Understanding Some Muslim Misunderstandings
Introduction
Islam, as a post-Christian religion, frequently references the Jewish and Christian scriptures, including the Tawrat (Torah), Zabur (Psalms), and Injil (Gospel). Many Muslims regard Islam as the final, corrective revelation of these previous scriptures and see Muhammad as the seal of the prophets. However, there exist key theological misunderstandings between Muslims and Christians regarding biblical teachings. This article examines common Muslim misunderstandings about Christianity and provides responses to these views.
1. Christians Worship Several Gods
Muslims often misunderstand the Christian doctrine of the Trinity, believing that Christians worship three gods: God, Jesus, and Mary or the Holy Spirit. The Quran states:
“They surely disbelieve who say: Lo! Allah is the third of three.” (5:73)
“And when Allah saith: O Jesus, son of Mary! Didst thou say unto mankind: Take me and my mother for two gods beside Allah?” (5:116)
However, Christian belief in the Trinity does not contradict monotheism. The Bible emphasizes:
“The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” (Mark 12:29)
The Trinity refers to one God in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The formula is not 1+1+1=3 but rather 1x1x1=1, signifying unity within God’s being.
2. God Is Not Father and Jesus Is Not the Son of God
Muslims reject the concept of God as Father and Jesus as the Son of God, interpreting this as a biological relationship:
“The Originator of the heavens and the earth! How can He have a child, when there is for Him no consort?” (6:102)
However, Christians affirm that God is Father in a spiritual sense and that Jesus, as the Son of God, has an eternal relationship with the Father:
“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17)
The term “Son of God” does not imply physical generation but expresses the divine relationship and role of Christ as God’s eternal Word.
3. Jesus Did Not Die on the Cross
Many Muslims deny the crucifixion of Jesus based on the Quranic verse:
“They slew him not nor crucified, but it appeared so unto them.” (4:157)
However, historical evidence, both biblical and extra-biblical, affirms that Jesus was crucified. The Bible states:
“Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.” (1 Corinthians 15:3)
The crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus are central to Christian faith. If Jesus did not die, His mission as the Savior would be incomplete.
4. Jews and Christians Have Changed Their Scriptures
Muslims often claim that the Bible has been corrupted. However, the Quran itself affirms the reliability of previous scriptures:
“And if thou (Muhammad) art in doubt concerning that which We reveal unto thee, then question those who read the Scripture (that was) before thee.” (10:94)
The Dead Sea Scrolls and early biblical manuscripts confirm the accuracy of the Bible’s transmission. There is no historical evidence to support the claim that the Bible was altered to remove references to Muhammad.
5. The Bible Prophesies the Coming of Muhammad
Muslims often claim that the Bible predicts Muhammad’s coming, citing Deuteronomy 18:15 and John 14-16. However, biblical interpretation places these prophecies in the context of Jesus and the Holy Spirit, not Muhammad.
“If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote of me.” (John 5:46)
6. The Message of Jesus Is for the Children of Israel Only
Muslims sometimes argue that Jesus' mission was only for Israel, citing:
“I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” (Matthew 15:24)
However, Jesus later commanded His disciples:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19)
His mission extends to all humanity, as affirmed by the Quran:
“He revealed the Torah and the Gospel aforetime, for a guidance to mankind.” (3:3-4)
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between Christianity and Islam requires careful study of both the Bible and the Quran. Many misunderstandings arise from misinterpretations or selective readings of texts. True interfaith dialogue should aim for mutual understanding and respect, seeking the truth in both belief systems.
“O People of the Scripture! Why confound ye truth with falsehood and knowingly conceal the truth?” (Quran 3:71)
Christians and Muslims should engage in open discussion, acknowledging differences while striving for a deeper comprehension of each other's faiths.
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