The Position of the Qur’an
“By the token of time surely mankind is in a state of loss, except those who believe and do well, and exhort one another to Truth, and exhort one another to patience.” (Qur’an 103:1-3)
“Whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it” (Qur’an 99:7-8)
The Position of the TNCH
“The last word, when all is heard: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man; because God will bring to judgment every work, with all its hidden qualities, whether good or evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:14)
About the title of this article: Salvation according to the Qur’an and Judaism
The title is thus chosen because I feel, based on my study of the scriptures, that Jews and Muslims share the same theology on salvation.
It is only our Christian brethren who by following the secret teachings of the Gnostic Paul are misled on the concept of salvation;forcing them to negate or contradict clear teachings in the TNCH (Hebrew scriptures).
While Muslims and Jews hold that people can approach Allah directly Christians maintain there needs to be an intermediate between Allah and man.
Once upon a time, I was handed a Bible track on Paul’s concept of Salvation (I did read it by the way.) This is in response to that tract.
In this article, I will also be discussing several key areas of contention among Christians concerning issues of salvation. I hope that this is helpful for Muslims who are engaging our Christian brothers and sisters. I also hope it is enlightening for Christians who are not aware of such contentious issues. I also hope it is enlightening for our Jewish brothers and sisters to see the similarities and overlap between Islam and Judaism.
In Response to Evangelical Bible tract based upon Paul’s concept of Salvation
- A)No one righteous according to Paul. (Romans 3:10)
“There is none righteous, no not one.”
In direct contradiction to Paul’s teachings, we find Zechariah and Elizabeth were considered righteous.
“Moreover, they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.” (Luke 1:6)
“Moreover, if he did not spare the ancient world, even though he preserved Noah, a herald of righteousness, together with seven others, when he brought a flood upon the godless world; “and if he rescued Lot, a righteous man oppressed by the licentious conduct of unprincipled people.” (2 Peter 2:5-7)
Comment: Can anyone dare say that Zechariah and Elizabeth were not righteous? Do we have any reason to suspect that either of them did treachery other than Paul’s statement?
- B)Everyone has sinned according to Paul.
“ALL have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23)
In direct contradiction to Paul, we find that Yahya (John the Baptist) never practiced sin.
“We know that every person that has been born of God does not practice sin, but the one born from God watches him…” (1 John 5:18)
“For he will be great before the Lord, He must drink no wine and strong drink at all, and he will be filled with Holy Spirit right from his mother’s womb.” (Luke 1:15)
Comment: Allah set Yahya (John the Baptist) apart even from his mother’s womb! He was filled with the Holy Spirit. How can Paul claim that demons chased away the Holy Spirit and made John sin!
“Moreover, as Jesus passed by, he saw a man who was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did SIN, this man or his parents, that he was born blind? Jesus answered, Neither has this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.” (John 9:1-3)
Comment: Who is Paul to claim Jesus lied when he mentioned that neither the blind man nor his parents sinned? Jesus also destroys the concept of ‘total depravity’ or ‘inherited sin’ in the above passage.
“But Noah found favour with the Lord. These are the descendants of Noah. Noah was a good man, and blameless, in that age.” (Genesis 6:8-9)
“Then the Lord said to Noah: “Go into the ark, you and all your Household, for you alone in this age have I found to be truly just.” (Genesis 7:1)
- C)All who call upon the name of the Lord (Jesus) will be saved according to Paul
“For whoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” (Romans 6:23)
However, Jesus rebukes Paul’s claim point blank…
“Not everyone that says to me “Lord, Lord” shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that does the will of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21)
(The Revised edition of 1881) has the following interesting translation:
“None of them who says unto me Lord, Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven; but the one who does the will of my father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21)
- D) Christians misquote the Jewish scripture to justify their theology
“Your sins have made a separation between you and your God.” (Isaiah 59:2)
Note: (It should be brought to mind that this reference was to a particular people during a particular time. Not to condemn humanity as a whole.)
“For all your good deeds are like filthy rags.” (Isaiah 64:6)
Note: (It should be brought to mind that this reference was to a particular people during a particular time. Not to condemn humanity as a whole.)
Paul’s doctrine of blood atonement: re-examined.
Paul is the one who founded the doctrine of blood atonement.
His founding doctrine is stated in
“Without the shedding of blood, there is no forgiveness of sins” (Hebrews 9:22)
This has to be one of the most misquoted and abused texts by Christian evangelists. The reason being is that when you actually go and look at what the text says you will find the following:
https://biblehub.com/hebrews/9-22.htm
“Moreover, according to the law almost all things are purified with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission.” (Hebrews 9:22)
Comments:
When you look at the various translations you will see that someone has been trying to pull the wool over your eyes. There is no text that says, ‘without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.‘
There is a huge difference between saying:
A] Without shedding of blood there is no forgiveness for sins.
B] Most sins require shedding of blood for forgiveness.
So what about those sins that do not require the shedding of blood for forgiveness?
Note: You will see that it does not read “as the scripture says: without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins”
Question: If the basis of forgiveness in Judaism is blood atonement why didn’t Paul quote that central doctrine from the Hebrew scripture?
Answer: Because there is no such statement!
Instead, this is what we find in the Hebrew scripture:
“If he is unable to afford even two turtledoves or two pigeons, he shall present as a sin offering for his sin one-tenth of an ephath of fine flour. He shall not put oil or frankincense on it, because it is a sin offering.” (Leviticus 5:11)
Comment: That is why Paul does not quote his doctrine from the Torah? He doesn’t quote it because it destroys his theology.
If we reason for a moment today how many people own cattle, goats, sheep, or even doves? Allah being merciful would never institute a system of atonement that only the wealthy could afford. Even the poor were allowed to offer 1/10 an ephath of flour.
Now you tell me where is the blood in the flour? Life is in the blood. Well, what is the common denominator between animals and plants? Do plants have blood in them? They do not. The common denominator is water. When scientists look for life on other planets they are not looking for blood, they are looking for water.
Can someone die for your sins? What does the Torah and the Qur’an say?
“The fathers shall not be put to death for the children; neither shall the children be put to death for the fathers: every man shall be put to death for his own sin.” (Deuteronomy 24:16)
“Moreover, no burdened soul can bear another’s burden. And if one weighed down by a burden calls another to carry his load, zero of it will be carried, even though he is near to kin. You warn only those who fear their Lord in secret and keep up prayer. And whoever purifies himself purifies himself only for his own good. And to Allah is the eventual coming.”(Qur’an 35:18)
What does the TNCH and the Qur’an say on the issue of blood sacrifice?
Answer:
What Jesus says: Matthew 18:20-35
“Then Peter came to him, and said, Lord how often shall I forgive my brother for sinning against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times? Jesus said unto him, I say not unto you, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.
Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants, and when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But inasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made, the servant, therefore, fell down and worshiped
Him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay you all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out and found one of his fellow servants, who owed him a hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that you owe me. And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and sought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay you all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow servants saw that was done, they were very sorry, and came and told their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him. O you wicked servant, I forgave you all that debt because you desired me: Should you not also have had compassion for your fellow servant, even as I had pity on you? And his lord was angry, and delivered him to the tormentors, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if you from your hearts forgive not everyone his brother their trespasses.”
This is also just like the ‘Lord’s prayer’ “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us”
Three important points from this teaching of Christ Jesus:
1) We should forgive others for an infinite amount of times.
This is illustrated by the use of the phrase “seventy times seven”
The same expression is found in Genesis 4:24 to emphasize the limitless vengeance of Lamech.
“If Cain is avenged seven-fold, then, Lamech seventy-sevenfold.” (Genesis 4:24)
2) That there is no need for a blood sacrifice as illustrated by the phrase
“The lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt”. Remember ‘“Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us”
3) What if we do not show mercy we are not shown mercy. If we expect God to forgive us for our sins we must be willing to forgive other’s faults.
This is illustrated by the following:
“O you wicked servant; I forgave you all that debt because you desired me: Should you not also have had compassion for your fellow servant, even as I had pity on you?”
This is similar to a sublime oral tradition or ‘ahadith‘ attributed to the Blessed Messenger.
Jabir ibn Abdullah reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace, and blessings be upon him said, “Allah will not be merciful to those who are not merciful to people.” (Sources: Al-Bukhari 6941 and Muslim 2319)
More evidence form TNCH and the Qur’an that refutes blood sacrifice as being the end-all solve all.
“Guard your step when you go to the house of God, Let your approach be obedience, rather than the fools’ offering of sacrifice; for they know not how to keep from doing evil.” (Ecclesiastes 4:17)
“To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.” (Proverbs 21:3)
“For I delight in loyalty rather than sacrifice, and in the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.” (Hosea 6:6)
“Has the Lord as great a delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken more than the fat of rams.” (1 Samuel 15:22)
“It is not their flesh, nor their blood, that reaches Allah, but it is your piety that reaches him. Thus has He made them subservient to you, that you may magnify Allah for guiding you. And give good news to those who do good.” (Qur’an 22:37)
This statement from the Qur’an is very important. Accordingly, the first idea of blood sacrifice in the Bible or the TNCH is going back to the story of Cain and Abel.
The Biblical Version:
“Adam made love to his wife Eve, and she became pregnant and gave birth to Cain. She said, “With the help of the Lord I have brought forth a man.” Later she gave birth to Abel. Now Abel kept flocks, and Cain worked the soil. One day, Cain brought some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the Lord. And Abel also brought an offering—fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock. The Lord looked with favour on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering, he did not look with favour. So Cain was furious, and his face was downcast. Then the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? But if you do not do what is right, sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must rule over it.”(Genesis 4:1-7)
The Version in the Qur’an:
“Recite to them the truth of the story of the two sons of Adam. Behold! They each presented a sacrifice (to Allah): It was accepted from one, but not from the other. He said: I will most certainly slay you.”Surely,” said the former, “Allah does accept the sacrifice of those who are righteous.”(Qur’an 5:27)
Comments:
Notice that in both accounts we are not told of the treachery that one of the brothers did. In fact up until the point of murder whatever he did that estranged him from his Lord is kept as a personal matter between him and Allah/God.
The Christians get the idea with absolutely no proof that Allah favoured Abel’s sacrifice because he brought Allah some fat -a sacrifice from one of his flock. Whereas according to the Christians, Allah didn’t like the vegetables that Abel brought. Now think about this for a moment. Doesn’t this make Allah/God (authubillah) sound capricious? Of course, it does! However, you can read in both accounts in the Qur’an and in the Bible that the reason that one sacrifice was accepted was due to the fact that one was righteous. It was the state of his heart and not what was presented!
Why don’t Christians see this? It is plain as day! May Allah (swt) lift the veil from their hearts!
FORGIVENESS OF SINS IN ISLAM
Three types of sin in Islam:
1) Sin against Allah
2) Sin against yourself
3) Sin against your fellow man.
Comments:
In Islam, if you sin against Allah, Allah will forgive you.
If you sin against yourself, you must be willing to forgive yourself.
However, if you sin against someone else, a third party is involved and that is where atonement or reconciliation in Islam comes into play. This atonement and reconciliation are done through the Islamic Shari’ah which we as Muslims believe to be a divine law given to us by Allah.
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Examples…
- Allah will forgive you simply because one of his attributes is Al Ghafour the forgiver
“Oh My slaves who have transgressed against themselves despair not of the Mercy of Allah: truly, Allah forgives all sins. Truly He is Often-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Qur’an 39:53)
Allah will forgive sins through affliction, punishment, or pain, for example, a cold. When we become sick our body temperature rises and though it’s perceived as an affliction it makes it very difficult for viruses to replicate in our bodies. If you did not have pain receptors in your nervous system you would not be able to feel cold or fire and so forth.
I recall once a Bengali brother told me once he fell out of a tree in Bangladesh and he was crying. The people asked him if he was hurt? He said, “No, I’m crying because Allah remembered me.”
Subhan’Allah!
What he is saying is it’s better to receive affliction, trials, and pain in this life for our past, present and future sins than to receive eternal pain and anguish in the life to come.
“Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and love those who purify themselves.” (Qur’an 24:5-6)
2)
This actually relates to sinning against Allah (swt) and sinning against your fellow human being but often we think our transgressions and sins are greater than the Mercy and Compassion of Allah (swt). This in and of itself is a transgression against’ one’s self. You have to allow the healing power and transformation of forgiveness to heal you.
“Oh my sons go and inquire about Joseph and his brother, and never give up hope of Allah’s Soothing Mercy; truly no one despairs of Allah’s Soothing Mercy except those who have no faith.” (Qur’an 12:87)
3)
“Also, We ordained in that respect for them: Life for a life, eye for an eye, nose for a nose, ear for an ear, tooth for a tooth, and wounds equal for equal. But if anyone remits the retaliation by way of charity, it shall be for him, expiation. And whoever does not judge by that which Allah has revealed, such are the wrong-doers.” (Qur’an 5:45)
Comments:
Allah (swt) is patient more so than human beings. However, Islam is not condescending to the human being based upon our spiritual station. There is that person who if you hurt them they have to hurt you back. Yet, there is that person that if you hurt them they will forgive you without retaliation. Allah mentioned by doing such that this person would be earning forgiveness for their own transgressions.
For a beautiful example of forgiveness, I would encourage you to read the following article: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/humankind/2018/01/09/mother-vows-help-teen-who-murdered-her-son/1008574001/
Paul’s doctrine of salvation by faith without works re-examined…
“But those who believe and work deeds of righteousness, and believe in the revelation sent down to Muhammed-for it is the Truth from their Lord, He will remove from them their ills and improve their condition.” (Qur’an 47:2)
Question: Can we be saved on faith without work? Is it possible?
Answer: According to even the New Testament letter James the answer is No!
“What does it profit, my brothers, though a man says he has faith and has no work? Can faith save him?” (James 2:14)
Question: Can faith alone save a person?
Answer: According to even the New Testament letter James the answer is No!
“However, will you know, O’ vain man, that faith without works is dead.” (James 2:20)
Note: James flatly contradicts Paul’s understanding of what Abraham did and Paul’s theology of salvation by faith falls flat.
More of Paul’s theology:
“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from you; it is the gift of God; it is not from works, so no one may boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9Paul’s statement)
”Yet who knows that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus that we are justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law because by works of the law no one will be justified.” (Paul’s statement Galatians 2:16)
“What occasion is there then for boasting? It is ruled out. On what principle then, that of works? No, rather on the principle of faith! For we consider that a person is justified by faith apart from works of the law.”(Paul’s statement Romans 3:27-28)
“What then can we say that Abraham found our ancestor according to the flesh? Indeed if Abraham was justified on the basis of his works, he has reason to boast; but this was not so in the sight of God. For what does the scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness” A worker’s wage is credited not as a gift, but as something due. But when one does not work, yet believes in the one who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness.” (Paul’s statement Romans 4:1-4)
James the brother of Jesus refutation of Paul:
“Was not Abraham our father justified by works when offering his son Isaac upon the altar? You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by the works. Thus the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed in God and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called “the friend of God.” See how a person is justified by work and not by faith alone. And in the same way, was not Rahab the harlot also justified by works when she welcomed the messengers and sent them out by a different route? Just as a body without a spirit is dead; faith without works is dead.” (James 2:21-26)
Abraham was called ‘the friend of God’
“So who is better in religion than one who submits himself to Allah while being a doer of good and follows the religion of Abraham, inclining toward truth? And Allah took Abraham as an intimate friend”. (Qur’an 4:125)
Comments: The Epistle of James really does a number on ‘justification by faith’ doctrine. Is it little wonder that one of the fathers of the Protestant Reformation, Martin Luther, himself wanted to remove it from the Bible?
Jesus says:
“For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and then he shall reward every man according to his works!” (Matthew 16:P27)
Note: reward every man according to his works, not faith!
Higher and Lower places in Heaven:
“Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:19)
“Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4)
Comment: If work accounts for zero why would there be higher and lower places in heaven? Wouldn’t everyone be on an equal footing? That’s not what Jesus taught. Jesus taught there would be called ‘great’ and ‘least’ in the kingdom of heaven.
“Moreover, I said to myself, both the just and the wicked God will judge since there is a time for every affair and on every work a judgment.” (Ecclesiastes 3:17)
DAMNABLE THEOLOGY: ORIGINAL SIN/TOTAL DEPRVATIY/ INHERITED SIN
Surely the gravest area where the Christians have parted from their Jewish and Muslim brethren is on the damnable theology of ‘Original Sin’.
Christian theology holds that when Adam and Eve sinned, this sin-stained their bloodline and transferred genetically to all of humanity. Thus every cute baby is tainted with the sin of Adam and Eve. If there ever was a more monstrous doctrine conceived surely it is that of ‘Original Sin‘.
As Paul is the founder of this concept, it comes as no surprise to see proof text for it coming from him as follows:
“For since death came through a human being, the resurrection of the dead came also through a human being: For just as in Adam all die, so too in Christ shall all be brought to life.” (1 Corinthians 15: 21-22)
“For the wages of sin is death: but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”(Romans 6:23)
Comment: Why don’t we get these teachings from Christ Jesus? The wages of sin is death. So because of what Adam and Eve did, not only does this sin get transferred to every newborn child, but amoebas, single-celled organisms, insects, fish, and every type of living thing dies because of this.
This bizarre doctrine leads one to speculate some of the following points:
- What world would there be if nothing dies?
- Surely if God created predatory animals there would be animals that would be the prey?
- If God ordered Adam and Eve to eat of all the fruit surely the fruit would ‘die’ once it was removed from said tree or plant?
- What would be the population of the planet if nothing died?
Al hamdulilah! We as Muslims do not have such a bizarre doctrine. Death is a natural part of life. In fact, we as Muslims believe that Allah (swt) is Al Hayyu (The Ever-Living), I am sure our Christian brothers and sisters believe this too. What would be the point of calling God ‘Ever-Living’ if all living things were to be ‘ever-living’ as well? Death is a contrast to life so that we understand the sacredness of life, the sanctity of life, and to appreciate the limited time we have been given to live on such a beautiful planet that offers many delights.
One of the very unjust statements interpolated in the mouth of Jesus shows him giving support to the idea that non-baptized cute little innocent babies will roast in hell.
“He said to them again, “I am going away and you will look for me, but you will die in your sin: Where I am going you cannot come.” (John 8:21)
Note: If babies are actual sinners from the point of conception, then Lutherans and all Protestant Christians ought to practice pedo-baptism, even as Roman Catholics do.
Some Presbyterian churches do practice pedo-baptism.
In fact, I would encourage you to watch this debate between two Calvinist Protestant Christians who differ on this issue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2VzUOiNtgio
The truth is many Christians have a hard time going to grips with this gruesome and cruel view of ‘Original Sin’ and that is why in their hypocrisy they baptize their youth at a “coming of age” ceremony.
However, if Jesus really said you will die in your sin than all babies who have died without being baptized cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. Obviously, I would see why Arminians would struggle with such a concept; however, the Calvinist should embrace the view of infant baptism as it fits nicely into their TULIP theology. In fact, many Presbyterians do exactly that. You will find out about TULIP theology later.
Now is there a way out of this madness? Is this really the teaching of Judaism?
What is Islam’s view on Original Sin/Total Depravity/Inherited Sin?
Now, this is crucial because I believe this is truly one of the major fundamental differences in Islamic theology. If you’re a Christian I pray you will spend some time truly contemplating this.
Let’s deal with the Christian misunderstandings one by one.
Who truly committed The First Sin?
What does sin mean?
Christians define sin as transgression, lawlessness, and missing the mark.
Firstly, the first sin or transgression against Allah was done by a NON-HUMAN BEING namely a Jinni or in Christian theology an X-Angel named Lucifer.
“So war broke out in heaven and Michael and his angels fought against the Dragon and his angels, and the Dragon and his angels prevailed not.” (Revelation 12:7)
“Behold, your Lord said to the angels: “I will create a vicegerent on earth.” They said: “Will you place in that respect one who will make mischief in that respect and shed blood; while we do celebrate your praise and glorify your holy name?” (Qur’an 2:30-37)
“He said: “I know what you know not.” And He taught Adam the nature of all things; then He placed them before the Angels, and said: “Tell Me the nature of these if you are right.” They said: “Glory to You: Of knowledge we have none, save what you have taught us: in truth, it is you who are perfect in knowledge and wisdom.” He said: “O Adam! Tell them their natures.” When he had told them Allah said: “Did I not tell you that I know the secrets of heaven and earth, and I know what you reveal and what you conceal?” (Qur’an 2:30-37)
“So behold, We said to the angels: “Bow down to Adam: “And they bowed down: not so Iblis: he refused and was arrogant: he was of those who reject Faith. We said: “O Adam! Dwell you and your wife in the Garden, and eat of the bountiful things in that respect as you will, but approach not this tree, or you will run into harm and transgression.” (Qur’an 2:30-37)
“Then did Satan make them slip from the Garden, and get them out of the state of felicity in which they had been. WE said: Get down, all with enmity between yourselves. On earth will be your dwelling-place and your means of livelihood for a time.” (Qur’an 2:30-37)
“It is We Who created you and gave you shape; then We commanded the angels to bow down to Adam, and they bowed down; not so Iblis; he refused to be of those who bow down. Allah said: “What prevented you from bowing down when I commanded you? “He said: “I am better than he: You did create me from fire, and him from clay.” (Qur’an 7:11-18)
“Allah said: “Get you down from this: It is not for you to be arrogant here: get out for you are of the meanest of all creatures.” He said” “Give me respite till the day when they are raised up.” Allah said: “Be you among those who have respite.”(Qur’an 7:11-18)
“He said: “Because you have thrown me out of the way, Lo! I will lie in wait for them on your straight Way: Then I’ll assault them from before them and behind them, and from their right and attack their left; nor will you find, in most of them, gratitude.” Allah said: “Get out of this, disgraced and expelled. If any of them follow you, Hell will be filled with you all.”(Qur’an 7:11-18)
Comments:
The Christian book of Revelation and the Qur’an both point to the fact that a non-human was the first to transgress or sin against Allah; however, there are major points of difference in the two theologies.
In Christian theology, an X-Angel rebelled against Allah, yet in Islamic theology a Jinn. In Islamic theology, angels do not have free will; however, there is a race of beings known as the Jinn that do have free will.
So the first question would be why is there not a doctrine of salvation for fallen angels? In Islam, we know that the Qur’an is sent to save humanity and the Jinn.
“So when we (Jinn) heard the guidance, we believed in it. And whoever believes in his Lord will not fear deprivation or burden”. (Qur’an 72:13)
The second question would be who wants to go to a heaven where wars break out? I mean people constantly deride the Qur’an for its metaphorical usages of women and wine in paradise; yet the Christian heaven is one of intrigue, assassination attempts, and wars!!!
In Islamic theology the fall of Iblis
Note:(Not the fall of humanity) fits logically into the greater picture of Allah’s wisdom. However, I want to know what is to prevent the next disgruntled angel from trying to sack the boss??
Finally, the Qur’an gives us a teaching of original forgiveness!! ALLAH!!!!
Though Adam did transgress he was not the first transgressor.
The realization of his mistake punishment enough; thus, we read in the Qur’an…
“Then learned Adam from his Lord words of inspiration, and his Lord turned towards him; for He is Oft-Returning, Most Merciful” (Qur’an 2:35-37)
Allah! Ar Rahman Ar Raheem! Allah!!!!
After he learned to turn towards Allah (swt) he was forgiven. That is it. Full stop! There is no sin through death in which amoebas and single-celled organisms and everything dies because of this person’s actions!
“So no burdened soul can bear another’s burden. And if one weighed down by a burden calls another to carry his load, zero of it will be carried, even though he be near to kin. You warn only those who fear their Lord in secret and keep up prayer. And whoever purifies himself purifies himself only for his own good. And to Allah is the eventual coming.” (Qur’an 35:18)
The TNCH refutes this as well!
“The fathers shall not be put to death for the children; neither shall the children be put to death for the fathers: every man shall be put to death for his own sin.”(Deuteronomy 24:16)
“Thus the word of the Lord came to me: Son of man, what is the meaning of this proverb that you recite in the land of Israel:“Fathers have eaten green grapes. Thus their children’s teeth are on edge.”? As I live, says the Lord God, I swear that there shall no longer be anyone among you who will repeat this proverb in Israel. For all lives are mine; the life of the father is like the life of the son, both are mine; only the one who sins shall die.” (Ezekiel 18:2-3)
Jesus refutes ‘Original sin’.
“Also, said, “Amen, I say to you, unless you turn: and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3)
“However, Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” (Matthew 19:14)
Comment: Would Jesus suggest that we imitate sinful rebellious little children? Of course not!
Jesus explicitly states that unless we become like children (innocent, naive, and pure) we will not enter the kingdom of heaven.
Comments: Now in order to be fair I do want you the reader to know about the Churches of Christ founded by Alexander Campbell they are often despairingly called the ‘Campbellites’. They are the ONLY Protestant denomination/faction that I know of that reject the doctrine of inherited sin. So in this regards us as Muslims and they as Christians are in doctrinal agreement: on this point.
Arminian versus Calvinism in Christian theology: Internal Christian division
(Pre-destination vs. Free Choice: The Great Calvinist vs. Arminian controversy in Christianity)
Even though this article’s main focus is on the concept of Salvation contained within the Qur’an and the Judaism I thought that by delving into a matter of sharp contention between Christians would be helpful to those Christians who may not even be aware of such a huge conflict.
It is also helpful for Muslims because Christians often say that they know they are saved. Again this is a controversial doctrine called OSAS (Once Saved Always Saved)
This is a hotly contested view concept among Christians.
One of the most important theological debates that are gripping Christianity today perhaps more than the issue of the concept of God is the very issue of salvation.
Also known as the: ordo salutis (the order of salvation)
On one hand, you have world-famous evangelist Billy Graham, noted apologist Dr.Norman Geisler, William Lane Craig, and Greek Scholar Dr.Gleason Archer defending the view that accepting Jesus as your saviour is a matter of your personal choice and convictions.
However, on the other hand, you have Robert Morey, James White, John MacArthur,John Piper, R.C Sproul among others. and others who believe that it is not a matter of personal choice, accepting Jesus is irrelevant because you have been destined before you were born on rather or not you will accept Jesus as saviour.
In fact some within the Muslim –Christian debate and apologetic scene maybe familiar with James White. Yet, until this day he has refused to debate fellow Christian Bob L Ross who would love to debate White on ‘ordo salutis’(order of salvation)
You can read a bit about that here: http://old-baptist-test.blogspot.com/2014/01/hermeneutical-problems-for-hardshells-ii.html
And also: http://reformedflyswatter.blogspot.com/2010/10/hybrid-calvinism.html
You can see James White (prominent debater) speak on that here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhFe0y4zxRU However, he will not debate Bob L Ross as he does so many others.
Even more problematic for Christians: Evangelicals and Protestants is the idea taught by Protestant Reformist John Calvin called:
EVANESCENT GRACE: The idea that God ‘fools’ people into think they are saved when they are not! You may read more about that here:
This is a very burning issue among Christians today.
SO WHAT IS TULIPDOCTRINE??
1) TOTAL DEPRAVITY -Original Sin
2) UNCONDITIONAL SALVATION –Ordo Salutis
3) LIMITED ATONEMENT
4) IRRESISTABLE GRACE- Ordo Salutis
5) PRESERVATION OF THE SAINTS (OSAS) –Once Saved Always Saved.
That is the doctrine held by Calvinist Christians.
The following are Arminian proof text against TULIP doctrine.
“Therefore brothers, be all the more eager to make your call and election firm, for, in doing so, you will never stumble.” (2 Peter 1:10)
“You are separated from Christ, you who are trying to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace.” (Galatians 5:4)
“See to it that no one is deprived of the grace of God, that no bitter root spring up and cause trouble through which many may become defiled.” (Hebrews 12:15ASV Version)
“There were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you, who will introduce destructive heresies and even deny the Master who ransomed them, bringing swift destruction on themselves.” (2 Peter 2:1)
“Working together, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain.”(2 Corinthians 6:1) (Arminian proof text)
Comment: You cannot receive that which is not given by choice.
(Arminian proof text)
“God who wills everyone to be saved: and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:4)(Arminian proof text)
(Arminian proof text)
“For the grace of God has appeared, saving all” (Titus 2:11)
“The Lord does not delay his promise, as some regard ‘delay,’ but he is patient with you, not wishing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9) (Arminian proof text)
Salvation through repentance:
Can we go directly to God in prayer? What is the position of Judaism and the Qur’an?
“Their heart was not steadfast toward Him, nor were they faithful in His covenant. But He, being compassionate, forgave their iniquity…remembering that they were but flesh.” (Psalms 78:36-39)
“You have not brought me the sheep of your burnt offerings…or the fat of your sacrifices, but you have burdened me with your sins…Nevertheless, I will wipe out your transgressions for My own sake, and I will not remember your sins.” (Isaiah 43:23-25)
“O my sons go and inquire about Joseph and his brother, and despair not of Allah’s mercy. Surely none despairs of Allah’s mercy except the disbelieving people.” (Qur’an 12:87)
“Say: O My servants who have been prodigal regarding their souls, despair not of the mercy of Allah; surely Allah forgives sins altogether. He is indeed the Forgiving the Merciful.” (Qur’an 39:53)
Salvation by Grace is the doctrine of Islam.
I remember once while working at the Sultan Mosque in Singapore, a Christian pastor came into the Mosque. After showing him around the Mosque he had a question for me. “What has your God done for you?”
I replied: “You see that is the problem respected Pastor. The question is not what has God done for me, but rather what has God not done for me? The air I breathe my sight, hearing, heartbeat, health, the guidance of Islam, this beautiful planet, the delicacies we eat, a home, shelter, a place to lay my head. You see God has done everything for me!”
The Grace of Allah in the Qur’an
“However, you turned back after that: had it not been for the Grace and Mercy of Allah to you, you would surely been among the lost.” (Qur’an 2:64)
That the people of the Book (Jews and Christians) may know that they control naught of the grace of Allah, and that grace is in Allah’s hand. He gives it to whom He pleases, and Allah is the Lord of mighty grace.” (Qur’an 57:29)
Are there unforgivable sins in Christian theology?
Comments: Christians will tell us that Christ Jesus died for all sins and can and does forgive all sins. Yet, as we have seen Christians debate on rather or not Christ really died for ‘all’ or only the ‘elect’. They have doctrines such as evanescent grace in which God deceives people into thinking they are saved when they are not. They are also divided on whether you can keep your salvation or if you can fall from grace.
Question: Are all sins forgiven under the ‘death’ of Jesus?
Answer: No!
Grieving the Holy Spirit:
“Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: except the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men And whosoever speaks a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaks against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.” (Matthew 12:31:32)
“And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with which you were sealed for the day of redemption. All bitterness, fury, anger, shouting, and reviling must be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ.” (Ephesians 4:30-32)
Comment: If a Christian exhibits the following traits they will never go to heaven: Bitterness, fury, anger, if they shout and lambaste people. Also, if they show any malice: these traits are not becoming of a person filled with the holy spirit of God.
True Christians commit no sins: Are protected from all sin and temptation by the Holy Spirit
“We know that every person that has been born of God does not practice sin, but the one born from God watches him…” (1 John 5:18)
“No one who is begotten by God commits sin, because God’s seed remains in him; he cannot sin because he is begotten by God.” (1 John 3:9)
Baptism According to the Qur’an and According to Christianity:
Baptism by Fire and Baptism by Allah:
“The Baptism of Allah: And who can baptize better than Allah? And it is He whom we worship.” (Qur’an 2:138)
“Then Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan to be baptized by him.” (Matthew 4:13)
Comment: Christians have a huge misunderstanding about baptism. It is simply a ritual of purification and an outward symbol of changing one’s life. Christians would never say that Jesus went to be baptized for the forgiveness of sins would they? So this purification ritual, a symbol of inward cleaning, was later changed and mutated by the Gnostic Paul to be a death and resurrection rite.
Question: Full water immersion is it necessary for salvation?
Full water immersion is not necessary for salvation as there are many instances where water is not even available. Not only that but there maybe many instances where the water is more suitable for drinking purposes and every bit counts. For example, Muslims are required to perform ritual ablutions five times daily before our prayers. However, if there is no water available or the water available should be used for drinking, then we use sand or clean earth; as in the case of multitudes of Muslims living in the Sahara desert.
“O you, who have believed, when you rise to [perform] prayer, wash your faces and your forearms to the elbows and wipe over your heads and wash your feet to the ankles. And if you are in a state of janabah, then purify yourselves. But if you are ill or on a journey or one of you comes from a place of relieving himself or you have contacted women and do not find water, then seek clean earth and wipe over your faces and hands with it. Allah does not intend to make difficulty for you, but He intends to purify you and complete His favor upon you so that you may become grateful.” (Qur’an 5:6)
It is seen that the Christian concept of salvation clashes not only with the Quran but with Judaism as well. It is also seen that the Christians are not quite sure about their theology on the issue of salvation.
In Islam, our doctrine is sound and robust. Al hamdulillah!
Will, you not do yourself a favour and pick up a copy of the Qur’an? Allah is a Gracious and Merciful God. The Blessed Prophet Muhammed (saw) is reported to have said in a sublime oral tradition:
“Allah loves us more than a mother loves her child.”
It is my hope that people will understand better the Islamic concept of salvation Because Islam is not only concerned with saving people for the hereafter. Islam concerns its mission with giving you a sense of peace here and now.
With Allah is the success! “So when they hear what has been revealed to the Messenger, you see their eyes overflowing with tears because of what they have recognized as the truth. They say, “Our Lord, we have believed, so register us among the witnesses.” (Qur’an 5:83)
Prima Quran 