The Key Faiths in Islam: Is Belief in the Prophet Essential?
Islamic teachings is about Faiths in one God not in many Gods emphasize submission to the will of Allah as the core principle for attaining salvation. However, there is often debate regarding the interpretation of Quranic verses that discuss the criteria for entering paradise.
Verses in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:62) and Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:69) highlight the importance of believing in one God, the Last Day, and performing righteous deeds, without explicitly mentioning belief in Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). However, context is key. Scholars clarify that these verses addressed people of earlier revelations, encouraging them to recognize the continuity of divine guidance culminating in Islam.
Additionally, Surah Al-Imran (3:19, 3:85) stresses that complete submission to Allah, embodied in Islam, is the only acceptable path to salvation. Hence, belief in all prophets, including Prophet Muhammad, is integral for Muslims.
The Debate on Homosexuality: Nature or Nurture?
Islamic faiths about Homosexuality in Islam remain a controversial topic in religious and social contexts. Islam unequivocally prohibits Islam and homosexual behavior, as stated in Surah Al-A’raf (7:80-81) and Surah Hud (11:78-79), considering it against the natural order established by Allah.
Some modern arguments suggest a genetic predisposition toward homosexuality. However, Dr. Zakir Naik and many scholars assert that no conclusive scientific evidence supports this claim. Instead, external influences, such as exposure to inappropriate media or societal factors, are considered contributing factors.
Islamic teachings emphasize that while tendencies may arise, actions remain within a person’s control. Therefore, those with such inclinations are encouraged to seek spiritual guidance and self-restraint to align with divine commands.
Was There a “Shahada” in Christianity and Judaism?
The Islamic declaration of faiths, the Shahada, explicitly mentions belief in Allah and Prophet Muhammad as His messenger. Some question whether similar declarations existed in prior Abrahamic faiths.
While the Bible and Torah affirm the oneness of God and the role of respective prophets, there is no structured declaration akin to the Shahada. Historically, followers were required to believe in the one God and their respective prophet, such as Moses or Jesus, as messengers of God. Over time, deviations in practice and belief—such as elevating Jesus to divine status in Christianity—have obscured this monotheistic essence.
Why Are People Born into Different Faiths?
A frequent question is why Allah allows individuals to be born into different religions if Islam is the true path. Question why are there many Faiths ? in the world, Islamic theology teaches that every soul is born with an innate inclination toward monotheism (fitrah), but upbringing and societal influences shape one’s beliefs.
Surah Fussilat (41:53) assures that Allah provides guidance to all, whether through scripture, signs in nature, or other means. The onus lies on individuals to seek and accept the truth once it is presented.
The Responsibility of Knowledge and Accepting Truth in Many Faiths (Religious)
Knowledge carries responsibility in Islam. Those who receive knowledge of the faiths are accountable for their response. Scholars emphasize that acquiring perfect understanding is not a prerequisite for embracing Islam. Faith entails accepting core beliefs and continually striving for understanding.
As Dr. Zakir Naik explains, one must not delay embracing the truth due to unanswered questions, as life is unpredictable. On the Day of Judgment, individuals will be held accountable for their choices based on the opportunities and knowledge provided to them.
Similarities Between Islam and Christianity – Insights by Dr. Zakir Naik
Both Islam and Christianity emphasize the belief in one God. Dr. Zakir Naik highlights that while Christians refer to Him as God, Muslims call Him Allah, but the essence of monotheism remains central to both faiths. The first commandment in Christianity, “You shall have no other gods before me,” aligns with Islam’s declaration, “There is no god but Allah.”
Reverence for Jesus: A Common Figure of Respect
Islam and Christianity both revere Jesus, though with differences in perception. Dr. Naik points out that Muslims consider Jesus (Isa in Arabic) a prophet and messenger of God, while Christians regard him as the Son of God. Nonetheless, both agree on his miraculous birth, teachings, and importance in their faiths.
Moral Values: Promoting Love, Compassion, and Justice
Both religions advocate similar ethical principles, such as helping the poor, being honest, and showing kindness to others. According to Dr. Naik, these shared values reflect the common roots and divine guidance of both faiths.
The Virgin Birth of Mary: Acknowledged in Both Faiths
Dr. Naik often mentions that the Quran explicitly honors Mary (Maryam) as a virtuous and chosen woman who gave birth to Jesus miraculously. Similarly, Christianity celebrates the Virgin Mary as a key figure. Islam even dedicates an entire chapter, Surah Maryam, to her.
Focus on the Afterlife: Heaven, Hell, and Accountability
Both religions stress the importance of the afterlife, where individuals will be held accountable for their deeds. Dr. Naik emphasizes that this shared belief underscores the need for righteousness and faith in divine judgment.
Mention of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in the Bible – Dr. Zakir Naik’s Perspective
Dr. Zakir Naik has frequently discussed the mention of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the Bible, emphasizing verses that he interprets as prophetic references to Islam’s final messenger. Below are some key points he highlights:
Deuteronomy 18:18 – The Prophet Like Moses
Dr. Naik refers to Deuteronomy 18:18, where God says, “I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him.”
- Explanation: Dr. Naik explains that this prophecy points to Muhammad (PBUH) as he, like Moses, was a law-bearing prophet, faced persecution, and later succeeded in establishing a religious community. The term “among their brothers” refers to the Ishmaelites, the descendants of Ishmael, who was the brother of Isaac and the ancestor of the Arabs.
Song of Solomon 5:16 – The Mention of Muhammad’s Name
Dr. Naik frequently highlights Song of Solomon 5:16, where the original Hebrew text uses the word “Muhammaddim” (מַחֲמַדִּים), which is often translated as “altogether lovely.”
- Explanation: According to Dr. Naik, the Hebrew term closely resembles the name Muhammad, and he suggests that this is a direct mention of the Prophet, though many translations obscure this interpretation.
John 14:16 – The Coming of the Comforter (Paraclete)
In the New Testament, Dr. Naik refers to John 14:16, where Jesus says, “And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever.”
- Explanation: Dr. Naik argues that the “Comforter” or Paraclete refers to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He reasons that this prophecy cannot refer to the Holy Spirit, as it was already present at the time of Jesus. Instead, Muhammad fulfills this role as the guide to humanity after Jesus.
Isaiah 29:12 – The Illiterate Prophet
Dr. Naik references Isaiah 29:12: “Or if you give the scroll to someone who cannot read, and say, ‘Read this, please,’ they will answer, ‘I can’t read.’”
- Explanation: He associates this with the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who was unlettered and responded to the angel Gabriel with “I am not learned” during the first revelation in the Cave of Hira.
Parallels with the Prophetic Mission
Dr. Naik also highlights parallels in the Bible that align with Muhammad’s characteristics:
- A universal messenger (Isaiah 42:1–4).
- A figure who brings light to the Gentiles, which he interprets as non-Israelites.
- A prophet from Arabia, which aligns with references to Kedar, an ancestor of the Arabs (Isaiah 42:11).
