Dawah Companion

Author: arridwaany

  • The Qur’an: Revelation and Preservation

    Introduction:

    The Qur’an is the final revelation from Allah (God) to mankind — a book of guidance, mercy, and truth. Revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ over 23 years, it completes the chain of divine scriptures that began with the Torah, Psalms, and Gospel.Unlike earlier revelations, the Qur’an was divinely protected from corruption, preserved in both hearts and manuscripts — fulfilling Allah’s promise: “Indeed, it is We who sent down the Reminder, and indeed, We will guard it.”— Surah Al-Hijr (15:9)

    The Qur’an: God’s Final Revelation:

    Allah sent revelation to every nation through prophets — from Adam to Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all). Each conveyed one consistent message: to worship Allah alone.The Qur’an confirms this timeless message and stands as the final, universal revelation for all humanity. “Say, ‘O mankind, indeed I am the Messenger of Allah to you all — to Him belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. There is no deity except Him; He gives life and causes death.’”— Surah Al-A‘raf (7:158)It also affirms the truth found in earlier scriptures while exposing distortions made by human hands:> “And We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming what was before it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it.”— Surah Al-Mā’idah (5:48)

    The Process of Revelation:

    The Qur’an was revealed gradually over 23 years — addressing the evolving circumstances of the early Muslim community.The Archangel Jibreel (Gabriel) conveyed Allah’s words directly to the Prophet ﷺ:> “The Trustworthy Spirit has brought it down upon your heart, [O Muhammad] — that you may be of the warners.”— Surah Ash-Shu‘ara (26:193–194)This gradual revelation strengthened the believers and allowed them to internalize divine guidance step by step: “And those who disbelieve say, ‘Why was the Qur’an not revealed to him all at once?’ Thus [it is] that We may strengthen thereby your heart, and We have spaced it distinctly.”— Surah Al-Furqan (25:32)

    Preservation Through Memorization:

    From the beginning, memorization was central to Qur’anic preservation. The Prophet ﷺ himself memorized the revelation, and his companions (Sahabah) followed his example. He said: “The best among you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”— Sahih al-Bukhari, 5027 Dozens of companions — including Ubayy ibn Ka‘b, Abdullah ibn Mas‘ud, Zayd ibn Thabit, and others — memorized the Qur’an completely. This oral transmission (known as tawātur) ensured an unbroken chain of reciters, preserving every word precisely as revealed.The Prophet ﷺ also reviewed the Qur’an with Jibreel annually during Ramadan. In the year of his death, this review occurred twice, confirming its final form.— Sahih al-Bukhari, 4998; Sahih Muslim, 2450.Today, millions of Muslims — including children as young as seven — have memorized the entire Qur’an in Arabic, maintaining a living, global preservation that no other scripture possesses.

    Preservation in Written Form:

    During the Prophet’s lifetime, revelation was recorded by appointed scribes, such as Zayd ibn Thabit, Ali ibn Abi Talib, and Mu‘awiyah ibn Abi Sufyan. They wrote on parchment, bones, palm leaves, and leather under the direct supervision of the Prophet ﷺ.After his passing, following the Battle of Yamamah (where many memorizers were martyred), Caliph Abu Bakr (RA) ordered a full compilation to safeguard the Qur’an.This task was assigned to Zayd ibn Thabit — the Prophet’s chief scribe.— Sahih al-Bukhari, 4986. The compiled manuscript was later preserved with Hafsah bint Umar (RA), the Prophet’s wife.During the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan (RA), standardized copies were made from this master compilation and distributed to major Islamic regions — Makkah, Kufah, Basrah, and Damascus — ensuring unity of recitation.— Sahih al-Bukhari, 4987; Ibn Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Masahif.

    Linguistic and Textual Consistency:

    Over fourteen centuries have passed, yet the Qur’an remains identical across the world. Early manuscripts — such as the Topkapi Manuscript (Istanbul) and the Sana’a Manuscript (Yemen) — match today’s Qur’anic text precisely. Even non-Muslim scholars have recognized this phenomenon.Sir William Muir wrote: “There is probably in the world no other book which has remained twelve centuries with so pure a text.”— (The Life of Mahomet, 1878, Vol. 1, p. 22) The Qur’an itself challenges skeptics to produce anything comparable: “And if you are in doubt about what We have sent down upon Our servant, then produce a surah like it — and call upon your witnesses other than Allah, if you should be truthful.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:23)This linguistic miracle (i‘jaz al-Qur’an) remains unmatched — its eloquence, rhythm, and depth defy imitation.

    A Living Miracle:

    The Qur’an’s preservation is not confined to history; it continues every day.In every generation, millions memorize, recite, and teach it in its original language. No other book has ever been preserved through such a living community of believers.> “No falsehood can approach it from before it or from behind it; [it is] a revelation from the All-Wise, Worthy of Praise.”— Surah Fussilat (41:42)The Qur’an’s impact is both spiritual and intellectual — it guides the heart, shapes society, and continues to inspire scholars, poets, and thinkers across the globe.

    Conclusion:

    The Qur’an is the Word of God, revealed to the final Messenger ﷺ, preserved perfectly by divine will.It is the ultimate source of truth, morality, and spiritual healing. “This is the Book about which there is no doubt — a guidance for those conscious of Allah.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2)To read the Qur’an is to hear the Creator speak — His message, unchanged and eternal.It calls every human being to faith, reflection, and submission to the One who created all things.

    References:

    1. The Qur’an: 2:2, 2:23, 5:48, 7:158, 15:9, 25:32, 26:193–194, 41:42

    2. Sahih al-Bukhari: Hadith 4986, 4987, 4998, 5027

    3. Sahih Muslim: Hadith 2450

    4. Ibn Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Masahif

    5. Al-Suyuti, Al-Itqan fi Ulum al-Qur’an

    6. Sir William Muir, The Life of Mahomet, Vol. 1 (1878)

  • The Purpose of Life in Islam

    Introduction:

    Every human being at some point asks: “Why am I here?” This question transcends culture, race, and time. Philosophers speculate, scientists observe, but only revelation gives the ultimate answer. In Islam, the purpose of life is not an abstract puzzle. It is a divine truth — clear, purposeful, and complete. Allah, the Creator of all that exists, did not create mankind aimlessly or leave them without guidance. “Did you think that We created you in play (without purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us?”— Surah Al-Mu’minun (23:115)

    The Purpose Defined:

    The Qur’an summarizes the human mission in one profound verse:

    “And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.”— Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:56)The Arabic word for worship — ‘ʿibādah’ — goes far beyond ritual prayer. It means complete servitude and loving submission to Allah.To live for Him, by His guidance, in every aspect of life — this is the essence of Islam. Worship is not confined to the mosque; it is reflected in every sincere act: honesty in trade, kindness to parents, truthfulness in speech, and humility in heart.

    Worship: A Relationship of Love and Obedience:

    In Islam, worship is not slavery; it is the freedom of the soul — freedom from false gods, ego, and worldly illusion.It is a relationship of love, reverence, and gratitude toward the One who created and sustains us.> “O mankind, worship your Lord, who created you and those before you, that you may become righteous.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:21)The more a person knows Allah through His Names and Attributes, the more love fills the heart, and the more sincerely one worships.This inner connection is the source of true peace — the peace every soul seeks.

    Life as a Test:

    The world is not a playground; it is a testing ground.Every trial, blessing, and opportunity is part of this divine test — to reveal who truly believes and who turns away.> “He who created death and life to test you as to which of you is best in deed.”— Surah Al-Mulk (67:2)The believer’s response to both ease and hardship — patience, gratitude, and trust — determines success in the Hereafter.Nothing in life is random; every moment has meaning when viewed through the lens of faith.—The Temporary and the EternalIslam teaches that this world is temporary — a bridge to the eternal life to come.Wealth, fame, and pleasure vanish; what remains is the record of our deeds.> “And the worldly life is nothing but amusement and diversion; but the home of the Hereafter is best for those who fear Allah.”— Surah Al-Anʿam (6:32)Understanding this transforms how a Muslim lives:Every act becomes intentional, purposeful, and accountable.This worldview gives life ultimate meaning — to please Allah and attain eternal peace in Paradise.

    The Human Soul’s Search for Meaning:

    Even those who deny revelation feel an emptiness within — a longing that no wealth or pleasure can fill.That longing is the soul’s call to its Creator.When a person finds Islam, he finds the answer to his deepest question. He learns that his soul was created to know, love, and obey Allah.Without that connection, the heart remains restless.> “Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.”— Surah Ar-Ra’d (13:28)

    Following the Guidance:

    To fulfill life’s purpose, Allah did not leave mankind without direction.He sent a succession of prophets — from Adam to Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and finally Muhammad ﷺ — each calling to one truth:> “Worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him.”— Surah Al-A‘raf (7:59)The final revelation, the Qur’an, is the preserved manual of life.It teaches what benefits the soul and warns against what harms it.Through it, Allah calls every human being to a life of meaning, balance, and moral excellence.

    Success in This Life and the Next:

    True success in Islam is not measured by wealth or status but by faith and righteousness.A person who fulfills his purpose — worshipping Allah sincerely and obeying His Messenger ﷺ — attains both inner peace now and eternal joy later.> “Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer — We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward in the Hereafter according to the best of what they used to do.”— Surah An-Nahl (16:97)

    Conclusion:

    The purpose of life in Islam is clear and profound:To know Allah, to worship Him alone, and to prepare for the meeting with Him.Everything else — wealth, status, comfort — is secondary and temporary.Only faith, righteous deeds, and remembrance of Allah give life true value. “This worldly life is only enjoyment of delusion.”— Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:185)

    Islam does not call humanity away from the world but to live in it with purpose, integrity, and devotion — transforming every moment into worship.The believer’s heart beats with one mission:To please the Creator, serve His creation, and return to Him in peace. “O tranquil soul, return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing [to Him]. Enter among My servants, and enter My Paradise.”— Surah Al-Fajr (89:27-30)

  • Why Islam Rejects Original Sin

    Introduction:

    Christianity teaches that humanity inherited a sinful nature from Adam and Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden. According to this doctrine — known as “Original Sin” — all humans are born guilty and estranged from God, and can only be saved through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Islam, however, presents a very different and more hopeful view of human nature. The Qur’an teaches that every person is born pure, innocent, and free of inherited sin. Each individual is responsible only for their own actions, and forgiveness from Allah is always available through sincere repentance.

    What Christianity Teaches About Original Sin: The doctrine of Original Sin is based mainly on the writings of Paul, especially: “Just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.”— Romans 5:12. From this, many Christian traditions conclude:

    1. Adam’s sin corrupted human nature.
    2. All humans inherit this sinful state at birth.
    3. Only through the atoning death of Jesus can this inherited guilt be removed.

    This belief underpins the ideas of atonement, redemption, and baptism, which are central to Christian salvation theology.

    The Original Teaching of Salvation — Before Paul:

    Before Paul’s reinterpretation, salvation in the message of Jesus and all earlier prophets centered on faith in God, repentance, and righteous deeds, not on the death of a mediator.

    1. The Prophets’ Consistent Message: Throughout the Old Testament, salvation was tied to obedience and repentance: Ezekiel 18:21–22 — “If the wicked will turn from all his sins… and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.” Micah 6:8 — “He has shown you, O man, what is good… to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. ”Isaiah 55:7 — “Let the wicked forsake his way… and He will have mercy upon him.”
    2. Jesus’ Own Words: Jesus reaffirmed this same principle of repentance and keeping the commandments: Matthew 19:17 — “If you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” Matthew 7:21 — “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of My Father.” Luke 6:46 — “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I say?” Nowhere did Jesus say salvation depended on his death. Instead, he called people to righteousness, mercy, and faithfulness to God’s will.

    The Islamic Perspective:

    In line with the teachings of earlier prophets, including Jesus, Islam completely rejects the concept of original sin. Instead, it teaches that every human being is born with an innate, pure nature (fitrah). The sin of Adam was solely his own and not inherited by others. Allah forgave Adam and Eve after they repented, and no one is responsible for the sins of another. Salvation is attained through faith, righteous deeds, and repentance, rather than through blood sacrifice.

    The Story of Adam and Eve in the Qur’an:

    The Qur’an tells the story of Adam and Eve with a key difference: “Then Adam received words from his Lord, and He accepted his repentance. Indeed, it is He who is the Accepting of repentance, the Merciful.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:37) Unlike the Christian version, there is no concept of inherited guilt. Adam and Eve both repented, and Allah forgave them completely. Their sin did not taint humanity; rather, it served as a lesson in repentance and mercy. “Every son of Adam sins, and the best of sinners are those who repent.”— Hadith (Tirmidhi, 2499) This teaching restores hope and accountability to every person.

    Individual Responsibility in Islam:

    Islamic scripture emphasizes that each soul bears only its own burden: “No soul shall bear the burden of another.”— Surah Al-Isra (17:15) “Every person is accountable for what he has earned.”— Surah Al-Muddaththir (74:38)> “Whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.”— Surah Az-Zalzalah (99:7–8) There is no concept of inherited guilt or vicarious atonement in Islam.Each person has a direct, personal relationship with Allah — no mediator, priest, or savior is required.

    Forgiveness Without Bloodshed:

    In Christianity, atonement is tied to sacrifice — the belief that sin can only be forgiven through blood, as expressed in: “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”— Hebrews 9:22. Islam disagrees. Forgiveness in Islam comes through repentance (tawbah), not through blood or intermediaries. “O My servants who have transgressed against themselves, do not despair of the mercy of Allah.Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful.”— Surah Az-Zumar (39:53) This verse is one of the most hope-filled messages in the Qur’an — declaring that no sin is beyond Allah’s mercy, and forgiveness is open to all who sincerely return to Him.

    The Islamic View of Human Nature:

    Islam views human beings as born good and capable of righteousness: “We have certainly created man in the best of forms.”— Surah At-Tin (95:4)Each person is born with a fitrah — a natural inclination to recognize and worship the Creator.It is only through environment, temptation, and choice that a person turns away from that natural purity.Unlike Original Sin, which views humanity as corrupt from birth, Islam teaches original goodness — with the potential for both good and evil depending on one’s choices.

    Reason and Justice:

    The concept of inherited sin contradicts both divine justice and human reason: How can a just God punish all people for one man’s mistake? Why would a newborn, innocent child be born sinful? Why would God need to sacrifice Himself to forgive what He already has the power to forgive? Islam answers these questions simply and consistently: Allah is perfectly Just and Merciful. He holds no one accountable for what they did not do.

    Salvation in Islam:

    Salvation in Islam is not about paying for another’s sins — it’s about faith, repentance, and striving for righteousness. “Those who believe and do righteous deeds — for them will be Gardens beneath which rivers flow; that is the great success.”— Surah Al-Buruj (85:11) Forgiveness is always available through:

    1. Faith in Allah and His messengers.
    2. Sincere repentance for sins.
    3. Good deeds done for His sake.
    4. Avoiding major sins and seeking His mercy regularly. No mediator is needed — only sincerity and turning back to the Creator.

    Jesus in the Final Scripture:

    In Islam, Jesus (peace be upon him) is regarded as a noble prophet, rather than a divine savior. He was sent to guide the Children of Israel back to monotheism, and not to die for their sins. The Quran states, “They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but it was made to appear so to them” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:157). Additionally, it is said, “And no bearer of burdens will bear the burden of another” (Surah Fatir, 35:18). Thus, Islam honors Jesus while maintaining the concept of God’s oneness and perfect justice. Consequently, any Christian who embraces Islam does not lose Jesus; rather, they come to know him even better.

    Conclusion:

    Islam’s rejection of Original Sin is not a denial of human imperfection — it is an affirmation of God’s mercy, justice, and wisdom.Adam’s sin was personal, and Allah forgave him. We are all born pure, not guilty. Forgiveness is earned through sincere repentance, not inherited guilt or blood sacrifice.Salvation is open to all who believe and strive for good. Islam restores a balanced view of humanity:we are neither fallen beyond hope nor divine beyond accountability — we are servants of Allah, created to know Him, worship Him, and return to Him. “Allah does not wrong anyone by even the weight of an atom.”— Surah An-Nisa (4:40)

    References

    1. Qur’an 2:37, 17:15, 39:53, 4:40, 35:18, 95:4, 85:11

    2. Hadith — Jami‘ at-Tirmidhi (2499)

    3. Bible — Romans 5:12, Hebrews 9:22

    4. “The Concept of Sin and Salvation in Islam” — Dr. Bilal Philips

    5. “A Comparative Study of Original Sin” — Dr. Zakir Naik-

  • Is the Qur’an Preserved?

    Introduction:

    One of the most important facts of Islam is that the Qur’an is the unchanged word of Allah, perfectly preserved since it was revealed over 1,400 years ago.Many non-Muslims, and even some Muslims, wonder: Can we really be sure that the Qur’an we have today is the same as what was revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ?This article will explore the Islamic evidence, historical facts, and scholarly consensus on the preservation of the Qur’an.

    The Qur’an’s Own Claim:

    The Qur’an explicitly declares that Allah Himself guarantees its preservation: “Indeed, it is We who sent down the Reminder (the Qur’an), and indeed, We will surely guard it.”— Surah Al-Ḥijr (15:9)This verse is both a divine promise and a fulfilled prophecy.For over fourteen centuries, the Qur’an has remained intact — word for word, letter for letter — despite the rise and fall of empires, languages, and cultures.

    How the Qur’an Was Preserved:

    1. Through Memorization (Hifz)From the time of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, thousands of his companions memorized the Qur’an completely.They were known as ḥuffāẓ (guardians of the Qur’an). The Prophet ﷺ said:“The best among you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”(Sahih al-Bukhari, 5027)To this day, millions of Muslims around the world — from Nigeria to Indonesia — memorize the Qur’an entirely, often from a young age.This oral preservation is unique to the Qur’an; no other scripture in history has been memorized so widely and precisely.

    2. Through Written PreservationDuring the Prophet’s lifetime:The Qur’an was written down on parchments, bones, and leaves by appointed scribes.He personally reviewed the recitations of the Qur’an each Ramadan with the angel Jibrīl (Gabriel).After his death, under the Caliph Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him), the written materials and memorized recitations were compiled into a single copy, supervised by the companions who had memorized the entire Qur’an.Later, during Caliph Uthman’s era, standard copies were produced and distributed to major Muslim regions to preserve one unified reading, eliminating any regional differences in dialect or pronunciation.These copies, known as the “Mushaf of Uthman,” became the foundation of all Qur’anic manuscripts today.

    3. Through Continuous Recitation (Tawātur)The Qur’an has been transmitted generation after generation through a process called tawātur, meaning:> “A transmission by so many people in every generation that it is impossible for them to have conspired upon a lie.”This chain of reciters connects every modern Qur’an reader directly back to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

    What Scholars and Historians SayImam Al-Nawawi (d. 676 AH): “The Qur’an is preserved by Allah from any alteration, addition, or omission.”(Al-Tibyan fi Adab Hamalat al-Qur’an) Orientalist scholar Arthur Jeffery, though critical of Islam, admitted: “The Qur’an as we have it today is practically identical with what was in circulation in the Prophet’s lifetime. “Even non-Muslim historians recognize the Qur’an’s textual stability, especially compared to other ancient scriptures.

    Manuscript Evidence:

    Early Qur’anic manuscripts from the 7th century CE, such as: The Topkapi Mushaf (Turkey)The Samarkand Mushaf (Uzbekistan)The Birmingham Manuscript (UK)—all confirm the same text found in the Qur’an recited by Muslims today. When compared letter-by-letter, these manuscripts match the standard Uthmanic Qur’an, differing only in spelling conventions and minor diacritical marks — not in words or meanings.

    Addressing Common Misconceptions:

    1. There are different versions of Qur’an: There is only one Qur’an, but multiple authentic recitations (Qirā’āt) — each taught by the Prophet ﷺ and passed through sound chains of narration.These are not different versions but different accepted modes of pronunciation, much like different accents in reciting the same text.
    2. Early Muslims disagreed about the Qur’an: Minor differences in dialect, and pronunciation existed, but the content was the same. Caliph Uthman’s compilation standardized the Qur’an without changing any revelation.
    3. The Qur’an was written long after the Prophet: No — it was written and memorized during his lifetime.Every verse was confirmed by him before it was recited publicly.The companions cross-checked both written and memorized versions for accuracy.

    Why This Preservation Matters:

    1. It proves the truthfulness of Allah’s promise (Qur’an 15:9).

    2. It ensures that Islam’s guidance remains unaltered and reliable for all generations.

    3. It gives Muslims a direct link to the words of Allah, not human authors or translations.

    Conclusion:

    The Qur’an is not just another ancient book — it is the living word of Allah, perfectly preserved in memory, writing, and recitation. Its preservation is: Divinely promised, Historically proven, and Universally witnessed among Muslims across centuries. No other scripture can make — or prove — such a claim. “This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2)

    References:

    1. Qur’an 15:9, 2:2, 22:38

    2. Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 5027

    3. Al-Tibyan fi Adab Hamalat al-Qur’an — Imam al-Nawawi

    4. The Preservation of the Qur’an, Dr. Mustafa al-Azami

    5. The History of the Qur’anic Text, M.M. al-Azami

    6. Birmingham Qur’an Manuscript Study, University of Birmingham

  • Who is Prophet Muhammad?

    Muhammad, Prophethood, Revelation, Qur’an, Messenger of Allah

    Introduction:

    The name Muhammad ﷺ is among the most mentioned in the world, yet also one of the most misunderstood.Muslims revere him not as a divine being, but as the final Prophet and Messenger of Allah, sent to guide humanity with the message of pure monotheism (Tawheed) — the worship of one God. He is the man through whom the Qur’an was revealed, whose life serves as the perfect example of faith, morality, justice, and compassion.This article introduces who Prophet Muhammad ﷺ truly was, why Muslims follow him, and how his life continues to impact billions today.

    Birth and Early Life:

    Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was born in Makkah (modern-day Saudi Arabia) around 570 CE, into the noble tribe of Quraysh.His father, ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abdul-Muttalib, passed away before his birth, and his mother, Aminah bint Wahb, died when he was just six years old.He was raised by his grandfather and later by his uncle Abu Talib.Even before prophethood, he was known among his people as “Al-Amīn” (the Trustworthy) for his honesty, fairness, and integrity.

    The Call to ProphethoodAt the age of 40, while meditating in the cave of Hira, Muhammad ﷺ received the first revelation through the angel Jibrīl (Gabriel):> “Read in the name of your Lord who created…”— Surah Al-‘Alaq (96:1)This marked the beginning of his 23-year mission as the final Messenger of God, confirming the messages of Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all).

    The Message of Islam: Prophet Muhammad ﷺ called people to the same timeless truth preached by all prophets: “Worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him.”— Surah Al-A‘raf (7:59)His mission was not to found a new religion, but to restore the original message of monotheism that had been altered or forgotten over time. The essence of his message included:

    1. Oneness of God (Tawheed) — Allah alone deserves worship.

    2. Righteous conduct — truthfulness, justice, mercy, and humility.

    3. Accountability — belief in the Hereafter and responsibility for one’s deeds.

    4. Equality of all humans — regardless of race, tribe, or status.

    5. Peace and compassion — “The most merciful are shown mercy by The Most Merciful.” (Hadith)

    Opposition and Perseverance:

    The early years of his mission in Makkah were met with severe hostility. He and his followers were mocked, tortured, and boycotted because his message challenged the idol-worship and social injustices of the time. Despite persecution, he responded with patience and forgiveness, never abandoning his message or compromising his integrity.After 13 years of struggle in Makkah, he and his followers migrated to Madinah — an event known as the Hijrah (Migration) — marking the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

    The Prophet as a Leader:

    In Madinah, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ became:A spiritual leader — teaching faith and devotion.A political leader — establishing justice and rule of law.A military leader — defending the community from aggression.A reformer — uplifting women, orphans, and the poor.He established the Constitution of Madinah, one of the first written charters guaranteeing rights and coexistence between Muslims, Jews, and other tribes.

    Character and Morality: The Qur’an describes him as:> “And indeed, you are of a great moral character.”— Surah Al-Qalam (68:4)He was gentle, forgiving, humble, and generous. He mended clothes, served his family, and never sought revenge for personal harm.When his enemies were finally defeated, he entered Makkah without pride or vengeance, declaring forgiveness for all. “No blame will there be upon you today. May Allah forgive you; He is the Most Merciful of the merciful.”— Qur’an 12:92 (words of Prophet Yusuf, repeated by Muhammad ﷺ upon conquest)

    The Final Revelation: Shortly before his death, the Prophet ﷺ delivered his Farewell Sermon during his final pilgrimage (Hajj). It summarized the entire message of Islam: “O people, your Lord is One, and your father (Adam) is one.An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor a non-Arab over an Arab, except by piety.”— Hadith (Musnad Ahmad)Soon after, he received the final revelation:> “Today I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and chosen Islam as your religion.”— Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:3)He passed away in 632 CE at the age of 63, leaving behind a complete, preserved faith and a global community of believers. Was Muhammad Truly a Prophet?Muslims believe Muhammad ﷺ’s prophethood is proven by:

    1. The Qur’an itself — unmatched in eloquence, consistency, and preservation.

    2. Fulfilled prophecies — in the Qur’an and authentic Hadiths.

    3. His personal example — unmatched moral character and sincerity.

    4. The transformation he led — from idol-worship to ethical monotheism.

    5. Predictions in earlier scriptures — such as Deuteronomy 18:18 and John 14:16, which describe a coming prophet like Moses.

    What the Qur’an Says About Him: “Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets.”— Surah Al-Ahzab (33:40)> “And We have not sent you except as a mercy to the worlds.”— Surah Al-Anbiya (21:107)He was not sent to one nation or tribe, but to all humanity, as a messenger of mercy, truth, and justice.

    Conclusion:

    Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was a messenger, reformer, teacher, and mercy to mankind — not a god or a man seeking power.His message was universal, timeless, and clear:> “Worship Allah alone and follow the guidance revealed.”Through his teachings and example, the world witnessed spiritual, moral, and social transformation unmatched in history.Muslims follow him not out of blind faith, but because his message is confirmed by revelation, reason, and the enduring legacy of good he left behind.

    References:

    1. Qur’an 33:40, 21:107, 68:4, 5:3
    2. Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim — Authentic Hadith collections.
    3. “Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum” (The Sealed Nectar) by Safiur Rahman al-Mubarakpuri
    4. “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings
    5. “The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History” by Michael H. Hart

  • Did Jesus Die for Our Sins? — The Islamic Response

    Introduction:

    Christianity teaches that Jesus Christ died on the cross as a sacrifice to atone for humanity’s sins. This event, known as the Crucifixion, is seen as the foundation of salvation—through Jesus’s death and resurrection, mankind is reconciled to God. In contrast, Islam presents a different account and understanding of salvation. The Qur’an explicitly teaches that Jesus (ʿĪsā) was neither crucified nor killed; rather, he was raised by Allah—his mission fulfilled, his honor preserved, while his followers were misled afterward. This article outlines Islam’s view of the Crucifixion, explores why the Qur’an rejects it, and explains how true forgiveness is achieved according to Islamic belief.

    The Christian Belief in the Cross:

    According to Christian doctrine:

    1. Humanity inherited sin from Adam and Eve (Original Sin).

    2. No human could atone for this sin; therefore, God became man in the person of Jesus.

    3. Jesus’s death on the cross paid the price for humanity’s sins.

    4. Believing in Jesus’s sacrifice is necessary for salvation.

    The Apostle Paul wrote:“For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” — Romans 3:23“Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.” — 1 Corinthians 15:3. While this belief is deeply held by Christians, Islam views it as a misunderstanding of both God’s nature and Jesus’s mission.

    The Qur’anic Account:

    The Qur’an is clear regarding the Crucifixion: “And for their saying, ‘We killed the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, the Messenger of Allah’—but they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him, but it was made to appear so to them. And those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except for the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain.” — Surah An-Nisa (4:157)“Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise.” — Surah An-Nisa (4:158)According to Islam:- Jesus was not killed or crucified.- It only appeared so to his enemies.- Allah saved him from humiliation and raised him to the heavens.- He will return before the Day of Judgment to finalise his mission.

    The Nature of Jesus’s Mission:

    In Islam, Jesus (ʿĪsā عليه السلام) was:- A prophet and messenger sent to the Children of Israel- A servant of Allah, not divine- A human born through a miracle, like Adam, who was created without a father “The likeness of Jesus before Allah is that of Adam. He created him from dust, then said to him, ‘Be,’ and he was.” — Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:59)His message was consistent with that of all prophets: “Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord.” — Surah Maryam (19:36)Thus, Jesus came not to die for sins but to guide his people back to the worship of the One True God.

    Why Islam Rejects the Idea of Atonement Through Blood:

    Islam rejects the notion that God requires a blood sacrifice to forgive. Forgiveness in Islam is not bought; it is earned through repentance, mercy, and sincere faith. “Allah does not forgive that partners be associated with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills.” — Surah An-Nisa (4:48)“Do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins.” — Surah Az-Zumar (39:53)In Islam:- God is All-Merciful—He does not need to punish Himself to forgive His creation.- No soul bears the sin of another (Qur’an 35:18).- Forgiveness is granted to those who repent and do good.The concept of vicarious atonement—one person dying for another’s sin—is inconsistent with both divine justice and personal accountability.

    Biblical Support for the Islamic View:

    Even within the Bible, there are passages that align more with the Islamic narrative than later Christian doctrine:

    1. Jesus Prayed to Be Saved from the Cross: “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me.” — Matthew 26:39 This prayer indicates that he did not desire death, and God does not reject the prayers of His prophets.

    2. God Does Not Die: “I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me.” — Isaiah 46:9 The idea that God can die is theologically impossible.

    3. The Alleged Cry of Jesus on the Cross: “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?” — Matthew 27:46 If Jesus were truly God, to whom was he crying? This indicates a servant-to-Lord relationship, not divine identity.

    4. The Early Christians Disagreed About Crucifixion: Early sects, such as the Basilidians and Docetists (1st–2nd centuries CE), believed that Jesus was not crucified—echoing what the Qur’an later confirmed.

    The Return of Jesus (ʿĪsā):

    Islam teaches that Jesus was raised alive and will return before the Day of Judgment to:- Defeat the false messiah (Dajjal)- Restore justice and peace- Reaffirm the truth of Islam- Die a natural death and be buried on earth “By Him in Whose Hand is my life, the son of Mary will soon descend among you as a just ruler.” — Hadith (Sahih al-Bukhari, 3448) This prophecy illustrates that Jesus’s mission is not finished but will conclude according to Allah’s plan—not through crucifixion.

    Salvation in Islam

    In Islam, salvation is not earned by another’s death, but by faith and righteous deeds: “Whoever does righteousness, it is for his own soul; and whoever does evil, it is against it.”— Qur’an, Surah Fussilat (41:46) This aligns with the consistent teaching of earlier prophets, including Jesus. Ezekiel 18:20 “The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father… the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him.” Matthew 19:17 “If you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”. Romans 2:6–7 “God will repay each person according to what they have done. To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory and honor… he will give eternal life.” James 2:24 “You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.”

    To be saved:

    1. Believe in Allah (The True God) and His messengers, including Jesus and Muhammad (peace be upon them).

    2. Repent sincerely for sins.

    3. Live a life of righteousness and mercy. Islam’s message is simple and universal: “Worship Allah alone and do good — and you will be saved.”

    A Message of Unity:

    The Qur’an calls Christians and Jews back to their original message: “Say, O People of the Book, come to a word that is common between us and you — that we worship none but Allah, and that we associate no partners with Him.”— Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:64) This is not a rejection of Jesus — it is an affirmation of his true mission: to call humanity to worship the One True God.

    Conclusion:

    Islam honors Jesus as one of the greatest prophets —born miraculously, speaking from the cradle, healing the sick, and raising the dead by Allah’s permission. But Islam rejects the idea that he was God or died for the sins of others. His mission was the same as that of every prophet: “O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him.” (Qur’an 11:50) Forgiveness in Islam comes not through crucifixion, but through mercy and repentance. And that mercy is open to all who turn sincerely to Allah. “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers.”— Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:85)

    References:

    1. Qur’an 4:157–158, 3:59, 3:64, 11:50, 39:53, 41:46

    2. Hadith — Sahih al-Bukhari 3448

    3. Bible — Romans 3:23, Matthew 26:39, Matthew 27:46, Isaiah 46:9

    4. “The Cross and the Crescent” — Ahmed Deedat

    5. “Jesus in the Qur’an” — Dr. Jamal Badawi

  • What is Islam? – An Understanding of the Faith of Submission to God’s Will

    Introduction:

    The word “Islam” comes from the Arabic root S-L-M, which means peace, purity, submission, and obedience.In essence, Islam means “submission to the will of Allah”, the One True God.A person who follows Islam is called a Muslim, meaning “one who submits.”Islam is not a new religion. It is the same message of monotheism that was revealed to all prophets — from Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, to the final Messenger, Muhammad ﷺ.

    The Core Meaning of Islam:

    At its heart, Islam is about:Recognizing the Creator of the heavens and the earth,Submitting one’s life and will to Him,Living in accordance with His guidance.This message is summarized in the Qur’an:> “Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam.”— Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:19)> “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers.”— Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:85)

    Belief in One God:

    The foundation of Islam is Tawheed — the belief that Allah is One, Unique, and has no partners. “Say: He is Allah, the One.Allah, the Eternal Refuge.He neither begets nor is born,Nor is there to Him any equivalent.”— Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1–4)Muslims believe that Allah:Has no father, mother, or son.Has no equal or rival.Alone deserves all worship, prayer, and devotion.This same message was preached by all prophets, including Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all).

    Belief in the Prophets:

    Islam teaches that throughout history, Allah sent prophets to guide humanity.Each prophet brought the same essential message:> “Worship Allah alone and avoid false gods.”Some of the prophets mentioned in the Qur’an include:Adam — the first man and prophetNoah (Nūḥ)Abraham (Ibrāhīm)Moses (Mūsā)Jesus (ʿĪsā)Muhammad (ﷺ) — the final messengerMuslims believe in all of them — not as divine beings, but as messengers of God.> “The Messenger has believed in what was revealed to him from his Lord, and [so have] the believers.All of them have believed in Allah and His angels and His books and His messengers.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:285)

    The Qur’an — The Final Revelation:

    Muslims believe that Allah revealed divine scriptures to different prophets.Among them:The Torah to MosesThe Psalms (Zabur) to DavidThe Gospel (Injeel) to JesusAnd finally, the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad ﷺThe Qur’an is unique because:It has been perfectly preserved in Arabic for over 1,400 years.It contains no contradictions.It covers belief, law, morals, science, and guidance for all humanity.> “Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur’an, and indeed, We will be its guardian.”— Surah Al-Hijr (15:9)

    The Five Pillars of Islam:

    Islam is not only a belief but a way of life. Its foundation rests on five pillars, which every Muslim follows: Pillar Arabic Term Description

    1️⃣ Shahadah Declaration of faith: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger.”

    2️⃣ Salah Performing the five daily prayers at prescribed times.

    3️⃣ Zakah Giving charity (2.5% of savings) to purify wealth and help the poor.

    4️⃣ Sawm Fasting during the month of Ramadan to develop self-control and piety.

    5️⃣ Hajj Pilgrimage to Makkah once in a lifetime, if physically and financially able.These acts of worship strengthen a Muslim’s connection with Allah and purify the soul.

    The Six Articles of Faith:

    Every Muslim must believe in the six pillars of faith:

    1. Belief in Allah

    2. Belief in His Angels

    3. Belief in His Books

    4. Belief in His Messengers

    5. Belief in the Last Day

    6. Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar) — that all things happen by Allah’s knowledge and will.

    The Purpose of Life:

    According to Islam, the purpose of human life is simple and profound: “And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.”— Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:56)Worship in Islam is not limited to rituals — it includes every act done sincerely for Allah’s sake: working honestly, helping others, being truthful, and showing kindness.

    Islam and Peace:

    True Islam brings peace:Peace within oneself — through submission to Allah,Peace with others — through justice, mercy, and compassion,Peace in society — through moral and spiritual discipline.The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:> “The Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand people are safe.”— Sahih al-Bukhari (10)

    Who Is a Muslim?

    Anyone who sincerely declares the testimony of faith becomes a Muslim:> “Ash-hadu an lā ilāha illā Allāh,wa ash-hadu anna Muḥammadan rasūlullāh.”(I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.)This simple statement marks the beginning of a new relationship with the Creator — one built on faith, forgiveness, and hope.

    Conclusion:

    Islam is the religion of all prophets, the message of submission to one God, and the path to inner peace and eternal salvation. It calls humanity to:Worship Allah alone, Follow His final messenger, Muhammad ﷺ, Live righteously, and Prepare for the Hereafter. “This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.”— Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:3)

  • Trinity or Tawheed: Understanding God’s Oneness

    Introduction:

    Both Muslims and Christians believe in one God — the Creator of the heavens and the earth.However, the understanding of God’s nature differs sharply between the two faiths.Christians describe God as a Trinity: one being in three persons — the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit.Islam, on the other hand, teaches Tawheed: that Allah is absolutely One, with no partners, equals, or divisions.This article will explore both beliefs, explain the Islamic perspective, and show why pure monotheism (Tawheed) is the original and unchanging message of all prophets.

    The Christian Concept:

    The TrinityThe doctrine of the Trinity teaches:> “There is one God who exists eternally as three distinct persons — the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit — co-equal and co-eternal.”Although the word Trinity does not appear anywhere in the Bible, this belief developed through later Church councils — such as Nicaea (325 CE) and Constantinople (381 CE).According to Christian theology:The Father is God.The Son (Jesus) is God.The Holy Spirit is God.Yet, there are not three gods, but one God.Many Christians accept this as a mystery of faith, not fully understandable by reason.

    The Islamic Concept:

    Tawheed (Oneness of Allah)In Islam, Tawheed is the foundation of all belief — the purest form of monotheism.> “Say: He is Allah, One.Allah, the Eternal Refuge.He neither begets nor is born,Nor is there to Him any equal.”— Surah Al-Ikhlāṣ (112:1–4)

    The Meaning of Tawheed:

    1. Tawheed ar-Rububiyyah — Oneness of Lordship:Allah alone is the Creator, Sustainer, and Controller of the universe.

    2. Tawheed al-Uluhiyyah — Oneness of Worship:Only Allah deserves worship, prayer, and devotion.

    3. Tawheed al-Asma wa Sifat — Oneness of Names and Attributes:Allah’s attributes (such as mercy, knowledge, power) are unique and not shared by any creature.Islam rejects the idea of any partners, intermediaries, or incarnations in God’s essence.

    What the Qur’an Say About the Trinity:

    The Qur’an addresses the Christian belief in the Trinity with clarity and respect: “They have certainly disbelieved who say, ‘Allah is the third of three.’And there is no god except one God.”— Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:73)And also: “The Messiah, son of Mary, was no more than a messenger;many were the messengers that passed away before him.His mother was a woman of truth.They both ate food.”— Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:75)Eating, needing rest, and human limitations prove that neither Jesus nor Mary can be divine. Both were noble servants of Allah — not partners in His divinity.

    What Jesus Himself Taught:

    Even in the Bible, Jesus emphasized the oneness of God:> “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.”— Mark 12:29He also said:> “My Father is greater than I.”— John 14:28These verses confirm that Jesus distinguished himself from God, never claiming equality or partnership.In fact, throughout the Gospels, Jesus prayed to God, submitted to His will, and acknowledged His dependence — all signs of servanthood, not divinity.

    The Origin of the Trinity Doctrine:

    The concept of the Trinity was not taught by Jesus or his early disciples.It evolved gradually through Greek philosophical influence and Church politics after Jesus’s time.Early Christian groups like the Ebionites and Nazarenes — who followed Jesus’s original teachings — believed in one God and saw Jesus as a prophet and messenger, not God Himself.It was only later that Roman councils, influenced by Emperor Constantine, formalized the doctrine of the Trinity.

    Islam’s Respectful View of Jesus (Peace be upon him):

    Islam deeply honors Jesus as:A mighty messenger of Allah,Born miraculously to Mary (Maryam عليها السلام),A prophet sent to guide the Children of Israel,A servant and worshipper of Allah, not divine.> “The Messiah (Jesus), son of Mary, was only a messenger of Allah and His word which He directed to Mary, and a spirit from Him.”— Surah An-Nisa (4:171)Thus, Islam restores Jesus’s true position — noble, pure, and human — without elevating him to godhood or lowering him to disbelief.

    Reason and Revelation Agree:

    It is both rational and scriptural to believe in one indivisible God:Reason tells us that two or more infinite beings cannot exist simultaneously.Revelation tells us that Allah has no partners or equals.True monotheism (Tawheed) is consistent, simple, and universal — the same message preached by Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).

    A Call to Reflect:

    The Qur’an invites sincere Christians to return to the shared foundation of faith:> “Say, O People of the Book, come to a word that is common between us and you — that we worship none but Allah, and that we associate no partners with Him.”— Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:64)Islam does not reject Jesus — it reaffirms his true mission:to call people to the worship of the One True God, not himself.

    Conclusion:

    The Trinity divides God into three persons, a concept that Jesus never taught and which reason cannot explain.The Tawheed of Islam preserves the absolute oneness and perfection of God — free from partners, sons, or divisions.In essence:Trinity = three persons, one being (philosophical paradox)Tawheed = one God, one essence, one worship (pure monotheism)The call of Islam is to worship Allah alone, the same God whom Jesus, Moses, and all prophets worshiped.> “And your God is One God. There is no deity except Him, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:163)—

    References:

    1. Qur’an 112:1–4, 4:171, 5:73–75, 3:64, 2:163

    2. Gospel of Mark 12:29

    3. Gospel of John 14:28

    4. Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 3445

    5. “The History of Christian Doctrines,” Alister E. McGrath

    6. “Islamic Monotheism (Tawheed),” Dr. Bilal Philips—

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