The Quran, Islam’s holy book, addresses the concept of other religions from a multifaceted perspective. Here’s an overview of its view:
- Monotheism and Divine Unity: The Quran emphasizes the belief in one God (Allah) as central. It views all true religions as stemming from the same divine source of monotheism. In this context, the Quran acknowledges the validity of earlier prophets and scriptures, including Judaism and Christianity, as part of the broader message of monotheism.
- Respect for Previous Prophets: The Quran mentions many prophets who are also significant in Judaism and Christianity, such as Moses (Musa) and Jesus (Isa). It holds these prophets in high regard, recognizing their role in delivering God’s message.
- Distinction and Continuity: While respecting other religions and their prophets, the Quran also emphasizes that Islam is the final and complete revelation. It positions itself as the culmination of previous messages, correcting and finalizing what it considers distortions or incomplete aspects of earlier scriptures.
- Religious Tolerance and Dialogue: The Quran advocates for respectful dialogue and peaceful coexistence. It encourages Muslims to engage in discussions with people of other faiths with kindness and justice. Key verses, like 2:256, assert that there is no compulsion in religion, which promotes the idea of respecting others’ right to their beliefs.
- Critique and Correction: The Quran also critiques certain beliefs and practices of other religions, particularly where it perceives them to diverge from the monotheistic teachings. These critiques are often contextual and focus on perceived deviations from the core principles of monotheism and ethical conduct.
- Universal Message: The Quran asserts that its message is universal and meant for all humanity. It acknowledges that while there are various paths and beliefs, the ultimate truth is in accordance with the teachings of Islam.
Overall, the Quran balances respect for the foundational elements of other religions with the assertion of its own position as the final and complete divine message.
The Quran, the holy book of Islam, presents a nuanced perspective on other religions. It acknowledges the existence of various religious traditions and emphasizes the diversity of human belief systems. Here’s a more detailed look at the Quranic view of other religions:
1. Recognition of Previous Scriptures
The Quran recognizes the divine origins of earlier scriptures and prophets. It acknowledges the Torah given to Moses, the Psalms to David, and the Gospel to Jesus. These texts are considered to have been revealed by God, but the Quran also holds that they were altered or misinterpreted over time.
2. Respect for Prophets
The Quran speaks highly of prophets from other traditions. For example, Jesus (Isa in Arabic) is considered one of the major prophets in Islam, and his mother, Mary (Maryam), is honored as a righteous woman. The Quran refers to many prophets from the Jewish and Christian traditions, underscoring their importance and the continuity of God’s message through them.
3. Concept of “People of the Book”
In the Quran, Jews and Christians are referred to as “People of the Book” (Ahl al-Kitab). This term signifies a special status, recognizing that they follow scriptures that were originally revealed by God. Muslims are encouraged to engage with the People of the Book with respect and fairness, and there are guidelines for interfaith dialogue and coexistence.
4. Shared Beliefs and Differences
The Quran points out the common ground shared with other religions, such as the belief in one God (monotheism) and the concept of an afterlife. However, it also highlights differences, particularly concerning the nature of God, the role of Jesus, and the finality of Muhammad’s prophethood. For instance, the Quran explicitly states that Jesus was not crucified but was raised to Heaven by God.
5. Freedom of Belief
The Quran emphasizes that there is no compulsion in religion (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:256). It affirms the freedom of individuals to choose their beliefs and acknowledges that guidance and misguidance are ultimately in God’s hands. This verse underlines a principle of tolerance and respect for individual religious choices.
6. Call to Unity and Peace
The Quran calls for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among people of different faiths. It encourages Muslims to engage with others in a manner that promotes understanding and harmony, rather than conflict or hostility.
7. Judgment and Accountability
According to the Quran, every individual will be judged based on their faith and actions. It stresses that ultimate judgment belongs to God alone, who will account for the sincerity and righteousness of each person’s beliefs and deeds.
8. Critique of Certain Practices
While the Quran acknowledges the validity of earlier revelations, it also critiques certain practices and beliefs that had developed over time. For example, it challenges some interpretations and rituals that it considers to have deviated from the original teachings of the prophets.
In summary, the Quran’s view of other religions is characterized by recognition, respect, and a call for peaceful coexistence, while also affirming Islamic teachings and addressing perceived deviations from earlier revelations.
Verses about Quranic view of other Religion:
Certainly! Here are some Quranic verses regarding other religions, with both English translations and Urdu interpretations:
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:62)
- English: “Indeed, those who have believed and those who were Jews or Christians or Sabians before the [final] Day, they will have their reward with their Lord. And no fear will there be concerning them, nor will they grieve.”
- Urdu: “یقیناً جو لوگ ایمان لائے ہیں اور جو یہودی ہیں یا عیسائی ہیں یا صابی ہیں، وہ سب اپنے رب کے پاس اپنے انعام پائیں گے۔ نہ تو انہیں کوئی خوف ہوگا اور نہ ہی وہ غمگین ہوں گے۔”
- Surah Al-Hajj (22:17)
- English: “Indeed, those who have believed, those who are Jews, the Sabians, the Christians, the Magians, and those who associate others with Allah – Allah will judge between them on the Day of Resurrection. Indeed, Allah is, over all things, Witness.”
- Urdu: “یقیناً جو لوگ ایمان لائے ہیں، جو یہودی ہیں، صابی، عیسائی، مجوسی، اور جو اللہ کے ساتھ دوسروں کو شریک کرتے ہیں – اللہ قیامت کے دن ان سب کے درمیان فیصلہ کرے گا۔ یقیناً اللہ ہر چیز کا گواہ ہے۔”
- Surah Al-Ankabut (29:46)
- English: “And do not argue with the People of the Scripture except in a way that is best, except for those who commit injustice among them. And say, ‘We believe in that which has been revealed to us and revealed to you. Our God and your God is one; and we are Muslims [submitting] to Him.’”
- Urdu: “اور اہل کتاب سے بہترین طریقے سے بات چیت نہ کرو، سوائے ان کے جو ان میں سے ظلم کرنے والے ہیں۔ اور کہو، ‘ہم اس چیز پر ایمان رکھتے ہیں جو ہمیں اور تمہیں بھی نازل کی گئی ہے۔ ہمارا خدا اور تمہارا خدا ایک ہی ہے، اور ہم اسی کے فرمانبردار ہیں۔'”