Judiasm, Christianity and Islam - The Quran

The Quran takes time to explain the relationship between the Arabamic faiths. The Quran shows great reverance for the faiths and scriptures of Judaism and Christianity while at the same time explaining where these faiths have deviated from 'the right path'.

The interfaith relations between these three Abrahamic faiths is a complex matter that has evolved over centuries - yet the Quran summarises so many complex issues in the most eloquent and succinct manner. Here are a selection:

1. Chapter 2 - Al Baqarah - Verse 112-114

[2:112] And they say, ‘None shall ever enter Heaven unless he be a Jew or a Christian.’ These are their vain desires. Say, ‘Produce your proof, if you are truthful.’

 

[2:113] Nay, whoever submits himself completely to Allah, and is the doer of good, shall have his reward with his Lord. No fear shall come upon such, neither shall they grieve.

 

[2:114] And the Jews say, ‘The Christians stand on nothing;’ and the Christians say, ‘The Jews stand on nothing;’ while they both read the same Book. Even thus said those who had no knowledge, like what they say. But Allah shall judge between them on the Day of Resurrection concerning that wherein they disagree.

2. Chapter 2 - Al Baqarah - Verse 112-114

[2:121] And the Jews will by no means be pleased with thee, nor the Christians, unless thou follow their creed. Say, ‘Surely, Allah’s guidance alone is the guidance.’ And if thou follow their evil desires after the knowledge that has come to thee, thou shalt have, from Allah, no friend nor helper.

3. Chapter 2 - Al Baqarah - Verse 136

[2:136] And they say, ‘Be ye Jews or Christians that you may be rightly guided.’ Say: ‘Nay, follow ye the religion of Abraham who was ever inclined to God; he was not of those who set up gods with God.’

3. Chapter 2 - Al Baqarah - Verse 141

[2:141]  Do you say that Abraham, and Ishmael, and Isaac, and Jacob, and his children were Jews or Christians? Say, ‘Do you know better or Allah?’ And who is more unjust than he who conceals the testimony that he has from Allah? And Allah is not unaware of what you do.

These verses are contained within a couple of sections of the 2nd Chapter of the Quran. I felt once I had read the first 5 chapters of the Quran that I had a full appreciation for the interconnection between the Abrahamic faiths and Islam's response to them.

I have read numerous books related to these topics and many articles and papers online and the outline and overview given in the Quran gives the jist. It presents the key issues and the key points without going in to the details of Biblical scholarship, textual crticism, J.E.P.D., various codices and debates about scripture.

The explanations, even today, appeal greatly to the rational thinking mind and also help us understand the facts we observe around us. These are two key elements for a believable tradition and faith.