A severe admonition to those who changed the Message of Jesus after his ascension

"And when 'Iesa (Jesus) came with (Our) clear Proofs, he said: "I have come to you with Al-Hikmah (Prophethood), and in order to make clear to you some of the (points) in which you differ, therefore fear Allâh and obey me, ( ) "Verily, Allâh! He is my Lord (God) and your Lord (God). So worship Him (Alone). This is the (only) Straight Path (i.e. Allâh's religion of true Islâmic Monotheism)." ( ) But the sects from among themselves differed. So woe to those who do wrong (by ascribing things to 'Iesa (Jesus) that are not true) from the torment of a painful Day (i.e. the Day of Resurrection)! ( ) Do they only wait for the Hour that it shall come upon them suddenly, while they perceive not? ( ) Friends on that Day will be foes one to another except Al-Muttaqûn (pious - see V.2:2). ( ) (It will be said to the true believers of Islâmic Monotheism): My worshippers! No fear shall be on you this Day, nor shall you grieve, ( ) (You) who believed in Our Ayât (proofs, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) and were Muslims (i.e. who submit totally to Allâh's Will, and believe in the Oneness of Allâh - Islâmic Monotheism). ( ) Enter Paradise, you and your wives, in happiness. ( ) Trays of gold and cups will be passed round them, (there will be) therein all that the one's inner-selves could desire, all that the eyes could delight in, and you will abide therein forever. ( ) This is the Paradise which you have been made to inherit because of your deeds which you used to do (in the life of the world). ( ) Therein for you will be fruits in plenty, of which you will eat (as you desire). ( ) Verily, the Mujrimûn (criminals, sinners, disbelievers, etc.) will be in the torment of Hell to abide therein forever. ( ) (The torment) will not be lightened for them, and they will be plunged into destruction with deep regrets, sorrows and in despair therein. ( ) We wronged them not, but they were the Zâlimûn (polytheists, wrong-doers, etc.). ( ) And they will cry: "O Malik (Keeper of Hell)! Let your Lord make an end of us." He will say: "Verily you shall abide forever." ( ) Indeed We have brought the truth (Muhammad with the Qur'ân), to you, but most of you have a hatred for the truth." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Az-Zukhruf (no.43), Verse 63-78]

Some of the miracles of Jesus mentioned again

"(Remember) when Allâh will say (on the Day of Resurrection). "O 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)! Remember My Favour to you and to your mother when I supported you with Rûh­ul­Qudus [Jibrael (Gabriel)] so that you spoke to the people in the cradle and in maturity; and when I taught you writing, Al­Hikmah (the power of understanding), the Taurât (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel); and when you made out of the clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, by My Permission, and you breathed into it, and it became a bird by My Permission, and you healed those born blind, and the lepers by My Permission, and when you brought forth the dead by My Permission; and when I restrained the Children of Israel from you (when they resolved to kill you) since you came unto them with clear proofs, and the disbelievers among them said: 'This is nothing but evident magic.'"" [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Mâ’idah (no.5), Verse 110]

How Allâh, the Most High, saved Jesus from crucifixion by ascension

"And they (disbelievers) plotted [to kill 'Iesa (Jesus)], and Allâh planned too. And Allâh is the Best of the planners. ( ) And (remember) when Allâh said: "O 'Iesa (Jesus)! I will take you and raise you to Myself and clear you [of the forged statement that 'Iesa (Jesus) is Allâh's son] of those who disbelieve, and I will make those who follow you (Monotheists, who worship none but Allâh) superior to those who disbelieve [in the Oneness of Allâh, or disbelieve in some of His Messengers, e.g. Muhammad, 'Iesa (Jesus), Mûsa (Moses), etc., or in His Holy Books, e.g. the Taurât (Torah), the Injeel (Gospel), the Qur'ân] till the Day of Resurrection. Then you will return to Me and I will judge between you in the matters in which you used to dispute." ( ) "As to those who disbelieve, I will punish them with a severe torment in this world and in the Hereafter, and they will have no helpers." ( ) And as for those who believe (in the Oneness of Allâh) and do righteous good deeds, Allâh will pay them their reward in full. And Allâh does not like the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers). ( ) This is what We recite to you (O Muhammad) of the Verses and the Wise Reminder (i.e. the Qur'ân). ( ) Verily, the likeness of 'Iesa (Jesus) before Allâh is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: "Be!" - and he was. ( ) (This is) the truth from your Lord, so be not of those who doubt." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Âl-‘Imrân (no.3), Verse 54-60]

"And because of their saying (in boast), "We killed Messiah 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), the Messenger of Allâh," - but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but the resemblance of 'Iesa (Jesus) was put over another man (and they killed that man), and those who differ therein are full of doubts. They have no (certain) knowledge, they follow nothing but conjecture. For surely; they killed him not [i.e. 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)]: ( ) But Allâh raised him ['Iesa (Jesus)] up (with his body and soul) unto Himself (and he is in the heavens). And Allâh is Ever All­Powerful, All­Wise." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter An-Nisâ’ (no.4), Verse 157-158]

The fallacy of the attribution of divinity to Jesus and his Mother

"Surely, they have disbelieved who say: "Allâh is the Messiah ['Iesa (Jesus)], son of Maryam (Mary)." But the Messiah ['Iesa (Jesus)] said: "O Children of Israel! Worship Allâh, my Lord and your Lord." Verily, whosoever sets up partners in worship with Allâh, then Allâh has forbidden Paradise for him, and the Fire will be his abode. And for the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong­doers) there are no helpers. ( ) Surely, disbelievers are those who said: "Allâh is the third of the three (in a Trinity)." But there is no ilâh (god) (none who has the right to be worshipped) but One Ilâh (God -Allâh). And if they cease not from what they say, verily, a painful torment will befall the disbelievers among them. ( ) Will they not repent to Allâh and ask His Forgiveness? For Allâh is Oft­Forgiving, Most Merciful. ( ) The Messiah ['Iesa (Jesus)], son of Maryam (Mary), was no more than a Messenger; many were the Messengers that passed away before him. His mother [Maryam (Mary)] was a Siddiqah [i.e. she believed in the words of Allâh and His Books]. They both used to eat food (as any other human being, while Allâh does not eat). Look how We make the Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) clear to them, yet look how they are deluded away (from the truth)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Mâ’idah (no.5), Verse 72-75]

Jesus is not the son of God but instead is His creation (like Adam)

"Verily, the likeness of 'Iesa (Jesus) before Allâh is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: "Be!" - and he was. ( ) (This is) the truth from your Lord, so be not of those who doubt. ( ) Then whoever disputes with you concerning him ['Iesa (Jesus)] after (all this) knowledge that has come to you, [i.e. 'Iesa (Jesus)] being a slave of Allâh, and having no share in Divinity) say: (O Muhammad) "Come, let us call our sons and your sons, our women and your women, ourselves and yourselves - then we pray and invoke (sincerely) the Curse of Allâh upon those who lie." ( ) Verily! This is the true narrative [about the story of 'Iesa (Jesus)], and, Lâ ilâha ill-Allâh (none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh, the One and the Only True God, Who has neither a wife nor a son). And indeed, Allâh is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. ( ) And if they turn away (and do not accept these true proofs and evidences), then surely, Allâh is All-Aware of those who do mischief. ( ) Say (O Muhammad): "O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians): Come to a word that is just between us and you, that we worship none but Allâh, and that we associate no partners with Him, and that none of us shall take others as lords besides Allâh. Then, if they turn away, say: "Bear witness that we are Muslims."" [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Âl-‘Imrân (no.3), Verse 59-64]

Jesus did not teach the people to worship him, but the people deified him after his ascension

"And (remember) when Allâh will say (on the Day of Resurrection): "O 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)! Did you say unto men: 'Worship me and my mother as two gods besides Allâh?' " He will say: "Glory be to You! It was not for me to say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, You would surely have known it. You know what is in my inner­self though I do not know what is in Yours, truly, You, only You, are the All­Knower of all that is hidden and unseen. ( ) "Never did I say to them aught except what You (Allâh) did command me to say: 'Worship Allâh, my Lord and your Lord.' And I was a witness over them while I dwelt amongst them, but when You took me up, You were the Watcher over them, and You are a Witness to all things. (This is a great admonition and warning to the Christians of the whole world). ( ) "If You punish them, they are Your slaves, and if You forgive them, verily You, only You are the All­Mighty, the All­Wise." ( ) Allâh will say: "This is a Day on which the truthful will profit from their truth: theirs are Gardens under which rivers flow (in Paradise) - they shall abide therein forever. Allâh is pleased with them and they with Him. That is the great success (Paradise). ( ) To Allâh belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth and all that is therein, and He is Able to do all things." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Mâ’idah (no.5), Verse 116-120]

The lies of the people who tampered with the scriptures after the ascension of Jesus

"They (Jews, Christians and pagans) say: "Allâh has begotten a son (children)." Glory be to Him! He is Rich (Free of all wants). His is all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth. No warrant you have for this. Do you say against Allâh what you know not. ( ) Say: "Verily, those who invent a lie against Allâh will never be successful" ( ) A brief enjoyment in this world! - and then unto Us will be their return, then We shall make them taste the severest torment because they used to disbelieve [in Allâh, belie His Messengers, deny and challenge His Ayât (proofs, signs, verses, etc.)]." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Yûnus (no.10), Verse 68-70]

"And they (Jews, Christians and pagans) say: Allâh has begotten a son (children or offspring). Glory be to Him (Exalted be He above all that they associate with Him). Nay, to Him belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth, and all surrender with obedience (in worship) to Him. ( ) The Originator of the heavens and the earth. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it : "Be!" - and it is." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Baqarah (no.2), Verse 116-117]

"And they say: "The Most Beneficent (Allâh) has begotten a son (or children)." Glory to Him! They [those whom they call children of Allâh i.e. the angels, 'Iesa (Jesus) son of Maryam (Mary), 'Uzair (Ezra), etc.], are but honoured slaves. ( ) They speak not until He has spoken, and they act on His Command. ( ) He knows what is before them, and what is behind them, and they cannot intercede except for him with whom He is pleased. And they stand in awe for fear of Him. ( ) And if any of them should say: "Verily, I am an ilâh (a god) besides Him (Allâh)," such a one We should recompense with Hell. Thus We recompense the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers, etc.)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Anbiyâ (no.21), Verse 26-29]

"And they say: "The Most Beneficent (Allâh) has begotten a son (or offspring or children) [as the Jews say: 'Uzair (Ezra) is the son of Allâh, and the Christians say that He has begotten a son ['Iesa (Christ)], and the pagan Arabs say that He has begotten daughters (angels, etc.)]." ( ) Indeed you have brought forth (said) a terrible evil thing. ( ) Whereby the heavens are almost torn, and the earth is split asunder, and the mountains fall in ruins, ( ) That they ascribe a son (or offspring or children) to the Most Beneficent (Allâh). ( ) But it is not suitable for (the Majesty of) the Most Beneficent (Allâh) that He should beget a son (or offspring or children). ( ) There is none in the heavens and the earth but comes unto the Most Beneficent (Allâh) as a slave. ( ) Verily, He knows each one of them, and has counted them a full counting. ( ) And everyone of them will come to Him alone on the Day of Resurrection (without any helper, or protector or defender). ( ) Verily, those who believe [in the Oneness of Allâh and in His Messenger (Muhammad)] and work deeds of righteousness, the Most Beneficent (Allâh) will bestow love for them (in the hearts of the believers)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Maryam (no.19), Verse 88-96]

"Surely, in disbelief are they who say that Allâh is the Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary). Say (O Muhammad): "Who then has the least power against Allâh, if He were to destroy the Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary), his mother, and all those who are on the earth together?" And to Allâh belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them. He creates what He wills. And Allâh is Able to do all things." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Mâ’idah (no.5), Verse 17]

"And the Jews say: 'Uzair (Ezra) is the son of Allâh, and the Christians say: Messiah is the son of Allâh. That is a saying from their mouths. They imitate the saying of the disbelievers of old. Allâh's Curse be on them, how they are deluded away from the truth! ( ) They (Jews and Christians) took their rabbis and their monks to be their lords besides Allâh (by obeying them in things which they made lawful or unlawful according to their own desires without being ordered by Allâh), and (they also took as their Lord) Messiah, son of Maryam (Mary), while they (Jews and Christians) were commanded [in the Taurât (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)] to worship none but One Ilâh (God - Allâh) Lâ ilâha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). Praise and glory be to Him, (far above is He) from having the partners they associate (with Him)." ( ) They (the disbelievers, the Jews and the Christians) want to extinguish Allâh's Light (with which Muhammad has been sent - Islâmic Monotheism) with their mouths, but Allâh will not allow except that His Light should be perfected even though the Kâfirûn (disbelievers) hate (it). ( ) It is He Who has sent His Messenger (Muhammad) with guidance and the religion of truth (Islâm), to make it superior over all religions even though the Mushrikûn (polytheists, pagans, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh) hate (it)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter At-Taubah (no.9), Verse 30-33]

A severe warning from the Lord of the Heavens and the Earth, Allâh, against the concept of 'Trinity'

"O mankind! Verily, there has come to you the Messenger (Muhammad) with the truth from your Lord, so believe in him, it is better for you. But if you disbelieve, then certainly to Allâh belongs all that is in the heavens and the earth. And Allâh is Ever All­Knowing, All­Wise. ( ) O people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Do not exceed the limits in your religion, nor say of Allâh aught but the truth. The Messiah 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), was (no more than) a Messenger of Allâh and His Word, ("Be!" - and he was) which He bestowed on Maryam (Mary) and a spirit (Rûh) created by Him; so believe in Allâh and His Messengers. Say not: "Three (trinity)!" Cease! (it is) better for you. For Allâh is (the only) One Ilâh (God), Glory be to Him (Far Exalted is He) above having a son. To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth. And Allâh is All­Sufficient as a Disposer of affairs. ( ) The Messiah will never be proud to reject to be a slave to Allâh, nor the angels who are near (to Allâh). And whosoever rejects His worship and is proud, then He will gather them all together unto Himself. ( ) So, as for those who believed (in the Oneness of Allâh - Islâmic Monotheism) and did deeds of righteousness, He will give their (due) rewards, and more out of His Bounty. But as for those who refuse His worship and were proud, He will punish them with a painful torment. And they will not find for themselves besides Allâh any protector or helper." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter An-Nisâ’ (no.4), Verse 170-173]

The miraculous birth of Prophet John (Yahyah) (the Baptist)

"(This is) a mention of the mercy of your Lord to His slave Zakariya (Zachariah). ( ) When he called out to his Lord (Allâh) a call in secret, ( ) Saying: "My Lord! Indeed my bones have grown feeble, and grey hair has spread on my head, And I have never been unblest in my invocation to You, O my Lord! ( ) "And Verily! I fear my relatives after me, since my wife is barren. So give me from Yourself an heir, ( ) "Who shall inherit me, and inherit (also) the posterity of Ya'qûb (Jacob) (inheritance of the religious knowledge and Prophethood, not the wealth, etc.). And make him, my Lord, one with whom You are Well-pleased!" ( ) (Allâh said) "O Zakariya (Zachariah)! Verily, We give you the glad tidings of a son, His name will be Yahya (John). We have given that name to none before (him)." ( ) He said: "My Lord! How can I have a son, when my wife is barren, and I have reached the extreme old age." ( ) He said: "So (it will be). Your Lord says; It is easy for Me. Certainly I have created you before, when you had been nothing!" ( ) [Zakariya (Zachariah)] said: "My Lord! Appoint for me a sign." He said: "Your sign is that you shall not speak unto mankind for three nights, though having no bodily defect." ( ) Then he came out to his people from Al-Mihrâb (a praying place or a private room, etc.), he told them by signs to glorify Allâh's Praises in the morning and in the afternoon. ( ) (It was said to his son): "O Yahya (John)! Hold fast the Scripture [the Taurât (Torah)]." And We gave him wisdom while yet a child. ( ) And (made him) sympathetic to men as a mercy (or a grant) from Us, and pure from sins [i.e. Yahya (John)] and he was righteous, ( ) And dutiful towards his parents, and he was neither an arrogant nor disobedient (to Allâh or to his parents)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Maryam (no.19), Verse 2-14]

The table spread with food from Heaven

"And when I (Allâh) put in the hearts of Al-Hawârîeen (the disciples) [of 'Iesa (Jesus)] to believe in Me and My Messenger, they said: "We believe. And bear witness that we are Muslims." ( ) (Remember) when Al-Hawârîûn (the disciples) said: "O 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)! Can your Lord send down to us a table spread (with food) from heaven?" 'Iesa (Jesus) said: "Fear Allâh, if you are indeed believers." ( ) They said: "We wish to eat thereof and to be stronger in Faith, and to know that you have indeed told us the truth and that we ourselves be its witnesses." ( ) 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), said: "O Allâh, our Lord! Send us from heaven a table spread (with food) that there may be for us - for the first and the last of us - a festival and a sign from You; and provide us sustenance, for You are the Best of sustainers." ( ) Allâh said: "I am going to send it down unto you, but if any of you after that disbelieves, then I will punish him with a torment such as I have not inflicted on anyone among (all) the 'Alamîn (mankind and jinns)."" [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Mâ’idah (no.5), Verse 111-115]

The invention of Monasticism long after the ascension of Jesus

"And indeed, We sent Nûh (Noah) and Ibrahîm (Abraham), and placed in their offspring Prophethood and Scripture, and among them there is he who is guided, but many of them are Fâsiqûn (rebellious, disobedient to Allâh). ( ) Then, We sent after them, Our Messengers, and We sent 'Iesa (Jesus) ­ son of Maryam (Mary), and gave him the Injeel (Gospel). And We ordained in the hearts of those who followed him, compassion and mercy. But the Monasticism which they invented for themselves, We did not prescribe for them, but (they sought it) only to please Allâh therewith, but that they did not observe it with the right observance. So We gave those among them who believed, their (due) reward, but many of them are Fâsiqûn (rebellious, disobedient to Allâh). ( ) O you who believe [in Mûsa (Moses) (i.e. Jews) and 'Iesa (Jesus) (i.e. Christians)]! Fear Allâh, and believe too in His Messenger (Muhammad), He will give you a double portion of His Mercy, and He will give you a light by which you shall walk (straight), and He will forgive you. And Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. ( ) So that the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) may know that they have no power whatsoever over the Grace of Allâh, and that (His) Grace is (entirely) in His Hand to bestow it on whomsoever He wills. And Allâh is the Owner of Great Bounty." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Hadîd (no.57), Verse 26-29]

"And when the son of Maryam (Mary) is quoted as an example [i.e. 'Iesa (Jesus) is worshipped like their idols), behold! Your people cry aloud (laugh out at the example). ( ) And say: "Are our âliha (gods) better or is he ['Iesa (Jesus)]?" They quoted not the above example except for argument. Nay! But they are a quarrelsome people. [(See V. 21:97-101) - The Qur'ân.] ( ) He ['Iesa (Jesus)] was not more than a slave. We granted Our Favour to him, and We made him an example to the Children of Israel (i.e. his creation without a father)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Az-Zukhruf (no.43), Verse 57-59]

Jews, Christians and Islâm

"Verily, you will find the strongest among men in enmity to the believers (Muslims) the Jews and those who are Al-Mushrikûn [polytheists, pagans etc.], and you will find the nearest in love to the believers (Muslims) those who say: "We are Christians." That is because amongst them are priests and monks, and they are not proud. ( ) And when they (who call themselves Christians) listen to what has been sent down to the Messenger (Muhammad), you see their eyes overflowing with tears because of the truth they have recognised. They say: "Our Lord! We believe; so write us down among the witnesses. ( ) "And why should we not believe in Allâh and in that which has come to us of the truth (Islâmic Monotheism)? And we wish that our Lord will admit us (in Paradise on the Day of Resurrection) along with the righteous people (Prophet Muhammad and his Companions)." ( ) So because of what they said, Allâh rewarded them Gardens under which rivers flow (in Paradise)[i.e. they became true Muslims], they will abide therein forever. Such is the reward of good­doers. ( ) But those who disbelieved and belied Our Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), they shall be the dwellers of the (Hell) Fire." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Mâ’idah (no.5), Verse 82-86]

Relationship of Islâm and the Qur'ân to the previous scriptures

"And We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the Book (this Qur'ân) in truth, confirming the Scripture that came before it and Mohayminan (trustworthy in highness and a witness) over it (old Scriptures). So judge between them by what Allâh has revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging away from the truth that has come to you. To each among you, We have prescribed a law and a clear way. If Allâh willed, He would have made you one nation, but that (He) may test you in what He has given you; so strive as in a race in good deeds. The return of you (all) is to Allâh; then He will inform you about that in which you used to differ. ( ) And so judge (you O Muhammad) between them by what Allâh has revealed and follow not their vain desires, but beware of them lest they turn you (O Muhammad) far away from some of that which Allâh has sent down to you. And if they turn away, then know that Allâh's Will is to punish them for some sins of theirs. And truly, most of men are Fâsiqûn (rebellious and disobedient to Allâh)." [The Noble Qur’ân, Chapter Al-Mâ’idah (no.5), Verse 48-49]

Why Prophets were sent to Mankind

Ever since people innovated the dogma of Shirk, (i.e. joining others in worship along with Allâh), Allâh had been sending Prophets and Messengers to His devotees in order to invite them to the worship of Allâh and Allâh Alone, to order them not to ascribe partners unto Him and bring them out of the darkness of polytheism into the light of Monotheism. All the Prophets preached Tauhîd (i.e. Pure Monotheism, the Belief in the Oneness of Allâh, the Glorious, the Elevated). The following Verses from the Noble Qur'ân illustrate this fact:
"Indeed We sent Noah to his people, and he said: ‘O my people! Worship Allâh! You have no other Ilâh (God) but Him. (Lâ ilaha ill Allâh, none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh). Certainly, I fear for you the torment of a great Day!’" (V. 7:59).

"And to ‘Ad (people, We sent) their brother Hûd. He said: ‘O my people! Worship Allâh! You have no other Ilâh (God) but Him. (Lâ ilâha ill Allâh, none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh). Will you not fear (Allâh)?’" (V. 7:65).

"And to (the people of) Madyan (Midian), (We sent) their brother Shu’aib. He said: ‘O my people! Worship Allâh! You have no other Ilâh (God) but Him. (Lâ ilâha ill Allâh, none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh). Verily, a clear proof (sign) from your Lord has come unto you, so give full measure and full weight and wrong not men in their things, and do not make mischief on the earth after it has been set in order, that will be better for you, if you are believers.’" (V.7:85)

"And to Thamûd (people, We sent) their brother Salih. He said: ‘O my people! Worship Allâh! You have no other Ilâh (God) but Him. (Lâ ilâha ill Allâh, none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh).’" (V. 7:73).

"And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): Worship Allâh (Alone) and avoid (or keep away from) Tâghût (all false deities etc. i.e. do not worship Tâghûts besides Allâh)." (V. 16:36).

Every Prophet was sent unto his own nation for their guidance, but the Message of Prophet Muhammad SAW was general for all mankind and jinns.

"Say (O Muhammad SAW ): ‘O mankind: Verily, I am sent to you all as the Messenger of Allâh.’" (V. 7:158).

So the aim of sending these Prophets and Messengers to men and jinns was only that they should worship Allâh Alone, as Allâh; said: "And I (Allâh) created not the jinns and men except they should worship Me (Alone)" The Qur’ân (V. 51:56).

And to worship Allâh means to obey Him and to do all He has ordained, and to fear Him by abstaining from all He has forbidden. Then those who will obey Allâh will be rewarded in Paradise, and those who will disobey Him, and rebel against his commands after He has ordered them to believe in Islâm and the Final Messenger, will be punished in the Hell-Fire.

"O mankind! Verily, there has come to you the Messenger (Muhammad) with the truth from your Lord, so believe in him, it is better for you. But if you disbelieve, then certainly to Allâh belongs all that is in the heavens and the earth. And Allâh is Ever All­Knowing, All­Wise." [The Noble Qur’ân, An-Nisâ’, 170] "O you who believe! Be you helpers (in the Cause) of Allâh as said 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), to Al­Hawârîûn (the disciples): "Who are my helpers (in the Cause) of Allâh?" Al­Hawârîeen (the disciples) said: "We are Allâh's helpers" (i.e. we will strive in His Cause!). Then a group of the Children of Israel believed and a group disbelieved. So We gave power to those who believed against their enemies, and they became the uppermost. " [The Noble Qur’ân, As-Saff, 14] "Verily, AllÂh forgives not that partners should be set up with Him in worship, but He forgives except that (anything else) to whom He pleases, and whoever sets up partners with AllÂh in worship, he has indeed invented a tremendous sin." [The Noble Qur’ân, An-Nisâ’, 48] ‘The Noble Qur’ân’ is the title of a verse-by-verse translation into English of the Qur’ân, and is available from most Islamic bookshops.