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Showing posts from February, 2025

Understanding Christianity and Islam - Part 9 (Islam’s View of Women and Heaven: A Theological Critique)

Islam’s View of Women and Heaven: A Theological Critique When we step into the theological landscapes of Islam and Christianity, one of the most significant differences lies in how each faith views women, both in earthly life and in the life to come. This difference is not just about cultural customs; it is rooted in fundamental theological ideas about God, creation, and eternity. Women in Islamic Theology: Created Equal or Secondary? The Qur’an acknowledges that men and women are created by the same God and both are morally accountable before Him (Qur’an 33:35). However, in Islamic law ( sharia ), men are granted a greater degree of authority and leadership. For example: Inheritance: A woman’s share is often half that of a man in equivalent situations (Qur’an 4:11). Legal Testimony: In some cases, two women’s testimony equals that of one man (Qur’an 2:282). Marital Structure: Men are allowed up to four wives, while women may have only one husband. These legal and relational differe...

Understanding Christianity and Islam - Part 8 (Salvation and Paradise: Two Paths, Two Destinies)

Salvation and Paradise: Two Paths, Two Destinies The longing for salvation to be reconciled with God and assured of eternal life is at the heart of every human soul. Both Islam and Christianity speak about an afterlife, divine judgment, and paradise. But the paths they describe, and the destinies they promise, are radically different. Islam: Paradise Through Deeds and Mercy In Islam, salvation is achieved through submission to Allah’s will (Islam itself means “submission”). The Qur’an presents paradise as a reward for those whose good deeds outweigh their bad on the Day of Judgment (Surah 23:102-103). While Allah’s mercy is acknowledged, it is given at His discretion, not guaranteed by covenant. Key Features of Islamic Salvation: Faith in Allah and His messenger Muhammad. Observance of the Five Pillars (Shahada, Salat, Zakat, Sawm, Hajj). Avoidance of major sins and repentance for wrongdoings. Final Judgment based on the “scales” weighing deeds. Paradise (Jannah) in the Qur’an is o...

Understanding Christianity and Islam - Part 7 (The Concept of God: Allah vs the Father of Jesus)

  The Concept of God: Allah vs the Father of Jesus Introduction: Do Christians and Muslims Worship the Same God? Both Christianity and Islam are monotheistic religions claiming descent from Abraham. Both affirm that there is only one true God , Creator of heaven and earth. But when we examine how each faith understands the nature and character of God, stark differences emerge, particularly around God's personhood, relationship to humanity , and His self-revelation . The question is not just, “Is there one God?” but “Who is this God, and how has He revealed Himself?” The Islamic View: Allah, the Incomparable One In Islam, God is known as Allah , a name derived from the Arabic al-ilah , meaning “The God.” The Qur’an emphasizes His absolute oneness ( tawhid ), transcendence , and incomparability : Surah 112:1-4 – “Say, He is Allah, One… there is none comparable unto Him.” Allah is not a “father,” nor does He have a “son” in any biological or metaphysical sense ( Surah 5:116; 6:101...

Understanding Christianity and Islam - Part 6 (The Qur’an and the Bible: Claims of Revelation Compared)

The Qur’an and the Bible: Claims of Revelation Compared At the heart of both Christianity and Islam is a sacred text. For Muslims, it is the Qur’an . For Christians, it is the Bible . Both are believed by their followers to be revelations from God . But are their claims of divine origin equally supported by evidence, consistency, and historical reliability ? Let’s look at the similarities and crucial differences between the Bible and the Qur’an , not just in belief, but in how they came to us . What Is the Bible? Written over 1,500 years , by more than 40 authors, across 3 continents. Composed in three languages : Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. Includes historical narratives, poetry, prophecy, letters, and eyewitness accounts. Contains the Old Testament (39 books) and the New Testament (27 books) , unified in message, centred on God’s plan of redemption through Christ . “All Scripture is breathed out by God…” (2 Timothy 3:16) What Is the Qur’an? Believed by Muslims to be the final, unalt...