-
Essay / Comparison between Christianity and Islam - 1186
Christianity and Islam are the most popular religions in the world. The largest number of people on earth belong to one or the other of these two religions. These religions have definitely affected the culture of the people. Studying both religions provides insight into people's culture and makes it easier to understand others. Jesus and Mohammad are the founders of both religions. In order to understand the two religions, it is important to understand the differences between the two leaders. Islam and Christianity have certain similarities and differences (Jestice 2004). This article examines the similarities and differences between Jesus and Muhammad. Similarities Some of the similarities between Jesus and Muhammad are that both believe in a monotheistic religion. They both believed in an all-powerful, infinite and sovereign God, who is the ultimate judge. Both Christ and Muhammad believe in the Old Testament and recognize Abraham as the father of their nations and a man of God. Jesus believes that Abraham was his father and that it is from his son Isaac that Jesus comes. Muslims believe that they are the descendants of Ishmael who was also the son of Abraham. Both leaders have a written legacy. Although both leaders did not write any books, their followers wrote accounts of their work in religious books. Jesus' life on earth, his miracles and his teachings are written in the New Testament (Gabriel 2007). The revelations of Muhammad are recorded in the Koran. Differences Jesus and Muhammad have differences in their statements. Jesus claimed to be God while Muhammad did not claim to be any divine being. Muhammad was only a prophet and was respected by the people. However, Christians believe that Jesus is in the middle of paper...... Since Muhammad like them is a major religious leader, they also have distinct differences. Their teachings are similar in that they believe in a monotheistic religion but differ on how to acquire righteousness. Jesus teaches justice by faith while Muhammad teaches justice by deeds. Furthermore, they differ in their nature where Christ is a divine being while Mohammed is a man. Works CitedGabriel, MA (2007). Jesus and Mohammed. Lake Mary, FL: Charisma House.Jestice, P.G. (2004). Holy people of the world: an intercultural encyclopedia. Santa Barbara: ABC-CLIO. Jørgensen, J.A. (2008). Jesus imandars and Christ bhaktas: two case studies in interreligious hermeneutics and identity in global Christianity. Frankfurt am Main: P. Lang. Robinson, N. (2008). Christ in Islam and Christianity. Albany: State University of New York Press.