It is commonly observed that religious enthusiasts regularly wonder about religions and belief systems that are different from their own. One often comes across people who try to influence others thoughts regarding their religious beliefs and are, in fact, significantly affected by others opinions in this regard. It is these instances of people reasoning and effecting, without first-hand knowledge that this article seeks to address in light of the Quran.
So what does Allah say about Christians? There is much to read on this subject on the Internet and of course on various notorious documentaries/TV shows that address this question in a rather invasive manner. What Allah says about Christians, Christianity or Jesus (peace be upon him) is recorded in the Quran not websites dedicated to quoting out of context and influencing the masses. Here is what the Quran says:
"…and you will find that the nearest in friendliness to the Believers are those, who say, "We are Christians." This is because there are among them some pious scholars and monks and because they are free from pride. When they listen to that which has been sent down to the Messenger, you see their eyes overflow with tears because of the Truth they recognize therein…" (Al-Ma'idah: 82-83).
In Islam Christians are also referred to as "The People of the Book" in connection to the revelation of Bible upon Jesus (peace be upon him). As is evident from The Concept of Jesus in Islam, the religion Islam is void without a firm belief in Jesus (p.b.u.h) which implies faith in his being a prophet of Allah, him being a herald of peace and in his message of "La-ilaha illallah – there is no god but God".
Behavior of a Muslim in Light of Quran
The Quran is the ultimate source of guidance for the Muslims. No matter what other references a Muslim has; those that rival the content of Quranic verses are simply considered false. Allah advises Muslims to behave in the following manner towards Christians and people of other faiths:
"Allah does not forbid you to treat kindly and act equitably towards those who have neither fought you in the matter of religion nor driven you out of your homes. Indeed Allah loves the just." (Al-Mumtahanah: 8).
Thus, Allah commands the Muslims to be fair to the Christians, not to deal with them in a rude manner, but to adapt kindheartedness while interacting with them. Hostility should not be directed to those who have done no harm to the Muslim community. The history of Islam is rich with instances of tolerance up to a highly selfless level, to the inflicted harm by the local pagans; depicted in the life of Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) and his sayings. However, Allah does command in the verse following the above mentioned, as:
"He only forbids you to take for friends those who have fought you in the matter of religion, and have driven you out of your homes, and have cooperated with others in your expulsion…" (Al-Mumtahanah: 9).
One of the ninety nine names of Allah mentioned in the Quran is "Al-Adl" meaning "The Just". Thus, we find instances of justice and fairness in the Quran with regards to Allah's commandments concerning Christians. The Quran at one place forbids Muslims to indulge in any sort of indecent arguments with the Christians and emphasizes Muslims to adopt the "best manner" for dialogue between the two as is mentioned in Surah Al-Ankabat verse number 46.
To summarize it all, the Quran forbids all acts of misdemeanor to Christians. If a Christian argues or fights with a Muslim, the Quran and the sunnah (way of life) of Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) directs a Muslim to be patient and tolerant. However, in the event of extreme offense the Quran allows Muslims to retaliate defensively in order to protect their lives, their society and their personal belongings; "The Just" is He who gave this permission.
*(pbuh): (peace be upon him).
Source:
Quran
Junaid Ali - Junaid Ali got his start in the writing business as an academic writer in the freelance commerce. After realizing that the field was too ...
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