Similarities between Islam and Christianity

[ARBANITAI]

Similarities between the Holy Qur´an and the Bible
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The two worlds largest Religions Islam and christianity from centuries before since the time they were reavelled have had alot of simmilarities in their religion, while many still were not aware of that. these two great religions are often called as "Abrahamic religions" or the religions that both derives from the Middle East!

The Holy Qur'an (Kur´an) contains many references to people and events that are mentioned in the Bible; especially the stories of the prophets of God in islam, among whom are included Adam, Noah Abraham, Moses, David, Solomon and Jesus etc.

Muslims believe that Moses was given the Tawrat (Hebrew Torah, or 'the Law'); that David was given the Zabur (or psalms) and that Jesus was given the Injil or Injeel (Greek evangel, or Gospel) from the Judeo-Christian-Islamic GOD (Allah in Arabic).
Traditionally, Muslims have believed that parts of these teachings were eventually lost or distorted to produce what is now the Hebrew Bible and the Christian New Testament. Hence Muslims traditionally neither deny or accept the accuracy of the Bible but believe that the Qur'an is the only remaining uncorrupted revelation from God.
The stories of the Biblical figures mentioned in the holy Qur'an often contain few details and tend to concentrate more on the moral or spiritual significance of the story.

There are several events that are present in both holy books in some form. The Biblical versions are concerned mainly with narrative and detail, whilst the Qur'anic versions are much more concerned with the stories as parables and moral teachings and they often contain little in the way of detail.

1 Common figures
2 Events in Genesis
2.1 The Creation of Humanity
2.1.1 Quranic version
2.1.2 Biblical version
2.2 Cain and Abel
2.2.1 Biblical version
2.2.2 Qur'ānic version
2.3 Noah and the flood
2.3.1 Biblical version
2.3.2 Qur'anic version
2.4 Abraham promised a son
2.4.1 Biblical version
2.4.2 Qur'anic version
2.5 Lot and Sodom and Gomorrah
2.5.1 Biblical version
2.5.2 Qur'anic version
2.6 Abraham and the sacrifice
2.6.1 Biblical version
2.6.2 Qur'anic version
3 Events in Moses' lifetime
3.1 Moses and the Egyptians
3.1.1 Biblical version
3.1.2 Qur'anic version
3.2 Destruction of Korah
3.2.1 Biblical version
3.2.2 Qur'anic version
4 Events after Moses
4.1 Samuel appoints a king
4.1.1 Biblical version
4.1.2 Qur'anic version
4.2 David and Goliath
4.2.1 Biblical version
4.2.2 Qur'anic version
4.3 King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba
4.3.1 Biblical version
4.3.2 Qur'anic version
4.4 Jonah and the whale
4.4.1 Biblical version
4.4.2 Qur'anic version
4.5 Jesus
4.5.1 Biblical version
4.5.2 Qur'anic Version
5 See also
6 External links

Common figures
The Biblical name is written (used by Jews and Christians), followed by the Qur'ānic/Arabic name (used by Muslims) in parentheses if different. In the Qur'an the only woman's name mentioned explicitly is that of the Virgin Mary (Arabic Maryam). Other women's names listed are traditional.

Aaron (Hārūn)
Abel (Hābīl)
Abraham (Ibrāhīm)
Adam (Adam)
Cain (Qābīl)
David (Dā'ūd)
The Apostles (al Hawariyyūn – they are actually named but not numbered in the Qur'ān, there are twelve in the New Testament)
Egyptian killed by Moses (not named in the Qur'ān either)
Eber (Hud)
Elias/Elijah (Ilyās)
Elisha (Alyasaˤ)
Elizabeth (Alisabath - she is not actually named in the Qur'ān but referred to as "Zakariya's wife")
Enoch (Idrīs)
Esther
Eve (Hawa - she is not actually named in the Qur'ān, referred to as "Adam's wife")
Ezekiel (Dhū l-Kifl – it is disputed whether the Dhū l-Kifl in the Qur'ān is actually the Biblical Ezekiel)
Ezra (ˤUzayr)
Gabriel, Angel (Jibrīl)
God (al-Lāh)
Goliath (Jālūt)
Isaac (Isħaq)
Ishmael (Ismā'īl)
Jacob (Yaˤqub)
Jesus (ˤĪsā)
Job (Ayyūb)
Jochebed (she is not actually named in the Qur'ān)
John the Baptist (Yaħyā)
Jonah (Yūnus)
Joseph (Yūsuf)
Joseph's brothers (not named in the Qur'ān, 11 named in the Bible)
Joseph's servants (they are not named in either book)
Korah (Qa'rūn)
Lot (Lūt)
Lot's wife (she is not named in either book)
Mary (Maryam)
Michael, Angel (Mikhā'īl)
Moses (Mūsā)
Moses' father in law (the Bible gives him two different names – Reuel and Jethro (Shuˤayb -)
Miriam (Miryam), Moses' sister
Noah (Nūħ)
Noah's sons (not named in the Qur'ān, there are three – Shem, Ham, and Japeth – in the Bible)
Noah's wife (she is not named in either book)
Pharaoh (Firˤawn)
Pharaoh's Chief baker (not named in either book; in the Qur'ān, he is called "a Young Man")
Pharaoh's Chief cupbearer (not named in either book; in the Qur'ān, he is called "a Young Man")
Potiphar (al-ˤAzīz)
Potiphar's wife (not named in either book, traditionally in Islām she is called Zulaykha)
Queen of Sheba (not named in Qur'an , but named Bilqīs in Arabic tradition)
Rachel (not named in the Qur'ān) Jacob's wife
Saul (Tālūt)
Samuel (he is not actually named in the Qur'ān, referred to as 'a Prophet')
Sarah (she is not actually named in the Qur'ān, referred to as 'Ibrāhīm's wife')
Satan (Iblīs or Shaytān)
Solomon (Sulayman)
Terah (not named in Qur'an)
Zechariah (Zakariyya)
Zipporah (she is not actually named in the Qur'an)

The Creation of Humanity
The story appears in Genesis 2:4 – 4:1 in the Bible. It appears in many verses in the Qur'an: verses 30-39 of Sura 2, verses 11-25 of Sura 7, verses 26-42 of Sura 15, verses 61-65 of Sura 17, verses 50-51 of Sura 18, verses 110-124 of Sura 20 and in verses 71-85 of Sura 38. The Origin of all life in water is found in Sura 21 verse 30 and 45.

Qur'anic version about the creation of the first man Adam
“ God tells the angels that he is going to create a vicegerent on the Earth (Arabic khalifa). The angels respond by asking why God is placing a creature that will 'make mischief' and spill blood on the earth, whilst the angels praise and glorify God. God merely replies, "I know what you don't." God then creates a man, named Adam, from clay(or 'earth') and water moulded into shape and He breathes life into His spirit.
Now that Adam is alive, God teaches him the names of all things. God then asks the angels and shows them some of these things, which they cannot name. The angels realise now God's plan, and they profess His glory. God says that He knows the secrets of the heavens and the earth. God declared to the Angels and Jinns (it is important to note that Jinns are creatures created from smokeless fire, and are capable of exercising freewill, unlike the angels who are made of light, and live to do God's bidding only) to bow (prostrate) before Adam. The Jinns who were also in the garden bowed before Adam as well - except one, the Chief of the Jinns, whose name was Iblīs. An argument then ensues as God demands that Iblis explain why he refuses to bow down. While God knows the answer to the question, he does ask Iblīs to explain himself and state his case in all fairness. Iblīs responds by saying that he is better than this man as he is made out of fire and not mere clay. As such, he believes himself of higher caliber and worth than this man. God is angered by Iblīs' questioning of His decision and his refusal to accept a direct order from Him. He tells Iblīs He intends to throw him out. So Iblīs begs for respite till the Day of Judgment to prove to God that this flawed creation, humanity, is not worthy as he is easily lured away from God and towards evil. God says that no righteous men will be lured by Iblīs and his deception. To prove it, God agrees to grant Iblīs respite but tells him that he and any humans who willingly follow him shall be cast to spend eternity in the fire of Hell.

After this, God puts Adam and his wife (Hawa) in a garden, where there is no toil or pain and where there is more than enough food to eat. God tells them to eat of whatever they desire in the garden, except for one certain fruiting tree. He also warns them of the lure of Iblis, and that they should not follow him as he is their enemy. Iblis nevertheless manages to whisper suggestions to the pair. He tells them God only forbade the tree because if they eat of it then they shall become like angels and live forever. Encouraged by Iblis' lure, Adam and his wife both eat of the tree. As soon they do so, they become self aware, find themselves naked and make an effort to find coverings of leaves for themselves. God then reminds Adam that He told them not to eat of the tree, and that He warned them of Iblis' lure. While the blame for the disobedience is put on Adam, he begs God's forgiveness. God then teaches Adam words of repentance and tells him that he is to recite these words in the future should he succumb to Iblis' temptations and commit another transgression.

God then sends Adam and his wife down to the earth, where they and their kind shall live for a while before the Day of Judgment. He tells them that from time to time He will be sending messengers who will deliver God's truth and message to their descendants and that those who chose to follow the messengers shall be saved and spared while those who refuse will suffer the punishments of Hell.

Biblical version of the creation of Adam“
After God makes the heavens and the earth he creates Adam. When this is done, God breathes into the man's nostrils the breath of life, which makes him come alive. He then puts the man into the beautiful garden at Eden. There are two trees; the Tree of Life and the Tree of Knowledge. God tells Adam that he is to look after the garden and that he can eat from any tree he wants except the Tree of Knowledge or else he will die. Later, God declares that Adam needs a companion and helper. God sends Adam into a deep sleep and takes out one of Adam's ribs. He makes a woman out of this rib and she is presented to Adam.
In the garden there is a serpent. The serpent craftily asks the woman if God really forbade eating the fruit from "every" tree of the garden. Although God's prohibition had been given to Adam before Eve was created, she correctly replies that they may eat the fruit of all the trees except the one in the middle of the garden (but wrongly adds "or touch it"): if they do eat it then they will die. The serpent replies that she will not die if she eats the fruit, but that her "eyes will be opened" and she will be like God, knowing good and evil. The woman then sees that the fruit looks good, and that it will give her wisdom. She eats some of it and gives some to Adam. They both realize that they are naked and they sew fig-leaves to cover themselves.

Meanwhile, Adam and his wife hear the sound of God walking in the garden and they hide. God then calls out, "Where are you?" Adam then comes out and says that he was afraid due to his nakedness so he hid when he heard Him coming. God asks Adam, "Who told you you were naked?" He then asks Adam if he has eaten the fruit of the forbidden tree. Adam replies by saying, "The woman that you gave to me offered me some, so I ate." God asks the woman what she had done. She says that the serpent deceived her so she ate some of the fruit. God then turns to the serpent and tells it that because of its evil deed it shall be lowered beneath all the other creatures. He tells the serpent that it is consigned to crawl on its belly and 'eat dust' for all the rest of its life. He will also put enmity between the seed of the serpent and the seed of the woman. "He" (a descendent of the woman) would bruise the serpent's head and the serpent would bruise his heel. God then turns to the woman and tells her that because of her deeds her pains during childbirth shall be greatly increased, and that her husband shall rule over her. God then turns to Adam and tells him that because of his deeds he shall suffer through painful toil all his life in order to have food.

After this, Adam names his wife Eve and God makes garments of skin for them and clothes them. God drives Adam and Eve from the garden to prevent them from eating from the Tree of Life and living forever. He puts some cherubim to guard the entrance to the garden with a 'flaming sword'.
”

Cain and Abel Sons of Adam
The story of Cain and Abel appears in Genesis 4:1-16 in the Bible and in verses 27-31 of Sura 5: al-Ma'idah (The Table Spread) in the Qur'an.

Biblical version“ Cain and Abel are the sons of Adam and Eve. Abel keeps the flocks whilst Cain works the soil. Cain gathers together some of the fruits of the soil and makes an offering to God. Abel gets some of the fat portions of his flock and also makes an offering to God. God accepts Abel's offering but not Cain's. Cain becomes angry at this. God asks him why he is angry, and then chides Cain, saying that if he does good God will accept him. Later on, Cain takes Abel to a field and kills him. God rhetorically asks Cain where Abel has gone, and Cain replies "Am I my brother's keeper?" God curses Cain in punishment, saying that he will never be able to grow crops again, and exiles him to the land of Nod, east of Eden. Cain cries out to God, saying that the punishment is too great and that someone will probably kill him. God reassures Cain that if anyone kills him then he shall be punished, and he marks Cain as a warning to any possible killers. Cain then has a son, Enoch, with his wife. ”


Qur'ānic version Sons of Adam“ Cain and Abel are not actually named in the Qur'an and are referred to only as 'the two sons of Adam' (they are traditionally called Qabil and Habil). Both men offer a sacrifice to God. While not mentioned directly in the Qur'an, it is presumed by some scholars of Islam that while Habil chose the best of his flock and willingly gave the sacrifice to God, Qabil only grudgingly went along with the sacrifice idea and only put forth the least of his crops. Subsequently, God accepts one sacrifice (presumably Habil's) but not the other (presumably Qabil's). Qabil is angered and tells Habil that he will kill him. Habil rebuffs him, saying that as God only accepts the sacrifices of the righteous then there must be something wrong with Qabil. Habil continues by saying that if he is attacked by Qabil then he shall not retaliate, as he fears God. Habil's stated reason for refraining from violence is that he desires that Qabil with both their sins; according to some views of liberal Islam, this implies that his pacifist death results in forgiveness of his sins. Qabil then kills Habil and becomes one of the "lost ones". God then sends down a couple of ravens to fight each other in sight of Qabil. When one kills the other the victor digs at the ground with its claws to bury its fallen enemy. This teaches Qabil, who had no experience with death up until that time, that like the raven, he should bury his brother's body. In verse 31 of Sura 5, Qabil is sorry for his ignorance (not repentant) and condemns himself for not knowing even that which a raven knew. There are speculations by some that Habil was a prophet and Qabil became a prophet by teaching humanity how to bury the dead in the way of God. Later narrations of Prophet Muhammad say that on the day of judgement, for every person of 'the son of Adam' (i.e. human kind) murdered, an equal amount of punishment for that crime will be heaped by God on both the murderer (for committing the murder) and on Qabil (for setting the precedent of murder). ”


[edit] Noah and the flood
The story of Noah and the flood appears in Genesis 6-9:17 in the Bible. It appears several times in the Qur'an, and it is often referred to in passing. The main narrative appears in verses 59-64 of Sura 7, verses 71-73 of Sura 10, verses 25-48 of Sura 11, verses 23-29 of Sura 23, verses 105-120 of Sura 26, verses 9-16 of Sura 54 and the whole of Sura 71.


[edit] Biblical version of Noah
“ Noah is the son of Lamech, and he lives during a time where people are widespread throughout the earth. However, most people are evil and corrupt in the sight of God. God is saddened at this, and he decides to wipe mankind and all the animals off the face of earth in a giant flood. However, God favours Noah as he is a righteous man. God tells him about his plan to flood the world. He instructs Noah to build an ark, giving him exact measurements for it. God tells him that only he, his wife, his three sons (Shem, Ham and Japheth) and his sons' wives are allowed on the ark.
God then instructs Noah to take with him seven males and females of every clean animal on the earth, and two, a male and female, of every unclean animal, seven males and females of every (clean) bird. Noah does this and God ushers him and his family into the ark. God tells Noah that in seven days it shall rain for 40 days and 40 nights, and that everything on earth will perish. The flood starts, and it covers even the mountains. Water came from two sources, from underground (fountains of the great deep) and from rain (floodgates of the sky).

After 150 days, God sends down winds to make the water recede, with the ark resting on Mount Ararat. At day 264 Noah sends out a raven to observe the outside world, but it just flies around. Noah then sends out a dove to observe the outside world. It comes back later with nothing. Seven days later Noah sends out the dove a second time. It comes back that day towards evening, with an olive leaf in its beak and Noah realises that the flood has abated from the earth. Noah waited yet another 7 days and sends the dove out a third time, but this time the dove does not come back. 36 days later Noah sees dry ground but Noah continues to wait in the ark for God's command. 56 days after seeing dry ground and 370 days after God shut the door of the Ark, Noah finally hears God's long awaited command to come out.

Noah, his family and all the animals come out of the ark and onto dry land. Noah then sacrifices some of the clean animals and birds as burnt offering to God. God vows never to destroy mankind by water again. He tells Noah to 'be fruitful and multiply'. God then makes a rainbow as a lasting symbol of his covenant with man. Noah lives 950 years and then he dies.
”
Qur'anic version of Noah
“ God tells Nuh that he has been selected as a prophet to deliver to his people a message. The message states that his people have become wicked for worshiping false idols, that all people should believe in the oneness of God before it is too late. Nuh is told to promulgate this message to his people, which he does. He tells his people that they should abandon all their false gods and worship the one true god; God, as he will look after them all. Nuh is ignored and rebuffed by his people. They say Nuh is an ordinary man - if God wanted to deliver a message, why send a man and not an angel? Some call Nuh mad or possessed. Some people tell him that if what he says is true then he should bring about this punishment of God now to back up his claims. Nuh is even threatened with stoning if he does not desist his teaching.
Nuh, however, is undaunted. He says he has asked for no reward, as God is his only reward. He even offers to be killed so that they may know who is righteous and who is not. Nuh keeps this up for '1000 years minus 50' according to the Qur'an. Eventually he appeals to God for help as he feels he is getting nowhere with the people. God tells Nuh that no more people will now believe than have already believed and chose to follow him. Nuh appeals to God to get rid of all unbelievers, as he fears that the believers may be corrupted or harmed by them. God instructs Nuh to build an ark for a flood that he shall shortly be sending on the earth. This flood is not mentioned in the Qu'ran as being a global one.

Nuh builds an ark but is ridiculed by his people. He is instructed to put a male and a female of each animal that is required to start a new life on to the ark. The believers (who are few) and his family are also allowed onto the ark (except for his wife, who is unrighteous and had rejected his message). Nuh's son (he is not named in the Qur'an) does not get into the ark either. He says that he will retreat from the flood on a mountain. The flood then comes, and all are killed, including Nuh's son. The flood eventually ends, with the ark resting on Mount Judi. Nuh appeals to God about his son. He is rebuffed, as God says that the son was unrighteous and unworthy of being saved from the flood. Everyone then exits the ark. None of the people who were on the ark were able to have children, except for the 3 surviving sons. The Qur'an later references current people living as being 'descendants of those who we carried with Nuh'.
”
Abraham promised a son
The story appears in Genesis 17:15 – 18:15 in the Bible. In the Qur'an, it appears in verses 69-76 of Sura 11, verses 51-61 of Sura 15 and in verses 24-30 of Sura 51.


[edit] Biblical version about Abraham“ Abraham (aged 99), son of Terah, lives with his wife Sarah (aged 89, who is barren) and his son Ishmael (who was born of Hagar, Sarah's maid) in Canaan.
One day, God tells Abraham that his wife Sarah will bear a son, who'll be blessed by God. Abraham falls face down on the ground and laughs. He says to himself that he can't have a son when he's 100 and his wife is 90, and asks that Ishmael be blessed instead. God tells Abraham that nevertheless he will have a son this time next year, who shall be called Isaac, and that God's covenant will be with Isaac and his descendants, though Ishmael will also be blessed, and will father a great nation. Abraham then circumcises Ishmael and all the men of his household.

Later on, Abraham is sitting at the entrance of his tent (near the great tree of Mamre) when he sees three men nearby (who are actually angels). He runs to them and bows down, as he believes that they are holy. Abraham prays to God not to let them pass by. He then speaks to the three men, and tells them that they can stay at his tent where they can eat, wash their feet and rest, to which they agree. Abraham then goes back to his tent and asks Sarah to make some bread. He also tells a servant to fetch a calf for food and some milk. The men eat and drink whilst Abraham stands under a tree. The men ask him where Sarah is, and he tells them that she is in the tent.

God then tells Abraham again that he will return this time next year and Abraham will have a son. Sarah, who has been listening at the tent entrance, laughs to herself. She thinks that she and Abraham are too old to have a son. God then asks Abraham why she thinks that, as nothing is too hard for God. Sarah, afraid, says that she didn't laugh, but God tells her that she did. The men leave, heading towards Sodom, and God continues his conversation with Abraham, telling him of the imminent destruction of Sodom. Abraham bargains with God for the lives of the inhabitants of Sodom. A son is later born to Abraham and Sarah, who is named Isaac.
”
Qur'anic version about Abraham/Ibrahim“ One day some angels appear in human form to Ibrahim, and they exchange greetings of "Peace," while Ibrahim thinks to himself that they look unusual. Ibrahim offers them a large roasted calf, but they don't eat it. Because of this, Ibrahim becomes slightly fearful and mistrustful of the visitors. The angels tell him not to fear, as they have arrived here en route to help out Lut (Lot). They tell him that they bring glad tidings of a son (Isaac), who will be wise. Ibrahim replies by saying that he is old, but they tell him not to despair. Ibrahim tells them that only those who stray away from God would really despair.
Ibrahim's wife, who has been listening, laughs and smacks her head in incredulity. She asks how they can bear a child when they are both very old. The angels chide her, asking her if she wonders at God's decree. They tell her that God has blessed her and her household.
”
Lot and Sodom and Gomorrah
The story appears in Genesis 18;16. through Genesis 19; 29. in the Bible. It appears frequently in the Qur'an: in verses 80-84 of Sura 7: al-A'raf (The Heights), verses 74-83 of Sura 11: Hud (The Prophet Hud), verses 57-76 of Sura 15: al-Hijr, verses 160-173 of Sura 26: ash-Shu'ara (The Poets), verses 54-58 of Sura 27: an-Naml (The Ants), verses 28-35 of Sura 29: al-Ankabut (The Spider), verses 133-138 of Sura 37: as-Saffat (Those Ranged In Ranks), verses 31-37 of Sura 51: adh-Dhariyat (The Winds That Scatter) and verses 36-39 of Sura 54: al-Qamar (The Moon).

Biblical version“ After being promised a son, Abraham walks along a while with the three angels as they're leaving. They look out towards Sodom, a 'wicked' city full of 'sinners'. God then asks the angels if he should hide from Abraham what he is going to do to the city (i.e. destroy it). Abraham would be worried at this as his righteous nephew Lot, son of Haran, lives near the city.
God asks the angels to go see if the stories about Sodom and Gomorrah that he has been hearing about are true. The three angels leave, headed for Sodom, leaving God alone with Abraham. Abraham asks God if He will still destroy the city even if there are 50 righteous men there. The righteous cannot be punished along with the sinners, he says. God assures Abraham that if there are 50 righteous men then he will not destroy the city. Abraham then asks if the city will still be destroyed if there are 40 righteous men there. This goes on, down to 10, and each time God replies by saying that he will not destroy the city if there are righteous men there. God then leaves and Abraham goes back home.

Two angels (it is not stated where the third one went) arrive at the gates of Sodom and they see Lot sitting there. Lot immediately gets up and bows to them. He invites the angels to stay at his house where they can eat and wash themselves. They reply by saying that they shall instead stay in the town square, but Lot insists and they eventually agree to stay at his house. When the angels are in Lot's home all the men of the city (both young and old) come and surround the house. They call out to Lot and ask him where those two men they saw earlier with him are, as they want to "know" them. (It is often accepted that they wanted to have sex with them, but the Bible never clearly states this) Lot comes outside and pleads with them not to do this to his guests. He offers his daughters instead (who are pledged to be married and hence are still virgins), and the men can do what they want with them.

The crowd is adamant however, chiding Lot as he is an outsider and has no right to judge them. They then push towards Lot and try to break into his house. The two angels pull Lot inside and strike all the men with blindness. The angels tell Lot to get out of the city with his family, as it is about to be destroyed. Lot goes outside and tells his sons-in-law to leave Sodom, but they think that he's joking.

The angels hurry Lot on, but he hesitates, so they pull him and his family away. They order him to flee to the mountains, and warn him and his family not to look back at the city. Lot doesn't want to go to the mountains – he wants instead to go to Zoar (a nearby town). The angels agree to this, and Lot and his family travel there. Then God rains down burning sulphur on Sodom and Gomorrah and all the people there die. However, Lot's wife looks back and she turns into a pillar of salt. Nearby, Abraham looks at the city and sees nothing but ruins.
”

Qur'anic version“ After being promised a son, Ibrahim pleads with some angels to go and help Lut and his family against the people who are sinning in Prophet Lut's city. The angels tell Ibrahim that is the reason why they are here, and that the people there will be punished. They say that Lut and his family will be saved, except his wife who is of those who 'lag behind'. The angels go to the cities and to Lut, who is preaching against the people. He says that they commit lewdness such as no other people before, as they 'practice their lusts on men in preference to women'. Not only that, but they do it in the open. Lut says that they are 'transgressing beyond all bounds'.
The people claim sarcastically that they want to be pure and clean, and that Lut should throw the sinners out. Some threaten to cast Lut out. Then, the men rush towards Lut to try and grab the angels. Lut protects his visitors from the residents of his city.

The angels tell Lut to travel away with his family (except his wife) while it is still night. They tell him not to look back at the cities, and that time is running out as morning is nigh. All the men are then blinded to stop their advance.

When Lut has gone, there is a 'mighty blast' and God sends down brimstone, one for each blasphemer with their names on it, hard as baked clay that kills the one person whose name it carries. All the people are killed, including Lut's wife. Then, one of the angels, with his wing, raises the entire city and flips it upside down. The cities are completely destroyed and the surrounding area made barren.
”


Abraham/Ibrahim and the sacrifice
The story appears in Genesis 22: 1-20 in the Bible and in verses 102-109 of Sura 37: as-Saffat (Those Ranged In Ranks) in the Qur'an.

Biblical version
“ God calls out to Abraham and tells him to take his only son Isaac (Hagar and Ishmael had left, so Isaac was his heir and only son), to a hill at Moriah and offer him as a burnt offering. The next morning Abraham gets together two servants and his son Isaac. He then collects some firewood for the burnt offering, and saddles up his donkey. The group then set off for Moriah.
On the third day, Abraham sees the hill where he is to sacrifice Isaac. He tells the two servants to stay put while he and Isaac go there to worship. Abraham carries the fire and knife, Isaac the firewood. While walking up the hill, Isaac asks his father where the lamb for the sacrifice is. Abraham replies by saying that God will provide for Himself the lamb for the burnt offering. They then reach the top of the hill. Abraham builds a small altar there and he lays out the wood on top. He then binds Isaac to the altar on top of the wood and draw his knife, ready for the sacrifice.

At that moment, an "angel of the Lord" (euphemism for God) calls out to Abraham. The angel tells Abraham that he knows now that Abraham truly loves God, as he was prepared to give up his only son. Abraham then sees nearby a ram in a thicket, caught by its horns. He realizes that it is to be sacrificed as the burnt offering instead of Issac. The angel tells Abraham that because of what he did today, he will be greatly blessed and will indeed multiply his descendants and that his seed will possess the gate of his enemies (a reference to the Messiah). Abraham, Isaac and the two servants then go back to Beersheba.
”

Qur'anic version“Abraham lives with his son (according to tradition, Ismail). When the son grows older Ibrahim tells him that he has seen in a vision that he is to offer him in a sacrifice to God. The son, believing that it is God's command, tells his father that he should go along with this, hence thinking they have now both submitted to the will of God. Ibrahim lays his son prostrate on his forehead, ready for the sacrifice. God then calls out to Ibrahim and tells him that he has already fulfilled the real meaning of the vision (submission to the will of God) and that this was just a trial. Then God sends a huge ram for Ibrahim to sacrifice instead of his son.
The Muslims practice this act on a special occaison known as EID-UL ADHA, as part of paying homeage to Ibrahim as ordered by ALLAH.
”


Events in Moses' lifetime

[edit] Moses and the Egyptians
The story appears in Exodus 1-15:22 in the Bible. It appears many times in the Qur'an, and reference is often made to it: in verses 49-51 of Sura 2: al-Baqarah (The Heifer), verses 103-138 of Sura 7: al-A'raf (The Heights), verses 75-92 of Sura 10: Yunus (Jonah), verses 101-103 of Sura 17: al-Isra' (The Night Journey) /Bani Isra'il (The Children of Israel), verses 9-79 of Sura 20: Ta Ha, verses 45-49 of Sura 23: al-Mu'minun (The Believers), verses 10-66 of Sura 26:ash-Shu'ara (The Poets), verses 7-14 of Sura 27: an-Naml (The Ants), verses 3-42 of Sura 28: al-Qasas (The Narrations), verses 23-46 of Sura 40: Ghafir (Forgiver)/al-Mu'min (The Believer), verses 46-56 of Sura 43: az-Zukhruf (The Gold Adornments), verses 17-33 of Sura 44: ad-Dukhan (The Smoke) and verses 15-25 of Sura 79: an-Nazi'at (Those Who Tear Out).

Biblical version about Moses“ midwives feared God and let the boys live. The king asked why have you done this and they replied, "Hebrew women are not like Egyptian women; they are vigorous and give birth before the midwives arrive." God was kind to them and gave them families.
A Levite married a Levite woman and she gave birth to a son. She hid him for three months till she no longer could. She got a papyrus basket and coated it with tar and pitch. She put the child in it and put it among the reeds along the bank of the Nile. His sister stood at a distance to see what would happen to him.

The Pharaoh's daughter went down to the Nile and saw the basket among the reeds. She opened it and saw the baby was crying and felt sorry for him. Then his sister asked Pharaoh's daughter if she should get a Hebrew woman to nurse the baby. She said yes and took it back. When the child grew older she took it to the Pharaoh's daughter and she named him Moses saying, "I drew him out of the water."

Moses grew and one day watched an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his own people. He killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand. The next day he saw two Hebrews fighting and asked the one in the wrong, "Why are you hitting your fellow Hebrew?" The man asked Moses who had made him ruler and judge and if he was going to kill him, too.

Moses became afraid that people knew so he fled from the Pharaoh to Midian. He rested by a well where the seven daughters of Reuel watered their flocks. Some shepherds came and drove them away, but Moses got up and came to their rescue and watered their flock. They went back to their father and told him what happened. He sent for Moses and welcomed him and gave him his daughter Zipporah as his wife.

Moses was tending the flock and led it to the desert of Horeb, the mountain of god. He saw a bush was on fire yet did not burn so he went to see this strange sight. As he drew near he heard God saying, "Take off your sandals for the place you are standing is holy. You must rescue my people from Egypt."

Moses said, "Who am I, that I should go to the Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt? Suppose I go to the Israelites and they ask me what is his name?"

God said, "I am Yahweh. Go gather the elders of Israel and go to the king and say to him let my people go."

Moses asked, "What if they don’t believe me?"

God said, "Throw your staff on the ground." Moses did this and it became a snake. Then God said, "Put your hand inside your cloak." So Moses put his hand in his cloak, and when he took it out, it was leprous, like snow. Then he put his hand back in and when it came out his flesh was restored. The Lord said, "These will be your signs to show them if they do not believe."

Moses asked God to choose someone else because he was slow of speech. God replied that his brother Aaron was on his way to meet him. He would help Moses.

After this Moses went back to Jethro and told him what happened. Jethro wished him well and Moses and his family were on their way to Egypt. Moses and Aaron went to the Pharaoh and did as the Lord told them. Pharaoh did not listen and ordered the slave drivers not to supply the people with straw for the bricks but they must still meet the quota of bricks. Moses returned to the Lord and asked, "Why have you brought trouble to your people?"

God said, "Go back and when the Pharaoh ask you to perform a miracle throw your staff and it will become a snake." The Pharaoh summoned the wise men and sorcerers, and the Egyptian magicians also did the same things. But Aaron's staff swallowed up their staffs. Yet the Pharaoh's heart became hard and he would not listen to them just as the Lord said.

Ten Plagues came to Egypt. The first was the Plague of Blood. The Nile and all the water in the land became blood. The Egyptian magicians did the same things by their secret arts. The second plague was of the frogs. But the magicians did the same again. The Pharaoh asked Moses to pray to the Lord to rid his land of the frogs and he would let them go. But when the frogs died the Pharaoh hardened his heart and did not let them go. The third plague was of gnats. The magicians tried to produce gnats but could not. The fourth plague was of Flies. The flies swarmed the Egyptians but not the land of Goshen, where his people lived. The fifth plague was on livestock. All of Egypt’s livestock died but Israel was untouched. The sixth plague was of boils. Moses took a handful of soot and tossed it in the air, and festering boils broke out on men and animals. The seventh plague was of hail. Moses said, "Take your livestock and everything you have in the field to a place of shelter because the worst hailstorm Egypt has ever seen will come tomorrow." And so it hailed everywhere except for Goshen. The eighth plague was of locusts. An east wind blew and the land filled with locusts. They ate what was left from the hailstorm and nothing green remained in all the land of Egypt. The ninth plague was of darkness. For three days Egypt was covered with darkness, yet the Israelites had light where they lived.

The tenth plague was of the first born. This is where Passover originates. Moses was instructed to brush blood on the doors of his people and the destroyer would pass over them, sparing their firstborns but killing Egypt’s firstborns from the Pharaoh's to the slaves' and cattle's as well. At midnight, the Lord struck, and during that night, the Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, "Up! Leave my people, you and the Israelites! Go, worship the Lord as you requested."

Moses took the bones of Joseph with him and departed Egypt with a pillar of cloud to guide them. The Pharaoh's heart hardened and went after the Israelites. The Israelites saw this and cried to the Lord. The Lord said to Moses, "Raise your staff so and stretch your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground." The Egyptians pursued them into the sea. Moses stretched his hand and the waters engulfed the Pharaoh and his chariots.
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Qur'anic version about Moses
“ Pharaoh turned into an evil tyrant on earth, and discriminated against some people. He persecuted a helpless group of them, slaughtering their sons, while sparing their daughters. God wanted to help those in need and destroy those (Pharoah, Hamman) causing evil. The mother of Moses had confidence in God and sent her son away in the river. Pharaoh's wife (not daughter) said, "This can be a joyous find for me and you. Do not kill him, for he may be of some benefit for us, or we may adopt him to be our son." They did not know Moses's identity as a Hebrew. The sister of Moses approached the authorities and said "I can show you a family that can raise him for you, and take good care of him." By doing this, Moses was reunited with his mother. Moses was brought up very righteous and wise.
Moses Commits Manslaughter

Once he entered the city unexpectedly, without being recognized by the people. He found two men fighting; one was (a Hebrew) from his people, and the other was (an Egyptian) from his enemies. The one from his people called on him for help against his enemy. Moses punched him, killing him. He said, "This is the work of the devil; he is a real enemy, and a profound misleader."

He said, "My Lord, I have wronged my soul. Please forgive me," and He forgave him. He is the Forgiver, Most Merciful.

He said, "My Lord, in return for Your blessings upon me, I will never be a supporter of the guilty ones."

In the morning, he was in the city, afraid and watchful. The one who sought his help yesterday, asked for his help again. Moses said to him, "You are really a trouble maker." Moses' Crime Exposed

Before he attempted to strike their common enemy, he said, "O Moses, do you want to kill me, as you killed the other man yesterday? Obviously, you wish to be a tyrant on earth; you do not wish to be righteous."

A man came running from the other side of the city, saying, "O Moses, the people are plotting to kill you. You better leave immediately. I am giving you good advice."

He fled the city, afraid and watchful. He said, "My Lord, save me from the oppressive people." In Midyan

As he traveled towards Midyan, he said, "May my Lord guide me in the right path."

When he reached Midyan's water, he found a crowd of people watering, and noticed two women waiting on the side. He said, "What is it that you need?" They said, "We are not able to water, until the crowd disperses, and our father is an old man."

He watered for them, then turned to the shade, saying, "My Lord, whatever provision you send to me, I am in dire need for it."

Soon, one of the two women approached him, shyly, and said, "My father invites you to pay you for watering for us." When he met him, and told him his story, he said, "Have no fear. You have been saved from the oppressive people."

Moses Marries

One of the two women said, "O my father, hire him. He is the best one to hire, for he is strong and honest."

He said, "I wish to offer one of my two daughters for you to marry, in return for working for me for eight pilgrimages; if you make them ten, it will be voluntary on your part. I do not wish to make this matter too difficult for you. You will find me, GOD willing, righteous."

He said, "It is an agreement between me and you. Whichever period I fulfill, you will not be averse to either one. GOD is the guarantor of what we said." Back to Egypt

When he had fulfilled his obligation, he traveled with his family (towards Egypt). He saw from the slope of Mount Sinai a fire. He said to his family, "Stay here. I have seen a fire. Maybe I can bring to you news, or a portion of the fire to warm you."

Moses Appointed

When he reached it, he was called from the edge of the right side of the valley, in the blessed spot where the burning bush was located: "O Moses, this is Me. GOD; Lord of the universe.

"I am your Lord; remove your sandals. You are in the sacred valley, Tuwaa.

"I have chosen you, so listen to what is being revealed.

"I am GOD; there is no other god beside Me. You shall worship Me alone, and observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) to remember Me.

End of the World is Not Hidden*

"The Hour (end of the world) is surely coming; I will keep it almost hidden, for each soul must be paid for its works.

"Do not be diverted therefrom by those who do not believe in it - those who pursue their own opinions - lest you fall.

"What is this in your right hand, Moses?"

He said, "This is my staff. I lean on it, herd my sheep with it, and I use it for other purposes."

He said, "Throw it down, Moses."

He threw it down, whereupon it turned into a moving serpent.

He said, "Pick it up; do not be afraid. We will return it to its original state.

"And hold your hand under your wing; it will come out white without a blemish; another proof.

"We thus show you some of our great portents.

"Go to Pharaoh, for he has transgressed."

He said, "My Lord, cool my temper.

"And make this matter easy for me.

"And untie a knot from my tongue.

"So they can understand my speech.

"And appoint an assistant for me from my family.

"My brother Aaron.

"Strengthen me with him.

"Let him be my partner in this matter.

"That we may glorify You frequently.

"And commemorate You frequently.

"You are Seer of us."

He said, "Your request is granted, O Moses.

"We have blessed you another time.

"When we revealed to your mother what we revealed.

"Saying: `Throw him into the box, then throw him into the river. The river will throw him onto the shore, to be picked up by an enemy of Mine and an enemy of his.' I showered you with love from Me, and I had you made before My watchful eye.

"Your sister walked to them and said, `I can tell you about a nursing mother who can take good care of him.' We thus returned you to your mother, that she may be happy and stop worrying. And when you killed a person, we saved you from the grievous consequences; indeed we tested you thoroughly. You stayed years with the people of Midyan, and now you have come back in accordance with a precise plan.

"I have made you just for Me.

"Go with your brother, supported by My signs, and do not waver in remembering Me.

"Go to Pharaoh, for he transgressed.

"Speak to him nicely; he may take heed, or become reverent."

They said, "Our Lord, we fear lest he may attack us, or transgress."

He said, "Do not be afraid, for I will be with you, listening and watching.

"Go to him and say, `We are two messengers from your Lord. Let the Children of Israel go. You must refrain from persecuting them. We bring a sign from your Lord, and peace is the lot of those who heed the guidance.

"`We have been inspired that the retribution will inevitably afflict those who disbelieve and turn away.' "

Moses said, "O Pharaoh, I am a messenger from the Lord of the universe.

"It is incumbent upon me that I do not say about GOD except the truth. I come to you with a sign from your Lord; let the Children of Israel go."

He said, "Did we not raise you from infancy, and you spent many years with us?

"Then you committed the crime that you committed, and you were ungrateful."

He said, "Indeed, I did it when I was astray.

"Then I fled, when I feared you, and my Lord endowed me with wisdom and made me one of the messengers.

"You are boasting that you did me a favor, while enslaving the Children of Israel!"

Pharaoh said, "What is the Lord of the universe?"

He said, "The Lord of the heavens and the earth, and everything between them. You should be certain about this."

He said to those around him, "Did you hear this?"

He said, "Your Lord and the Lord of your ancestors."

He said, "Your messenger who is sent to you is crazy."

He said, "The Lord of the east and the west, and everything between them, if you understand."

He said, "If you accept any god, other than me, I will throw you in the prison."

He said, "What if I show you something profound?"

He said, "Then produce it, if you are truthful."

He then threw his staff, whereupon it became a profound snake.

And he took out his hand, and it was white to the beholders.

When the truth came to them from us, they said, "This is obviously magic!"

Moses said, "Is this how you describe the truth when it comes to you? Is this magic? How can any magicians prevail?"

They said, "Did you come to divert us from what we found our parents doing, and to attain positions of prominence for yourselves? We will never join you as believers."

He said to the elders around him, "This is an experienced magician.

"He wants to take you out of your land, with his magic. What do you suggest?"

They said, "Respite him and his brother, and send summoners to every town.

"Let them summon every experienced magician."

He said, "Did you come here to take us out of our land with your magic, O Moses?

"We will surely show you similar magic. Therefore, set an appointment that neither we, nor you will violate; in a neutral place."

He said, "Your appointed time shall be the day of festivities. Let us all meet in the forenoon."

Pharaoh summoned his forces, then came.

Moses said to them, "Woe to you. Do you fabricate lies to fight GOD and thus incur His retribution? Such fabricators will surely fail."

They disputed among themselves, as they conferred privately.

They said, "These two are no more than magicians who wish to take you out of your land with their magic, and to destroy your ideal way of life.

"Let us agree upon one scheme and face them as a united front. The winner today will have the upper hand."

They said, "O Moses, either you throw, or we will be the first to throw."

He said, "You throw." Whereupon, their ropes and sticks appeared to him, because of their magic, as if they were moving.

Moses harbored some fear.

We said, "Have no fear. You will prevail.

"Throw what you hold in your right hand, and it will swallow what they fabricated. What they fabricated is no more than the scheming of a magician. The magician's work will not succeed." [10:81] When they threw, Moses said, "What you have produced is magic, and GOD will make it fail. GOD does not support the transgressors' work."

Moses threw his staff, whereupon it swallowed what they fabricated. The Experts See the Truth

The magicians fell prostrate.

They said, "We believe in the Lord of the universe.

"The Lord of Moses and Aaron."

He said, "Did you believe with him before I give you permission? He must be your teacher, who taught you magic. You will surely find out. I will sever your hands and feet on alternate sides. I will crucify you all."

They said, "This will not change our decision; to our Lord we will return.

"We hope that our Lord wil forgive us our sins, especially that we are the first believers."

They said, "We will not prefer you over the clear proofs that came to us, and over the One who created us. Therefore, issue whatever judgment you wish to issue. You can only rule in this lowly life.

"We have believed in our Lord, that He may forgive us our sins, and the magic that you forced us to perform. GOD is far better and Everlasting."

"You persecute us simply because we believed in the proofs of our Lord when they came to us." "Our Lord, grant us steadfastness, and let us die as submitters."

Thus, he and his troops continued to commit arrogance on earth, without any right, and thought that they would not be returned to us.

When our miracles were presented to them, clear and profound, they said, "This is obviously magic."

They rejected them and were utterly convinced of their wrong ways, due to their arrogance. Note the consequences for the evildoers.

None believed with Moses except a few of his people, while fearing the tyranny of Pharaoh and his elders. Surely, Pharaoh was much too arrogant on earth, and a real tyrant.

Moses said, "O my people, if you have really believed in GOD, then put your trust in Him, if you are really submitters."

They said, "We trust in GOD. Our Lord, save us from the persecution of these oppressive people.

"Deliver us, with Your mercy, from the disbelieving people."

We inspired Moses and his brother. "Maintain your homes in Egypt for the time being, turn your homes into synagogues, and maintain the Contact Prayers (Salat). Give good news to the believers."

Moses said, "Our Lord, you have given Pharaoh and his elders luxuries and wealth in this world. Our Lord, they only use them to repulse others from Your path. Our Lord, wipe out their wealth, and harden their hearts to prevent them from believing, until they see the painful retribution."

He said, "Your prayer has been answered (O Moses and Aaron), so be steadfast, and do not follow the ways of those who do not know."

The leaders among Pharaoh's people said, "Will you allow Moses and his people to corrupt the earth, and forsake you and your gods?" He said, "We will kill their sons, and spare their daughters. We are much more powerful than they are."

Moses said to his people, "Seek GOD's help, and steadfastly persevere. The earth belongs to GOD, and He grants it to whomever He chooses from among His servants. The ultimate victory belongs to the righteous."

They said, "We were persecuted before you came to us, and after you came to us." He said, "Your Lord will annihilate your enemy and establish you on earth, then He will see how you behave." The Plagues

We then afflicted Pharaoh's people with drought, and shortage of crops, that they may take heed.

When good omens came their way, they said, "We have deserved this," but when a hardship afflicted them, they blamed Moses and those with him. In fact, their omens are decided only by GOD, but most of them do not know.

They said, "No matter what kind of sign you show us, to dupe us with your magic, we will not believe."

The Warnings Go Unheeded

Consequently, we sent upon them the flood, the locusts, the lice, the frogs, and the blood - profound signs. But they maintained their arrogance. They were evil people.

Whenever a plague afflicted them, they said, "O Moses, implore your Lord - you are close to Him. If you relieve this plague, we will believe with you, and will send the Children of Israel with you."

Yet, when we relieved the plague for any length of time, they violated their pledge.

Pharaoh said, "O you elders, I have not known of any god for you other than me. Therefore, fire the adobe, O Hamaan, in order to build a tower, that I may take a look at the god of Moses. I am sure that he is a liar."

Thus, he and his troops continued to commit arrogance on earth, without any right, and thought that they would not be returned to us.

Consequently, we punished him and his troops, by throwing them into the sea. Note the consequences for the transgressors.

We made them imams who led their people to Hell. Furthermore, on the Day of Resurrection, they will have no help.

They incurred in this life condemnation, and on the Day of Resurrection they will be despised.

Moses vs Pharaoh

Pharaoh said, "Let me kill Moses, and let him implore his Lord. I worry lest he corrupts your religion, or spreads evil throughout the land."

Moses said, "I seek refuge in my Lord and your Lord, from every arrogant one who does not believe in the Day of Reckoning."

We inspired Moses: "Travel with My servants; you will be pursued."

Pharaoh sent to the cities callers.

(Proclaiming,) "This is a small gang.

"They are now opposing us.

"Let us all beware of them."

We inspired Moses: "Lead My servants out, and strike for them a dry road across the sea. You shall not fear that you may get caught, nor shall you worry."

They pursued them towards the east.

When both parties saw each other, Moses' people said, "We will be caught."

He said, "No way. My Lord is with me; He will guide me."

We then inspired Moses: "Strike the sea with your staff," whereupon it parted. Each part was like a great hill.

We then delivered them all.

We thus saved Moses and all those who were with him.

And we drowned the others.

This should be a sufficient proof, but most people are not believers.

Most assuredly, your Lord is the Almighty, Most Merciful.

We delivered the Children of Israel across the sea. Pharaoh and his troops pursued them, aggressively and sinfully. When drowning became a reality for him, he said, "I believe that there is no god except the One in whom the Children of Israel have believed; I am a submitter."

"Too late! For you have rebelled already, and chose to be a transgressor. Pharaoh's Body Preserved*

"Today, we will preserve your body, to set you up as a lesson for future generations."

Unfortunately, many people are totally oblivious to our signs.

We let the oppressed people inherit the land, east and west, and we blessed it. The blessed commands of your Lord were thus fulfilled for the Children of Israel, to reward them for their steadfastness, and we annihilated the works of Pharaoh and his people and everything they harvested. After All the Miracles

We delivered the Children of Israel across the sea. When they passed by people who were worshipping statues, they said, "O Moses, make a god for us, like the gods they have." He said, "Indeed, you are ignorant people.

"These people are committing a blasphemy, for what they are doing is disastrous for them. [7:140] "Shall I seek for you other than GOD to be your god, when He has blessed you more than anyone else in the world?"

Our World Cannot Stand the Physical Presence of God

We summoned Moses for thirty* nights, and completed them by adding ten. Thus, the audience with his Lord lasted forty * nights. Moses said to his brother Aaron, "Stay here with my people, maintain righteousness, and do not follow the ways of the corrupters."

When Moses came at our appointed time, and his Lord spoke with him, he said, "My Lord, let me look and see You." He said, "You cannot see Me. Look at that mountain; if it stays in its place, then you can see Me." Then, his Lord manifested Himself to the mountain, and this caused it to crumble. Moses fell unconscious. When he came to, he said, "Be You glorified. I repent to You, and I am the most convinced believer."

He said, "O Moses, I have chosen you, out of all the people, with My messages and by speaking to you. Therefore, take what I have given you and be appreciative." The Children of Israel Rebel

"Why did you rush away from your people, O Moses?"

He said, "They are close behind me. I have rushed to You my Lord, that You may be pleased."

He said, "We have put your people to the test after you left, but the Samarian misled them."

Moses returned to his people, angry and disappointed, saying, "O my people, did your Lord not promise you a good promise? Could you not wait? Did you want to incur wrath from your Lord? Is this why you broke your agreement with me?"

They said, "We did not break our agreement with you on purpose. But we were loaded down with jewelry, and decided to throw our loads in. This is what the Samarian suggested."

He produced for them a sculpted calf, complete with a calf's sound*. They said, "This is your god, and the god of Moses." Thus, he forgot.

Could they not see that it neither responded to them, nor possessed any power to harm them, or benefit them?

And Aaron had told them, "O my people, this is a test for you. Your only Lord is the Most Gracious, so follow me, and obey my commands."

They said, "We will continue to worship it, until Moses comes back."

(Moses) said, "O Aaron, what is it that prevented you, when you saw them go astray,

"from following my orders? Have you rebelled against me?"

He said, "O son of my mother; do not pull me by my beard and my head. I was afraid that you might say, `You have divided the Children of Israel, and disobeyed my orders.' "

He said, "What is the matter with you, O Samarian?"

He said, "I saw what they could not see. I grabbed a fistful (of dust) from the place where the messenger stood, and used it (to mix into the golden calf). This is what my mind inspired me to do."

He said, "Then go, and, throughout your life, do not even come close. You have an appointed time (for your final judgment) that you can never evade. Look at your god that you used to worship; we will burn it and throw it into the sea, to stay down there forever."

We wrote for him on the tablets all kinds of enlightenments and details of everything: "You shall uphold these teachings strongly, and exhort your people to uphold them - these are the best teachings. I will point out for you the fate of the wicked."

The Golden Calf

During his absence, Moses' people made from their jewelry the statue of a calf, complete with the sound of a calf. Did they not see that it could not speak to them, or guide them in any path? They worshipped it, and thus turned wicked.

Finally, when they regretted their action, and realized that they had gone astray, they said, "Unless our Lord redeems us with His mercy, and forgives us, we will be losers."

When Moses returned to his people, angry and disappointed, he said, "What a terrible thing you have done in my absence! Could you not wait for the commandments of your Lord?" He threw down the tablets, and took hold of his brother's head, pulling him towards himself. (Aaron) said, "Son of my mother, the people took advantage of my weakness, and almost killed me. Let not my enemies rejoice, and do not count me with the transgressing people."

(Moses) said, "My Lord, forgive me and my brother, and admit us into Your mercy. Of all the merciful ones, You are the Most Merciful."

Surely, those who idolized the calf have incurred wrath from their Lord, and humiliation in this life. We thus requite the innovators.

As for those who committed sins, then repented thereafter and believed, your Lord - after this - is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

When Moses anger subsided, he picked up the tablets, containing guidance and mercy for those who reverence their Lord.

Moses then selected seventy men from among his people, to come to our appointed audience. When the quake shook them, he said, "My Lord, You could have annihilated them in the past, together with me, if You so willed. Would You annihilate us for the deeds of those among us who are foolish? This must be the test that You have instituted for us. With it, You condemn whomever You will, and guide whomever You will. You are our Lord and Master, so forgive us, shower us with Your mercy; You are the best Forgiver.

The Book of Moses

We gave Moses the scripture - after having annihilated the previous generations, and after setting the examples through them - to provide enlightenment for the people, and guidance, and mercy, that they may take heed.

Miracles in Sinai
We divided them into twelve tribal communities, and we inspired Moses when his people asked him for water: "Strike the rock with your staff," whereupon twelve springs gushed out therefrom. Thus, each community knew its water. And we shaded them with clouds, and sent down to them manna and quails: "Eat from the good things we provided for you." It is not us that they wronged; it is they who wronged their own souls.

Rebellion Despite the Miracles

Recall that they were told, "Go into this town to live, and eat therefrom as you please, treat the people amicably, and enter the gate humbly. We will then forgive your transgressions. We will multiply the reward for the righteous."

But the evil ones among them substituted other commands for the commands given to them. Consequently, we sent upon them condemnation from the sky, because of their wickedness

When they disregarded what they were reminded of, we saved those who prohibited evil, and afflicted the wrongdoers with a terrible retribution for their wickedness.

While in the Grave: A Continuous Nightmare

The Hell will be shown to them day and night, and on the Day of Resurrection: "Admit Pharaoh's people into the worst retribution."

As they argue in Hell, the followers will say to their leaders, "We used to be your followers, can you spare us any part of this Hell?"

The leaders will say, "We are all in this together. GOD has judged among the people."

Too Late

Those in the hellfire will say to the guardians of Hell, "Call upon your Lord to reduce the retribution for us, for even one day."

They will say, "Did you not receive your messengers who delivered to you clear messages?" They will reply, "Yes we did." They will say, "Then implore (as much as you wish); the imploring of the disbelievers is always in vain."

Guaranteed Victory; Here and Forever Most assuredly, we will give victory to our messengers and to those who believe, both in this world and on the day the witnesses are summoned.
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Destruction of Korah
The story of the destruction of Korah appears in Numbers 16:1-50 in the Bible and in verses 76-82 of Sura 28: al-Qasas (The Narrations) in the Qur'an. It is also alluded to in verse 39 of Sura 29: al-'Ankabut (The Spider) and in verse 24 of Sura 40: Ghafir (Forgiver)/al-Mu'min (The Believer).


Biblical version
Korah, son of Izhar, becomes insolent towards Moses, and he rises up against him with 250 Israelite men. Korah says to Moses that all are holy, not just him. He asks why Moses sets himself up above the rest of the people. Moses falls down on the ground. He says that the following morning God will show who is holy and who is not. Moses orders Korah to bring censers and burn incense tomorrow, and then God will choose who is holy. Moses despairs of Korah, as his people (the Levites) were given special tabernacle duties, and he asks: 'Is that not enough?' Dathan and Abiram, sons of Eliab, refuse to come, asking why Moses should lord it over them. The next day all the 250 rebels, and Korah, Dathan and Abiram, as well as Moses and his brother Aaron, burn their incense in front of the Tent of Meeting in front of the people. God appears and tells Moses and Aaron to move out of the way, as he is about to destroy everyone here. Moses pleads with God not to kill everyone over a few men. God agrees, and he tells everyone to move away from Korah, Dathan and Abiram. The three men come out with their wives and children. Moses then tells the people that if the people die a normal death, then he is not holy, but if something new and unexpected occurs then this will prove that he is sent from God. The earth then swallows the three men and their families with all their possessions, along with the 250 rebels. The people then get scared, as they fear that the earth will swallow them up too. God orders Eleazar, son of Aaron, to collect together the censers, as they are holy. The censers are hammered flat and laid over the altar as a reminder to the people that only a descendant of Aaron should burn incense. The next day the whole community gets angry with Moses and Aaron, as they feel they were responsible for the deaths of fellow Israelites. God then tells Moses and Aaron to move away from the people as He is going to destroy them all. Moses orders Aaron to quickly burn some incense to pacify God, but it is too late. God has already sent down a plague, and it kills 14,700 people.

Qur'anic Version
Qarun was an extremely wealthy man of the Israelites whose keys for his treasures were too heavy for a bunch of strong men. He becomes very arrogant and his people urge him not to exult in the riches he has, as it displeases God. They remind him that he should concentrate on the true wealth of the hereafter, rather than wealth in this life. Qarun arrogantly retorts by saying that he knows certain sciences, and this is why he is so rich. One day he parades with his full glory, and some of the people are envious of Qarun's riches, but most stay true to God. God then makes the earth swallow up Qarun and his house. The people that envied him realise why, and they go back onto God's path.


Events after Moses

[edit] Samuel appoints a king
The story appears in 1 Samuel 8-12 in the Bible and in verses 246-248 of Sura 2: al-Baqarah (The Heifer) in the Qur'an.


Biblical version
Samuel is a judge/leader of Israel, and when he grows old he appoints his sons Joel and Abijah in his place. Unlike Samuel, the two sons are corrupt and they accept bribes. The elders of Israel complain to Samuel about his son's conduct. They demand that Samuel give them a king so that they'll be like the other nations. This request annoys Samuel and so he prays to God. God tells Samuel that the people have forsaken him and strayed from his path despite all that he has done for them. God tells Samuel all that a king would do, such as tax the people and make them work in near-slavery. Samuel recounts God's words to the people but they are still adamant in wanting a king. God relents and agrees to the idea, and Samuel tells everyone to go back to their houses. Meanwhile one of Kish's donkeys goes missing. He sends his son, Saul (who is a head taller than all other Israelites) and a servant to go and look for it. The pair eventually arrive at Zuph, and Saul wants to go back. The servant, though, has heard that a seer called Samuel lives nearby. He thinks that Samuel will help them find the donkey. Saul replies by saying that they have no gifts for the seer. The servant, though, has some silver and so they set off to find Samuel. As they walk up a hill they see some girls drawing water. Saul asks them if Samuel is nearby. They say that he is, and that there will be a sacrifice at the 'high place' later, which Samuel shall bless, followed by a feast. They enter the main town and they see Samuel (who has been told by God to look out for a potential king). God tells Samuel that the man over there (Saul) is to be the king. Saul walks over and asks Samuel where the seer they've heard about is. Samuel says that he's the seer, and he invites Saul and the servant to the meal at the high place. He also assures them that their donkey has been found. Samuel also tells Saul that all of Israel is turned towards him (i.e. in reference to his kingship). Saul is surprised and asks how a Benjamite (the smallest Israelite tribe) could be a king. Samuel nevertheless takes Saul and the servant to the hall where the feast is taking place. He seats them at the head of the table, which contains 30 guests. Samuel asks a cook to bring out the piece of meat that he had been ordered to lay aside. The meat is given to Saul, and he dines with Samuel. After the meal Samuel and Saul go to the town and they sit and talk on the roof of Samuel's house. As dawn comes Saul gets ready to leave. The pair, with the servant, venture to the towns edge. Samuel tells Saul to make the servant carry on, as he needs to give Saul a message from God in private. With Samuel and Saul now alone, Samuel pours oil on Saul's head and he kisses him, anointing Saul as leader. He tells Saul that he will see some signs on his journey and that he will also prophesy. He also says that they will sacrifice together at Gilgal later on. During Saul's journey home, all of the signs Samuel told him about came to be, and he also prophesied, which made the people wonder what had happened. When Saul and the servant arrive back at their house Saul's uncle asks them where they've been. Saul replies by saying that they were looking for the donkey and that they asked Samuel for help. When the uncle enquires into what Samuel said, Saul says that told them the donkey had been found, but he doesn't mention the kingship. Later on Samuel summons all the Israelites to Mizpah. God then reminds the people of all that he has done for them. He then orders all the Israelites to present themselves by tribe then by clan so that a king can be chosen. The Benjamite tribe is picked, then the Matri clan, then Saul, but he isn't there. God says that he has hidden himself among the baggage. Saul is pulled out and everyone sees his unusual height. The people then shout out "Long live the king." The now King Saul recounts the regulations of kingship to everybody. He then dismisses the people, and he himself goes back home to Gibeah, accompanied by some 'valiant men'. Not everybody is pleased though, and some grow to despise him. Saul soon has to help liberate the Israelite city of Jabesh Gilead, which has been captured by Nahash the Ammonite. When this is done the people are very happy, and they are keen to root out any anti-Saulists. Saul stops this, and his kingship is confirmed with sacrifices and a celebration at Gibeah.


Qur'anic version
The chiefs of Israel ask 'a prophet that was among them' (he isn't actually named) to appoint a king over them so that they can 'fight in the cause of God'. The prophet replies by wondering if they would fight anyway if commanded to. They tell him that of course they would, as they have been thrown out of their homes and so forth. However, when the command to fight does come, only a small number of them don't turn back. The prophet then appoints Talut (Saul) as their king, though some are critical of this decision. They point out that Talut isn't rich. They feel that they are better suited to rule. The prophet reminds them that God chose Talut over them, and that God has given Talut strength and knowledge. As a sign of Talut's authority, an Ark of the Covent will come, along with the relics of the families of Musa (Moses) and Harun (Aaron). (The story of Dawud (David) and Jalut (Goliath) is then told).


David and Goliath
The story appears in 1 Samuel 17:1-58 in the Bible and in verses 249-251 of Sura 2: al-Baqarah (The Heifer) in the Qur'an.


Biblical version
The Philistines are gathering for war against Israel at Socoh in Judah. King Saul of Israel and his army get ready for battle and camp near the Philistines' camp at the Valley of Elah. The Israelites are camped on one hill, the Philistines on the other with the valley between the two armies. Then Goliath comes out of the Philistine camp. He is an extremely tall man (3 metres or 9 feet) who wears a bronze helmet and armour, with bronze greaves and a bronze spear and javelin. Goliath calls out to the Israelites, telling them to choose a man to come out and fight him. If this man kills him then the Philistines will be Israel's subjects, but if Goliath kills the Israelite then they will be subjects of the Philistines. This threat scares the Israelite army and King Saul, due to Goliath's obvious strength and height. For 40 days this goes on, with Goliath issuing the same challenge each day. Meanwhile David, who is a man favoured by King Saul for his armour-bearing and who has been anointed by the Prophet Samuel in the sight of God, is tending his father Jesse's flock of sheep in Bethlehem. Jesse tells his son to go to his three brothers (Eliab, Abinadab and Shammah) who are in the army and give them some food supplies, as well as giving some to the commanders. The next day David goes to the battle lines and meets with his brothers. Goliath comes out and issues his usual challenge, which makes some of the Israelites run amok. Some soldiers tell David that King Saul has promised his daughter's hand in marriage, wealth and freedom from taxes for their family to the man who fights and slays Goliath. His brother Eliab is angered when he hears the soldiers talking with David, as he thinks that David is a conceited and wicked man who has only come to observe the fighting. Nevertheless, David goes to King Saul and tells him that he will fight Goliath. Saul retorts by saying that David is just a boy, but David tells him that while tending his father's flock he has had to kill bears and lions in order to protect the sheep. Plus, he has God's help and power with him. David tries on some armour but finds it uncomfortable. He then picks up five stones and his sling and goes to confront Goliath. Goliath is most unimpressed and says that he will easily kill David. David replies by saying that Goliath may have weapons but he has God's power, and that Goliath will soon be dead. Then, Goliath moves to fight, but David slings a stone at him with the sling. The stone sinks into Goliath's forehead and he falls face down on the ground. David then picks up Goliath's sword and kills him with it. He then cuts off Goliath's head. All the Philistines run away upon the death of Goliath. The Israelites pursue them and try to kill them all. When they return, they plunder the Philistine camp. David later takes the head to Jerusalem, but keeps the sword for himself. His strength impresses King Saul immensely.

Qur'anic version
King Talut (King Saul) is with his army, marching to fight a battle (Dawud is presumably among them, though it is not explicitly stated as such). He decides to test his army at a stream that they stop at. King Talut says that if any of the men drink from the stream then they are to leave, but if they abstain then they shall stay with him for the battle (though he will excuse a small hand-sipping). The army is thus purged of any unnecessary soldiers. When the army arrive at the battle site many are scared at the height of Jalut, a member of the enemy's forces. Others chide them, telling them to remember all the times in the past that God has let a small army win out over a much larger one. The army then march towards the opposition whilst praying to God. The enemy is routed and Dawud slays Jalut. Because of this Dawud is given much power and wisdom by God's grace.


King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba
The story appears in 1 Kings 10:1-13 and 2 Chronicles 9: 1-13 and is the basis for the Song of Solomon in the Bible and in verses 20-44 of Sura 27: an Naml (The Ants) in the Qur'an.

Note: Sheba is believed to be in modern Yemen.


Biblical version
The queen of Sheba heard about Solomon. She came to put his reputation to the test by asking tough questions. She made a grand and showy entrance into Jerusalem. She came to Solomon and talked about all the things that she cared about, emptying her heart to him. Solomon answered everything she put to him--nothing stumped him. Queen of Sheba was impressed with everything surrounding Solomon. She believed it more now that she saw it all with her own eyes. She blesses Solomon and all of his workers. She then gave the king tons of gold and spices. The ships of Hiram also imported gold from Ophir along with tremendous loads of fragrant sandalwood and expensive gems. The king used the sandalwood for fine cabinetry in The Temple of GOD and the palace complex, and for making harps and dulcimers for the musicians. King Solomon for his part gave the queen of Sheba all her heart's desire--everything she asked for, on top of what he had already so generously given her. Satisfied, she returned home with her train of servants. Solomon received twenty-five tons of gold in tribute annually. The king built a massive throne of ivory accented with a veneer of gold. King Solomon was wiser and richer than all the kings of the earth--he surpassed them all. People came from all over the world to be with Solomon and drink in the wisdom God had given him.


Qur'anic version David and Solomon
King Sulayman, son of Dawud (David), is wise, knowledgeable and close to God. He also has a troop of birds, and when one day he musters them together he notices that the hoopoe is missing. Sulayman threatens to punish or even execute the hoopoe if he doesn't give a good reason for his absence. The hoopoe flies back, and tells him that he has been compassing territories un-compassed by Sulayman. During his search he discovered a woman, named Bilqis, ruling over Saba (Sheba), provided with 'every requisite,' on a magnificent throne. However, the woman and her people were worshipping the sun, and not God, as Shaytaan (Satan) has deceived them. Sulayman responds by saying that he will find out if the hoopoe lies or tells the truth by getting him to deliver a letter to the Queen. After that the hoopoe is to wait and gauge her reaction. When Sulayman's letter arrives Bilqis tells her chiefs about it. The letter, which opens with the bismallah ("In the name of God, the most Merciful, the most Beneficent"), tells the queen not be arrogant but instead join him in the true religion. Bilqis consults with her chiefs (as she always does) about what to do. The chiefs tell her that the people are strong and 'given to vehement war,' but that the final decision rests with her. Bilqis decides to send a caravan with presents to Sulayman. Sulayman, though, is outraged at the gifts of wealth – 'What God gives me is better,' he says. Sulayman orders the caravan to go back and await some hosts to expel them. After they have left Sulayman asks his chiefs if anyone is capable of bringing him the Queen's throne before she comes to Jerusalem in submission. An ifrit (a strong and powerful Jinn) says that he will bring it before the gathering is over. But a common man, 'One with knowledge of the Book' also offers to do it 'within the twinkling of an eye'. He does, and Sulayman is grateful and he praises God. Sulayman asks them to transform the throne out of all recognition in order to see if Bilqis is guided by truth or not. When she eventually arrives she asks Sulayman if that is her throne, and she submits to God – Sulayman has succeeded in leading her away from her people's false religion. Later on, Bilqis is asked to enter a lofty palace, but thinking that it's a lake she pulls up her skirt and exposes her legs. Sulayman tells her that it is not a lake, but a palace made of smooth slabs of glass. She then reaffirms her submission to God with Sulayman.


[edit] Jonah and the whale
The story of Jonah and the whale appears in the whole of the book of Jonah in the Bible. It appears three times in the Qur'an: in verses 139-148 of Sura 37: as Saffat (Those Ranged In Ranks), verses 87-88 of Sura 21: al-Anbiya' (The Prophets) and verses 48-50 of Sura 68: al-Qalam (The Pen) /Nun. It is mentioned in verse 98 of Sura 10: Yunus (Jonah) and verse 86 of Sura 6: al-An'am (The Cattle).


Biblical version
God tells Jonah, son of Amittai, to go to the city of Nineveh and preach against it, as God is displeased with the wickedness of the people there. Instead Jonah runs away, heading for Tarshish. He gets to Joppa (Jaffa) where he finds a boat headed for Tarshim. He pays the fare, hoping to escape from God on the boat, and the boat sets sail. At sea God sends down great winds and a violent storm which threaten to destroy the ship. The ship's crew is terrified, and each crew member calls out to their own god to help save them. They even throw some of the cargo overboard to lighten the load. Jonah, though, is below the deck, sleeping deeply. The ship's captain comes down and asks him how he can sleep through this. The captain tells Jonah to get up and call on his god in the hope that he might save them. The crew then casts lots to see who is to blame for the trouble. The lot falls on Jonah. The crew immediately ask Jonah a torrent of questions, demanding to know where he comes from, what country he belongs to and so forth. Jonah tells them that he is a Hebrew and that he worships God. The crew asks him: 'What have you done?' (as Jonah had told them previously that he was running away from God). With the seas getting rougher, the crew asks Jonah what they must do to him to make it stop. Jonah replies by telling them to throw him overboard and it will stop, as it was his fault that it started. The crew instead try to sail back to land, but the sea just gets worse. They then decide to throw Jonah overboard, praying to God to forgive them. The seas calm. The crew offers vows and a sacrifice to God. God makes a 'great fish' (commonly called a whale) swallow Jonah. He is in the belly of the fish for 3 days and 3 nights. Whilst inside the whale Jonah prays to God, thanking him for rescuing him from death. God then commands the whale to vomit Jonah out onto dry land, which it does. God tells Jonah to go to Nineveh to preach his message. If the inhabitants do not repent then God will destroy the city in 40 days time. Jonah goes to Nineveh and gives them the message. The people are scared, and they all begin a fast. They also all put on sackcloth. Even the King of Nineveh takes part in this. Because of this God has compassion and decides against destroying the city. This angers Jonah, but God chides him, asking him what right he has to be angry. Jonah then moves to the east of Nineveh and builds a shelter so that he can see if anything happens to the city. God provides a vine to grow over Jonah's head, and Jonah is pleased as it lessens his discomfort. The next day God sends a worm that eats at the vine and makes it whither away. The sun rises, and God sends a scorching east wind. The sun bakes down on Jonah's head and he grows faint. So great is his discomfort that he wishes to die. God chides Jonah, asking him what right he has to be angry over the vine. Jonah replies that he does have a right to be angry, to the point of death. God replies by saying that Jonah is angry about the loss of a vine which he didn't grow or tend himself. But in Nineveh there are hundreds of thousands who can't tell their left hand from their right. God says: 'Should I, then, not be concerned about that city?'


Qur'anic version
Yunus (also called Dhu al Nun – 'Man of the Fish/Whale') is given God's message,he teaches his people his religion but they refuse and he warns them that God's punishment will be bestowed on them. Without the permission of God he chooses to leave his people and runs away to a fully loaded ship. Whilst onboard there is presumably a storm (though it is not stated exactly what occurs). Yunus agrees to cast lots, but he is condemned and cast overboard. A 'big fish' (probably a whale) swallows him. Inside the whale, Yunus repents and worships God. Yunus is cast out onto the shore, feeling sick. God makes a spreading gourd grow over him. Yunus is then sent on a mission to hundreds of thousands of men (it is not stated where he goes). The people there believe and repent, and God has mercy and allows them to live.


Jesus or/ Isa
The story takes up the whole of the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) in the Bible. It appears several times in the Qur'an: in verses 35-59 of Sura 3: al-Imran (The Family of Imran), verses 156-158 of Sura 4: an Nisa' (The Women), verses 109-120 of Sura 5: al-Ma'idah (The Repast), verses 16-35 of Sura 19: Maryam (Mary), verse 50 of Sura 23: al-Mu'minun (The Believers) verses 57-65 of Sura 43: az-Zukhruf (The Gold Adornments) and in verses 6 and 14 of Sura 61: as-Saff (The Battle Array). Reference is made to it several more times.

Note: this piece focuses on similarities only, and hence large parts of the Biblical narrative, which are heavy in extra details not present in the Qur'an, have been left out.


Biblical version about JESUS
Mary (a virgin) and Joseph (a descendant of David), who live in Nazareth, are pledged to be married. God sends the angel Gabriel down to Mary, who tells her that God is with her and that she is favoured by him. Mary becomes scared, though the angel tells her not to be. Gabriel says that she will become pregnant and will give birth to a son, who is to be named Jesus, who will be special in God's sight. Mary asks how this can happen seeing as she's a virgin. She is told that God can do anything, and that the Holy Spirit will come to her, and that the power of God will overwhelm her. Mary accepts that it will now happen. She then travels to Judea to meet with her relative Elizabeth, wife of Zechariah. When Mary greets her, Elizabeth's baby (John the Baptist) leaps in the womb, and is filled with the Holy Spirit. Mary stays at their house for three months before returning back home.

Joseph later learns that Mary is pregnant, though he does not realize that it is through the Holy Spirit. As he is righteous he doesn't want to expose Mary to disgrace, so he decides to divorce her discreetly. However, an angel appears to him in a dream, telling him not go through with the divorce. The angel also tells him to name the baby Jesus.

The Roman emperor at his time, Caesar Augustus, orders a census to be taken of the entire Roman Empire. Everybody has to go to their town to register themselves. Mary and Joseph go to Bethlehem, which is in Judea, a region ruled by King Herod. When they get there, Mary feels the sensation of her water breaking. They try to get a room at the inn, but it is full, so they go to a place with a manger, where Jesus is put into a cradle. Nearby are some shepherds tending their flocks at night. A stunningly bright angel appears to them, and they become scared. The angel tells them not to fear, as he/she has come with good news for all people. The angel tells them that a saviour/Christ has been born in Bethlehem, who is lying in a manger wrapped in cloth. Then a 'great company' of angels appears. They praise God and then go back to heaven. The Shepherds find the baby and share their story, and all are amazed. They leave, praising God.

Magi from the east arrive in Jerusalem and report seeing a star signifying the birth of the 'King of the Jews'. When they ask where the child can be found, King Herod hears and is disturbed, as is all Jerusalem, so Herod calls together all the teachers and priests in order to find out where this Christ can be located. They cite Micah's prophesy and direct Herod to Bethlehem, in Judea. Herod tells the Magi to go find the child, as he wants to worship him. They set off, with the same star guiding them. It stops over a particular house, and when they enter they see inside Jesus wrapped in cloth in a manger. They bow down to him in worship, praising God. They also give Jesus gifts of gold, myrrh and frankincense. They then leave, but they were warned about Herod in a dream, so they choose not to report back to him and instead they follow a different path home.

Meanwhile, an angel tells Joseph in his dream to escape to Egypt, as Herod plans to kill Jesus if he finds him. Joseph and his family go to Egypt, and they stay there until Herod's death. King Herod, however, has realised that the Magi have tricked him. He orders that all the boys aged 2 or below in Bethlehem and its vicinity are to be killed. When Herod dies an angel tells Joseph in a dream that it is safe to go back to Israel. When he and his family arrive back, though, Joseph becomes scared when he learns that Herod's son Archelaus is now king of Judea. Joseph instead decides to go live in Nazareth in Galilee.

Jesus grows up, and he starts to promulgate his gospel of kindness, mercy and love for God and all people. He expounds wisdom through his teachings and parables. He also heals blindness, leprosy, paralysis, constant bleeding, cripples, possession and he even raises the dead. Jesus also promises a 'comforter/councillor' who shall come later on, referring to the Holy Spirit (in Greek 'paracletos', Muslims say this is actually 'periclytos,' meaning 'Ahmad' – Mohammed, however out of 24,000 manuscript portions of the Greek NT available, not once did 'periclytos' ever appear, further it cannot be supported by the context of the sentence). Jesus says that he "came from heaven" and that he was the Son of God, and says that his mission is to give his life for the world. He gains a number of followers, but also many skeptics to his claims. Jesus frequently is involved in arguments with some of the Jewish leaders, the worst of which plot to kill him out of jealousy and on accounts of blasphemy. Jesus also gathers together 12 apostles to help him spread the word. One of these apostles, Judas Iscariot, betrays Jesus, and the Roman authorities arrest him. They crucify Jesus in front of a baying crowd. Later on he is resurrected, and after appearing to various people he eventually joins God in heaven.


Qur'anic Version about profet JESUS
The wife of a descendant Imran (who is not named) gives birth to a girl, who is special in God's sight. She is named Maryam (Mary) and is assigned to the care of Zakariya (Zechariah). Maryam spends her time in her private chamber, where she is sustained by God. Zakariya questions her about this, and Maryam tells him about God's sustenance. Later on, Maryam withdraws from the family to a 'place in the east'. While there she sees an angel (named Gibreel), who appears as a man. This scares her, and she warns him not to come near her if he fears God. The angel tells her that he is actually a messenger from God, and that God has chosen her for the task of carrying a special son, who will be righteous, holy and will speak in infancy. The angel also reminds her to pray to God. Maryam asks how this can happen seeing as she is a virgin. The angel tells her that nothing is beyond God, all he has to say is 'Be' and it is. God will teach the child all of the past books of wisdom and will give him a new one – the Injil (Gospel). When he grows up he shall go the Children of Israel (Jews) with a sign to make them believe: he shall make a clay figure of a bird, he will breathe into it and it will come alive (a story that also appears in some apocryphal New Testament works). He shall also heal the blind, cure lepers and raise the dead.

After this visitation, Maryam retires to rest under a palm tree in a 'remote place' in order to give birth. The birth, though, is very painful and Maryam cries out in agony. A voice 'from beneath the tree' then tells her that God has provided a rivulet beneath her to drink from. The voice also instructs her to shake the palm tree and fresh dates will fall down for her to eat. It then tells her to remain silent and not speak to anyone.

Sometime after the baby, who is named Isa (Jesus), is born, Maryam goes back to her people. They are amazed, and they ask how Maryam could disgrace her family and ancestors like this, as they think that she has had the child outside of marriage. Maryam is silent and points towards the baby, they mock her and say how can a baby in cradle speak. But Isa can speak, and he tells them he is a messenger from God, here to give revelation to the people. He says that he will be kind and charitable all his life, and that peace shall be with him, as he is strengthened by God (Allah).

When Isa/Jesus has grown up he starts to promulgate his message and wisdom. He tells the people that they should worship God, and God only. Isa also says that he is here to clear up religious and ideological disputes that the people have. Isa also gives 'glad tidings' of a certain Ahmad (Muhammad) who shall come in the future. He then asks the people who will come with him to help spread the message. The call is answered by the people who will become al-Ansar (The Apostles – they are not named). They state that they are Muslims bowing to God.

Later on, Isa is with al-Ansar. They ask him to get God to produce a table set with viand for them. Isa rebukes them by telling them that they should fear God if they have faith. They reply by saying that they only want to eat and be witness to a miracle, so that they can be certain that Isa is telling them the truth. Isa asks God to produce a table set with viands, and God agrees to it, but he warns them that if any of them don't believe in him after the miracle then they shall suffer a terrible punishment. The table set is produced. God later tells Isa that he shall be raised up to him away from those who blaspheme (i.e., Jews who reject him and Christians who made exaggerations and lies about him). Nevertheless, God says, those who blaspheme but still have belief shall be better off than complete unbelievers.

Isa is 'raised up,' but he was not crucified and will be sent down again to help the believers. God also says that on the Day of Judgment Isa will rebuke those who blasphemed and told lies against him, and that he will tell them the truth about himself. God will ask Isa if he had ordered the people to worship him and his mother, Maryam. Isa will respond: "Glory be to You! It was not for me to say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, You would surely have known it."

Note: The Qur'anic narrative also includes various counters against beliefs attributed to Isa/Jesus. They are:

Isa was the son of Maryam only, and not God, as God is above having a son.
Isa was a true messenger of God; nothing more, nothing less.
Isa was not crucified.
There is no 'holy trinity.'
Isa did not prescribe monasticism or sects and schisms for his believers, as these were made up by people.
Isa/Jesus will come at the end of days to save believers from the Dajjal (Anti-Christ) and lead people to the right way.

[Bosanac]

The differences would be a list way shorter. There's only a few I can think of

[dupont]

Could you go into that in a bit more depth please? I mean your article was very brief!

[behdad]

nice

[ARBANITAI]

Originally Posted by dupont

Could you go into that in a bit more depth please? I mean your article was very brief!

Haha... thats up to you dude, no one says you have to read the whole article if you dont like to.

but yes so I post the whole article here.

[Saraj Fanatico]

Umm.. I know all this stuff. We (Islam & Christianity) are so close yet so far from each other...

[only123123]

Both religions have serious problems.
And both are trouble makers.

[Saraj Fanatico]

I wouldn't say the religions them selfs are troublemakers but they have some followers like that. All religions do so this isn't anything new.

[Bosanac]

Originally Posted by FC. Sarajevo

Umm.. I know all this stuff. We (Islam & Christianity) are so close yet so far from each other...

Far from each other, you mean socially? Because beliefs are almost exactly same, which is what religion is about.

[Saraj Fanatico]

^^ I mean to say Muslims and Christians don't even now how similar their religions really are. Yeah so you can say socially.

[ARBANITAI]

What follows here are further points for a comparative study of Christianity and Islam (in simple columnar form) highlighting similarities and differences. We must also bear in mind the importance of the Qur'an's declaration which requires Muslims to regard Christians as their close friends:

Similarities - Quranic verses to the Biblical 10 Commandments

Qur'an 2:53
And remember We gave MOSES the Scripture and the Criterion (between right and wrong): There was a
chance for you to be guided aright.

Qur'an 7:145
And We ordained laws for him [Moses] in the tablets in all matters, both commanding and explaining all things, (and said): "Take and hold these with firmness, and enjoin thy people to hold fast by the best in the precepts . . . About the 10 Commandments:


Bible Exodus 24:12 The Lord said to Moses, "Come up to Me on the mountain and stay here, and I will give you the tablets of stone, with the law and commands I have written for their instruction."
Deuteronomy 4:13 He declared to you His covenant, the Ten Commandments, which He commanded you to follow and then wrote them on two stone tablets.


Qur'an 17:23
Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him . . .
La illa ha illa Allah [there is none worthy of worship but God]

Exodus 20:3
You shall have no other gods before Me

Qur'an 22:12
They call on such deities, besides Allah, as can neither hurt nor profit them: that is straying far indeed (from the Way)!



Exodus 20:4
You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth.

Qur'an 7:180
And Allah's are the best names, therefore call on Him thereby, and leave alone those who violate the sanctity of His names; they shall be requited for what they did.

Exodus 20:7
You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, [i.e. in an irreverent or disrespectful manner] for the Lord will not leave him unpunished who takes His name in vain.

Qur'an 16:124
The Sabbath was only made (strict) for those who disagreed (as to its observance); But Allah will judge between them on the Day of Judgement, as to their differences.


Qur'an 17:23
Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him, and that ye be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honour.

. Exodus 20:12
Honour your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God gave you.

Qur'an 17:33
Nor take life which Allah has made sacred .

Exodus 20:13
You shall not kill

Qur'an 17:32
Nor come nigh to adultery: for it is a shameful (deed) and an evil, opening the road (to other evils).

Exodus 20:14
8. You shall not commit Adultery

Qur'an 2:42
And cover not truth with falsehood, nor conceal the Truth when ye know (what it is).

Exodus 20:16
You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.

Qur'an 4:32
And in no wise covet those things in which Allah Hath bestowed His gifts more freely on some of you than on others . . .

Exodus 20:17
You shall not covet your neighbour's house; you shall not covet your neighbour's wife or his male servant or
his female servant or his ox or his donkey or anything that belongs to your neighbour.

[ARBANITAI]

Understanding Islam

What does Islam mean?

The Arabic word 'Islam' simply means 'submission', and derives from a word meaning 'peace'. In a religious context it means
complete submission to the will of God. (Allah is the arabic word for God)

Do Islam and Christianity have different origins?

No. Together with Judaism, they go back to the prophet and patriarch Abraham, and their three prophets are directly descended from his sons, Muhammad from the elder son Ishmael, and Moses and Jesus from the younger son Isaac. Abraham established the settlement which today is the city of Mekkah, and built the Ka'ba towards which all Muslims turn when they pray.

What do Muslims believe?

Muslims believe in One, Unique, Incomparable God; in the Angels created by Him; in the prophets through whom His revelations were brought to mankind; in the Day of Judgement and individual accountability for actions; in God's complete authority over human destiny and in life after death. Muslims believe in a chain of prophets starting with Adam and including Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Job, Moses, Aaron, David, Solomon, Elias, Jonah, John the Baptist, and Jesus, peace be upon them. But God's final message to man, a reconfirmation of the eternal message and a summing-up of all that has gone before was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through Gabriel.


What is the Ka`ba?

The Ka`ba is the place of worship which God commanded Abraham and Ishmael to build over four thousand years ago. The building was constructed of stone on what many believe was the original site of a sanctuary established by Adam. God commanded Abraham to summon all mankind to visit this place, and when pilgrims go there today they say 'At Thy service, O Lord', in response to Abraham's summons.

What is the Qur`an?

The Quran is a record of the exact words revealed by God through the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad. It was memorized by Muhammad and then dictated to his Companions, and written down by scribes, who cross-checked it during his lifetime. Not one word of its 114 chapters, Suras, has been changed over the centuries, so that the Quran is in every detail the unique and miraculous text which was revealed to Muhammad fourteen centuries ago.


What is the Qur`an about?

The Quran, the last revealed Word of God, is the prime source of every Muslim's faith and practice. It deals with all the subjects which concern us as human beings: wisdom, doctrine, worship, and law, but its basic theme is the relationship between God and His creatures. At the same time it provides guidelines for a just society, proper human conduct and an equitable economic system.


What do Muslims believe about Jesus the son of mary?

Muslims respect and revere Jesus, and await his Second Coming. They consider him one of the greatest of God's messengers to mankind. A Muslim never refers to him simply as 'Jesus', but always adds the phrase 'upon him be peace'. The Quran confirms his virgin birth (a chapter of the Quran is entitled 'Mary'), and Mary is considered the purest woman in all creation. The Quran describes the Annunciation as follows:

'Behold!' the Angel said, 'God has chosen you, and purified you, and chosen you above the women of all nations. O Mary, God gives you good news of a word from Him, whose name shall be the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, honored in this world and the Hereafter, and one of those brought near to God. He shall speak to the people from his cradle and in maturity, and shall be of the righteous.'

She said: 'O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man has touched me?' He said: 'Even so; God creates what He will. When He decrees a thing, He says to it, "Be!" and it is.' (Quran, 3:42-7)

Jesus was born miraculously through the same power which had brought Adam into being without a father:

Truly, the likeness of Jesus with God is as the likeness of Adam. He created him of dust, and then said to him, 'Be!' and he was. (Quran, 3:59)

During his prophetic mission Jesus performed many miracles. The Quran tells us that he said:

I have come to you with a sign from your Lord: I make for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it and it becomes a bird by God's leave. And I heal the blind, and the lepers and I raise the dead by God's leave. (Quran, 3:49)

Neither Muhammad nor Jesus came to change the basic doctrine of the belief in One God, brought by earlier prophets, but to confirm and renew it. In the Quran Jesus is reported as saying that he came:

To attest the law which was before me. And to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden you; I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, so fear God and obey Me. (Quran, 3:5O)

The Prophet Muhammad said:

Whoever believes there is no god but God, alone without partner, that Muhammad is His messenger, that Jesus is the servant and messenger of God, His word breathed into Mary and a spirit emanating from Him, and that Paradise and Hell are true, shall be received by God into Heaven. (Hadith from Bukhari)

How do Muslims view death?

Like Jews and Christians, Muslims believe that the present life is only a trial preparation for the next realm of existence. Basic articles of faith include: the Day of Judgment, resurrection, Heaven and Hell. When a Muslim dies, he or she is washed, usually by a family member, wrapped in a clean white cloth, and buried with a simple prayer preferably the same day. Muslims consider this one of the final services they can do for their relatives, and an opportunity to remember their own brief existence here on earth. The Prophet taught that three things can continue to help a person even after death; charity which he had given, knowledge which he had taught and prayers on their behalf by a righteous child.

[Ballsmith]

I'm a practising Christian, and I'm frequently puzzled why there seems to be factions of each belief that seems to hate the other so vociferously. Esp when both religions are based inherently on peace!

Then I remember the 4th book of the Koran that says it's forbidden to be anything other than a Muslim.
Taken out of context...as so much of the fundamentalist foundation is, minute passages of scripture can be twisted to mean whatever the reader wishes.
The enemy uses this very well to sow doubt into the mind and confuse true intentions of the passage.

[Iranfan06]

Islam, christianity, and judaism are all basically the same. The people that follow these religions closely are nutjobs and ALL religions have them(the same amount).

[Father John]

Originally Posted by Ballsmith

I'm a practising Christian, and I'm frequently puzzled why there seems to be factions of each belief that seems to hate the other so vociferously. Esp when both religions are based inherently on peace!

Then I remember the 4th book of the Koran that says it's forbidden to be anything other than a Muslim.
Taken out of context...as so much of the fundamentalist foundation is, minute passages of scripture can be twisted to mean whatever the reader wishes.
The enemy uses this very well to sow doubt into the mind and confuse true intentions of the passage.

People intent on spreading hatred and hurt will take almost any situation and try to twist it into something that it is not. This is a sad state of affairs. Love is the best way forward.