 
## A Call for Unity

## Harun Yahya (Adnan Oktar)

Say: "O People of the Book! Come to a proposition that is the same for us and you – that we should worship none but Allah (God), not associate any partners with Him, and not take one another as lords besides Allah." If they turn away, say: "Bear witness that we are Muslims." (Surah Al 'Imran: 64)

# About the Author

Now writing under the pen-name of HARUN YAHYA, Adnan Oktar was born in Ankara in 1956. Having completed his primary and secondary education in Ankara, he studied fine arts at Istanbul's Mimar Sinan University and philosophy at Istanbul University. Since the 1980s, he has published many books on political, scientific, and faith-related issues. Harun Yahya is well-known as the author of important works disclosing the imposture of evolutionists, their invalid claims, and the dark liaisons between Darwinism and such bloody ideologies as fascism and communism.

Harun Yahya's works, translated into 63 different languages, constitute a collection for a total of more than 55,000 pages with 40,000 illustrations.

His pen-name is a composite of the names Harun (Aaron) and Yahya (John), in memory of the two esteemed Prophets who fought against their peoples' lack of faith. The Prophet's seal on his books' covers is symbolic and is linked to their contents. It represents the Qur'an (the Final Scripture) and the Prophet Muhammad (saas), last of the prophets. Under the guidance of the Qur'an and the Sunnah (teachings of the Prophet [saas]), the author makes it his purpose to disprove each fundamental tenet of irreligious ideologies and to have the "last word," so as to completely silence the objections raised against religion. He uses the seal of the final Prophet (saas), who attained ultimate wisdom and moral perfection, as a sign of his intention to offer the last word.

All of Harun Yahya's works share one single goal: to convey the Qur'an's message, encourage readers to consider basic faith-related issues such as Allah's existence and unity and the Hereafter; and to expose irreligious systems' feeble foundations and perverted ideologies.

Harun Yahya enjoys a wide readership in many countries, from India to America, England to Indonesia, Poland to Bosnia, Spain to Brazil, Malaysia to Italy, France to Bulgaria and Russia. Some of his books are available in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Urdu, Arabic, Albanian, Chinese, Swahili, Hausa, Dhivehi (spoken in Maldives), Russian, Serbo-Croat (Bosnian), Polish, Malay, Uygur Turkish, Indonesian, Bengali, Danish and Swedish.

Greatly appreciated all around the world, these works have been instrumental in many people recovering faith in Allah and gaining deeper insights into their faith. His books' wisdom and sincerity, together with a distinct style that's easy to understand, directly affect anyone who reads them. Those who seriously consider these books, can no longer advocate atheism or any other perverted ideology or materialistic philosophy, since these books are characterized by rapid effectiveness, definite results, and irrefutability. Even if they continue to do so, it will be only a sentimental insistence, since these books refute such ideologies from their very foundations. All contemporary movements of denial are now ideologically defeated, thanks to the books written by Harun Yahya.

This is no doubt a result of the Qur'an's wisdom and lucidity. The author modestly intends to serve as a means in humanity's search for Allah's right path. No material gain is sought in the publication of these works.

Those who encourage others to read these books, to open their minds and hearts and guide them to become more devoted servants of Allah, render an invaluable service.

Meanwhile, it would only be a waste of time and energy to propagate other books that create confusion in people's minds, lead them into ideological confusion, and that clearly have no strong and precise effects in removing the doubts in people's hearts, as also verified from previous experience. It is impossible for books devised to emphasize the author's literary power rather than the noble goal of saving people from loss of faith, to have such a great effect. Those who doubt this can readily see that the sole aim of Harun Yahya's books is to overcome disbelief and to disseminate the Qur'an's moral values. The success and impact of this service are manifested in the readers' conviction.

One point should be kept in mind: The main reason for the continuing cruelty, conflict, and other ordeals endured by the vast majority of people is the ideological prevalence of disbelief. This can be ended only with the ideological defeat of disbelief and by conveying the wonders of creation and Qur'anic morality so that people can live by it. Considering the state of the world today, leading into a downward spiral of violence, corruption and conflict, clearly this service must be provided speedily and effectively, or it may be too late.

In this effort, the books of Harun Yahya assume a leading role. By the will of Allah, these books will be a means through which people in the twenty-first century will attain the peace, justice, and happiness promised in the Qur'an.

# To the Reader

A special chapter is assigned to the collapse of the theory of evolution because this theory constitutes the basis of all anti-spiritual philosophies. Since Darwinism rejects the fact of creation—and therefore, Allah's existence—over the last 150 years it has caused many people to abandon their faith or fall into doubt. It is therefore an imperative service, a very important duty to show everyone that this theory is a deception. Since some readers may find the opportunity to read only one of our books, we think it appropriate to devote a chapter to summarize this subject.

All the author's books explain faith-related issues in light of Qur'anic verses, and invite readers to learn Allah's words and to live by them. All the subjects concerning Allah's verses are explained so as to leave no doubt or room for questions in the reader's mind. The books' sincere, plain, and fluent style ensures that everyone of every age and from every social group can easily understand them. Thanks to their effective, lucid narrative, they can be read at one sitting. Even those who rigorously reject spirituality are influenced by the facts these books document and cannot refute the truthfulness of their contents.

This and all the other books by the author can be read individually, or discussed in a group. Readers eager to profit from the books will find discussion very useful, letting them relate their reflections and experiences to one another.

In addition, it will be a great service to Islam to contribute to the publication and reading of these books, written solely for the pleasure of Allah. The author's books are all extremely convincing. For this reason, to communicate true religion to others, one of the most effective methods is encouraging them to read these books.

We hope the reader will look through the reviews of his other books at the back of this book. His rich source material on faith-related issues is very useful, and a pleasure to read.

In these books, unlike some other books, you will not find the author's personal views, explanations based on dubious sources, styles that are unobservant of the respect and reverence due to sacred subjects, nor hopeless, pessimistic arguments that create doubts in the mind and deviations in the heart.

Title : A Call for Unity

Author: HARUN YAHYA

Translated by Yaşar Kütükçü

Edited by Jay Willoughby

Publisher : **GLOBAL PUBLISHING**

Address : Gursel Mah. Darulaceze Caddesi No: 9

Funya Sk. Eksioglu Is Merkezi B Blok D. 5

Okmeydani - Istanbul / Turkey

Tel: +90 212 320 8600

All translations from the Qur'an are from

The Noble Qur'an: a New Rendering of its Meaning in English

by Hajj Abdalhaqq and Aisha Bewley,

published by Bookwork, Norwich, UK. 1420 CE/1999AH.

Printed by: Şan Ofset

Cendere Yolu No: 23 Ayazaga - Istanbul / Turkey

Tel: +90 212 289 24 24

www.harunyahya.com

http://en.harunyahya.tv

# Contents

Introduction

Chapter 1: How Should The Stance Of Muslims Be Towards The People Of The Book According To The Qur'an And The Sunnah?

Chapter 2: Muslims And The People Of The Book In The History Of Islam

Chapter 3: Uniting Against The Threat Of Radicalism

Chapter 4: Common Principles Of Faith In The Divine Faiths

Chapter 5: Common Prayers And Common Moral Values In The Divine Faiths

Chapter 6: Uniting In Ideological Debate

Chapter 7: Belief In Hazrat Mahdi (Pbuh) And The Messiah(Pbuh) In The Divine Faiths

Chapter 8: Come, Let Us Unite

Conclusion

The Deception Of Evolution

#  Introduction

We are living in an era in which the world is in need of peace, friendship, and solidarity more than ever. The tensions and conflicts that defined the twentieth century continue in this new century as well, and innocent people all around the world continue to suffer from them.

Despite the urgent need for solidarity and cooperation, certain circles are inciting conflict, particularly conflict between the world's two greatest and deep-rooted civilizations. This issue needs to be scrutinized, as the war of civilizations that they envisage would have disastrous consequences for humanity. One of the best ways of preventing such a disaster is to strengthen the solidarity and cooperation between these civilizations. This is not a hard task, as there are no fundamental differences between Islamic world and the Western world. On the contrary, - as we will put forward the proofs throughout this book- there is much common ground in between the Islamic civilization and the Judeo-Christian culture that constitutes the foundation of the Western civilization. Finding solution to the problems of the world in cooperation will not be difficult by taking this common ground as basis. Especially when taking the current situation and the nature of the world's problems into consideration.

Today, ideological struggles, indeed, continue to divide the world. However, Muslims are not at one pole and Jews and Christians are not at the opposing pole. In fact, one pole represents people who believe in the existence and unity of Allah, and the other pole represents the unbelievers, who believe in such anti-religious ideologies as materialism and Darwinism. There is only one way to defeat the alliance of the various groups of unbelievers on an ideological level: eradicate the negative and destructive influences of Darwinist, atheist and anti-religious materialism and further the cause of a society dominated by morality, happiness, tranquility, security, and prosperity. This will be done by forming an alliance of all conscientious people, namely, sincere Christians, along with religious Jews and Muslims, who will come together and unite in this common cause.

There may have been conflicts and disputes in between the members of these three divine religions in the past with various pretexts; that is a historical fact. But those were originated from the erroneous reasoning and evil motives of certain states, nations, and individuals, and most of the time from their pursuit of their own economic and political gains; not from the fundamental beliefs of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. One of the common aims of these divinely revealed three religions is to ensure the happiness, security, peace, and tranquility of all people and every sort of opinion against this aim, which stipulates conflict, is erroneous according to these three religions.

Therefore, this cooperation and alliance will be based on the sincere believers' quest for justice, peace, and support for all people. The resulting alliance will not be restricted to meetings and conferences, but will cement an alliance between people who advocate common values, intellectual struggle for the same cause, and seek permanent solutions to common problems. This alliance will be one of the main contributing factors to tranquility at a time when the Prophet Jesus' (peace be upon him) second coming is expected and Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) is present on Earth.

# Chapter 1: How Should The Stance Of Muslims Be Towards The People Of The Book According To The Qur'an And The Sunnah?

This book reveals, in the light of the Holy Scriptures of the three divine religions, that Muslims, Christians, and Jews have common principles of faith, worship, and moral values; that they face common dangers; and makes a call on the People of the Book –that is the Christians and Jews–for unity as revealed by our Lord in the Qur'an. The aim of this call is to unite all devout people for common goals; to strive together against Darwinism, materialism, atheism, anti-religiosity, and social as well as moral degeneration, and to spread belief of Allah and good morals around the world. This is a call to all Jews, Christians, and Muslims who are sincere, conscientious, tolerant, helpful, conciliatory, reasonable, virtuous, peaceful. It should not be forgotten that we all believe in the same Allah and strive to live and extend the reach of the morality Our Lord has commanded us. The followers of these three divine faiths believe;

\- that Allah created the universe from nothingness and sustains all matter with his Endless Power;

\- that Allah created all life forms in a miraculous way; and that man has a soul given by Allah;

\- that Allah sent Prophets to humanity throughout history, like the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), and the Prophets Jesus, Moses (peace be upon them) along with the Prophets Noah, David, Abraham, Isaac, and Joseph (peace be upon them all); and they love them all.

\- that Allah created our lives according to destiny; and they all believe in the Resurrection, Hell, Heaven, and the existence of the angels.

Not only in matters of faith, the People of the Book and Muslims also have common values about morality. For example, in a world in which prostitution, homosexuality, and drug abuse, together with selfishness, greed, and hardheartedness are spreading fast, they value and seek to live by honor, chastity, modesty, selflessness, honesty, compassion, mercy, and unconditional love.

As Muslims we all have a profound love and respect for Prophets Moses (pbuh) and Jesus (pbuh); we know that they are esteemed, blessed people in the Sight of Allah, and we believe in all Prophets our Lord had sent. Furthermore, as the requisite of the morality Allah taught us in the Qur'an, we respect the beliefs, values, and traditions of all Jews and Christians. In the Qur'an, Allah commands the Muslims to invite the People of the Book to _unite on a common premise:_

Say: "O People of the Book! Come to a proposition that is the same for us and you – that we should worship none but Allah, not associate any partners with Him, and not take one another as lords besides Allah." If they turn away, say: "Bear witness that we are Muslims." (Surah Al 'Imran: 64)

This is our call to Jews and Christians: As people believing in Allah and obeying His revelation, let us unite in a common premise of "faith". Let us all love and obey Allah, our Creator and our Lord, and pray to Him to lead us to a truer path. When Muslims, Christians, and Jews unite under these premises, when they realize that they are friends and not enemies, and when they see that the real enemies are Darwinism, materialism, atheism and irreligion, the world will become an altogether different place. Wars, antagonisms, fears, and violence will end, and a new civilization founded on _this common premise_ , one based on love, respect, and contentment, will emerge.

## The Compassion and Mercy of Muslims towards the Members of the other Two Divine Religions; Judaism and Christianity

Islam recognizes both Judaism and Christianity as divinely revealed religions that originated in the revelation of Allah and does not consider them equal with systems of idolatry or unbelief. Rather, it regards Jews and Christians as People of the Book and requires Muslims to show understanding and respect to their beliefs. Allah reveals this subject in the Surat Al-Baqara as follows:

Alif Lam Mim. That is the Book without any doubt. It contains guidance for those who guard against evil: those who believe in the Unseen, perform prayer, and spend from what We have provided for them; those who believe in what has been sent down to you, what was sent down before you, and are certain about the Hereafter. (Surat Al-Baqara: 1-4)

These verses describe Muslims as people who believe in the Qur'an revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) as well as in the earlier divinely revealed books. In the Qur'an Allah reveals these earlier divinely revealed books as: the Pages of Abraham (pbuh), the Torah revealed to Moses (pbuh), the Book of Psalms revealed to David (pbuh), and the Gospel revealed to Jesus (pbuh). However, over time these books were tampered with by some people and therefore contain both accurate (e.g., belief in Allah, virtue, the Day of Judgment, and the rejection of idolatry), and inaccurate information. By looking at the Qur'an and the hadiths of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), we can easily distinguish the accurate and distorted parts of these books.

In the Qur'an Allah revealed that these books are:

He has sent down the Book [the Qur'an] to you with truth, confirming what was there before it. And He sent down the Torah and the Gospel, previously, as guidance for humanity... (Surah Al 'Imran: 3-4)

Another verse states the following about the Torah:

We sent down the Torah containing guidance and light, and the Prophets who had submitted themselves gave judgment by it for the Jews - as did their scholars and their rabbis - by what they had been allowed to preserve of Allah's Book, to which they were witnesses. (Surat Al- Ma'ida: 44)

The Qur'an reveals that some Jewish scholars and rabbis »distorted words from their proper meanings« in the Torah (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 41) and falsified the Book of Allah: »Woe to those who write the Book with their own hands and then say: 'This is from Allah,' to sell it for a paltry price« (Surat Al-Baqara: 79). Some of the Christians, on the other hand, made a grave mistake by deifying the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) (Surat An-Nisa: 171). In the Qur'an, Allah draws our attention to some moral mistakes of some of the People of The Book. However, this does not mean that the People of the Book are in complete ignorance and error, for He also reveals that some of them are deeply religious and devoted to Allah:

They are not all the same. There is a community among the People of the Book who are upright. They recite the Signs of Allah throughout the night, and they prostrate. They believe in Allah and the Last Day, enjoin the right and forbid the wrong, and compete in doing good. They are among the righteous. You will not be denied the reward for any good thing you do. Allah knows those who guard against evil. (Surat Al'Imran: 113-115)

Among the People of the Book are some who believe in Allah and in what has been sent down to you and what was sent down to them, and who are humble before Allah. They do not sell Allah's Signs for a paltry price. Such people will have their reward with their Lord. And Allah is swift at reckoning. (Surat Al'Imran: 199)

Therefore, a Muslim's attitude toward the People of the Book reflects the probable existence of lots of genuinely faithful people among them. According to Islam, Muslims need to approach these sincere believers with love, compassion and understanding. A Muslim is obliged with having an understanding that approaches every human being with compassion, gives him the right to express his opinion, respects his acts of worship and places of worship and provides him the opportunity to live freely. This is a commandment of the Qur'an as well as a fact which is exemplified by our Prophet's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) life. This aside we need to keep in mind that only Allah knows the hearts of people, and He reveals that some among the Jews and Christians have earned His good pleasure in His Sight.

## The Prophet Abraham (pbuh) Was a Haneef

Allah reveals in the Qur'an that He has created a way and a method for all nations. Throughout history, He has sent Prophets to people to inform them of His laws, commands, and prohibitions. Essentially, all Prophets have invited their nations to believe in and worship Allah and to abide by the limits He has established for humanity. In other words, all true religions in their original state are based on the principles of not associating others with Him and of working to win His good pleasure, compassion, and Heaven. All nations are expected to follow Allah's will without fail and to do good deeds in order to earn His reward:

We have appointed a law and a practice for every one of you. Had Allah willed, He would have made you a single community, but He wanted to test you regarding what has come to you. So, compete with each other in doing good. Every one of you will return to Allah, and He will inform you regarding the things about which you differed. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 48)

The People of the Book were given a different law than the Muslims, but all sincere Jews, Christians, and Muslims are required to submit wholeheartedly to Him, do what is good, and compete in doing good deeds. All of them who believe in the existence of Allah and unity and the Hereafter and do good deeds are, in reality, following the true religion our Lord revealed to Abraham (pbuh).

Allah reveals in the Qur'an that the Prophet Adam (pbuh) was the first of a long line of Prophets. After the Prophet Adam (pbuh), the Prophet Sid (pbuh) and the Prophet Idris (Enoch) (pbuh) were sent. Then Allah sent the Prophet Noah (pbuh) as His Messenger. The Prophet Abraham (pbuh) lived after the Prophet Noah (pbuh) and is his descendant. Allah revealed this in the Qur'an as follows:

»Peace be upon Noah, among all beings.« That is how We recompense the good-doers. He truly was one of Our servants who believes. Then We drowned the rest. One of his followers in faith was Abraham. (Surat As-Saffat: 79-83)

In the Qur'an Allah reveals that the religion of Abraham (pbuh) was a »haneef« religion. The word »haneef« means one who _surrenders to Allah's Will, not compromising in any way on His Religion, and being devout._ In one verse, Allah commands the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) to abide by the haneef religion of the Prophet Abraham (pbuh):

Then We revealed to you: »Follow the religion of Abraham, a man of pure natural belief. He was not one of the idolaters.« (Surat An-Nahl: 123)

The Prophet Abraham's (pbuh) sons, grandchildren, and other devout Muslim descendents all abided by his religion. In the Qur'an this truth is revealed as follows:

Who would deliberately renounce the religion of Abraham, except someone who reveals himself to be a fool? We chose him in this world, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the righteous. When his Lord said to him: »Become a Muslim!« he said: »I am a Muslim who has submitted to the Lord of all the worlds.« Abraham directed his sons to this, as did Jacob: »My sons. Allah has chosen this religion for you, so do not die except as Muslims.« Or were you present when death came to Jacob and he said to his sons: »What will you worship when I have gone?« They said: »We will worship your God, the God of your forefathers, Abraham, Ishmael and Isaac – One God. We are Muslims submitted to Him.« (Surat Al-Baqara: 130-133)

As we can see, the religion followed by the Prophet Abraham (pbuh) represents the common ground among Muslims, Jews, and Christians who have faith in Allah, the One and Only. Love, faith, and respect for the Prophet Abraham (pbuh) are just as important to Muslims as they are for Christians and Jews. However, those who follow his morality are the ones who are closest to him. He was exuberant in his faith in Allah, loved him deeply, followed all of His commands willingly, and thus was an example for all humanity. As Allah says in the Qur'an:

The people with the strongest claim to Abraham are those who followed him and this Prophet, and those who believe. Allah is the Protector of the believers. (Surat Al'Imran: 68)

Therefore, all Jews and Christians, who believe wholeheartedly in Allah, like the Prophet Abraham (pbuh) and the believers who followed him, must only turn to Allah and follow this great Prophet's example of virtue, sincerity and insight. The best way to show one's love, obedience, and closeness to the Prophets is by emulating them. Muslims do not discriminate among the Prophets and what was revealed to them, for Allah commands:

Say: »We believe in Allah and what has been sent down to us, what was sent down to Abraham and Ishmael, Isaac and Jacob, and the Tribes; what Moses and Jesus were given; and what all of the Prophets were given by their Lord. We do not differentiate between any of them. We are Muslims submitted to Him.« (Surat Al-Baqara: 136)

## The Compassion Brought by the Morality of the Qur'an

Islam, a religion of peace and love, requires believers to treat all people with justice and respect. Devout Muslims are forgiving, modest, understanding, gentle, genuine, and honest people who are full of love. In fact, Allah commands them to be just even when it is not in their own interests or those of their families to be so; to feed orphans and prisoners of war first, even if they are hungry themselves; and to be selfless, patient, and firm in virtue. Such Muslims are far more compassionate and understanding towards non-Muslims, for they know that there is no compulsion in religion. When dealing with non-Muslims, they do their best to show the way to the right path, address the other person's conscience, and become the means of this person's acceptance of a virtuous life, which is only possible if Allah grants him or her faith. In the following verse Allah reveals that He rules people's hearts and that only He can bring light into them:

Do those who believe not know that if Allah had wanted to He could have guided all humanity? (Surat Ar-Ra'd: 31)

You cannot guide those you would like to, but Allah guides whoever He wills. He has best knowledge of the guided. (Surat Al-Qasas: 56)

Muslims are only responsible for relaying the truth and inviting people to believe, for belief cannot be forced upon someone. Allah says:

There is no compulsion in religion. Right guidance has become clearly distinct from error. Anyone who rejects false deities and believes in Allah has grasped the Firmest Handhold, which will never give way. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. (Surat Al-Baqara: 256)

Muslims naturally abide by the Qur'an's morality when dealing with the People of the Book. For example, the Qur'an says that Muslims are expected to respect the Christians' and the Jews' beliefs and reputations, protect them and be compassionate toward them, for they are fellow believers in Allah's existence and unity, His angels and Prophets, the Day of Judgment, and the necessity to abide by religious morality. This fact is an important measure for the Muslims to feel compassion for them and to protect them.

Allah also reveals in the Qur'an that those Christians and Jews who believe in Him as the One and Only, and the Day of Judgment and do good deeds will receive the fairest rewards for their virtue:

Those with faith, those who are Jews, Christians, and Sabaeans, all who believe in Allah and the Last Day and act rightly will have their reward with their Lord. They will feel no fear and will know no sorrow. (Surat Al-Baqara: 62)

Thus, glad tidings are given to all who believe in Allah and the Day of Judgment and do right deeds; and Allah has revealed in the Qur'an that those believers have rewards in the Sight of Allah. In Surat Al-Ma'ida: 48 Allah states; »We have appointed a law and a practice for every one of you,« and that everyone has to »compete with each other in doing good.« It is a command for all sincere believers to live righteously and compete in doing good. Therefore, Muslims cannot be uncompromising and uncompassionate towards people who, like themselves, believe in Allah and are righteous. The history of Islam proves this point.

The truth revealed by all these facts is that the morality of Islam requires Muslims to be understanding towards Jews and Christians, to enable them the freedom of worship and faith, to be respectful towards their culture and traditions and to approach those devout believers among the People of the Book with love and compassion. Anything in the contrary would not be compliant with neither the morality of the Qur'an, nor the Sunnah of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace).

Before we analyze this history, we must point out a very important factor that determines the Muslims' attitude toward the People of the Book: Muslims' love for the Prophets Moses (pbuh) and Jesus (pbuh).

The information above reveals one fact: The morality of Islam obliges Muslims to treat Jews and Christians with understanding, to ensure their freedom of worship and faith, to respect their culture and customs, and approach the People of the Book who have sincere faith with compassion and love. A contrary attitude would be incompatible with both the morality of the Qur'an and the Sunnah of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace).

In the Qur'an Allah praises all the Prophets (peace be upon them all), Muslims have a heartfelt love for the Prophet Moses (pbuh) and the Prophet Jesus (pbuh).

In all epochs, Allah has sent Prophets to deliver His revelations to humanity. Prophets are chosen in His Presence and therefore are ennobled by Him. These role models of virtue taught His religion to their nations, advocated goodness and warned of evil, and helped people toward faith. The Qur'an gives many examples of past nations and peoples and their Prophets' lives. These narratives reveal details of their teachings about Allah and His religion, their ideological fight against unbelievers, and the responses they received from the people they invited to faith. The Prophets' patience, selflessness, sincerity, fine thinking, and other superior human virtues made them ideal role models. Muslims believe in all the Prophets who were chosen by Allah to reveal the truth to humanity, such as Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all):

He has laid down the same religion for you as He enjoined on Noah: that which We have revealed to you and which We enjoined on Abraham, Moses, and Jesus: »Establish the religion and do not make divisions in it.« What you call the idolaters to follow is very hard for them. Allah chooses for Himself anyone He wills, and guides to Himself those who turn to Him. (Surat Ash-Shura: 13)

As Allah revealed in the Qur'an »...We believe in Allah and what has been sent down to us and what was sent down to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the Tribes, and what Moses and Jesus were given, and what all the Prophets were given by their Lord. We do not differentiate between any of them. We are Muslims submitted to Him' (Surat Al-Baqara: 136), Muslims believe in all the prophets, making no distinction between them, have a profound love for them all and take the lives and moral values of these holy individuals as models for themselves.

All the prophets have preached the true faith in the Sight of our Lord to their peoples, have called on them to believe in Allah, the One and Only, and have warned and frightened them with regard to the Day of Judgment. All the prophets are holy individuals with superior moral virtues and profound faith and must serve as models for Muslims and are remembered with respect. Just like Allah praised these blessed individuals in the Qur'an, Muslims must praise and remember the exemplary virtues, behavior and faith of the Prophets Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), Jesus, Moses, Jacob, Noah, Joseph, Abraham, Elijah, Jethro, Lot and all the other prophets (peace be upon them all) with fervor and enthusiasm. This is a form of religious observances that Allah praises in the Qur'an. There is wisdom in the lives of all the prophets for believers to reflect on and adopt as models for themselves. It is unbecoming of a genuine Muslim to ignore that wisdom or fail to reflect on it properly.

Of course, as Allah reveals in verse 21 of Surat Al-Ahzab, for everyone who believes in Allah and the Day of Judgment, the best examples are in the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), the Messenger of Allah. However, for an honest Muslim to consider the honorable moral values of the other prophets and to be one of those whom Allah will approve just like them, is just as important as it is to adopt the moral values of our beloved Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace).

Allah reveals in the Qur'an that the Prophet Moses (pbuh) and the Prophet Aaron (pbuh) are blessed individuals who are auspicious and honorable in His Sight as follows:

We showed great kindness to Moses and Aaron. We rescued them and their people from their terrible plight. We supported them, and so they were the victors. We gave them the clarifying Book, guided them on the Straight Path, and left the later people saying of them: »Peace be upon Moses and Aaron.« That is how We recompense good-doers. They truly were among Our believing servants. (Surat As-Saffat: 114-122)

Allah sent the Prophet Moses (pbuh) to the Children of Israel, who were enslaved by Pharaoh at the time, for the following reason: »Then We gave Moses the Book, complete and perfect for him who does good, elucidating everything, and a guidance and a mercy, so that hopefully they will believe in their encounter with their Lord« (Surat Al-An'am: 154). In the Qur'an, Allah reveals how Moses (pbuh) was chosen:

Has the story of Moses not reached you? When he [Moses] saw a fire and said to his family: »Wait here. I can make out a fire. Maybe I will bring you a brand from it, or will find guidance there.« Then when he reached it, a voice called out: »Moses! I am your Lord. Take off your sandals. You are in the holy valley of Tuwa. I have chosen you, so listen well to what is revealed.« (Surah Ta Ha: 9-13)

The Prophet Moses (pbuh) fought against Pharaoh and his close allies, as well as those hypocrites and people of weak faith from among his own nation, and proved himself a universal role model by means of his submission to Allah and his faith, patience, courage, selflessness, intelligence, motivation, and drive. Muslims feel deep respect for him.

The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) is introduced as **»The Messenger and word of Allah«** (Surat An-Nisa: 171), as well as a **»sign«** (Surat Al-Anbiya: 91) for people. In the Qur'an, Allah reveals some enlightening information about his life and mission and the miracles that He granted to him. The Prophet Jesus is praised in the Qur'an as follows:

When the angels said: »Mary, your Lord gives you good news of a Word from Him. His name is the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, of high esteem in this world and the Hereafter, and one of those brought near.« (Surat Al'Imran: 45)

The nature of the divine revelation given to the Prophet Jesus (pbuh), the Gospel, is described as follows:

And We sent Jesus, son of Mary, following in their footsteps, confirming the Torah that came before him. We gave him the Gospel containing guidance and light, confirming the Torah that came before it, and as guidance and admonition for those who guard against evil. (Surah Al 'Imran: 46)

As Allah reveals in the Qur'an, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) is distinguished from the other Prophets in several ways. The most significant of these is that he did not die, but was raised up to the Presence of Allah and will return. In the Qur'an Allah states that »they certainly did not kill him« (Surat An-Nisa: 157), but that Allah raised him up to His Presence. His death or being killed is never mentioned in the Qur'an. Besides, Allah also reveals in the Qur'an information about the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) that never happened in the history and those events can only be realized with the Prophet Jesus (pbuh)'s second coming to the world. There is no doubt that events foretold in the Qur'an will come true. (This point will be examined in details in the following chapters of this book.) Consequently, Muslims are awaiting his return with great joy and anticipation, just like the Christians and are doing their best to prepare for his arrival.

Hazrat Mary, the mother of the Prophet Jesus (pbuh), is an exemplary individual whom Allah praises in the Qur'an because of her superior moral values and behavior, and whom Allah elevated above all the women of the worlds. Allah reveals the following about Mary in the Qur'an:

And when the angels said, 'Mary, Allah has chosen you and purified you. He has chosen you over all other women. (Surah Al 'Imran: 42)

And Mary, the daughter of 'Imran, who guarded her chastity We breathed Our Soul into her and she confirmed the Words of her Lord and His Book and was one of the obedient. (Surat At-Tahrim: 12)

Believers must harbor a profound love and respect for those holy servants whose superior moral virtues and behavior Allah praises in His verses, and they must adopt them as role models. All Muslims who truly believe must take pains to behave in this way.

#### The People Of Israel And The Christians Lived In Security In The Time Of Our Prophet (May Allah Bless Him And Grant Him Peace)

#### From Mr. Adnan Oktar's Interview for The Gulf Today (UAE), October, 2008

**ADNAN OKTAR:** The people of Israel are descendants of the prophets; they are the children of our own prophets. They are the ones who follow the law of the Prophet Moses (pbuh), and they have brought that law, that faith, right down to the present day. It is therefore incompatible with good conscience to deprive these immaculate people of their state and nation, to seek to exile them or refuse them the right to live. Muslims are affectionate and compassionate and are full of love. Of course, they are our brothers too, and have the right to live. They are first-class people; they can live as they chose, trade and make art as they like in the region. So why should they be exiled from that region and why should they live restless or why should they be deprived of their right to live in peace? No reasonable person could accept that, I do not accept it either. Of course they are going to live in peace and in happiness and have their security guaranteed. They will live in plenty and abundance within the Turkish-Islamic Union. The commandment of the Qur'an is crystal clear, as are the Sunna and practices of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace). The people of the Book were perfectly at ease in the time of the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace). The people of Israel were living perfectly at ease. They were living in Jerusalem then, in the region that is Israel. They were happy and wealthy. Our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) treated them with love and affection. One can marry Jewish girls, eat meat they have prepared, sit down at their tables, visit their homes and be friends with them, and that was what happened in the time of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) and is Sunnah. The same applies to the Christians. As you know, one of our Prophet's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) concubines was a Christian. She is our mother, I mean someone we recall with love and respect. I am not only talking about Judaism here, the same goes for Christians. They are also people with the right to live in happiness and peace, with the right to comfortable lives, with the right to live in wealth and abundance, and we must see that they enjoy the ability to live in that way.

#### Muslims Have A Responsibility To Protect And Watch Over The People Of The Book (From Mr. Adnan Oktar's Interview on Kackar TV, January 22nd , 2009)

**REPORTER:** Why is anti-Semitism, racism that is totally against Islam?

**ADNAN OKTAR:** We have love towards the descendants of the Prophets, we feel affection for the Prophet Abraham's (pbuh) sons. Our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) is from the Prophet Abraham's (pbuh) lineage and so is Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh). Abdul-Qadir Gilani as well as all great imams are the descendants of the Prophet Abraham (pbuh). That is why we cannot have any enmity or animosity against the lineage of prophets. That could only have a place in an evil mind and in evil thoughts. We are against atheist Zionism; otherwise we love devout Jews with great compassion. We also feel affection and have love for them because they are the lineage of the prophets. In that sense we may have no opposition or animosity towards them that would be unlawful and it has no place in Islam. On the contrary there is protection, shelter and kindness in the Qur'an and we are obliged to act that way. They will surely practice their religion as they like and that is the same for Christians also, and we may only have positive involvement in that respect, not a negative one.

# Chapter 2: Muslims And The People Of The Book In The History Of Islam

Everyone looking at the history of Islam since very early times and at the position of Christians and Jews under Islamic administration with an unbiased eye will encounter one very obvious fact: The People of the Book have always lived in peace and security under Islamic rule. Indeed, Christians and Jews who were persecuted under the rule of different faiths and sects from time to time sought refuge in Islamic lands and found the security they sought in Muslim countries. The main reason why the People of the Book were able to live in such peace and comfort is that Muslims form their attitudes and behavior toward the People of the Book according to the moral values of the Qur'an.

## The Prophet Muhammad's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) Loving and Affectionate Morality Must Serve As a Role Model for All Muslims

In the time of the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), Arabia was home to communities of different religions, cultures and ideas. Jews, Christians, Sabians, Zoroastrians and idol worshippers all lived side by side, together with many different tribes hostile to each other. Yet no matter what their tribe or beliefs are, our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) called people to faith in Allah with affection, patience, compassion and love. in the Qur'an Allah describes his pleasing attitude to those around him as follows:

It is a mercy from Allah that you were gentle with them. If you had been rough or hard of heart, they would have scattered from around you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them... (Surah Al 'Imran: 159)

As pointed out earlier, the Qur'an reveals that no one should be pressured to embrace Islamic morality. Muslims are charged only with explaining the religion of Allah. No one can force anyone else to believe or worship. One can find the true path and come to believe, only by the Will of Allah. Our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) always scrupulously abided by that prohibition and stated frequently that a man could live by religious morality only when, in his heart, he really wanted to. Allah told our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) in one holy verse how he should behave towards those around him:

We know best what they say. You are not a dictator over them. So remind, with the Qur'an, whoever fears My Threat. (Surah Qaf: 45)

In one hadith our Prophet (May Allah bless him and grant him peace) says: »I was sent as a tolerant, seeker after Allah (one from the faith of the Prophet Abraham (pbuh)), and whoever opposes my Sunna is not one of us." (Al Jami As Sagir, 1. 427)

Elsewhere he tells believers _»I was sent to be compassionate and a peace-maker..." (Al Jami As Sagir)._ This superior moral virtue of our Prophet (May Allah bless him and grant him peace) is expressed as follows: » _Someone who responds with gentleness (who controls his earthly passion) when angered will merit the love of Allah!" (Esbahani: Hazrat Aysha)_

There are many hadith concerning the compassionate, loving and tolerant qualities of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace). For example, the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) says: _"Allah will have no compassion on he who has no compassion for other people." (Bukhari and Muslim)_ Other passages read: _»Be merciful, that you may be shown mercy. Forgive, that you may be forgiven. Shame on those who speak too much. Shame on those who know their sins but persist in them." (Ahmad Diya ad-Din al-Kamushkhanawi, Ramuz al-Ahadith, Vol. 1)_

»Allah is loving and merciful, He loves gentleness, and what He gives from gentleness He gives with nothing else." (Al-Kutub As-Sittah Translation and Commentary, Vol. 7)

The great Islamic scholar Imam Ghazzali summarizes the information he collected in the hadith regarding our Prophet's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) attitude to those around him: »He was far from knowing anger and quickly showed compassion for things. He was the most loving of men toward other people. He was the most auspicious of men and did the most good to others, and the most useful and beneficial to others." (Hujjat-ul-Islam, Imam Ghazzali, Ihya Ulum-id-din, Vol. 2)

The human love, consideration and affection of our prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) that bound those around him to the religion and warmed their hearts to faith is a superior moral virtue that all Muslims must concentrate on. Allah revealed these moral virtues of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), a role model for all mankind, in Surat At-Tawba:

A Messenger has come to you from among yourselves. Your suffering is distressing to him; he is deeply concerned for you; he is gentle and merciful to the believers. (Surat At-Tawba: 128)

Love, affection, tolerance and compassion are shared virtues among the messengers sent by Allah as guides to salvation. Allah reveals in the Qur'an that He has bestowed "sensitivity to love" on other prophets, and cites the Prophet John (pbuh), on whom He bestowed knowledge from His Presence, as a model on this subject. He describes this holy personage as having "...tenderness and purity from Us - he had takwa (respectful fear of Allah)." (Surah Maryam: 13) Therefore, Muslims who believe and follow in the path of the messengers must also have moral values built on affection, love and compassion. When believers truly live by these moral values commanded by Allah, they will see that many issues that appear to be problematic are easily resolved, that peace and security will spread and that abundance and plenty will reign.

## The Prophet Muhammad's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) Exemplary Approach toward the People of the Book

The Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), the best role model for Muslims who deal with the People of the Book, was always tender hearted, just and compassionate toward Jews and Christians and tried to create an atmosphere based on reconciliation and love among these three religious communities. Various agreements and guarantees allowed Christians and Jews to live as autonomous religious communities. When the young Muslim community was still suffering from the Meccan polytheists' cruelty and oppression, our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) advised some of them to seek refuge with the Christian king of Ethiopia, Negus (or al-Najashi). The Muslims who later on migrated to Madinah with our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), on the other hand, developed a model of coexistence with that city's Jewish community that was to become a model for all later generations. The Muslims' acceptance of Jews and Christians during the period of Islam's expansion in Arabia entered the history books as an example of justice and understanding.

One such example was our beloved Prophet's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) words written in the text of an agreement prepared for the Christian Ibn Harris bin Ka`b and his co-religionists: _»The religion, churches, lives, chastity, and goods of all Christians living in the East are under the protection of Allah and all believers. None of those living by Christianity will be forced to turn to Islam. If any Christian is subjected to any killing or injustice, Muslims must help him.«_ 1

The Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) allowed the Jews to become a party to the Constitution of Madinah signed with the Aws and Khazraj clans, which permitted them to continue living as a separate religious community. The basis for this compassion and understanding of the Jews' faith and traditions was laid down in the following article: _»The Jews of Banu Awf [non-Muslim minorities] are a community along with the believers. To the Jews their religion, and to the Muslim their religion.«_ 2

As a requirement of the morality ordained by Allah, the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) not only showed compassion and understanding toward the People of the Book, but also taught his Companions that those Jews and Christians living under the rule of Islam must be protected. The privileges that he granted them in the settlements of Adruh, Maqna, Khaybar, Najran, and Aqaba prove that Muslims both guaranteed these non-Muslims' lives and property and recognized their freedom of belief and worship. The following articles of the agreement between our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) and the Christians of Najran need to be pointed out:

To the Christians of Najran and the neighboring territories, the security of Allah and pledge of His Prophet are extended for their lives, their religion, and their property - to those present as well as those absent and others besides;

No bishop shall be removed from his bishopric, nor any monk from his monastery, nor any priest from his priesthood, and they shall continue to enjoy everything great and small as heretofore... They shall not oppress or be oppressed.

If anyone demands his right from you, justice will be maintained between you.

Neither you will be oppressed, nor will you be allowed to oppress others.3

In addition, according to some accounts, our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) attended their weddings, visited their sick, and was generous to them. The Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) even spread out his cloak so that the Christians of Najran who came to visit him could sit on it. Following his death, the Muslims' moral conduct toward the People of the Book continued to be based on the compassion that the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) had shown to them throughout his life.

#### Muslims' Attitude Towards The People Of The Book Must Be In Agreement With The Affectionate Attitude Of Our Prophet

#### (May Allah Bless Him And Grant Him Peace) (From Mr. Adnan Oktar's Live Interview on Tempo TV March 10th, 2009)

**ADNAN OKTAR:** Our beautiful Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) was very compassionate towards Christians. He would go and eat with them, eat their food. He would also trade with the Jews and encourage his companions to do so. In that era both Christians and Jew lived their lives as if they were in Heaven. It was a term of peace and splendor for them.

From Mr. Adnan Oktar's Live interview on Channel Malatya, January 7th , 2009

**ADNAN OKTAR:** People of the Book is entrusted to us, this has been the same in Ottoman times as well as during the time of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace). We see the same in the Qur'an and we are obliged to protect and shelter them, to show compassion towards them and love them. We just do not conform to their beliefs, but we love them very much as human beings and our brothers and embrace them. However if they say (Allah is beyond this) Allah is one of the three; of course we say without doubt Allah is One, so therefore we would not agree with them. So in this aspect we never abide by their guidance and we do not obey them. But we are surely in unity on righteous morals and they are definitely our brothers.

From Mr. Adnan Oktar's Live Interview on Cay TV, July 23rd , 2008

**ADNAN OKTAR:** Our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) used to meet with Jews, do business with them and have relations with them. He also had relations with Christians, and that is not a crime.

## Freedom of Belief and Worship under the Islamic Administration

Beginning at the time of the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) there has always been freedom of religion in Muslim-ruled lands. Muslims protected the Christians' and Jews' belief systems, rituals, churches and synagogues, and schools of religious education. Articles guaranteeing the protection of monasteries and churches have been important parts of all agreements signed between Muslims and the People of the Book. Early agreements also allowed Muslim travelers to rest in the monasteries located along the travel routes. This suggests that Muslims were attempting to develop their relationship with the People of the Book on mutual respect and that they were taking pains to establish friendly relationship with them. Historical documents reveal that many Muslims visited monasteries to rest for the night, to enjoy a meal, or even to have a civilized conversation during their travels or campaigns.

The People of the Book often responded warmly toward Muslims. The following expressions were recorded in an agreement signed by Caliph Umar, which was presented to Abu Ubayda by the Syrian Christians:

[We imposed these terms on ourselves: ]... not to withhold our churches from Muslims stopping there by night or day; to open their doors to the traveler and wayfarer;...to entertain every Muslim traveler in our customary style and feed him... We will not abuse a Muslim, and he who strikes a Muslim has forfeited his rights.4

As the following verse; »if Allah had not driven some people back by means of others, monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, where Allah's name is mentioned much, would have been pulled down and destroyed,« (Surat Al-Hajj: 40) points out, Jewish and Christian places of worship are regarded by Muslims as holy places in which Allah's name is remembered. Thus, as it is their responsibility to protect such places, throughout Islamic history all Jewish and Christian houses of worship have been protected so that the Jews and Christians can pray and worship in them as they please. For instance, historic documents signed during Abu Bakr's (ra) reign state that the Christians of the peacefully taken city of Tabarriya were given guarantees that their churches would not be harmed. Likewise, the agreement signed after the conquest of Damascus stated that churches would not be destroyed or occupied. Umar's (ra) covenant to the people of Jerusalem guaranteed the protection of all places of worship. During the conquest of the Armenian city of Dabil (Dvin) in Uthman's (ra) time, the assurances given to Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians guaranteed the protection of all places of worship.5

Permission to restore damaged churches and build new monasteries was never withheld. For instance, the St. Sergius monastery outside of Medain was destroyed by Patriarch Mar Amme and rebuilt during Uthman's reign. Uqba, the governor of Egypt, contributed to a Nestorian monastery, the Church of Edessa was restored during the reign of Mu'awiyya, and the Saint Marcos Church was built in Alexandria. These are just a few examples of this tradition. The continued existence of churches and synagogues in Palestine, Syria, Jordan, Egypt, and Iraq proves the Muslims' respect for the other divinely revealed religions. The Sinai Monastery with a mosque right next door is an important pilgrimage center on Mount Sinai and an example of the respect Muslims showed to the places of worship of the People of the Book.

Under Islamic rule, the People of the Book have always celebrated their religious festivities as they pleased. From time to time, the Muslim leadership even attended them. A letter by the Nestorian Patriarch Isho'yab III (650-60) reveals the Muslim leaders' compassion and understanding toward the People of the Book:

They [Abbasids] have not attacked the Christian religion, but rather they have commended our faith, honored our priests... and conferred benefits on churches and monasteries.6

Benjamin of Tudela, a famous twelfth-century Jewish explorer who could not conceal his astonishment when he discovered such attitudes in the Islamic world, expressed the impossibility of such religious understanding and pluralism in Christian Europe. He also stated that Jews and Muslims prayed together in holy places and at the tombs of holy people; that mosques were built next to synagogues, and that different congregations celebrated each other's religious festivities.7

These historical facts reveal that, contrary to much of what we read today, Islam is a religion of peace and love. Christians and Jews lived freely under Muslim rule and enjoyed the freedoms of religious belief and thought.

## The Tranquility the People of the Book Experienced under Muslim Rule

Christians and Jews enjoyed the highest degree of freedom and love under Muslim rule. During the first few centuries of the Christian era, Jews oppressed Christians; as the latter became more powerful, they began to oppress Jews and even fellow Christians belonging to other sects. The Middle Ages were dominated by the Catholic church's oppression of all Jews and Christians who did not agree with its teachings. Some non-Catholics sought refuge with the Muslims. The oppression and violence directed by Byzantium against the Egyptian Monophysite and the Jacobean Christians, the horrors endured by those Jews and Orthodox Christians who found themselves in the path of the Catholic Crusaders, and the persecution endured by the Jews of Europe, as well as by the Muslims and Jews in Spain after the Reconquista, have never occurred on Muslim soil.

The Ottoman Empire set an example of this highly compassionate attitude. The Patriarch of Antalya, Makarios, compared the tyranny of Catholic Poland against the Orthodox population with the Ottoman administration and concluded:

We mourned the thousands of people, men, women, and children killed by those heathens. The Polish wish to exterminate people of the Orthodox faith. May Allah make the Turkish state eternal, because they do not interfere with the Jews or Christians, provided they pay their taxes.8

Jews escaping Spanish tyranny found the peace and security they sought on Ottoman soil. Driven out of Spain and faced with more hardship in other countries where they sought refuge, many died of hunger and thirst at the gates of towns and cities they were not permitted to enter. Jews who boarded Genoese ships were either exploited or sold to pirates. Sultan Bayazid welcomed the Jews into his empire and demanded that the people show them the respect and affection to which they were entitled.

The order proclaimed not to refuse the Jews entry or cause them difficulties, but to receive them cordially.9 Sultan Bayazid is known to history as a religious man, and his hospitality and affection were based on the Qur'an's morality.

Another example of the comfortable and prosperous lives led by Jews on Muslim soil was seen in Muslim Andalusia. This state, which founded the most advanced civilization in Europe at that time, was characterized by the understanding exhibited toward members of different faiths. Andalusia was gradually weakened due to the constant attacks of Spanish Christians. Granada was its last stronghold, and historic documents state that »those who have not seen the splendor of Jewish life do not know what splendor is.« At that time, Granada was the safest place on Earth for Jews.10

Another example is Palestine, where Jewish and Christian communities enjoyed religious freedom, lived in peace and safety, and engaged in trade and crafts. The Ottoman Empire guaranteed peace and security for some five centuries in the area, and such order has never been seen there since. The freedoms enjoyed in Jerusalem and its surrounding area under Ottoman rule is described by one of Israel's ex-foreign ministers, Abba Eban, as follows:

Jerusalem and the Jewish nation suffered bloodshed and torture from the Romans and every other occupying force. Only after the conquest of Jerusalem by Sultan Yavuz Selim and its fortification by Kanuni did the Jewish nation discover what humanity, equality, and a peaceful life meant.11

Throughout the Muslim world, Muslims, Christians, and Jews lived together in peace and tranquility for centuries. The People of the Book engaged in commerce and acquired property as they wished, engaged in the trade or profession of their choice, and were appointed to posts in the state administration and even in the sultan's palace. They enjoyed the freedom of thought and expression at the highest degree, and made scientific and cultural achievements that are still with us today. They were not denied their social rights, and enjoyed maximum freedoms of belief and worship. For instance, historical sources reveal that Christian physicians in the Abbasids' palace could read the Gospel with their families and staff, and no one interfered with their worship.

The importance of science and scientists in the Islamic world guaranteed the caliphs' patronage of Christian and Jewish scientists. Scientists of various religious denominations would meet at state-organized gatherings to discuss scientific matters. Jewish and Christian physicists would exchange views with their Muslim counterparts, and many medical works would be discussed in the presence of the caliph or his bureaucrats.12

Living under the Islamic rule, the People of the Book took part in the bustling cultural life. Muslim leaders extended their cultural patronage to the lands they conquered and imported them to Baghdad, capital of the empire, where they would be studied by Muslim, Christian, and Jewish scientists. Each of them in turn, could teach their works based on these studies alongside their own religious beliefs. At a time when Muslims supported science and freedom of thought, Europe, the center of Christianity, had Inquisition courts that burned people at the stake for their heretical, meaning non-Catholic, thoughts or religious beliefs.

The Muslim leaders' sense of justice led many Christians and Jews to bring their cases to Islamic courts, even though they had their own courts with their own laws. At one time, the Nestorian patriarch Mar Timothee I (780-825) even circulated a decree to counteract the ever-increasing number of Christians taking their cases to Islamic courts.13

This unequalled compassion and justice in Muslim lands was based on the Qur'an's morality. Muslim leaders who adopted such ethical standards always achieved security, peace, and justice in their domains. These administrations' priority was the public's happiness and prosperity; therefore, they established systems that set the standards for future generations. When these same values of compassion, mercy, justice, understanding, modesty, patience, selflessness, and devotion derived from the Qur'an's morality begin to pervade today's societies, it will be possible to create a world order in which all people will find peace and security.

#### Muslims Must Look After The People Of The Book

From Mr. Adnan Oktar's live interview on Mavi Karadeniz TV, February 3rd , 2009

**ADNAN OKTAR:** All the devout Jews in Israel must be looked after very carefully. We must look after their interests in the same way we look after those of Palestine. In other words, they are all ours from top to bottom. **Some are the sons of Jacob (pbuh) and others the sons of Ishmael (pbuh). Some are coming from the lineage of the Prophet Jacob (pbuh) and of from the Prophet Ishmael (pbuh). They are all descended from prophets. That applies to them all, and they are very devout and immaculate people.** But they have been afflicted by the scourge of atheist Zionists and freemasons. There is a group of people who want to set them at one another's throats, to destroy one another. We must set these people, that group aside and go there ourselves and ensure that our devout and immaculate brothers who are descended from the same forefathers can live in happiness. **A one-sided policy would be very wrong. That would be incompatible with both justice and with good conscience.** We cannot ignore such a beauty. The Jews are very devout and good natured. We must protect and watch out for them, but we must also liberate the Palestinians from this scourge, this affliction.

## Legal Status of the People of the Book in Muslim Societies

The People of the Book living within the Muslim realm were considered _dhimmis,_ rather than prisoners of war, and therefore were guaranteed certain legal rights. For example, in exchange for paying the jizya tax, their lives and property were guaranteed, and they enjoyed freedom of religious belief and thought, were exempted from military service, and had the right to their own law courts to resolve their disputes. On some occasions, their taxes were refunded.

This tax on non-Muslims has sometimes been misinterpreted in order to portray it as an injustice. But as we have seen above, the protections that they secured after paying it were hardly insignificant. In addition, the collected money was used to protect the non-Muslims' rights and future, and to take care of their needy coreligionists. Studying the dhimmis' status and the Muslim administrators' practices in this regard reveal the truth of the matter.

Our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) said: _»I am the adversary of those who wrong the dhimmis or burden them with a load they cannot carry.«_ According to this principle, Muslims considered it their duty to protect those non-Muslims living under their rule. The Muslims' sense of justice dictates that _dhimmis_ come under the state's protection. During the reign of Umar ibn al-Khattab(ra), the Muslims signed an agreement with the Christians of Hira. One of the provisions stated: _»If any of their men become weak and old, or inflicted with a disease, or was rich and had become poor, the jizya shall be lifted from him, and he and his family shall be supported by the public treasury [bayt al-mal] so long as he resides in the dar al-Islam.«_ 14 This clearly reveals the attitude of the Muslim authorities toward the dhimmis. When non-Muslims could not pay their taxes, they were supported by public funds, which were an important aspect of state support. Before signing the agreement he had made with the people of Damascus, Umar revealed the sensitivity of Muslims toward the jizya and non-Muslims:

My own opinion and on the Book of Allah [citing Q. LIX, 6-8] is that you should keep what has been given by Allah to you [of the land] in the hands of its people...If the jizya is paid by them [the dhimmis], you should require no more of them... For if we divide the land [among us], nothing will be left for our descendants...[If the land is left with its people,] the Muslims will be able to live on its produce.

You may therefore impose on them [the dhimmis] the jizya, never to take them as prisoners, nor to do any injustice or harm to them, or to take any of their property unless you have a [valid legal] claim to it. You must fulfill the obligations you accepted in accordance with your agreement with them.15

As we have seen, genuine Muslims who abide by the Qur'an's morality considered it their responsibility to protect the lives, property, and peace of non-Muslims. Once, during a battle with the Byzantine army, the situation became so untenable that Muslims could no longer provide the necessary protection to Christians. Thus, Muhammad, our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), ordered the jizya to be returned to them.16

The amicable history between Muslims and Jews and Christians is an example for the present. The Islamic code of ethics requires that non-Muslims be treated with affection, that their values and beliefs be respected, and that an environment in which peaceful coexistence is possible be created. Therefore, the spread of this code, as well as efforts to correct some misguided practices claiming to be Islamic, will play an important role.

In addition, Muslims' love and understanding must find an appropriate response in the Jewish and Christian communities, because Allah also commands them to love all other people and to be the leaders in all matters of good and peace.

# Chapter 3: Uniting Against The Threat Of Radicalism

Radical tendencies, irrespective of their origin, are one of the most dangerous threats to world peace and security. Radicalism means to advocate fundamental and sudden changes by means of uncompromising and hard-line policies. Radicals seek such changes by employing cunning and often aggressive policies. One of radicalism's characteristic traits is the angry attitude visible in its adherents' speeches, books, and demonstrations. Radical movements are dominated by blindly advocated taboos, instead of conscious behavior, and reflect amass psychology. This psychology, in turn, can get so out of control that people, who no longer know what they are doing or why, turn their aggression on others. In an environment where love, affection and understanding have ceased to exist, people begin to feel animosity toward different ideologies or races without knowing what the other party really represents or believes.

Ignorance enables radicalism to find new recruits, even though it is a harmful and destructive movement. Misinformed or one-sidedly informed people are vulnerable to extremist movements, whose philosophical programs they adopt without careful reflection. This is why education is an essential aspect of the ideological fight against radicalism.

In our own time, radicalism has emerged among Muslims, Christians, and Jews. This situation is abused and taken advantage of by proponents of Samuel Huntington's proposed _clash of civilizations_ theory. The scale of radicalism's threat to world peace has become apparent in the 9/11 attacks on the United States and its consequences. The fact that these attacks are widely believed to have been carried out in the name of Islam resulted in a great deal of prejudice against Muslims and misunderstanding of Islam. Given the fact that Islam prohibits all acts of violence and aggression, most of the Islamic world condemned these terrorist attacks. Muslims prayed alongside Christians for the innocent lives lost, and American Muslims rushed to the aid of the victims. Despite this, prejudice against Muslims in the United States and some European countries has vastly increased, and incidences of violence have been reported. The arguments of those radicals who seek to divide the world into two warring factions have created an atmosphere of anxiety.

In order to eradicate radicalism and its damaging consequences, cultural and educational campaigns designed to reach all sections of society must be organized. We can list the topics and the responsibilities of various sections of society to be covered by this program, as follows:

\- Being aware that radicalism, an extremist tendency, that is incompatible with true religious morality, must be defeated ideologically so that its claim to be acting in the name of religion can be exposed as false. People of all three divinely revealed religions must be told that they have a responsibility to be compassionate, patient, gentle, friendly, polite, and respectful. They have to be made aware that Allah forbids violence, aggression, and anything that harms innocent people. They must understand that it is wrong to go down that path. These efforts will ensure that people who emerge, supposedly in the name of religion, and who support harshness and violence will be recognized as misguided liars and thereby prevented from finding new recruits.

 _A program must be designed to give full and accurate information about all parties involved in the conflict, so that international cooperation becomes possible. An important step toward mutually friendly relations is the creation of an environment in which Jews, Christians, and Muslims can begin to know each other's beliefs, traditions, and rituals better. This can be done through cultural and educational programs. As people come to know each other better, they will realize that they have many things in common. This, in turn, will make reconciliation possible. Muslims, Christians, and Jews should tell one another about their respective worldviews in line with Allah's divine books of revelation, thereby preventing the mutual misunderstanding and radicalism caused by a lack of accurate knowledge._

 _The media must support the cultural activities necessary to create an environment conducive to international cooperation. They should refrain from sensationalism, which incites violence and segregation, and focus on broadcasts that encourage moderation, affection and understanding. Carefully prepared broadcasts by the western media will play an important role in eradicating the currently widespread anti-Muslim prejudice. Muslim media organizations, for their part, must refrain from broadcasts and opinions that incite hatred toward non-Muslims and concentrate instead on cultural and spiritual education in the Islamic world._

 _Jewish, Christian, and Muslim religious leaders and opinion makers must identify people who are bent on portraying myths and false beliefs as part of the religious code. They must teach people that Allah commands believers to be balanced and gentle, and that all extremism is incompatible with religious morality. Political leaders must support this awareness campaign in order to prevent extremism in society and must prepare the necessary ground so that a moderate conception, one that is compatible with religious moral values, should rule._

These and similar joint efforts will eradicate the conditions conducive to radicalism. In addition, believers must begin to show sincere respect for others' beliefs and values. Genuine believers must seek to draw closer to Allah instead of accusing one another. They should concentrate on enhancing their sincerity and work to earn Allah's good pleasure and mercy. In the following verse Allah reveals that people who act otherwise are wrong:

The Jews say: »The Christians have nothing to stand on,« and the Christians say: »The Jews have nothing to stand on,« yet they both recite the Book. Those who do not know say the same as they say. Allah will judge between them on the Day of Resurrection regarding the things about which they differ. (Surat Al-Baqara: 113)

Eradicating the harm caused by Jewish, Christian, and Muslim radicals is possible only if all moderate, peace-loving, civilized, and genuinely religious people cooperate and form an alliance. Such an alliance will defeat those who present war and conflict as the only option, and disprove the assertions of those who advocate a show of force as the only way to achieve security and prevent further bloodshed, tears, and material damage.

Another important way to curb radicalism is to expose the movements and ideologies that promote extremism as false. In the coming pages, we will scrutinize the errors of various radical Jewish and Christian movements. But first, we need to remind people in the Islamic world to be alert against radicalism.

## Muslims Must Not Forget That the Moral Values of the Qur'an Forbid All Forms of Extremism

As mentioned earlier, Islamic societies have been centers of affection and goodwill toward non-Muslims throughout history, particularly in our Prophet's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) time. Islamic history is full of examples of Christians and Jews seeking and finding refuge with Muslims. Bearing this reality in mind at a time when the world so desperately needs peace, Muslims must develop a model based on the Qur'an's morality and our Prophet's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) life that will set the standards for the rest of the world.

Radicalism is wholly incompatible with the way of life prescribed by Allah. Allah describes Muslims as those who speak nicely, refrain from conflict and fighting, are friendly and moderate toward even the fiercest opponents, and modest, patient, compassionate, and loving. In the Qur'an Allah reveals that all of the Prophets were moderate, gentle, and affectionate toward others. For example, Allah describes the Prophet Abraham (pbuh) as: **»tender-hearted and forbearing«** (Surat At-Tawba: 114) and the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) as:

It is a mercy from Allah that you were gentle with them. If you had been rough or hard of heart, they would have scattered from around you. (Surah Al 'Imran: 159)

Since Muslims are only responsible for announcing the Qur'an's morality, and since they are prohibited from being bullies or enforcers and are required to be _softly spoken_ to even the cruelest tyrant, they cannot be extremists or radicals, for such groups advocate that which violates the Qur'an's morality.

Radicalism is an ideological movement and political approach that is incompatible with the moral values of Islam. When radical groups are examined, it gradually becomes clear that they are, in reality, using a compilation of slogans and methods used by Darwinists and materialists or that they have adopted the **»fanatical rage of the time of ignorance«** (Surat Al-Fath: 26). One of the common characteristics of such ideologies is their emotional force, an underlying cause of radicalism that is totally incompatible with Allah's commands. The Qur'an describes Muslims as people who control their anger and who are reasonable, moderate, and tolerant. They always prefer reconciliation in order to reach solutions within the framework of mutual understanding and optimism. They show their calming and peaceful sides in all situations. One verse reveals these attributes: **Those who give in times of both ease and hardship, those who control their rage and pardon other people – Allah loves the good-doers. (Surah Al 'Imran: 134)**

Muslims must be polite and respectful when interacting with people of different beliefs and ideologies. They never resort to force or threats, for their responsibility is limited to teaching others about the Qur'an's morality. The rest is up to the conscience of those people. The following verse describes this approach:

Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and fair admonition, and argue with them in the kindest way. Your Lord knows best who is misguided from His way. And He knows best who are guided. (Surat An-Nahl: 125)

Allah commanded Prophets Moses and Aaron (peace be upon them) to speak with Pharaoh, and to do so softly:

»Go to Pharaoh; he has overstepped the bounds. But speak to him with gentle words so that, hopefully, he will pay heed or show some fear.« (Surah Ta Ha: 43-44)

Pharaoh was the worst denier and tyrant of his time. He rejected Allah, engaged in the perversion of making an idol out of himself, and was a despot who killed and oppressed the believers (Israelites). Yet, Allah commanded His Prophets to speak with gentle words when they visited him. Notice that Allah's ordained method is to establish a friendly dialogue. Agitating words, expressions of anger and heated protests are incompatible with His code of preaching and morality.

Therefore, all Muslims must refrain from a harsh, angry, and challenging approach, for these are contrary to the Qur'an's method and essence. Instead, Muslims must adopt the affection-filled, moderate, calm, and rational approach described in the Qur'an. In other words, they must be role models, with their maturity, lovableness, humanity, moderation, humility and calm for humanity and earn people's admiration for the morality of Islam and themselves. Muslims should also make great progress and produce superb works of science, culture, art, and aesthetics, as well as live Islam in the best way, and thus represent it to the world.

## What Should Muslims' Perspective towards Terror Be?

All forms of terrorist attack are roundly condemned in Islam. According to the Qur'an, it is a great sin to kill an innocent person, and anyone who does so will suffer great torment in the Hereafter:

... **If someone kills another person – unless it is in retaliation for someone else or for causing corruption in the earth – it is as if he had murdered all mankind. And if anyone gives life to another person, it is as if he had given life to all mankind. Our Messengers came to them with Clear Signs, but even after that, many of them committed outrages in the earth. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 32)**

This verse equals the killing of one innocent to slaughtering all of humanity! Another verse expresses the importance that the faithful attach to life:

Those who do not appeal to any other deity besides Allah [alone]; nor kill any soul whom Allah has forbidden [them to] except with the right to do so; nor fornicate. Anyone who does so will incur a penalty. (Surat Al-Furqan: 68)

In yet another verse, Allah issues the following commandment:

Say: »Come, and I will recite to you what your Lord has forbidden for you«: that you do not associate anything with Him; that you are good to your parents; that you do not kill your children because of poverty – We will provide for you and them; that you do not approach indecency – outward or inward; that you do not kill any person Allah has made inviolate – except with the right to do so. That is what He instructs you to do, so that hopefully, you will use your intellect. (Surat Al-An'am: 151)

Any Muslim who believes in Allah with a sincere heart, who scrupulously abides by His verses and fears suffering in the Hereafter, will avoid harming even one other person. He knows that the Lord of Infinite Justice will suitably reward him for all his deeds. In one of the hadiths, our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) listed the kinds of people who are not pleasing to Allah:

»Those who act cruelly and justly in the sacred lands, those who yearn for the ways of the ignorant, and those who wrongly shed human blood.« (Sahih Bukhari Hadith)

Another element worthy of note on this subject is the way they treat places of worship. Churches, synagogues and mosques are houses for the worship of Allah. It is a terrible crime in the Sight of Allah to slaughter innocent people as they worship in their churches, synagogues or mosques. The people who go to those places are devout, prayerful people. All houses where the name of Allah is remembered are sacred in the eyes of Islam. Visitors to these houses may be Jews, Christians or Muslims. The important thing is that each one is a devout believer in Allah. A Muslim must respect and protect the holy places where the People of the Book worship Allah, and protect them. For Muslims, these places are precious because in these places, people, whether Jews or Christians remember Allah.

#### Darwinism Is The Root Of Terrorism; The Solution Is True Religious Moral Values

From Mr. Adnan Oktar's Interview in Crimean Newspapers, November 14th, 2008

**ADNAN OKTAR:** For one thing, Islam is a religion of peace, as the name suggests. It is a religion of peace, love, affection, compassion, friendship, solidarity and everything good. But if you leave it in the hands of the ignorant they will kill and bomb and create a state of disorder. If you ask why they are doing it, they will say they are doing it for Allah's sake. That is what happens in the hands of the ignorant. The Christians took the Gospels and set about applying them in a different way. They staged the Crusades and wreaked terrible slaughter. They hanged and slew. The same with the Jews. There is no end to the slaughter they carried out with the Torah. Yet the Torah commands one to love and protect one's neighbor, any neighbor, no matter what his faith. That applies to Christianity, too. Judaism and Christianity are religions of love. Islam is also a religion of love. But if you put the Qur'an into the hands of people whose hearts are hardened, who have received a Darwinist education in Europe, who have received guerrilla training and communist education, then that is the result. Because such people deliberately use the Qur'an in order to act out the hatred in their heads. Yet in the Qur'an, when someone commits a murder they bring the murderer in. Allah then tells us to forgive the murderer. There are verses to that effect. What more? The Qur'an tells us to forgive even people who have deliberately committed murder in cold blood. So how can they possibly find violence in such a faith? Bombing and shooting and killing. They plant bombs where there are women and children. And they are all suddenly blown into pieces. And if you ask why, they will say they did it for Allah. Why not tell the truth and say you received a Darwinist, materialist education and are a great admirer of Stalin? Say you tried to square this with the Qur'an in your own mind and deceive the public. They should openly say they know that such things do not exist in Islam. Such people will say they are ill. Let them tell the truth. There is no such thing in the Qur'an. Our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) was exceedingly affectionate and compassionate. A cat was sleeping in his lap, so he cut his robe in order not to waken and disturb the animal. That is the kind of Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) we have. Where does all this bombing, the bombing of innocent children, and violence come from then? They are deprived of spirit. They do not know how to eat and drink; they have no art, no science, no technology and no love. These people have nothing to do with religion. They are people who attempt to apply the darkness in their souls, polytheism in their souls, to the Qur'an. The life of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) is an open book. He loved beauty and art, kept everything around him clean and lovely and spoke in a most pure manner. He was always affectionate, witty and modest. His surroundings were always spotless. He planted roses with the means available at the time. Just think, in the desert environment of Mecca and Medina. Just think; he even grew roses there. We can see his propensity toward love and beauty from that. The mighty Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) even joked with his grandchildren. They chased him and he chased around after them. That was the kind of person the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) was. But look at the faces of those people and you can read the murder in them. Can such people be Muslims? That is why it is the freemasons who are behind attempts to depict Islam as something abnormal. And these are all people who have had a Darwinist, materialist, Stalinist education. Their devilish idea was to try to portray Islam as something terrifying. Muslims supposedly carried out the September 11 attacks. What Muslims? Look beneath the surface and you will see people who received a Darwinist education, who knew all about Marxism and the policies of Stalin. Why call these people Muslims? That is why every attack on Muslims is an attack by satan. We must not fall into the trap. Islam and the life of the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) are plain to see. The love-filled words of the Qur'an, the words of Allah, are also plain to see. The verses of the Qur'an are crystal clear. Just like Darwinism, this is a deception, but we have exposed it and will further expose it in the future, insha'Allah.

#### From An Interview With Mr. Adnan Oktar By Poli Gazette (Netherlands) July 2nd, 2009

**ADNAN OKTAR:** The incidents portrayed as Islamic terror are actually carried out by communist terrorists whose ID cards happen to describe them as Muslims. Former Iraqi Ba'ath Party communists, Syrian Bas'ath Party communists, Libyan communists, Yemeni communists, Egyptian communists and rule by them, directed by the masons, give rise to such a structure. All those who perpetrate terrorist actions have been educated in Europe, have undergone a Darwinist, materialist education, and are people whose ID documents say they are Muslims. But they have all received a Darwinist education. Pictures of Karl Marx hang on the walls in their homes. They are generally admirers of Marx and Lenin, and Ho Chi Minh. They admire terrorists. But if asked, they will say they are Muslims. They are not Muslims. They are communists, terrorist elements who espouse anarchist thinking. It is irrelevant that their ID documents say they are Muslims. But the important thing here is that almost all these people have received a Darwinist, materialist education in Europe or America. When people are told that this education is satanic trickery, that trickery will come to an end, and we are rapidly approaching the time when it will end. We are coming to the time of the Mahdi (pbuh). We are approaching the appearance of the Prophet Jesus (pbuh). The whole world will see the descent to Earth of the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) in the next 10-20 years. I am here, and people are in the world. We will see it, insha'Allah, if Allah permits. The whole world will see that this is a definite reality. Darwinism is increasingly melting away, like candle wax, and will continue to do so in the future. After that, children will read about Darwinism in history books. They will be amazed how such a comic, pagan faith, such a wretched pagan religion, could have been adopted by people.

## The Errors of Radical Christians

The vast majority of Christians approach members of other religions with the love, and respect required by the Gospel. This is a very important – and very recent – development. During the second half of the twentieth century, the Christian world's conviction that all other religions are completely wrong was largely abandoned, and the view that non-Christians should not be automatically condemned gained the upper hand. Christian writers, researchers, and officials expressed this view regularly. Organizations representing Christians decided to establish a dialogue and cooperate with other religions to find solutions to the world's problems.

However, it is still possible – although not often – to encounter Christian harshness and even aggressions toward non-Christians. Some religious figures make unfounded allegations against other religions and claim that their followers are destined for Hell. Such allegations create discomfort in the Islamic world. Some Christian leaders continue to make aggressive comments about Muslims, misinterpret the Torah, and claim that in the near future a Muslim-Christian war will occur. Or, even worse, they claim that such a war is both necessary and unavoidable. The Torah relates stories from past nations, their wars, and the consequences thereof. Most of these are specific to those times and events. Therefore, such narratives must be considered in the context of those times, and one should refrain from reinterpreting those narratives to support war and conflict.

One of the most fundamental errors of Christian radicals is their belief in Armageddon, which they think will take place before the Messiah's (pbuh) arrival. This unfounded belief violates the morality that Jesus (pbuh) taught to his followers. Even a cursory reading of the Gospel shows that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) recommended love, peace, and friendship.

Christians should know that Muslims are also awaiting the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) second coming, for this miracle is foretold in the Qur'an and in the Prophet Muhammad's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) hadiths. Therefore, Muslims and Christians should make joint preparations for his arrival. The best preparation is to adopt the morality that pleases Allah.

After the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) returns, he will defeat all atheist ideologies and idolatrous philosophies; such ideologies as fascism and racism will be eradicated; the world will be freed from ethnic violence, tyranny, and injustice; and humanity will experience peace, happiness, and tranquility. Therefore, genuinely religious people who are preparing for this great event should make the necessary preparations, try to prevent all kinds of conflict, and leave all disputes, divisions, and animosities behind.

No doubt, the Christians are the best placed to render invalid all of those opinions and attitudes that seek to prevent a dialogue based on mutual understanding and respect between the two communities. True Christians must reveal such people's errors to them, as well as to society, by reminding them that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) commanded his followers to treat all people well, love their enemies, and do good to those who hate them. In other words, he does not call for intolerance toward non-Christians and does not support those self-proclaimed Christians who seek to turn the world into a great arena of warfare. Such a biased and hateful attitude toward non-Christians, especially Muslims, is the result of misinterpreted Christian teachings and certain irreligious ideologies. Moderate Christians must expose the radicals' views as contrary to Christian teachings so that the Christian community will not be led astray. As we stated earlier, radicalism feeds on ignorance, and Christians are morally obliged to prevent this danger. As the Gospel says:

For it is Allah's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men... Show the proper respect to everyone. Love the brotherhood of believers, fear Allah... (1 Peter, 2: 15-17)

All conscientious Christians must shoulder this responsibility, for the war and conflict demanded by radicals will bring great losses, tears, and suffering to both sides. It would be a grave mistake to refrain from taking the necessary steps, when an alliance of all believers could remove this probability. The tensions desired by radicals can be prevented by Muslims and Christians of common sense. Removing the prejudices and creating an alliance of believers will enable them to play a leading role in delivering world peace. In this way, Christians and Muslims will bring peace and happiness to the world, just as the morality ordained by Allah demands.

## The Errors of Radical Jews

On 25 February 1994, Baruch Goldstein unleashed a vicious attack on the Abraham Mosque in al-Khalil (Hebron) in the West Bank. The Jewish settler Baruch Goldstein entered the mosque and, under the protection of Israeli soldiers, walked to its center and opened fire with his M-16 assault rifle on the 500 Muslims performing their morning prayers, repeatedly changing magazines. Sixty-seven Muslims died on the spot; a further 300 were wounded.

In reality, this was only one of the many attacks carried out by certain radical Israeli Jewish groups. In 1980, the same groups tried to blow up Muslim places of worship in Jerusalem (e.g., al-Aqsa Mosque and the Qubbat as-Sakhrah). The radical Jewish settlers who walk around with their weapons and launch bloody attacks on Palestinians are members of these groups.

These radical groups harbor some ideas that violate the Torah and Judaic tradition, such as that Jews are superior to all other races, which they consider to be a sort of animal _(goyim)_ , and that all Arabs in the occupied territories should be subjected to ethnic cleansing. These attitudes prove the existence of a real danger: _Jewish radicalism_. We have scrutinized this radical ideology and its consequences in earlier publications. We can summarize them as follows:

There is a radical tendency in the Jewish world to promote hate and animosity toward non-Jews and advocate the harshest and most unforgiving treatment of Palestinians. This tendency has strong support within Israel and plays an important role in forming and continuing its aggressive, uncompromising, and occupying 50-year attitude against Palestinians and its Arab neighbors. No doubt, Jewish militants are a small minority within the Israeli Jewish community (also among all Jews around the world). However, there is a radical culture that provides ideological support and continues to threaten Middle Eastern and world peace.

In order for this to be put right:

1- Jewish religious figures should abide by the Torah's moral approach of love, respect, justice, and compassion. Many Jewish religious figures are working toward this end.

2- Zionist must be made to be implemented in a manner compatible with religious moral values. Of course Israel has the right to exist and protect itself. Moreover, it is perfectly legitimate for Jews to live in Palestine, the lands of their forefathers, alongside Muslims and Jews and to want to exist in peace. But Israel has no right to force a whole nation to live under troubles and oppression for over 50 years. Palestine is large enough for all these peoples to live together in peace and harmony. For this reason, Israel must withdraw from all of the territories that it has occupied since 1967, recognize an independent Palestinian state in the West Bank and Gaza, and make peace with the Palestinians as well as the Arab world by entering a friendly and constructive dialogue with them.

In addition, it is very important that religious Jews follow Allah's advice and invite all Jews to abide by the moral conduct ordained by Him.

As with Christians and Jews, Allah has commanded the Jews to defend justice, honesty and the rights of the innocent, and to live by peace and love. Therefore, certain elements of radical Jewish fanaticism contradict other passages from the Torah, such as: _Who stops his ears against plots of murder and shuts his eyes against contemplating evil (Isaiah, 33: 15)._ It must not be forgotten that no ideology that sanctions violence and aggression, and disrupts law and order, can succeed. Violence always brings only loss. Preventing such destructiveness necessitates the exposure of the fanatics' deceptions and errors, which also will prevent their influence over any other people as well as help them to see reason.

Jews who genuinely believe in Allah must abide by the Torah's true principles and advocate for peace in order to prevent others from embracing radicalism. Some of the Torah passages that recommend peace, love, compassion, and virtue are as follows:

Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly. Do not go about spreading slander among your people. Do not do anything that endangers your neighbor's life... Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself... (Leviticus, 19: 15-18)

He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your Allah. (Micah, 6: 8)

You shall not murder. You shall not commit adultery. You shall not steal. You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor. You shall not covet your neighbor's house... (Exodus, 20: 13-17)

Peace-seeking citizens of Israel, as well as Jews living in other countries, oppose radicalism and this is a highly significant development. Jews of genuine faith must bear in mind that the Torah prohibits murder, committing injustice, taking revenge, and bloodshed, and should become leaders in the ideological and cultural struggle against fanaticism in solidarity with all conscientious Christians and Muslims. The ideological debate against Jewish radicalism is one of the most important means of finding a lasting and peaceful solution to the Palestinian issue. Only then will Jews and Muslims – as well as Christians – be able to live with each other in peace.

Tranquility, love, and warmth will only grace Palestine and Israel when true religious morality is practiced. It must be remembered that both Jews and Muslims have suffered the greatest damage in their history at the hands of irreligious ideologies. The Torah is full of accounts of the cruelty inflicted on Jews by idolaters. The genocide and tyranny against Jews by atheists is well documented (e.g., the Nazis and Stalin's officially encouraged anti-Semitic racists and communists). These irreligious forces hated and terrorized Jews because of their faith in Allah. Muslims and Jews must join forces against these anti-religious entities and disregard the radical propaganda that could prevent such an alliance.

# Chapter 4: Common Principles Of Faith In The Divine Faiths

Humanity has forever reflected on and sought the answers to such questions as; What is the meaning and purpose for my life? What is the source of life? How can I find my and everything else's Creator? What does the Lord require of me? What are right and wrong, good and evil? Philosophers have developed their theories and published their ideas, but the true answers are found only in the divinely revealed religions and with divine guidance, because people's intellect and knowledge are severely limited. The most accurate answers to the above questions are to be found in the true religions sent down by our Lord.

Allah has always guided humanity by sending His Messengers to spread His revelations. Ever since the time of the Prophet Adam (pbuh), the first human being, people have been informed of Allah's existence and commands and have found the truest and wisest answers to their questions in the divinely revealed religions.

It is necessary to reflect on an important subject here. Even if true religions had different laws, according to their time and environment, they have always contained the same beliefs and morality and have transmitted the same fundamental principles (e.g., Allah's existence, unity, and attributes; the purpose and reason for humanity's and all other beings' creation; how to serve Allah; the ideal character, way of life, and conduct; the definitions of good and evil, right and wrong; and how to prepare for the eternal life in the Hereafter.)

A great part of the world's population follows Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The Jews' book of revelation, which consists of 39 books, is known as the Torah. The first five books are parts of the Torah revealed to the Prophet Moses (pbuh). The remaining books are thought to be revelations sent to Prophets after him or accounts written about them. The word "Torah" is also used to refer to the whole of the Torah, and that is the sense in which the word is used in this book.

The Gospel is the holy book of the Christians and consists of both the Torah and the Gospel, which contains four books, a collection of letters, and a vision (Revelations). Although Judaism as well as Christianity have suffered degeneration over time the essentials of many beliefs and moral values belonging the true faith have been preserved. The identification of the common beliefs and values among the scriptures of the three revealed faiths will bring Jews, Christians, and Muslims closer to one another and enable them to know each other better. This will also provide the necessary framework for an alliance between genuine believers in Allah.

In our present era, Christians, Jews, and Muslims know each other only through hearsay acquired from family and friends or various media outlets. These sources often contain incorrect information or opinions. Of course, if one wants accurate information, he or she should consult the religion's texts: the Torah, the Gospel, and the Qur'an. In the coming pages, we will provide each religion's principles of faith and codes of conduct in order to examine their common principles of faith. As we shall see, these common principles reveal that the real ideological battle should not be fought among the three divinely revealed religions, but between them and Darwinist, materialist and atheist ideologies.

## Allah Is the Creator of Everything

Everything we see around us, from the cells of our bodies to the endless galaxies, was created by Allah out of nothing. The perfection in every detail of the universe, its spectacular artistry and faultless order, are proofs of His creation. The following verses reveal that Allah created everything without precedent and gave everything its order and measure:

He to Whom the kingdom of the heavens and the earth belongs. He does not have a son and He has no partner in the Kingdom. He created everything and determined it most exactly. (Surat Al-Furqan: 2)

...He created all things and He has knowledge of all things. That is Allah, your Lord. There is no god but Him, the Creator of everything. So worship Him. He is responsible for everything. (Surat Al An'am: 101-102)

.. the Originator of the heavens and earth. When He decides on something, He just says to it, 'Be!' and it is. (Surat Al-Baqara: 117)

The same facts are revealed in the Gospel:

Allah, Who made heaven and Earth and sea and everything in them. (Acts, 14: 15)

In the sight of Allah, Who gives life to everything.. I charge you. (1 Timothy, 6: 13)

For by Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. (Colossians, 1: 16-17)

The God who made the world and everything in it, he who is Lord of heaven and earth.. (Act, 17: 24)

When they heard it, they raised their voices together to God and said, 'Sovereign Lord, Who made the heaven and the earth, the sea, and everything in them.. (Acts 4: 24)

The Torah also reveals that Allah created everything from nothing:

The Maker of heaven and Earth, the sea, and everything in them – the Lord, who remains faithful forever. (Psalm, 146: 6)

In the beginning Allah created the heavens and the Earth. (Genesis, 1: 1)

.. You are the Lord, You alone; You have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. To all of them You give life, and the host of heaven worships You.... (Nehemiah, 9: 6)

## Allah Is the Only God

Muslims believe that there is no deity besides Allah, Who creates everything from nothing and creates it faultlessly and perfectly, is great and supreme, knows the essence and the secrets of everything, is eternal and infinite, was neither born nor gives birth, is free from all faults and imperfections, is alive, knows everything, has power over everything, is most exalted, governs, is all powerful, and protects and forgives. Everything that exists in the heavens and on Earth has surrendered to Him and testifies to His existence. Allah reveals that there is no other deity besides Him:

He is Allah. There is no deity but Him. Praise be to Him in this world and the Hereafter. Judgment belongs to Him. You will be returned to Him. (Surat Al-Qasas: 70)

Your God is One Allah. There is no deity but Him, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful. (Surat Al-Baqara: 163)

Allah bears witness that there is no deity but Him, as do the angels and the people of knowledge, upholding justice. There is no deity but Him, the Almighty, the All-Wise. (Surah Al 'Imran: 18)

The Torah also states this fact in many passages, some of which are given below:

.. so that all the peoples of the earth may know that the Lord is God; there is no other. (1.Kings, 8: 60)

This is what the Lord says: "I am the first and the last; apart from Me there is no Allah." (Isaiah, 44: 6)

Turn to Me and be saved, all you ends of Earth; for I am God, and there is no other. (Isaiah, 45: 22)

Many passages in the Gospel state this same fact:

... it is written: "Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only." (Matthew, 4: 10)

... O, the Lord our God, the Lord is One. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.'" (Mark, 12: 29-30)

You are right in saying that God is One and there is no other but Him. (Mark, 12: 32)

To the King of the ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. (1.Timothy, 1: 17)

_You believe that God is One; you do well. Even the demons believe_ _–_ _and shudder. (James, 2: 19)_

Jesus answered, 'The first is, "Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is One;" ' (Mark, 12: 29)

## Allah Is All-Powerful

All people are dependent beings with faults and shortcomings. Confined to time and space, they can continue to exist only by the will of Allah, Who has created time, space, humanity, and everything else. He is beyond fault and imperfection, supreme and exalted, and nothing can happen if He does not will it to happen. Unless Allah wills it, no leaf can fall to the ground and no woman can conceive or give birth. Allah knows every secret and everything, whether visible or invisible. Given that He is above everything and therefore has infinite and supreme power, no force or thing in the heavens or on Earth can render Him helpless. The following verses reveal these truths:

Allah created the seven heavens and of Earth the same number, the command descending down through all of them, so that you might know that Allah has power over all things and encompasses all things in His knowledge. (Surat At-Talaq: 12)

Everything in the heavens and everything in Earth belongs to Allah. Whether you divulge what is in yourselves or keep it hidden, Allah will still call you to account for it. He forgives whoever He wills and punishes whoever He wills. Allah has power over all things. (Surat Al-Baqara: 284)

No! I swear by the Lord of the Easts and Wests that We have the power to replace them with something better than them. We will not be outstripped. (Surat Al-Ma'arij: 40-41)

The Gospel reveals that Allah is All-Mighty:

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered... (Luke, 12: 6-7)

Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with Allah all things are possible." (Matthew, 19: 26)

Then the twenty-four elders who sit on their thrones before Amman fell on their faces and worshipped God ,singing, 'We give you thanks, Lord, God Almighty, Who are and who were, for You have taken Your Great Power and begun to reign. (Revelation 11: 16-17)

For nothing will be impossible with God. (Luke, 1: 37)

And they sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb: 'Great and amazing are your deeds, Lord God the Almighty!Just and true are Your Ways, Kings of the nations! Lord, who will not fear and glorify Your name? For You alone are Holy. All nations will come and worship before You, for Your Judgements have been revealed." (Revelation, 15: 3-4)

The Torah has many passages that reveal Allah's Infinite Power:

... "Praise be to the name of God forever and ever. Wisdom and power are His. He changes times and seasons, sets up kings and deposes them. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning. He reveals deep and hidden things. He knows what lies in darkness, and light dwells with Him. (Daniel, 2: 20-22)

And Allah said to him: "I am Allah Almighty." (Genesis, 35: 11)

Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord guards the city, the guard keeps watch in vain. (Psalm, 127: 1)

For lo, the One Who forms the mountains, creates the wind, reveals His thoughts to mortals, makes the morning darkness, and treads on the heights of the earth, the Lord, the God of hosts, is His Name! (Amos, 4: 13)

## Allah Knows Everything

Allah knows, hears, and sees everything, regardless of when or where it happens, or how secret it is. For example, He knows when and where all people are be born and die, what they do while in this world, what they strive for, when and why they laugh or cry, and what they plan and think right down to the last detail. He also knows everything that happens in the universe, the conditions of all of the countless plants and animals on Earth, all laws of the universe, and the countless other things. Allah says:

Do you not know that Allah knows everything in heaven and Earth? That is in a Book. That is easy for Allah. (Surat Al-Hajj: 70)

He knows what is said openly and what you hide. (Surat Al-Anbiya: 110)

You do not engage in any matter, recite any of the Qur'an, or do any action without Our witnessing you while you are occupied with it. Not even the smallest speck eludes your Lord, either on Earth or in heaven. Nor is there anything smaller than that, or larger, which is not in a Clear Book. (Surah Yunus: 61)

In the Qur'an Allah reveals that He creates and knows everything. In other words, nothing, regardless of how hidden or insignificant it is, is outside of His knowledge. The Gospel and the Torah reveal this great truth:

For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. (Luke, 8: 17)

Do not be like them, for God knows what you need before you ask Him. (Mathew, 6: 8)

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground unperceived by God. (Mathew, 10: 29)

You know when I sit and when I rise; You perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue, You know it completely, O Lord. (Psalm, 139: 2-4)

.. for only You know what is in every human heart.. (1. Kings, 8: 39)

My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth.(Psalms, 139: 15)

The secret things belong to the Lord, our God.. (Deuteronomy, 29: 29)

## Allah Is Compassionate and Forgiving

The Qur'an reveals that Allah is **"the most compassionate of the compassionate"** (Surah Yunus: 92). Allah's compassion is reflected on everything: The air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, the scenery we like to behold, the animal for which we feel compassion, the friends and family members we trust and love, our clothes, and our homes are just some of His gifts. Allah's compassion, mercy, and protection can be felt throughout one's life. Therefore, we need to show our appreciation for His countless gifts by turning to Him and earning His good pleasure. Allah accepts genuine repentance and guides those who sincerely turn to Him to enlightenment, for He is Most Forgiving. He answers the prayers of those who turn to Him and rescues people from their troubles and sorrows. In the Qur'an Allah reveals these truths in the following verses:

Allah would never let your faith go to waste. Allah is All-Gentle, Most Merciful to humanity. (Surat Al-Baqara: 143)

Say [from Me]: "O My servants, you who have transgressed against yourselves, do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Truly Allah forgives all wrong actions. He is the Ever-Forgiving, the Most Merciful." (Surat Az-Zumar: 53)

He sends down Clear Signs to His servant to bring you out of the darkness and into to the light. Allah is All-Gentle with you, Most Merciful. (Surat Al-Hadid: 9)

The Gospel also reveals that Allah is most compassionate. Some passages in which this is revealed read:

Because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven... (Luke, 1: 79)

... God is full of compassion and mercy... (James, 5: 11)

His mercy is for those who fear Him from generation to generation. (Luke, 1: 50)

By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.' (Luke, 1: 78-79)

As does the Torah:

The Lord watches over all who love Him, but He will destroy all the wicked. (Psalm, 145: 20)

The Lordis compassionate and gracious... abounding in love. (Psalm, 103: 8)

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end..(Lamentation, 3: 22)

## Worshiping None but Allah

Say: "O People of the Book. Come to a proposition that is the same for us and you – that we should worship none but Allah, not associate any partners with Him, and not take one another as lords besides Allah." (Surah Al 'Imran: 64)

They were only ordered to worship Allah,making their religion sincerely His as people of pure natural belief, and to establish prayers(salat) and pay alms(zakat) –that is the religion of the correct. (Surat Al-Bayyina: 5)

### The Gospel

"Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only." (Matthew, 4: 10)

Yet for us there is one God, from Whom are all things and for Whom we exist, and one Lord... through Whom are all things and through Whom we exist. (1.Corinthians, 8: 6)

.. And they exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling a mortal human being or birds or four-footed animals or reptiles. Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the degrading of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshipped and served the creature rather than the Creator, Who is blessed forever! Amen. (Romans, 1: 23-25)

### The Torah

Fear the Lord your God, serve Him only, and take your oaths in His name. Do not follow other deities, the deities of the peoples around you. (Deuteronomy, 6: 13-14)

Yet I have been the Lord you're God ever since the land of Egypt; you know no God but me, and besides me there is no savior. (Hosea, 13: 4)

## Allah Has no Partners or Helpers

He [Abraham] said: "You have adopted idols apart from Allah as tokens of mutual affection in this world. But then on the Day of Resurrection, you will reject one another and curse one another. The Fire will be your shelter. You will have no helpers." (Surat Al-Ankabut: 25)

Your Lord creates and chooses whatever He wills. The choice is not theirs. Glory be to Allah! He is exalted above anything they associate with Him! (Surat Al-Qasas: 68)

Those you call on besides Allah are servants, just like yourselves. Call on them and let them respond to you, if you are telling the truth. (Surat Al-A'raf: 194)

### The Gospel

They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator – Who is forever praised. (Romans, 1: 25)

Hence, as to the eating of food offered to idols, we know that 'no idol in the world really exists', and that 'there is no God but One.' [Allah is beyond this] (1. Corinthians , 8: 4)

Little children, keep yourselves from idols.(1.John, 5: 21)

The rest of humankind, who were not killed by these plagues, did not repent of the works of their hands or give up worshipping demons and idols of gold and silver and bronze and stone and wood, which cannot see or hear or walk. (Revelation, 9: 20)

### The Torah

What use is an idol once its maker has shaped it a cast image, a teacher of lies? For its maker trusts in what has been made, though the product is only an idol that cannot speak! Alas for you who say to the wood, 'Wake up!' to silent stone, 'Rouse yourself!' Can it teach? See, it is plated with gold and silver, and there is no breath in it at all. (Habakkuk, 2: 18-19)

"I am the Lord your God, Who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. You shall have no other deities before Me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on Earth, beneath it or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them... (Exodus, 20: 2-5)

All who make idols are nothing, and the things they delight in do not profit; their witnesses neither see, nor know. And so they will be put to shame. Who would fashion a god or cast an image that can do no good? Look, all its devotees shall be put to shame; the artisans too are merely human. Let them all assemble, let them stand up; they shall be terrified, they shall all be put to shame. (Isaac, 44: 9-11)

## Allah Is Exalted

All might belong to Allah. (Surah Yunus: 65)

[He is] the Possessor of the Throne, the All-Glorious. (Surat Al-Buruj: 15)

Glorify the Name of your Lord, the Most High. (Surat Al-A'la: 1)

### The Gospel

Now to the ... eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever... (1 Timothy, 1: 17)

.. praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace among those whom He favors! (Luke, 2: 13-14)

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. (Luke, 2: 20)

### The Torah

Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power, the glory and the majesty, and the splendor, for everything in heaven and Earth is yours... You are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from You; You are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give You thanks and praise Your glorious name. (1 Chronicles, 29: 11-13)

Ascribe to the Lord, O families of nations, ascribe to the Lord glory and strength. (1 Chronicles, 16: 28)

Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; His Greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall laud Your works to another, and shall declare Your mighty acts. On the glorious splendor of Your majesty, and on Your wondrous works, I will meditate. The might of Your awesome deeds shall be proclaimed, and I will declare Your greatness. They shall celebrate the fame of Your abundant goodness, and shall sing aloud of your righteousness. The Lord is Gracious and Merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The Lord is Good to all, and His compassion is over all that He has made. (Psalm, 145: 3-9)

## Allah Gives Power

[Hud said: ] "O My people, ask forgiveness of your Lord and then repent to Him. He will send heaven down to you in abundant rain, and increase you with strength upon strength. Do not turn away as evildoers." (Surah Hud: 52)

Then once again We gave you the upper hand over them, supplied you with more wealth and children, and made you the most numerous group. (Surat Al-Isra: 6)

### The Gospel

... And the power of God was present for him [Jesus] to heal the sick. (Luke, 5: 17)

But Jesus said to them, 'Not everyone can accept this teaching, but only those to whom it is given.' (Mathew, 19: 11)

### The Torah

... in the Lord my horn is lifted high... (1 Samuel, 2: 1)

Yours, O Lord, are the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty; for all that is in the heavens and on the earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and You are exalted as head above all. Riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all. In Your hand are power and might; and it is in Your hand to make great and to give strength to all. (1.Chronicles, 29: 11-12)

## Allah Gives and Takes Life

He gives life and causes to die. When He decides on something, He just says to it: "Be!" and it is. (Surah Ghafir: 68)

There is no deity but Him – He gives life and causes to die – your Lord and the Lord of your forefathers, the previous peoples. (Surat Ad-Dukhan: 8)

[Has he not been informed] that He brings about both death and life? (Surat An-Najm: 44)

### The Gospel

... But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, Who raises the dead. (2 Corinthians, 1: 9)

Why is it thought incredible by any of you that God raises the dead? (Acts, 26: 8)

### The Torah

The Lord brings death and makes alive. (1 Samuel, 2: 6)

In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of every human being. (Job, 12: 10)

I will lay sinews on you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the Lord. (Ezekiel, 37: 6)

## Allah Gives Wealth or Poverty

Allah expands the provision of any of His servants He wills and restricts it. Allah has knowledge of all things. (Surat Al-Ankabut: 62)

Say: "O Allah, Master of the Kingdom. You give sovereignty to whoever You will and take sovereignty from whoever You will. You exalt whoever You will and abase whoever You will. All good is in Your hands. You have power over all things." (Surah Al 'Imran: 26)

### The Torah

The Lord sends poverty and wealth; He humbles and exalts. (1 Samuel, 2: 7)

But remember the Lord your God, for it is He Who gives you power to get wealth.. (Deuteronomy, 8: 18)

Yours, O Lord, are the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory, and the majesty; for all that is in the heavens and on the earth is Yours; Yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and You are exalted as head above all. Riches and honor come from You, and You rule over all.. (1. Chronicles, 29: 11-12)

## Allah Protects the Loyal

So that Allah might recompense the truthful for their truth and punish the hypocrites, if He wills, or turn toward them. Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Surat Al-Ahzab: 24)

### The Torah

He will guard the feet of His saints... (1 Samuel, 2: 9)

The Lord loves those who hate evil; He guards the lives of His faithful; He rescues them from the hand of the wicked. (Psalm, 97: 10)

For the Lord loves justice; He will not forsake His faithful ones. The righteous shall be kept safe for ever, but the children of the wicked shall be cut off. (Psalm, 37: 28)

### The Gospel

Do not fear what you are about to suffer.. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. (Revelation, 2: 10)

## Allah Is Praised

Everything in the heavens and everything in Earth belongs to Him. Allah is the Rich Beyond Need, the Praiseworthy. (Surat Al-Hajj: 64)

O humanity, you are the poor and in need of Allah, whereas Allah is the Rich Beyond Need, the Praiseworthy. (Surah Fatir: 15)

### The Gospel

"Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God forever and ever." (Revelation, 7: 12)

With the tongue we praise our Lord... (James 3, 9)

.. and again he says, 'Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people'; and again, 'Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples praise Him'; (Romans, 15: 10-11)

### The Torah

I call to the Lord, Who is worthy of praise... (2. Samuel, 22: 4)

O Lord , you are my God; I will exalt you and praise your name... (Isaiah, 25: 1)

I thank and praise You... You have given me wisdom and power... (Daniel, 2: 23)

## Allah's Path Is the Most Righteous

This is the path of your Lord – straight. We have made the Signs clear for people who remember. (Surat Al-An'am: 126)

They have been guided to speak good words and guided to the praiseworthy path. (Surat Al-Hajj: 24)

### The Gospel

But godliness with contentment is great gain. (1 Timothy, 6: 6)

### The Torah

As for God, His way is perfect. (2 Samuel, 22: 31)

Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord. (Psalm, 119: 1)

... _For I will proclaim the name of the Lord; ascribe greatness to our God ! .. His work is perfect, and all His ways are just.. (Deuteronomy, 32: 3-4)_

## Allah Guides to the Righteous Path

By it, Allah guides those who follow what pleases Him to the ways of peace. He will bring them from the darkness to the light by His permission, and guide them to a straight path. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 16)

Say: "My Lord has guided me to a straight path, a well-founded religion, the religion of Abraham, a man of pure natural belief. He was not one of the idolaters." (Surat Al-An'am: 161)

The Way should lead to Allah.. (Surat An-Nahl: 9)

### The Torah

God arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. (2 Samuel, 22: 33)

In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths. (Proverbs, 3: 6)

Do not let those who wait for You be put to shame.. Make me to know Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth, and teach me, for You are God, my salvation; for You I wait all day long (Psalm, 25: 3-5)

## Allah Gives Success to His Followers

As for those who make Allah their friend, and His Messenger and those who believe: It is the party of Allah who are victorious! (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 56)

### The Gospel

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. (Ephesians, 2: 8)

Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him. (James, 1: 12)

### The Torah

And observe what the Lord your God requires: Walk in His ways, and keep His decrees and commands, His laws and requirements, as written in the Law of Moses, so that you may prosper in all you do and wherever you go. (1 Kings, 2: 3)

## To Abide by the Book, Allah's Revelation, as a Whole

There you are, loving them when they do not love you, even though you believe in all the Books. When they meet you, they say: "We believe." But when they leave, they bite their fingers out of rage against you. (Surah Al 'Imran: 119)

Those who conceal what Allah has sent down of the Book and sell it cheap take nothing into their bellies but the Fire. On the Day of Resurrection, Allah will not speak to them or purify them. They will have a painful punishment. (Surat Al-Baqara: 174)

### The Gospel

.. I believe everything that agrees with the Law and that is written in the Prophets.. (Acts, 24: 14)

But he said to me, "Do not do it! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers the prophets and of all who keep the words of this book. Worship God!" (Revelation, 22: 9)

### The Torah

Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law My servant Moses gave you. Do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may be successful wherever you go. (Joshua, 1: 7)

Moses and the elders of Israel commanded the people: "Keep all these commands that I give you today." (Deuteronomy, 27: 1)

[The Prophet Moses (pbuh)] "Hear now, O Israel, the decrees and laws I am about to teach you... Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the Lord, your God, that I give you." (Deuteronomy 4: 1-2)

## The Believers Fear and Respect for Allah

No doubt, fearing Allah is one of the common and important qualities of all believers. In the Qur'an, Allah clearly describes the nature of this fear: a deep and genuine respect for Allah that causes them to refrain from doing things of which He does not approve and to strive to win His good pleasure and avoid His wrath. Striving to follow such a path shows the level of their fear and respect for Allah:

Fear [and respect] Allah in the way He should be feared [and respected]. (Surah Al 'Imran: 102)

So fear [and respect] Allah, as much as you are able to... (Surat At-Taghabun: 16)

Muslims are required to contemplate Allah's creation in order to comprehend His infinite reason, knowledge, might, and greatness. This will increase their fear and respect for Him. Such people will be cured or protected from evil deeds and mistakes, and will avoid those things that deny them His good pleasure. As Allah says in the Qur'an:

O you who believe! If you fear [and respect] Allah, He will give you discrimination, erase your bad actions, and forgive you. Allah's favor is indeed immense. (Surat Al-Anfal: 29)

The Gospel reveals that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) stated that only Allah needs to be feared (and respected):

I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you Whom you should fear: Fear Him Who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into Hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him. (Luke, 12: 4-5)

The Gospel repeatedly states that people must fear (and respect) Allah:

Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God... (1 Peter, 2: 17)

... _to every nation, tribe, language and people. He said in a loud voice: "Fear God and give Him glory." (Revelation, 14: 6-7)_

But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear Him Who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into Hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him (Luke, 12: 5)

The Torah says:

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. (Psalm, 111: 10)

It also states that the fear of Allah guides people to the right path:

The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the Lord are sure and altogether righteous. (Psalm, 19: 9)

Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice with trembling. (Psalm, 2: 11)

Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in His ways. (Psalm, 128: 1)

The Lord Almighty is the One you are to regard as holy, He is the One you are to fear... (Isaiah, 8: 13)

## The Believers Love for Allah

Every beautiful thing is the gift of Allah and a reflection of His beauty. All conscientious and thoughtful people submit to Allah, the true owner of this beauty, with great joy and love. Believers love Allah more than anything and anybody else, for they know that He created all of the beauty and the beings they love. This love of Allah is the true source of the believers' happiness and inner peace. Every Muslim who loves Allah also fears and respects Him and makes a genuine effort to win His good pleasure. Such adds to the beauty of the world, for those who love Allah also love His creation, feel compassion and mercy for them, and wish to protect them and give them goodness and beauty.

Those who forget Allah and give all of their love to His creation, instead of to Him, and those who disregard His existence and instead feel a deep love only for others, will reap sorrow, unhappiness, and discontent. In the Qur'an Allah describes the big difference between such types of love:

Some people set up equals to Allah , loving them as they should love Allah. But those who believe have greater love for Allah. (Surat Al-Baqara: 165)

The Torah says:

... The Lord our God, the Lord is One. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be [placed] in your hearts... (Deuteronomy, 6: 4-7)

The same is stated in the Gospel , as follows:

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind."(Matthew, 22: 37)

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.' (Matthew, 12: 30)

## Not Ascribing Partners to Allah

He said, 'You have adopted idols apart from Allah as tokens of mutual affection in this world. But then on the Day of Resurrection you will reject one another and curse one another. The Fire will be your shelter. You will have no helpers.' (Surat Al-Ankabut: 25)

Your Lord creates and chooses whatever He wills. The choice is not theirs. Glory be to Allah! He is exalted above anything they associate with Him! (Surat Al-Qasas: 68)

Those you call on besides Allah are servants just like yourselves. Call on them and let them respond to you if you are telling the truth. (Surat Al-A'raf: 194)

### The Gospel

They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—Who is forever praised. (Romans, 1: 25)

Jesus.. ".. the Lord our God, the Lord is One... "Well said, teacher," the man replied. "You are right in saying that God is One and there is no other but Him. (Mark , 12: 29-32)

.. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God (1. Thessalonians, 1: 9)

### The Torah

But you have forsaken Me and served other gods (Judges, 10: 13))

Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the Lord and served the Baals. They forsook the Lord .. because they forsook Him and served Baal and the Ashtoreths. (Judges, 2: 11-13)

Do not bow down before their gods or worship them or follow their practices. You must demolish them and break their sacred stones to pieces. Worship the Lord your God, (Exodus, 23: 24-25)

.. O Lord my God, are the wonders You have done. The things You planned for us no one can recount to You; were I to speak and tell of them, they would be too many to declare. (Psalm, 40: 5)

## The Impermanence of Worldly Life

The worldviews of unbelievers and believers are mutually exclusive. For example, unbelievers consider living life to the full as their primary purpose, for they will not be able to enjoy anything after they die. On the other hand, believers make good use of things in their everyday lives without considering these to be an end in themselves. Rather, they regard such things as a means to be grateful to Allah and to win His good pleasure. Believers are very well aware of the impermanence of posh cars, grand houses, impressive gardens, valuable jewelry, beautiful people, and of everything else, for they know that the true originals are to be found in the eternal Paradise.

Allah commands people not to be fooled by the temporary beauty of worldly things and not to become enslaved by them:

To humanity the love of worldly appetites is painted in glowing colors: women and children, heaped-up mounds of gold and silver, horses with fine markings, and livestock and fertile farmland. All that is merely the enjoyment of the life of this world. The best homecoming is in the Presence of Allah. (Surah Al 'Imran: 14)

Know that the life of this world is merely a game and a diversion, ostentation, and a cause of boasting among yourselves and trying to outdo one another in wealth and children: like the plant-growth after rain that delights the cultivators but then withers. You see it turning yellow, and then it becomes broken stubble. In the Hereafter, there is terrible punishment, but also forgiveness, from Allah and His good pleasure. The life of this world is nothing but the enjoyment of delusion. (Surat Al-Hadid: 20)

The Gospel of Mark explains that worldly worries and cravings, as well as material wealth, lead people away from Allah's path:

Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word. But the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth, and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop – thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times what was sown. (Mark, 4: 18-20)

The Gospel warns people not to dive into this world's temporary pleasures and that the love of this world causes hearts to harden. Various passages refer to these facts, as follows:

Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness, and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. For it will come upon all those who live on Earth. Be always on the watch. Pray... (Luke, 21: 34-36)

The world and its desires pass away, but the one who does the will of God lives forever. (1 John, 2: 17)

... For this world in its present form is passing away. (1 Corinthians, 7: 31)

The Torah reveals that life on Earth is temporary, that the love of material wealth and devotion to the world is a grave mistake, and that believers should not let themselves be led astray:

Whoever loves money never has enough money, and whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income. This too is meaningless. As goods increase, so do those who consume them. And what benefit are they to the owner, except to feast his eyes on them?... wealth hoarded to the harm of its owner,... Naked a man comes from his mother's womb, and as he comes, so he departs. He takes nothing from his labor that he can carry in his hand. (Ecclesiastes, 5: 10-16)

We are aliens and strangers in your sight, as were all of our forefathers. Our days on Earth are like a shadow, without hope. (1 Chronicles, 29: 15)

Neither their silver nor their gold will be able to save them on the day of the Lord's wrath. (Zephaniah, 1: 18)

And said: "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised." (Job, 1: 21)

Those who trust in their wealth and boast of their great riches? No man can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for him the ransom for a life is costly, no payment is ever enough that he should live on forever and not see decay. For all can see that wise men die; the foolish and the senseless alike perish and leave their wealth to others. Their tombs will remain their houses forever, their dwellings for endless generations, though they had named lands after themselves. But man, despite his riches, does not endure; he is like the beasts that perish... Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendor of his house increases; for he will take nothing with him when he dies, his splendor will not descend with him. (Psalm, 49: 6-17)

## Believing in the Prophets

Throughout history, Allah has sent Prophets to call their people to belief in Allah , inform them of His religion, teach them right from wrong, and abide by the morality that wins His good pleasure. In the Qur'an Allah reveals the lives of such Prophets as Abraham, Solomon, David, Lot, Jesus, Moses, Noah, Joseph, Ishmael, and Isaac (peace be upon them all) because their lives contain important lessons for humanity (Surah Yunus: 111). Prophets were chosen by Allah to serve as teachers and givers of good tidings, and as role models of virtue and faith. Muslims believe in all of the Prophets and love and respect them, without preferring one over the other. In the verses Allah describes Muslims' belief and obedience to Prophets, as follows:

The Messenger believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, and so do the believers. Each one believes in Allah , His angels, His Books, and His Messengers [saying: ] "We do not differentiate between any of His Messengers." They say: "We hear and we obey. Forgive us, our Lord. You are our journey's end." (Surat Al-Baqara: 285)

The belief in Prophets is also a principle of faith in Christianity and Judaism. The Torah relates the life stories of many Prophets (e.g., Adam, Noah, Jethro, Jacob, and Joseph [peace be upon them all]), although some of the information given is not accurate. The Gospel, on the other hand, points out the importance of obeying the Prophets: The work of God is this: to believe in the one He has sent (John, 6: 29). Another passage reveals that people must follow the example set by the Prophets and work to acquire their morality and code of conduct, as follows:

I have set you an example, so that you should do as I have done for you. (John, 13: 15)

Anyone who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet's reward, and anyone who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man will receive a righteous man's reward. (Mathew, 10: 41)

## Many People Envy the Prophets

[Their leaders went off asking: ] "Has the Reminder been sent down to him out of all of us?" They are in doubt about My Reminder. They have yet to taste My punishment. (Surah Sad: 8)

Their Prophet said to them: "Allah has appointed Saul to be your king." They asked: "How can he have kingship over us, when we have much more right to kingship than he does? He has not even got much wealth!" He said: "Allah has chosen him over you and favored him greatly in knowledge and physical strength. Allah gives kingship to anyone He wills. Allah is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing." (Surat Al-Baqara: 247)

Why was this Qur'an not sent down to one of the great men of the two cities? (Surat Az-Zukhruf: 31)

### The Gospel

When the Sabbath came, he [Jesus] began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. "Where did this man get these things?" they asked. "What's this wisdom that has been given him that he even does miracles! Isn't this the carpenter? Isn't this Mary's son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas, and Simon? Aren't his sisters here with us?" And they took offense at him. (Mark, 6: 2-3)

Because of this, God in his wisdom said, 'I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and others they will persecute.' (Luka, Bap 11, 49)

### The Torah

But they mocked messengers of God, despised His words and scoffed at His prophets until the wrath of the Lord was aroused against His people and there was no remedy. (2. Chronicles, 36: 16)

## All Prophets Are Accused of Being Possessed

Equally, no Messenger came to those before them without their exclaiming: "A magician or a madman!" Did they bequeath this to each other? Indeed, they are an unbridled people. (Surat Adh-Dhariyat: 52-53)

### The Gospel

When his family heard about this, they went to take charge of him, for they said: "He is out of his mind." And the teachers of the law who came down from Jerusalem said: "He is possessed by Beelzebub! By the prince of demons he is driving out demons." (Mark, 3: 21-22)

For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, 'He has a demon.' (Matthew, 11: 18)

## No Prophet Speaks on His Own

Your companion [ Muhammad] is not misguided or misled. Nor does he speak from whim. It is nothing but Revelation revealed, taught to him by one immensely strong. (Surat An-Najm: 2-5)

### The Gospel

By myself I [Jesus] can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but Him Who sent me. (John, 5: 30)

Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the Prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man. (2 Peter, 1: 20-21)

He has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David (as He said through His holy prophets of long ago)(Luke, 1: 69-70)

### The Torah

The Lord said to me: "... 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." (Deuteronomy, 18: 17-18)

## Faith in Paradise and Hell

Prophets have taught people the true religion, announced the good reward of Paradise, and warned them against the punishment of Hell. Those who obey Allah's commands and work to earn His good pleasure will be rewarded with Paradise, and those who were called to Allah's righteous path but declined to follow it will face an eternal and horrific punishment in Hell.

In the Qur'an Allah reveals that believers will find eternal bliss, happiness, and goodness in Paradise. Unbelievers, on the other hand, will face an eternal life of unequalled suffering and sorrow in Hell:

But as for those who believe and do right actions, We will admit them into Gardens with rivers flowing under them, remaining in them timelessly, forever and ever. Allah's promise is true. Whose speech could be truer than Allah's? (Surat An-Nisa: 122)

Those who do not believe will be driven to Hell in companies. When they arrive there and its gates are opened, its custodians will ask them: "Did Messengers from yourselves not come to you, reciting your Lord's Signs to you and warning you of the meeting on this Day of yours?" They will say: "Indeed they did, but the decree of punishment is justly carried out against the unbelievers." (Surat Az-Zumar: 71)

People who abide by Allah's commands and work to earn His good pleasure will be rewarded with the most stunning homes, splendid cloths, beautiful jewelry, tastiest foods and drinks. Moreover, Allah will cause them to live in peace and happiness together with their friends and loved ones. But those who are ungrateful to Allah and rebellious will have committed the gravest sin and therefore will deserve the punishment of Hell.

Allah reveals in the Qur'an that the suffering therein is incomparably horrendous, painful, and devastating. The ceaseless and eternal physical and spiritual suffering is accompanied by confinement, darkness, smoke, revolting foods and drinks, cries, burning heat, metal whips, boiling water, and other types of sufferings. Allah also reveals that its inhabitants will finally admit their guilt; be debased, forsaken, and remorseful; and desire to return to Earth or to be exterminated. They will beg for help but not receive any; they will ask for their sufferings to be eased, but their request will be denied.

The Torah and the Gospel reveal that good people and evil people are not equal in His Presence and that everyone will get what they deserve. The Gospel explains the distinction between good and bad people in the following allegory:

Once again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away. This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew, 13: 47-50)

The Gospel reveals that the righteous will find eternal life (Matthew, 25: 46), and that the evil-doers will be cast into the eternal fire together with Satan (Matthew, 25: 41) and experience eternal punishment therein (Matthew, 25: 46). How will you escape being condemned to Hell? (Matthew, 23: 33) and Fear Him Who, after killing the body, has the power to throw you into Hell (Luke, 12: 5) are reminders of this severe punishment. Another Biblical passage describes the suffering, hopelessness, and remorse of those in Hell, as follows:

The time came when the beggar [Lazarus] died... The rich man also died and was buried. So he called... "have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire." But Abraham replied, "Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us." (Luke, 16: 22-26)

Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. (Mathew, 10: 28)

If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into Hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into Hell. (Mathew 5: 29-30)

The Torah states that those who do good will be rewarded with good and that those who do evil will be punished for their deeds:

Tell the righteous it will be well with them, for they will enjoy the fruit of their deeds. Woe to the wicked! Disaster is upon them! They will be paid back for what their hands have done. (Isaiah, 3: 10-11)

... trembling grips the godless: "Who of us can dwell with the consuming fire? Who of us can dwell with everlasting burning?" He who walks righteously and speaks what is right, who rejects gain from extortion and keeps his hand from accepting bribes, who stops his ears against plots of murder and shuts his eyes against contemplating evil- this is the man who will dwell on the heights, whose refuge will be the mountain fortress. His bread will be supplied, and water will not fail him. (Isaiah, 33: 14-16)

... Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. (Daniel, 12: 2-3)

As heat and drought snatch away the melted snow, so the grave snatches away those who have sinned. (Job, 24: 19)

... _Therefore the grave enlarges its appetite and opens its mouth without limit; into it will descend their nobles and masses with all their brawlers and revelers. So man will be brought low and mankind humbled, the eyes of the arrogant humbled. (Isaiah, 5: 14-15)_

Wicked men are overthrown and are no more, but the house of the righteous stands firm. (Proverbs, 12: 7)

## Belief in the Resurrection

Allah will resurrect and then judge all people according to what they did while on Earth. All Prophets have revealed this great truth, for they taught His true religion and warned their people to prepare for this day. All sincere believers conduct themselves in the full awareness of their resurrection and subsequent judgment. As for those who reject the resurrection, in the Qur'an Allah says that they will meet the following fate:

He makes likenesses of Us and forgets his own creation, asking: "Who will give life to bones when they are decayed?" Say: "He Who made them in the first place will bring them back to life. He has total knowledge of each created thing." (Surah Ya-Sin: 78-79)

Mankind! if you are in any doubt about the Rising, know that We created you from dust then from a drop of sperm then from a clot of blood then from a lump of flesh, formed yet unformed, so We may make things clear to you. We make whatever We want stay in the womb until a specified time and then We bring you out as children so that you can reach your full maturity. Some of you die and some of you revert to the lowest form of life so that, after having knowledge, they then know nothing at all. And you see the earth dead and barren; then when We send down water onto it, it quivers and swells and sprouts with luxuriant plants of every kind. That is because Allah is the Real and gives life to the dead and has power over all things (Surat Al-Hajj: 5-6)

Allah can resurrect all people with great ease, for He created humanity from nothing and brings life to dry soil when it appears lifeless. Various Biblical passages speak of the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) message to people who did not believe in the resurrection. One of them is as follows:

Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear His voice... those who have done good will rise to live, and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned. (John, 5: 28-29)

" and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous." (Luke, 14: 14)

But someone may ask, "How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come?" How foolish! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. (1.Corinthians, 15: 35-36)

So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; (1. Corinthians, 15: 42)

Some of the passages in the Torah that describes the resurrection are as follows:

Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. (Daniel, 12: 2)

Then you, My people, will know that I am the Lord, when I open your graves and bring you up from them. I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the Lord have spoken, and I have done it, declares the Lord.' " (Ezekiel, 37: 13-14)

... But your dead will live; their bodies will rise. You who dwell in the dust, wake up and shout for joy... the earth will give birth to her dead. (Isaiah, 26: 19)

"As for you, go your way till the end. You will rest, and then at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance." (Daniel, 12: 13)

## Belief in the Day of Judgment

Belief in the Hereafter and the Day of Judgment are central to Islam. All people will be resurrected in order to be judged on what they did in this world. On that day, people will be held personally accountable and will find no one to help them or shoulder their sins. Believers who have done good will have an easy Day of Judgment; evil-doers and unbelievers will find that Day to be very harsh.

Allah reveals the details of this Day. For example, nothing will remain secret, not even the smallest things, and everyone's good and evil deeds will be proclaimed and rewarded. Allah reveals that:

We will set up the Just Balance on the Day of Resurrection, and no soul will be wronged in any way. Even if it is no more than the weight of a grain of a mustard seed, We will produce it. We are sufficient as a Reckoner. (Surat Al-Anbiya: 47)

On that day, the unbelievers' ears, eyes, and skin will bear witness against them:

When they reach it [the Fire], their hearing, sight, and skin will testify against them concerning what they did. (Surat Al-Fussilat: 20)

Prophets and other witnesses will give evidence when people account for their deeds on Earth. Allah, Who is infinitely just, will judge each individual:

And Earth will shine with the Pure Light of its Lord, the Book will be put in place, the Prophets and witnesses will be brought, and it will be decided between them with the truth. They will not be wronged. Every soul will be repaid in full for what it did. He knows best what they are doing. (Surat Az-Zumar: 69-70)

The following passages on the Day of Judgment are from the Gospel:

Nothing in all of creation is hidden from the Sight of God'. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to Whom we must give account. (Hebrews, 4: 13)

... _[It is God] Who will give to each person according to what he has done. To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking, who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. (Romans, 2: 6-8)_

But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of Judgment for every careless word they have spoken. (Matthew, 12: 36)

Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God. (Romans, 3: 19)

if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the Day of Judgment, while continuing their punishment. This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature and despise authority. (2. Peter, 2: 9-10)

The accounts in the Torah also confirm the existence of this Day and reveal that humanity will be judged by God:

The day of the Lord is near for all nations. As you have done, it will be done to you; your deeds will return upon your own head. (Obadiah, 1: 15)

.. whose day has come, whose time of punishment has reached its climax. (Ezekiel, 21: 29)

The day of your watchmen has come, the day God visits you. Now is the time of their confusion. (Micah, 7: 4)

" 'whose day has come, whose time of punishment has reached its climax, this is what the Sovereign Lord says: .. It will not be as it was: The lowly will be exalted and the exalted will be brought low. (Ezekiel, 21: 25-26)

## The Day of Resurrection

... **Asking: "So when is the Day of Resurrection?" But when the eyesight is dazzled, the Moon is eclipsed, and the Sun and Moon are fused together, on that Day humanity will ask: "Where can I run?" No indeed! There will be no safe place. (Surat Al-Qiyama: 6-11)**

... **when the stars are extinguished, when heaven is split open, when the mountains are pulverized, when the Messengers' time is appointed ... (Surat Al-Mursalat: 8-11)**

The Hour is coming. (Surah Ta Ha: 15)

They will ask you about the Hour: When is it due? Say: "Knowledge of it rests with my Lord alone. He alone will reveal it at its proper time. It hangs heavy in the heavens and Earth. It will not come upon you except suddenly." They will ask you, as if you had full knowledge of it. Say: "Knowledge of it rests with Allah alone. But most people do not know that." (Surat Al-A'raf: 187)

On the Day the sky is like molten brass and the mountains like tufts of colored wool. No good friend will ask about his friend. (Surat Al-Ma'arij: 8-10)

When heaven is split apart and goes red like dregs of oil. (Surat Ar-Rahman: 37)

The Gospel

But in those days, following that distress, the Sun will be darkened and the Moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky.... (Mark, 13: 24-25)

No one knows about that day or hour... Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. (Mark, 13: 32-33)

Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness, and the anxieties of life, and that Day will close on you unexpectedly, like a trap. For it will come upon all those who live on Earth. (Luke, 21: 34-35)

... The heavens will disappear with a roar, the elements will be destroyed by fire, and Earth and everything in it will be laid bare... That Day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. (2 Peter, 3: 10-12)

### The Torah

For the Day of the Lord is near... The Sun and the Moon will be darkened, and the stars no longer shine... the earth and the sky will tremble... (Joel, 3: 14-16)

Before them the earth shakes, the sky trembles, the sun and moon are darkened, and the stars no longer shine... The day of the Lord is great; it is dreadful. Who can endure it? (Joel, 2: 10-11)

... the Day of the Lord is near; it will come like destruction from the Almighty. Because of this, all hands will go limp, every person's heart will melt... pain and anguish will grip them; they will writhe like a woman in labor. They will look aghast at each other, their faces aflame. See, the Day of the Lord is coming – a cruel day, with wrath and fierce anger – to make the land desolate and destroy the sinners within it. The stars of heaven and their constellations will not show their light. (Isaiah, 13: 6-10)

"The great day of the Lord is near-near and coming quickly.. That day will be a day of wrath, a day of distress and anguish, a day of trouble and ruin, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness... The Lord says: I will bring distress on the people and they will walk like blind men, because they have sinned against the Lord.... Neither their silver nor their gold will be able to save them on the day of the Lord's wrath. " (Zephaniah, 1: 14-18)

## All People Are Tested

He created the heavens and Earth in six days when His Throne was on the water, in order to test which of you has the best actions. (Surah Hud: 7)

As the above verse reveals, one of the reasons for creating Earth was so that Allah could test humanity. In reality, each person undergoes a life-long trial that will end only with his or her death. After that, he or she will either be rewarded or punished.

The troubles, sorrows, and hardship experienced in this world are a means of testing. Those who are patient and trust in Allah while enduring hardship will have behaved in accord with Allah's will. People are also tried with wealth, children, beauty, health, and other gifts of Allah. Regardless of what gifts they receive, however, they must act in line with Allah's approval instead of their own selfish desires.

As it is stated in one verse, a verbal affirmation of faith and belief is not enough, for:

Do people imagine that they will be left to say: "We believe," and will not be tested? (Surat Al-Ankabut: 2)

Those who are patient are given good tidings in the Qur'an:

We will test you with a certain amount of fear and hunger, and loss of wealth, life, and fruits. But give good news to the steadfast. (Surat Al-Baqara: 155)

The Gospel reveals that being tested is a positive influence that strengthens one's faith:

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (James, 1: 2-4)

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. (1. Corinthians, 10: 13)

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. (James, 1: 12)

In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. (1. Peter, 1: 6)

Some of the passages in the Torah about the fact that Allah tests people in this world are as follows:

If a prophet, or one who foretells by dreams, appears among you and announces to you a miraculous sign or wonder, and if the sign or wonder of which he has spoken takes place, and he says, "Let us follow other gods" (gods you have not known) "and let us worship them," 3 you must not listen to the words of that prophet or dreamer. The Lord your God is testing you to find out whether you love Him with all your heart and with all your soul. (Deuteronomy, 13: 1-3)

"I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve." (Jeremiah, 17: 10)

Sometime later God tested Abraham. (Genesis, 22: 1)

## Everything Happens by the Will of Allah

People's plans can only become reality if Allah wills it. Believers are fully aware of this fact, and so their behavior and conversation reflect this reality. Allah reminds believers not to speak in absolute terms about anything, but to state that they intend to do something only if Allah wills it. For example:

Never say about anything: "I am doing that tomorrow," without adding "If Allah wills." (Surat Al-Kahf: 23-24)

The Gospel says something similar:

Now listen, you who say: "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business, and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say: "If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that." (James, 4: 13-15)

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny[]? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of God.(Matthew, 10: 29)

Allah reveals in the Torah the fact that everything always happens by the will of Allah as follows:

Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails. (Proverbs, 19: 21)

# Chapter 5: Common Prayers and Common Moral Values in the Divine Faiths

It is Allah , Who created humanity and has the best and most complete knowledge of each person's constitution and needs. Therefore, each person should follow the path ordained by Allah , Who has guided humanity since His creation of the Prophet Adam (pbuh) and Eve with His Prophets and Books, and has revealed to them the values, beliefs, and code of conduct of which He approves. Those who adopt this way of life and moral code can hope to find happiness, contentment, and beauty in this life as well as the Hereafter.

Followers of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, regardless of when and where they lived, had the same moral values. Refraining from murder, theft, adultery and fornication, lying, injustice, and every kind of wrong-doing, as well as behaving in a polite and respectful manner to others, are basic values recognized by all believers. Thus, they respond in a very similar manner to events, even though there are differences in their views and practices.

This moral code is common to Christians, Muslims, and Jews. For example, members of these three divinely revealed religions are told to avoid ungratefulness, transgression, arrogance, rebellion, lies, mockery, selfishness, greed, fraud, envy, aggression, disobedience, avarice, betrayal, gossip, confrontation, tyranny, slander, lack of patience, hypocrisy, and agitation, for they are incompatible with the morality that He tells believers to follow. In fact, He clearly tells all believers to be respectful, loving, just, conscientious, compassionate, merciful, helpful, modest, honest, trustworthy, generous, grateful, selfless, gentle, obedient, and loyal.

Genuinely religious people who abide by these principles are respectable, honorable, and distinguished. They have submitted wholeheartedly to Allah , have deep faith and superior moral qualities, expect no reward for helping others, and desire only to earn His good pleasure. They side at all times with the right, good, true, and virtuous morality, and refrain from all kinds of evil and immorality.

Many philosophies contain teachings that contradict the morality of divinely revealed religions. For instance, those Darwinist and materialistic philosophies that have been so influential during the last two centuries portray individuals as selfish and unscrupulous and depict life as literally a kind of arena full of people ruled by their selfish desires and thus driven to satisfy their strong desire at all costs. Since Darwinism and materialism have fallen into the error of denying the existence of Allah's revelation, it does not recognize any absolute criteria applicable to human nature, rejects all values introduced by the divinely revealed religions. The results of such views are clearly visible: conflict and tension; ruthless aggression directed toward a piece of land, status, or office; the ever-worsening oppression of the vulnerable and needy; and increasing injustice, immorality, and rapid degeneration in the quality of life.

In the face of this reality and for the salvation of those who have been misled by materialism, all followers of the divinely revealed religions must unite. Believing in the existence and unity of Allah and that He has sent Prophets to guide humanity are important common points. Jews, Christians, and Muslims have much more in common with one another than with people who reject these facts.

We will study the common moral principles between the three divinely revealed religions under their respective headings. Each of these principles makes a case for an alliance between the followers of the divinely revealed religions. It must not be forgotten that a world dominated by virtue is attainable if the believers work together.

## Modesty

Modesty is a common attribute of believers, for Allah reveals that He disapproves of arrogant and vain people.

Believers know that Allah gives them all they have and that He is the One and true Owner of everything. Therefore they never surrender to vanity, because they know their helplessness in His Presence and that reason, knowledge, beauty, wealth, status, and all other desirable commodities originate with Him, not within themselves.

Allah reveals the believers' modesty, as follows:

The servants of the All-Merciful are those who walk lightly on Earth and, who, when the ignorant speak to them, say: "Peace." (Surat Al-Furqan: 63)

Another verse reveals that modest Muslims will be rewarded with Paradise:

Your God is One Allah, so submit to Him. Give good news to the humble-hearted. (Surat Al-Hajj: 34)

The Gospel reveals that modesty is important and that humble people are superior in His Presence:

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (Ephesians, 4: 2)

The greatest among you will be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. (Matthew, 23: 11-12)

Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven. (Matthew, 18: 4)

Likewise, the Torah states that one must refrain from arrogance and that Allah approves of humble people. Believers are required to be modest, and arrogant people will be humbled. For example:

Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, you who do what He commands. Seek righteousness, seek humility... (Zephaniah, 2: 3)

You save the humble, but your eyes are on the haughty to bring them low. (2 Samuel, 22: 28)

... if My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then .. I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (2. Chronicles, 7: 14)

For this is what the high and lofty One says he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with him who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite. (Isaiah, 57: 15)

## Not to Be Conceited

When he is told to fear [and respect] Allah, he is seized by pride, which drives him to wrongdoing. Hell will be enough for him! What an evil resting-place! (Surat Al-Baqara: 206)

### The Gospel

God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble. (James, 4: 6)

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, Who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. (1 Timothy, 6: 17)

### The Torah

You warned them to return to Your law, but they became arrogant and disobeyed Your commands. They sinned against Your ordinances, by which a man will live if he obeys them. Stubbornly they turned their backs on You, became stiff-necked, and refused to listen. (Nehemiah, 9: 29)

Hear and pay attention, do not be arrogant, for the Lord has spoken. (Jeremiah, 13: 15)

The Lord Almighty has a day in store for all the proud and lofty, for all that is exalted (and they will be humbled) (Isaiah, 2: 12-13)

Lord says: I will punish the world for its evil, the wicked for their sins. I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless. (Isaiah, 13: 11)

## Keeping Away From Environments That the Signs of Allah Are Being Rejected

It has been sent down to you in the Book that when you hear Allah's Signs being rejected and mocked at by people, you must not sit with them until they start talking of other things. If you do, you are just the same as them. Allah will gather all the hypocrites and unbelievers into Hell. (Surat An-Nisa: 140)

### The Torah

Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or stand in the way of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night. (Psalm, 1: 1-2)

## Turning away from Pointless Things

Those who turn away from worthless talk. (Surat Al-Muminun: 3)

Those who do not bear false witness and who, when they pass by worthless talk, pass by with dignity. (Surat Al-Furqan: 72)

### The Gospel

Avoid godless chatter... (2 Timothy, 2: 16)

### The Torah

Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to Your word. (Psalm, 119: 37)

"Would a wise man answer with empty notions or fill his belly with the hot east wind? Would he argue with useless words, with speeches that have no value? (Job, 15: 2-3)

" 'Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: "Because of your false words and lying visions, I am against you", declares the Sovereign Lord. (Ezekiel, 13: 8)

## Remembering Allah at All Times

[People with intelligence are] those who remember Allah, standing, sitting, and lying on their sides, and reflect on the creation of the heavens and Earth: "Our Lord, You have not created this for nothing. Glory be to You! So safeguard us from the punishment of the Fire." (Surah Al 'Imran: 191)

[There are people who are] not distracted by trade or commerce from the remembrance of Allah, the performance of prayer, and the giving of the alms; fearing a day when all hearts and eyes will be in turmoil. (Surat An-Nur: 37)

### The Torah

Blessed is the man... [whose] delight is in the law of the Lord, and on His law he meditates day and night. (Psalm, 1: 1-2)

In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil. This will bring health to your body and nourishment to your bones. (Proverbs, 3: 6-8)

Love the Lord your Allah with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. (Deuteronomy, 6: 5-7)

I will extol the Lord at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. My soul will boast in the Lord..Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together. (Psalm, 34: 1-3)

## Trust in Allah

Allah is the believers' best friend and helper. When they encounter hardship or troubles, and when they are in safety and tranquility, they know that He is with them and so turn only to Him with absolute trust and in complete reliance upon Him. They take all possible precautions and make contingency plans, but do not forget that everything happens according to His will. Whatever the outcome, they know that there is a reason and wisdom in it. For instance, believers refrain from unhealthy things as a precautionary measure. However, if they somehow become infected with a deadly disease, they know that it is Allah's will. Given this fact, they do not panic or despair; rather, they remain patient and trusting. Believers are not saddened or worried by events, but live in the peace and calm that comes from trusting Allah.

Such trust brings a comfort and beauty to believers that no unbeliever can ever experience. One of the most fundamental causes of the stress, depression, sorrow, and suffering experienced by unbelievers is their turning away from this reality. In the Qur'an Allah reveals this truth in many verses, some of which are given below:

Whoever has fear [and respect] of Allah – He will give him a way out. And [He will] provide for him from where he does not expect. Whoever puts his trust in Allah – He will be enough for him. Allah always achieves His aim. Allah has appointed a measure for all things. (Surat At-Talaq: 2-3)

Say: "Nothing can happen to us except what Allah has ordained for us. He is Our Master. It is in Allah that the believers should put their trust." (Surat At-Tawba: 51)

Trusting in Allah and relying only on Him are attributes required of all devout Christians and Jews as well. The Gospel reveals the futility of worrying and calls for faith in Allah in all matters:

But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. (2 Thessalonians, 3: 3)

Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear... Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn. Yet God feeds them... Who of you, by worrying, can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest? (Luke, 12: 22-26)

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.. (Matthew, 6: 33-34)

The Torah reveals that someone who turns to Allah and trusts and relies only on Him will be rewarded with success:

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land... Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in Him and He will do this (Psalm, 37: 3-5)

You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because He trusts in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for the Lord, the Lord, is the Rock eternal. (Isaiah, 26: 3-4)

"But blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." (Jeremiah, 17: 7-8)

... Have faith in the Lord God and you will be upheld; have faith in His Prophets and you will be successful." (2 Chronicles, 20: 20)

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. (Proverbs, 3: 5)

## Allah Protects Believers

He [Moses] said: "Never! My Lord is with me and will guide me." (Surat Ash-Shu'ara': 62)

Allah is with those who fear Him and with those who are good-doers. (Surat An-Nahl: 128)

My Protector is Allah, Who sent down the Book. He takes care of the righteous. (Surat Al-A'raf: 196)

The Torah

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified or discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua, 1: 9)

Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be your confidence... (Proverbs, 3: 25-26)

Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe. (Proverb, 29: 25)

As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the Lord is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in Him. For Who is God besides the Lord ? And who is the Rock except our God? It is God Warms me with strength and makes my way perfect... You give me Your shield of victory.. You broaden the path beneath me, so that my ankles do not turn. (Psalm, 18: 30-32, 35-36)

## Understanding of Justice

Being just is one of the believers' most important qualities. Allah commands people to be fair with each other, even if this means going against their own interests or those of their relatives. Believers protect justice and prevent injustice, for, as the Allah states in the Qur'an:

Allah commands you to return to their owners the things you hold on trust and, when you judge between people, to judge with justice. How excellent is what Allah exhorts you to do! Allah is All-Hearing, All-Seeing. (Surat An-Nisa: 58)

For Muslims, it is irrelevant whether the person is rich or poor or whether their decision may conflict with their personal interests. Whatever the circumstances, Muslims do not compromise on justice. Allah describes this superior morality in the Qur'an, as follows:

O you who believe! Be upholders of justice, bearing witness for Allah alone, even against yourselves or your parents and relatives. Whether they are rich or poor, Allah is well able to look after them. Do not follow your own desires and deviate from the truth. If you twist or turn away, Allah is aware of what you do. (Surat An-Nisa: 135)

In another verse Allah states that hatred should not cause people to be unfair:

O you who believe! Show integrity for the sake of Allah, bearing witness with justice. Do not let hatred for a people incite you to being unjust. Be just, for that is closer to heedfulness. Fear [and respect] Allah , for Allah is aware of what you do. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 8)

The Torah and the Gospel also call for justice. In the Gospel, those who disregard justice are condemned as follows:

Woe to you! You give a tenth of your spices – mint, dill, and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law – justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter without neglecting the former. (Matthew, 23: 23)

Other passages from the Gospel require people to be just, as follows:

Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment. (John, 7: 24)

Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair. (Colossians, 4: 1)

... "Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. (Matthew, 7: 1-2)

When the Torah describes virtuous people, it emphasizes fairness. Furthermore, it states that just and righteous people refrain from evil, are just to others, and protect the poor. Some of the passages encouraging justice are as follows:

Blessed are they who maintain justice, who constantly do what is right (Psalm, 106: 3)

For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just. (Genesis, 18: 19)

"This is what the Lord Almighty says: 'Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.(Zechariah, 7: 9)

... "Since you have asked for... discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. (1 Kings, 3: 11-12)

This is what the Lord says: "Maintain justice and do what is right." (Isaiah, 56: 1)

Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees, to deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed of My people, ... and robbing the fatherless. (Isaiah 10, 1-2)

## Not to Be Intimidated by Slander and Aggression

Throughout history, Prophets have called people to righteousness, Allah's religion, and guided them to enlightenment. But in every era, some people turned on His Prophets and did their best to prevent them from teaching. These people believed that by slandering these individuals, whom Allah had chosen to serve as role models of morality, they could block their mission. When they realized that their slander had little or no effect, they resorted to exile, arrest, or even murder.

Allah relates the Prophets' struggles in great detail, especially those of our Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), who struggled against the Meccan unbelievers and hypocrites. It also reveals that those believers who faced slander and aggression never compromised; rather, they continued their struggle with the same motivation and persistence.

Allah reveals that the Prophets endured slanders like "madness" (Surat Al-Hijr: 6; Surat Al-Qalam: 51) and "lying magician" (Surah Sad: 4). These and other slanders were used against the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), and his people conspired to imprison, kill or expel him (Surat Al-Anfal: 30).

Believers will experience similar hardships, for:

Or did you suppose that you would enter the Garden without facing the same as those who came before you? Poverty and illness afflicted them, and they were shaken to the point that the Messenger and those who believed with him asked: "When is Allah's help coming?" Be assured that Allah's help is very near. (Surat Al-Baqara: 214)

The Gospel reveals that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) was accused of being demon-possessed (John, 7: 20, 8: 48, 8: 52), as well as of madness (John, 10: 20), subverting their nation (Luke, 23: 2), and not living according to the traditions of the elders (Mark, 7: 5). Other passages state that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) was mocked and subjected to insults and physical attacks.

No doubt, the unbelievers' ugly slanders were the product of their mediocre intellect and misguided beliefs. Allah has created all Prophets as role models characterized by such qualities as superior intellect, foresight, and morality. But they and their followers, as Allah reveals, never relented or despaired. As Allah states:

Many a Prophet has fought, when there were many thousands with him. They did not give up in the face of what assailed them in the Way of Allah, nor did they weaken or yield. Allah loves the steadfast. (Surah Al 'Imran: 146)

The Prophets enlightened their followers and gave them this good news. Muslims who were with our Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) said, while enduring hardships: **"This is what Allah and His Messenger promised us. Allah and His Messenger told us the truth"** (Surat Al-Ahzab: 22). Our Lord also reveals that those who show determination and virtue will have their faith and submission enhanced.

The Torah also reveals the Prophets' struggles and the hardships they endured in great detail. The Gospel, on the other hand, states that sincere believers will encounter hardship and troubles and that these will be causes of joy for them:

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness... Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the Prophets who were before you. (Matthew, 5: 10-12)

The Gospel reveals that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) warned his followers that they would suffer injustice:

You must be on your guard. You will be handed over to the local councils and flogged in the synagogues. On account of me, you will stand before governors and kings as witnesses to them... Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.... but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. (Mark, 13: 9-13)

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in Heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." (Matthew, 5: 10-12)

Blessed are you when men hate you, when they exclude you and insult you and reject your name as evil, because of the Son of Man. "Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven. For that is how their fathers treated the prophets. (Luke, 6: 22-23)

"Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it."(Matthew, 7: 13-14)

All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. (Matthew, 10: 22)

## Not to Feel Fear and Sorrow

Those who conveyed Allah's Message and had fear [and respect] of Him, fearing [and respecting] no one except Allah. Allah suffices as a Reckoner. (Surat Al-Ahzab: 39)

They said: "Our Lord, we are afraid that he might persecute us or overstep the bounds." He said: "Have no fear. I will be with you, All-Hearing and All-Seeing." (Surah Ta Ha: 45-46)

[Believers are] those to whom people said: "The people have gathered against you, so fear them." But that merely increased their faith, and they said: "Allah is enough for us and the Best of Guardians." So they returned with blessings and bounty from Allah, and no evil touched them. They pursued the pleasure of Allah. Allah's favor is indeed immense. That was only Satan who intimidated his adherents. But do not fear them – fear [and respect] Me, if you are believers. (Surah Al 'Imran: 173-175)

### The Gospel

But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened." (1 Peter, 3: 14)

"So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One Who can destroy both soul and body in Hell. (Matthew, 10: 26-28)

### The Torah

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.

The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid or discouraged. (Deuteronomy, 31: 6-8)

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged because of the king of Assyria and the vast army with him, for there is a greater power with Us than with him. (2 Chronicles, 32: 7)

.. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength. (Nehemiah, 8: 10)

... _"In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength" (Isaiah, 30: 15)_

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua, 1: 9)

## Those Who Plot Evil in the Dark

They have the word "Obedience!" on their tongues. But when they leave your presence, a group of them spend the night plotting to do other than what you say. Allah is recording their nocturnal plotting. So let them be, and put your trust in Allah. Allah suffices as a Guardian. (Surat An-Nisa: 81)

### The Torah

Woe to those who go to great depths to hide their plans from the Lord, who do their work in darkness and think: "Who sees us? Who will know?" (Isaiah, 29: 15)

## Not to Follow False Religions and Traditions of One's Forefathers

Allah reveals that some people opposed the true religion delivered by the Prophets, for their deep-rooted pagan beliefs dominate their societies, as do their misguided religious practices and some traditions. The Qur'an refers to this as the **"religion of their forefathers,"** and the Torah and the Gospel refer to it as the tradition of the elders. In reality, the true religion in His presence is the religion taught by His Prophets. Believers will not be held accountable for these pagan beliefs and traditions, but will be judged by Allah's Books of revelation and his Prophets' practices. The situation of the people who follow such traditions is described in the following terms:

When they are told: "Follow what Allah has sent down," they say: "No, we will follow what we found our fathers doing." What! Even if satan is calling them to the punishment of the Blazing Fire? (Surah Luqman: 21)

When they are told: "Come to what Allah has sent down, come to the Messenger," they say: "What we found our fathers doing is enough for us." What! Even if their fathers did not know anything and were not guided! (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 104)

The Torah relates that some people who had been informed of the true religion chose to follow their forefathers' misguided religious practices. One such passage is given below:

They have returned to the sins of their forefathers, who refused to listen to My words. They have followed other deities to serve them... I will bring on them a disaster they cannot escape. (Jeremiah, 11: 10-11)

The Gospel reveals that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) and his disciples of forsaking their forefathers' traditions. However, it would have been righteousness to abide by the true religion delivered by the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) instead of following the misguided beliefs so fervently advocated by these people. Obviously, genuine believers need to abide by the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) religion in obedience to him.

The Gospel states that those who persisted in rejecting the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) teachings accused his disciples of forsaking their forefathers' traditions:

Then some Pharisees and teachers of the law came to Jesus from Jerusalem and asked: "Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders?" (Matthew, 15: 1-2)

Another passage from the Gospel reveals the Prophet Jesus' reply to such accusations, as follows:

So the Pharisees and teachers of the law asked Jesus: "Why don't your disciples live according to the tradition of the elders?"... He [Jesus] replied: "You have let go of the commands of Allah and are holding on to the traditions of men." And he said to them: "You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of Allah in order to observe your own traditions!" (Mark, 7: 5-9)

Jesus replied, "And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition? (Matthew, 15: 3)

## Avoiding Hypocrisy and Ostentation

One other shared moral quality of believers is sincerity. Believers are aware that Allah knows everything and that they will have to account in the Hereafter for all of their thoughts, speeches, and conduct in this world. They strive to earn Allah's approval and are sincere in their conduct. As they expect to be rewarded by Allah for their actions, they have no petty interests and do not behave in ways designed to impress or gain the love of other people.

The Prophets' devotional behaviors, as related in the Qur'an, are examples for believers to follow. Good news awaits His sincere servants, for **"Those who shun the worship of false deities and turn toward Allah will have good news"** (Surat Az-Zumar: 17). There are also some other verses that are related with those who show off to attract other people's notice, such as:

O you who believe! Do not nullify your charity by demands for gratitude or insulting words, like him who spends his wealth, showing off to people and not believing in Allah and the Last Day. His likeness is that of a smooth rock coated with soil, which, when heavy rain falls on it, is left stripped bare. They have no power over anything they have earned. Allah does not guide disbelieving people. (Surat Al-Baqara: 264)

So woe to those who perform prayer and are forgetful of their prayer, those who show off. (Surat Al-Ma'un: 4-6)

The Gospel warns:

Be careful not to do your acts of righteousness before men, to be seen by them... (Matthew, 6: 1).

Everything they do is done for men to see... (Matthew, 23: 5)

Their hypocrisy is likened to tombs that are impressive on the outside but full of filth on the inside:

You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous. But on the inside, you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness. (Matthew, 23: 27-28)

"So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then God Who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (Matthew, 6: 2-4)

When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting.. (Matthew, 6: 16)

Various passages in the Torah condemn those who pray to impress others and reveal that such people do not live by the morality they preach and thus are bent on evil. The situation of those who pretend to be close to Allah while their hearts do not appreciate Him appropriately are described, as follows:

You are always on their lips, but far from their hearts. (Jeremiah, 12: 2)

Help, Lord, for the godly are no more; the faithful have vanished from among men. Everyone lies to his neighbor;  
their flattering lips speak with deception. (Psalm, 12: 1-2)

## The Importance of Love in the Morality of Religion

And [We gave John] tenderness and purity from Us – he guarded against evil. (Surah Maryam: 13)

As for those who believe and do right actions, the All-Merciful will bestow His love on them. (Surah Maryam: 96)

### The Torah

Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. (Proverbs, 3: 3-4)

Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers all wrongs. (Proverbs, 10: 12)

Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love... (Hosea, 10: 12)

But you must return to your God; maintain love and justice, and wait for your God always. (Hosea, 12: 6)

### The Gospel

This is my command: Love each other. (John, 15: 17)

And this is love: that we walk in obedience to His commands. As you have heard from the beginning, His command is that you walk in love. (2 John, 1: 6)

## Allah Guides Those Who Seek Him

If My servants ask you about Me, I am near. I answer the call of the caller when he calls on Me. They should therefore respond to Me and believe in Me so that, hopefully, they will be rightly guided. (Surat Al-Baqara: 186)

O you who believe! Fear [and respect] Allah, seek the means of drawing near to Him and strive in His Way, so that, hopefully, you will be successful. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 35)

### The Torah

The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him; He hears their cry and saves them. The Lord watches over all who love him.. (Psalm, 145: 18-20)

I love those who love Me, and those who seek Me find Me. (Proverbs, 8: 17)

### The Gospel

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. (Matthew, 7: 7)

Come near to God, and He will come near to you. (James, 4: 8)

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to God, Who is unseen. Then God Who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (Matthew, 6: 6)

## Saying Nice Things

Do you not see how Allah makes a metaphor of a good word: a good tree whose roots are firm and whose branches are in heaven? Allah makes metaphors for people so that, hopefully, they will pay heed. (Surah Abraham: 24-25)

### The Torah

Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone. (Proverbs, 25: 15)

The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction. (Proverbs, 16: 21)

... _I have resolved that my mouth will not sin. (Psalm, 17: 3)_

The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil. (Proverbs, 15: 28)

### The Gospel

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians, 4: 29)

Let your conversation always be full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. (Colossians, 4: 6)

You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned." (Matthew, 12: 34-37)

But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart, and these make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man 'unclean'... (Matthew, 15: 18-20)

## Listening to Good Advice

We have conveyed the Word to them so that, hopefully, they will pay heed. (Surat Al-Qasas: 51)

What of him who spends the night hours in prayer, prostrating and standing up, mindful of the Hereafter, hoping for the mercy of his Lord? Say: "Are they the same – those who know and those who do not know?" It is only people of intelligence who pay heed. (Surat Az-Zumar: 9)

### The Torah

Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge. (Proverbs, 23: 12)

I wait for Your salvation, O Lord, and I follow Your commands. I obey Your statutes, for I love them greatly. (Psalm, 119: 166-167)

Though rulers sit together and slander me, Your servant will meditate on Your decrees. Your statutes are my delight; they are my counselors. (Psalm, 119: 23-24)

Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is found in those who take advice. (Proverb, 13: 10)

### The Gospel

Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. (Hebrews, 13: 17)

Do not merely listen to the word and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (James, 1: 22)

## Understanding of Righteousness

People usually understand righteousness in different ways: giving some money to the poor, helping an old person cross the road, or not lying. Clearly these are all good deeds, but on their own they cannot define righteousness. Allah reveals the true meaning of righteousness, as follows:

It is not righteousness to turn your faces to the East or to the West. Rather, those with true devoutness are those who believe in Allah and the Last Day, the Angels, the Book and the Prophets; and who, despite their love for it, give away their wealth to their relatives and orphans and the very poor; to travelers and beggars, and to set slaves free; and who perform prayer and give the alms; those who honor their contracts when they make them and who are steadfast in poverty and illness and in battle. Those are the people who are true. They are the people who guard against evil. (Surat Al-Baqara: 177)

Those who are steadfast in seeking the face of their Lord, perform prayer, and give from the provision We have given them, secretly and openly, and stave off evil with good. It is they who will have the Ultimate Abode. (Surat Ar-Ra'd: 22)

Believers refrain from injustice, never compromise when it comes to honesty, protect the poor, are polite and respectful to all people, and are gentle and friendly. They do good and call on others to emulate them. The Torah defines righteousness, as follows:

He who walks righteously and speaks what is right, who rejects gain from extortion and keeps his hand from accepting bribes... (Isaiah, 33: 15)

Suppose there is a righteous man who does what is just and right. He does not eat at the mountain shrines or look to the idols of the house of Israel. He does not oppress anyone, but returns what he took in pledge for a loan. He does not commit robbery, but gives his food to the hungry and provides clothing for the naked. He does not lend at usury or take excessive interest. He withholds his hand from doing wrong, and judges fairly between man and man. He follows My decrees and faithfully keeps My laws. That man is righteous. (Ezekiel, 18: 5-9)

The Gospel reveals that people can find happiness in both worlds only if they believe and do good:

[Jesus said: ] "There is only One Who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments." "Which ones?" the man inquired. Jesus replied: "Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as yourself." "All these I have kept," the young man said. "What do I still lack?" Jesus answered: "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor.... Then come, follow me." (Matthew, 19: 17-21)

Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. (Luke, 6: 30-33)

## Combating Evil with Goodness

They will be given their reward twice over, because they have been steadfast and because they ward off the bad with the good and give from what We have provided for them. (Surat Al-Qasas: 54)

A good action and a bad action are not the same. Repel the bad with something better and, if there is enmity between you and someone else, he will become like a bosom friend. (Surah Fussilat: 34)

### The Gospel

Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. (1 Peter, 3: 9)

But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. (Luke, 6: 27-29)

### The Torah

If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink. In doing this... and the Lord will reward you. (Proverbs, 25: 21-22)

" 'Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge... but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord... (Leviticus, 19: 18)

Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the Lord a man avoids evil. (Proverbs, 16: 6)

## Immorality

But do not obey any vile swearer of oaths, any backbiter, slander-monger, impeder of good, evil aggressor, gross, coarse, and, furthermore, despicable [person] simply because he possesses wealth and sons. When Our Signs are recited to him, he says: "Just myths of previous peoples!" (Surat Al-Qalam: 10-15)

An evil generation succeeded them, [one] who neglected the prayer and followed their appetites. They will plunge into the Valley of Evil. (Surah Maryam: 59)

### The Gospel

They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed, and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, slanderers,... insolent, arrogant, and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless. (Romans, 1: 29-31)

### The Torah

They would not be like their forefathers – [rather, they were] a stubborn and rebellious generation, whose hearts were not loyal to God, whose spirits were not faithful to Him. (Psalm, 78: 8)

Suppose he has a violent son who sheds blood or does any of these other things: He eats at the mountain shrines. He defiles his neighbor's wife. He oppresses the poor and needy. He commits robbery. He does not return what he took in pledge. He looks to the idols. He does detestable things. (Ezekiel, 18: 10-12)

He thwarts the plans of the crafty, so that their hands achieve no success. He catches the wise in their craftiness, and the schemes of the wily are swept away. (Job, 5: 12-13)

Do not spread false reports. Do not help a wicked man by being a malicious witness. Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong. When you give testimony in a lawsuit, do not block justice by siding with the crowd... Do not deny justice to your poor people in their lawsuits. Have nothing to do with a false charge, and do not put an innocent or honest person to death, for I will not acquit the guilty. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous. (Exodus, 23: 1-8)

## Forgiveness

People make mistakes. While in this arena of testing, they will make many mistakes and be wronged by other people. Most unbelievers are intolerant of mistakes and impatient with those who make them. If they are harmed by the mistakes of others, they often retaliate viciously. Religious morality, however, commands forgiveness and a loving nature. Believers, aware of their total dependence upon Allah, know that they can make the same mistakes as others. Thus, they speak soothingly and are forgiving. In the Qur'an Allah praises those who forgive:

Correct and courteous words accompanied by forgiveness are better than charity followed by insulting words. Allah is Rich Beyond Need, All-Forbearing. (Surat Al-Baqara: 263)

Whether you reveal a good act or keep it hidden, or pardon an evil act, Allah is Ever-Pardoning, All-Powerful. (Surat An-Nisa: 149)

Hold to forgiveness, command what is right, and turn away from the ignorant. (Surat Al-A'raf: 199)

In the Qur'an Allah reveals that people who wish to be forgiven should forgive others:

Those of you possessing affluence and ample wealth should not make oaths that they will not give to their relatives, the very poor, and those who have migrated in the way of Allah. They should rather pardon and overlook. Would you not love Allah to forgive you? Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Surat An-Nur: 22)

The Torah states that believers must be patient and forgiving. One must not elaborate upon another person's mistakes, and must not surrender to rage and revenge:

A man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense. (Proverbs, 19: 11)

He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends. (Proverbs, 17: 9)

Do not say: "I'll do to him as he has done to me; I'll pay that man back for what he did." (Proverbs, 24: 29)

The Gospel states that forgiving others brings forgiveness from others (Luke, 6: 37). People are required to say such prayers as: "Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors" (Matthew, 6: 12). Other passages of the Gospel urge believers to be forgiving and loving:

... clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive, as the Lord forgave you. (Colossians, 3: 12-13)

"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you... He(God) causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get?..." (Matthew, 5: 43-46)

"But I tell you who hear Me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you." (Luke, 6: 27-28)

... But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great.. "(Luke, 6: 35)

For if you forgive men when they sin against you, God will also forgive you. (Matthew, 6: 14)

## Avoiding Stinginess

Stinginess is one of the bad manners condemned in the Qur'an. People who do not realize that Allah is the true Owner of all property and possessions passionately cling to their material possessions, believing that these will be theirs forever or that their wealth will protect them. This belief is seriously mistaken, however, for whatever people possess ultimately belongs only to Allah, Who gives or removes wealth or poverty as He wills. As a result, in the Qur'an Allah disapproves both vanity and despair. Believers are deeply thankful to Allah for what He has bestowed upon them and use these gifts in His cause. If they are poor, they remain patient due to their knowledge that some good will come of it.

Many unbelievers are stingy. They show off their wealth, but do not help the needy. This is definitely behavior of which Allah does not approve. They forget that Allah is perfect and above all needs, and that people need to earn His good pleasure by using their gifts given by Allah wisely. In the Qur'an Allah reveals the truth of this statement:

Here you are then: people who are called upon to spend in the Way of Allah and then some of you are tight-fisted! But whoever is tight-fisted is only tight-fisted to himself. Allah is Rich and you are poor. If you turn away, He will replace you with a people other than yourselves, and they will not be like you. (Surah Muhammad: 38)

People who think that wealth and property are eternal are wrong. In fact, such things have no value in His Presence:

We never sent a warner into any city without the affluent people in it saying: "We reject what you have been sent with." They also said: "We have more wealth and children. We are not going to be punished." Say: "My Lord expands the provision of anyone He wills or restricts it. But the majority of humanity do not know it." It is not your wealth or your children that will bring you near to Us – only in the case of people who believe and act rightly; such people will have a double recompense for what they did. They will be safe from all harm in the High Halls of Paradise. (Surah Saba: 34-37)

The Torah states: Woe to you who add house to house and join field to field till no space is left, and you live alone in the land (Isaiah, 5: 8). Judaism condemns hording possessions and greed.

Some passages from the Torah in which parsimony is condemned and generosity praised are as follows:

...do not be hardhearted or tightfisted toward your poor brother. Rather be openhanded and freely lend him whatever he needs. (Deuteronomy, Bap 15, 7-8)

"Surely he will have no respite from his craving; he cannot save himself by his treasure. Nothing is left for him to devour; his prosperity will not endure. In the midst of his plenty, distress will overtake him; the full force of misery will come upon him. When he has filled his belly, God will vent His burning anger against Him and rain down His blows upon Him.(Job, 20: 20-23)

One man gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed. (Proverbs, 11: 24-25)

The Gospel proclaims that wealth can prevent people from practicing the religion's morality (Matthew, 19: 23) and that You cannot serve both God and money (Luke, 16: 13) (Allah is beyond this). It also relates the story of a rich but stupid man who horded possessions to ensure his security:

... The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. He thought to himself: "What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops." Then he said: "This is what I will do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to myself: 'You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink, and be merry.'" But God said to him: "You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?" This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God. (Luke, 12: 16-21)

## Spending and Giving

O you who believe! Give away some of the good things you have earned and some of what the earth produces for you. Do not have recourse to bad things when you give, things you would only take with your eyes tight shut! Know that Allah is Rich Beyond Need, Praiseworthy. Satan promises you poverty and commands you to avarice. Allah promises you forgiveness from Him and abundance. Allah is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing. (Surat Al-Baqara: 267-68)

You will not attain true goodness until you give of what you love. Whatever you give away, Allah knows it. (Surah Al 'Imran: 92)

Those who give away of their wealth by night and day, secretly and openly, will have their reward with their Lord. They will feel no fear and will know no sorrow. (Surat Al-Baqara: 274)

The metaphor of those who spend their wealth, desiring the pleasure of Allah and firmness for themselves, is that of a garden on a hillside. When heavy rain falls on it, it doubles its produce; and if heavy rain does not fall, there is dew. Allah sees what you do. (Surat Al-Baqara: 265)

### The Gospel

Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the treasury of the mosque. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny. Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said: "I tell you the truth. This poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything – all she had to live on." (Mark, 12: 41-44)

The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same. (Luke, 3: 11)

Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. (Romans, 12: 13)

... Freely you have received, freely give. (Matthew, 10: 8)

### The Torah:

Do not go over your vineyard a second time or pick up the grapes that have fallen. Leave them for the poor and the alien. I am the Lord, God. (Leviticus, 19: 10)

" 'When you reap the harvest of your land, do not reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. Leave them for the poor and the alien. I am the Lord, God.' "... (Leviticus, 23: 22)

Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter – when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? (Isaiah, 58: 7)

He does not oppress anyone, but returns what he took in pledge for a loan. He does not commit robbery but gives his food to the hungry and provides clothing for the naked. (Ezekiel, 18: 7)

## Practicing What You Preach

Believers encourage others to live a life of which Allah approves and help them improve themselves. They advise them to win Allah's good pleasure, whereas insincere and hypocritical people do so with profit in mind. They do not seek to serve Allah's religion with what they do, but pursue worthless or evil aims like status, reputation, admiration, or respectability.

Allah warns such insincere people in the Qur'an, as follows:

Do you order people to devoutness and forget yourselves, when you recite the Book? Will you not use your intellect? (Surat Al-Baqara: 44)

The Gospel severely reprimands people who claim to follow the Prophet Moses (pbuh) but do not abide by the morality he taught:

... they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy loads and put them on men's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. (Matthew, 23: 3-4)

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. (Matthew, 7: 12)

"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye. (Matthew, 7: 3-5)

## Thankfulness

Thankfulness means to express one's thanks and love to Allah for all of the gifts He gives, to declare that all we have comes from Him. Careful reflection reveals that Allah's gifts are countless and that we receive them due to His grace. For example, the fact that each of the 100 trillion or so cells in your body works for you continuously and without fail is only a small fraction of His gifts.

Believers are thankful to Allah regardless of their circumstances, whereas being thankful does not even occur to unbelievers.

In the Qur'an Allah demands believers to be thankful, which He considers a form of worship, and tells them to adopt this attitude wholeheartedly, as the following verses indicate:

No! Worship Allah and be among the thankful. (Surat Az-Zumar: 66)

So eat from what Allah has provided for you, lawful and good, and be thankful for the blessing of Allah, if it is Him you worship. (Surat An-Nahl: 114)

In the Qur'an Allah states that thankful believers will receive more rewards, whereas ungrateful unbelievers will deserve His fierce punishment.

[Moses said to his people: ] "And when your Lord announced: 'If you are grateful, I will certainly give you increase. But if you are ungrateful, My punishment is severe.'" (Surah Ibrahim: 7)

The Gospel says; give thanks in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians, 5: 18), and passages dealing with Jesus' (pbuh) life reveal that he thanked Allah for all things. All believers should follow his example.

"How many loaves do you have?" Jesus asked. "Seven," they replied, "and a few small fish." He told the crowd to sit down on the ground. Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people. all ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. The number of those who ate was four thousand, besides women and children. (Matthew, 15: 34-38)

The Torah tells believers to be thankful, as follows:

Sing to the Lord, you saints of His; praise His holy name.... that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give You thanks forever.(Psalm, 30: 4 and 12)

I will praise You, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High. (Psalm 9: 1-2)

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. (Psalm, 100: 4)

I thank and praise You. (Daniel, 2: 23)

We give thanks to you, O God. We give thanks... (Psalm, 75: 1)

Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. (1 Chronicles 16, 8-10)

All you have made will praise you, O Lord; your saints will extol you. (Psalm, 145: 10)

## Controlling Rage

Rage, which prevents people from evaluating situations correctly, undermines accurate and fair decision-making, as well as understanding and compassion. Thus, in the Qur'an Allah demands believers not to succumb to it, for doing so only results in misguided behavior and damaged relationships with others. In the Qur'an, Allah praises those who overcome their anger:

[People who guard against evil are] those who give in times of both ease and hardship, those who control their rage and pardon other people – Allah loves the good-doers. (Surah Al 'Imran: 134)

The Gospel states that rage is evil and that those who are angered by others deserve to be punished:

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. (Ephesians, 4: 31)

But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother[b]will be subject to judgment (Matthew, 5: 22)

The Torah expresses similar sentiments:

A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult. (Proverbs, 12: 16)

A quick-tempered man does foolish things... (Proverbs, 14: 17)

... do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. (Psalm, 37: 7-8)

Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.( Ecclesiastes, 7: 9)

## Prayer

Most people pray to Allah at certain times for certain reasons. Almost everybody knows what praying signifies, but the believers' prayers are completely different from those of the unbelievers. Believers turn to Allah at all times and pray wholeheartedly. Prayers made to impress others, pursue one's self-interest, or ward off disaster may not be acceptable by Allah. The following verses deal with this matter:

He is the Living – there is no deity but Him – so call on Him, making your religion sincerely His. (Surah Ghafir: 65)

Call on your Lord humbly and secretly. (Surat Al-A'raf: 55)

Restrain yourself patiently with those who call on their Lord morning and evening, desiring His face. (Surat Al-Kahf: 28)

If My servants ask you about Me, I am near. I answer the call of the caller when he calls on Me. They should therefore respond to Me and believe in Me, so that, hopefully, they will be rightly guided. (Surat Al-Baqara: 186)

Both the Torah and the Gospel stress the importance of prayer and provide examples of the believers' prayers. We relate some of these below:

And pray with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints. (Ephesians, 6: 18)

And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites. (Matthew, 6: 5)

And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans. (Matthew, 6: 7)

If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer. (Matthew, 21: 22)

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. (Colossians, 4: 2)

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. (Matthew, 7: 7-8)

The Torah reveals that praying is an important act of worship, how prayers should be made, and that Allah answers prayers:

The Lord is near to all who call on Him, to all who call on Him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear [and respect] Him; He hears their cry and saves them. The Lord watches over all who love Him. (Psalm, 145: 18-20)

I spread out my hands to You; my soul thirsts for You like a parched land. Answer me quickly... Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I lift up my soul. Rescue me from my enemies, O Lord, for I hide myself in You. Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God... in Your righteousness, bring me out of trouble. (Psalm, 143: 6-11)

... if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways...will forgive their sin and will heal their land.(2 Chronicles 7: 14)

" Hear my voice when I call, O Lord;....Do not reject me or forsake me, O God my Savior.

... _. Teach me your way, O Lord; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. (Psalm, 27: 7-11)_

He prays to God and finds favor with him, he sees God's face and shouts for joy; he is restored by God to his righteous state. (Job, 33: 26)

## Repentance

All people have faults and make mistakes. Believers need to admit their sins after committing them, make the intention to correct them, and ask Allah to forgive them. Even if they repent and then commit the same sin again, they should repent and seek His forgiveness yet again, for nothing is hidden from Him. Those who try to deceive Allah (may Allah forbid this) deceive only themselves.

People must accept Allah's compassion and mercy for His servants and not delay their repentance, for a death-bed repentance may not be accepted. Many Qur'anic verses request people to repent, as follows:

Turn to Allah every one of you, believers, so that, hopefully, you will have success. (Surat An-Nur: 31)

But if anyone repents after his wrongdoing and puts things right, Allah will turn toward him. Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 39)

Except for those who repent and believe and act rightly: Allah will transform the wrong actions of such people into good – Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Surah Furqan: 70)

According to the Gospel, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) proclaimed:

I have not come to call the righteous, but the sinners to repentance. (Luke, 5: 32)

I tell you, no! Unless you repent, you too will all perish. (Luke, 13: 5)

... The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!" (Mark, 1: 15)

Some passages from the Torah related with repentance:

Zion will be redeemed with justice, her penitent ones with righteousness. (Isaiah, 1: 27)

My ears had heard of you but now my eyes have seen you. Therefore I despise myself and repent in dust and ashes."(Job, 42: 5-6)

## Seeking only Allah's Good Pleasure

People answer the question of what they have done for Allah in many different ways. For example, they may say: _I have stilled the hunger of the poor, I have prayed, or I have worshipped._ Each of these is commendable, but it is a serious error to do what Allah asks at certain times and then, at all other times, be oblivious of His existence and the proximity of the Day of Judgment. Those who truthfully believe do not forget that they are always surrounded by Allah, and so do their utmost at all times to earn His good pleasure and Paradise and to avoid Hell.

In the Qur'an Allah states that the believers' prayers, life, and death are **"only for the Lord of the universe, Allah"** (Surat Al-An'am: 162). This means that each believer's life is dedicated to earning Allah's good pleasure. In the Qur'an, Allah says that those people who work only to win His good pleasure will find salvation:

Who is better: someone who establishes his building on fear [and respect] of Allah and His good pleasure, or someone who establishes his building on the brink of a crumbling precipice, so that it collapses with him into the Fire of Hell? Allah does not love wrongdoers. (Surat At-Tawba: 109)

Solomon's (pbuh) prayer, as recorded in the Qur'an, asks Allah to let him do those deeds that will earn His good pleasure. Given below, it is an example for all believers:

"My Lord, keep me thankful for the blessing You have bestowed on me and on my parents; keep me acting rightly, pleasing You; and admit me, by Your mercy, among Your servants who are righteous." (Surat An-Naml: 19)

The Torah reveals that believers asked Allah to "teach them to do His will." This prayer is as follows:

... I hide myself in You. Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God... (Psalm, 143: 9-10)

The importance of living for the approval of Allah is explained in the Torah as follows:

The Lord...but those of the pure are pleasing to him.(Proverbs, 15: 26)

The Lord...delights in men who are truthful. (Proverbs, 12: 22)

The Lord...delights in those whose ways are blameless.(Proverbs, 11: 20)

He prays to God and finds favor with him, he sees God's face and shouts for joy; he is restored by God to his righteous state. (Job, 33: 26)

The Lord was my support. He brought me out into a spacious place;

he rescued me because He delighted in me.(Psalm, 18: 18-19)

Look to the Lord and his strength; seek His face always. Remember the wonders He has done,

His miracles, and the judgments He pronounced...He is the Lord our God; his judgments are in all the earth. (Psalm, 105: 4-7)

The Gospel reveals that the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) main request of his followers was that they do their best to earn Allah's good pleasure. According to it, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) always did what Allah approves of, and thus all of his followers should emulate his behavior. The Gospel reveals that believers should do everything only for Allah:

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. (1 Corinthians, 10: 31)

... Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men. (Colossians, 3: 22-23)

... will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Lord. (Matthew, 7: 21)

## Patience

People have been created impatient, for they want their desires to be fulfilled at once. But Allah has determined a time and place for everything, and no one can bring it forward or postpone it. This is why believers must remain patient. Prophets as well as believers have proven their patience to the day they died.

In the Qur'an Allah commands: **"Be patient for your Lord"** (Surat Al-Muddaththir: 7). Patience is a form of worship, and the believers' patience is a beautiful one (Surat Al-Ma'arij: 5). Those who remain patient during this short life are promised the following reward:

We will test you with a certain amount of fear and hunger, loss of wealth, life, and fruits. But give good news to those who are patient. (Surat Al-Baqara: 155)

Patience is a moral quality that strengthens believers mentally as well as physically. In the Qur'an Allah states that at the times of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), 20 patient believers could defeat 200 enemies on the battlefield. This clearly demonstrates how much strength the believers gain by remaining patient. This is revealed in the following verse:

If there are twenty of you who are patient, they will overcome two hundred; and if there are a hundred of you, they will overcome a thousand of those who do not believe. (Surat Al-Anfal: 65)

The Torah emphasizes the importance of patience and declares that such people are superior. The power of the patient is described as follows:

Better a patient man than a warrior... (Proverbs, 16: 32)

man's wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense. (Proverbs, 19: 11)

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.(Psalm, 37: 7)

A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel. (Proverbs, 15: 18)

The Gospel teaches this as well:

... be patient, bearing with one another in love. (Ephesians, 4: 2)

... help the weak, be patient with everyone. (1 Thessalonians, 5: 14)

but he who stands firm to the end will be saved. (Matthew, 24: 13)

## Thinking

In the Qur'an Allah invites people to think. Allah commands them to reflect on its verses, humanity's creation, natural phenomenon, His gifts, and other beings. Believers are told to think carefully when evaluating events so that they can help other people comprehend the profound evidence for Allah's existence and the magnitude of His creation. One verse Allah reveals this reality:

In the creation of the heavens and Earth, the alternation of the night and the day, the ships that sail the seas to people's benefit, the water that Allah sends down from the sky – by which He brings Earth to life when it was dead and scatters about in it creatures of every kind – the varying direction of the winds, and the clouds subservient between heaven and Earth there are Signs for people who use their intellect. (Surat Al-Baqara: 164)

In the Qur'an Allah also reveals that believers reflect deeply while drawing conclusions:

In the creation of the heavens and the Earth, and the alternation of night and day, there are Signs for people with intelligence: those who remember Allah, standing, sitting, and lying on their sides, and reflect on the creation of the heavens and Earth: "Our Lord, You have not created this for nothing. Glory be to You! So safeguard us from the punishment of the Fire." (Surah Al 'Imran: 190-91)

Wherever people turn and wherever they are, they encounter Allah's infinite wisdom, unequalled artistry, inexhaustible might, greatness, and supremacy. However, before they can benefit from all of this, they must free themselves from prejudice and carefully study and observe the other beings in their environment. Genuinely reflective people will find an underlying purpose in their encounters. Learning from these encounters enables them to have a better and deeper understanding of Allah's providence. As a result, their love, respect, and devotion to Him will increase.

The Gospel states that genuine believers need to ponder and learn from their encounters, as the following passages make clear:

Do you still not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened? (Mark, 8: 17)

Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. (1 Corinthians, 1: 26)

Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this. (2 Timothy, 2: 7)

The Torah also emphasizes the importance of pondering Allah's artistry in creation and His might, and calls on believers to contemplate these matters deeply. For example:

... and on His law he meditates day and night. (Psalm, 1: 2)

On my bed I remember You; I think of You through the watches of the night. (Psalm, 63: 6)

With my lips I recount all the laws that come from your mouth. I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees; I will not neglect your word. (Psalm, 119: 13-16)

I will meditate on all Your works and consider all Your mighty deeds. (Psalm, 77: 12)

## Calling Others to Virtue

Throughout history, Prophets and believers have invited people to Allah's path and virtue. They told people about Allah, the Hereafter, Paradise and Hell, and morality, and called on them to live according to His will. One verse commands: **"Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and fair admonition"** (Surat An-Nahl: 125). Other verses commend those who call others to Allah and virtue:

Let there be a community among you who call to the good, enjoin the right, and forbid the wrong. They are the ones who have success. (Surah Al 'Imran: 104)

Those who repent, those who worship, those who praise, those who fast, those who bow, those who prostrate, those who command the right, those who forbid the wrong, and those who preserve the limits set by Allah [for humanity]: give good news to the believers. (Surat At-Tawba: 112)

In the Qur'an Allah refers to the People of the Book (Christians and Jews) who were given books of revelation by Allah and mentions that genuine Jews and Christians called others to virtue as well:

They are not all the same. There is a community among the People of the Book who are upright. They recite Allah's Signs throughout the night, and they prostrate. They believe in Allah and the Last Day, enjoin the right and forbid the wrong, and compete in doing good. They are among the righteous. (Surah Al 'Imran: 113-114)

Among the people of the Book there are some who have iman in Allah and in what has been sent down to you and what was sent down to them, and who are humble before Allah. They do not sell Allah's Signs for a paltry price. Such people will have their reward with their Lord. And Allah is swift at reckoning. (Surah Al 'Imran: 199)

The Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) and his Disciples' lives are a good example of this. As the Gospel relates:

And will give our attention to prayer and spreading the word of God. (Acts, 6: 4)

My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back, remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover a multitude of sins. (James, 5: 19-20)

People are called on to have good moral virtues thus in the Torah:

Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. (Psalm, 34: 14)

Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien or the poor. In your hearts do not think evil of each other.' (Zechariah, 7: 10)

Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the Lord God Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is. Hate evil, love good...(Amos, 5: 14-15)

Not to Demand Miracles

Throughout history, people have asked Prophets for miracles so that they would believe. As Jesus (pbuh) put it:

"Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders," Jesus told him, "you will never believe." (John, 4: 48)

In the Qur'an Allah reveals that those who persisted in their unbelief demanded that the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) perform miracles:

They say: "We will not believe you until you make a spring gush out from the ground for us; or have a garden of dates and grapes through which you make rivers come pouring; or make the sky, as you claim, fall down on us in lumps; or bring Allah and the angels here as a guarantee; or possess a house built out of gleaming gold; or ascend up into heaven – and even then we will not believe in your ascent unless you bring us down a book to read!" Say: "Glory be to my Lord! Am I anything but a human Messenger?" (Surat Al-Isra: 90-93)

Conscientious and rational people do not require miracles to believe in Allah, because for such people of awareness everything is a proof of Allah's existence. Everything from atoms to galaxies, every piece of the universe, is full of His existence and creation. Those who persistently demand miracles are, in reality, only looking for an escape route. In fact, they always make allegations of sorcery or anarchy when they witness the Prophets' miracles they perform as a blessing from Allah. Such an attitude only proves their unbelief.

The insincerity of such people is exposed, as in the passage given below:

If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead. (Luke, 16: 31)

In the Qur'an Allah states that such people will not believe, even if they see a miracle:

Even if We sent down angels to them, and the dead spoke to them, and We gathered together everything in front of them right before their eyes, they would still not believe, unless Allah willed. The truth is that most of them are ignorant. (Surat Al-An'am: 111)

They have sworn by Allah with their most earnest oaths that if a Sign comes to them, they will believe in it. Say: "The Signs are in Allah's control alone." What will make you realize that even if a Sign did come, they would still not believe? (Surat Al-An'am: 109)

This attitude on the part of deniers is described in the Torah in the story of the Prophet Moses (pbuh):

The Lord said to Moses and Aaron, "When Pharaoh says to you, 'Perform a miracle,' then say to Aaron, 'Take your staff and throw it down before Pharaoh,' and it will become a snake." So Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and did just as the Lord commanded. Aaron threw his staff down in front of Pharaoh and his officials, and it became a snake. Pharaoh then summoned wise men and sorcerers, and the Egyptian magicians also did the same things by their secret arts: Each one threw down his staff and it became a snake. But Aaron's staff swallowed up their staffs. Yet Pharaoh's heart became hard and he would not listen to them, just as the Lord had said.(Exodus 7: 8-13)

## Insensitive Eyes, Ears, and Hearts

They say: "Our hearts are covered up against what you call us to, and there is a heaviness in our ears. There is a screen between us and you. So act – we are certainly acting." (Surah Fussilat: 5)

Allah has sealed up their hearts and hearing, and over their eyes is a blindfold. They will have a terrible punishment. (Surat Al-Baqara: 7)

We created many of the jinn and humanity for Hell. They have hearts with which they do not understand. They have eyes with which they do not see. They have ears with which they do not hear. Such people are like cattle. No, they are even further astray! They are the unaware. (Surat Al-A'raf: 179)

### The Gospel

For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them. (Matthew, 13: 15)

[Jesus asked: ] "Do you have eyes but fail to see, and ears but fail to hear? And do you not remember? When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many basketfuls of pieces did you pick up?"... (Mark, 8: 18-19)

### The Torah

The word of the Lord came to me: "Son of man, you are living among a rebellious people. They have eyes to see but do not see and ears to hear but do not hear, for they are a rebellious people. (Ezekiel, 12: 1)

"Hear, you deaf; look, you blind, and see! You have seen many things, but have paid no attention; your ears are open, but you hear nothing. (Isaiah, 42: 18,20)

He said, "Go and tell this people: " 'Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.' (Isaiah, 6: 9)

## Humility

Perfection and faultlessness belong to Allah. Believers make mistakes knowingly or unknowingly, but always repent each time wholeheartedly and try their best never to repeat the same sin. They do not try to portray themselves as free of sin and faults or exalt themselves by looking down on others. Those who arrogantly take salvation for granted through their insincere acts cannot earn Allah's approval and compassion:

Do you not see those who claim to be purified? No, Allah purifies whoever He wills. They will not be wronged by so much as the smallest speck. (Surat An-Nisa: 49)

In the Qur'an, Allah reveals that such people's insincere efforts will not save them, and that they will be devastated:

Say: "Shall I inform you of the greatest losers in their actions? People whose efforts in the life of this world are misguided, while they suppose that they are doing good." (Surat Al-Kahf: 103-104)

It is also revealed in the Torah that boasting is a characteristic of poor moral values:

This is what the Lord says: "Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom

.. or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord, Who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on Earth, for in these I delight," declares the Lord. (Jeremiah 9, 23-24)

To the arrogant I say, 'Boast no more,' and to the wicked, 'Do not lift up your horns. Do not lift your horns against heaven; do not speak with outstretched neck.' " No one from the east or the west or from the desert can exalt a man. But it is God Who judges: He brings one down, He exalts another. (Psalm, 75: 4-7)

He boasts of the cravings of his heart; he blesses the greedy and reviles the Lord. In his pride the wicked does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God (Psalm, 10: 3-4)

Many Passages from the Gospel state that those who expect exaltation in their conceit are, in reality, debased. For example:

For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. (Luke, 18: 14)

so that no one may boast before him...Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.(1 Corinthians 1, 29-31)

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. (Philippians, 2: 3)

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. (1 Corinthians, 13: 4)

## Wishing Others Well

Greetings or wishing well are ways to express one's best wishes for someone else when they meet. Believers do this without fail, even when they are busy or have urgent business elsewhere, when they enter each other's houses or meet somewhere. In the Qur'an, Allah commands believers to reply in a similar manner, or with even nicer wishes, when they are greeted and to say suitable words of greeting when they enter another person's house:

When you are greeted with a greeting, return the greeting or improve on it. Allah takes account of everything. (Surat An-Nisa: 86)

And when you enter houses, greet one another with a greeting from Allah, blessed and good. In this way Allah makes the Signs clear to you so that, hopefully, you will use your intellect. (Surat An-Nur: 61)

The Gospel contains similar instructions, such as:

As you enter the home, give it your greeting. (Matthew, 10: 12)

... Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!"... Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! (John, 20: 19,21)

The Torah discusses this subject as follows:

The Lord said to Moses, "Tell Aaron and his sons, 'This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them: " ' "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." '

... Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: "May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels." For the sake of my brothers and friends, I will say, "Peace be within you." (Psalm, 122, 6-8)

... _wrote to all the peoples, nations and men of every language throughout the land: "May you prosper greatly! (Daniel, 6: 25)_

## Avoiding Envy

.. But people are prone to selfish greed. If you do good and have fear of Allah, Allah is aware of what you do. (Surat An-Nisa: 128)

Say: "I seek refuge with the Lord of Daybreak, from the evil of what He has created, from the evil of the darkness when it gathers, from the evil of women who blow on knots, and from the evil of an envier when he envies." (Surat Al-Falaq: 1-5)

### The Gospel

The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. (Galatians, 5: 19-21)

You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. (James, 4: 2)

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. (1 Corinthians, 13: 4)

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.( Galatians 5: 25-26)

### The Torah

Resentment kills a fool, and envy slays the simple. (Job, 5: 2)

.. for jealousy arouses a husband's fury, and he will show no mercy when he takes revenge. (Proverbs, 6: 34)

## Not to Lie

... **have done with telling lies. (Surat Al-Hajj: 30)**

O you who believe! Fear [and respect] Allah, and speak the right word. (Surat Al-Ahzab: 70)

### The Gospel

For out of the heart come evil thoughts... false testimony... (Matthew, 15: 19)

Do not lie to each other... (Colossians, 3: 9)

### The Torah

... 'Do not lie. 'Do not swear falsely by my name (Leviticus, 19: 11-12)

Do not spread false reports. Do not help a wicked man by being a malicious witness. Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong. When you give testimony in a lawsuit, do not pervert justice by siding with the crowd. (Exodus, 23: 1-2)

Have nothing to do with a false charge and do not put an innocent or honest person to death, for I will not acquit the guilty.(Exodus, 23: 7)

## Not to Commit Adultery

And do not go near to fornication. It is an indecent act, an evil way. (Surat Al-Isra: 32)

### The Torah

You shall not commit adultery. (Exodus, 20: 14)

The land is full of adulterers...(Jeremiah, 23: 10)

### The Gospel

... What comes out of a man is what makes him unclean. For from within, out of men's hearts, come ... sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance, and folly. All these evils come from inside and make a person unclean. (Mark, 7: 20-23)

## Not to Steal

O Prophet! When women who believe come to you pledging allegiance to you on the grounds that they will not associate anything with Allah, or steal or fornicate, or kill their children or give a false ascription of paternity – making up lies about their bodies – or disobey you in respect of anything right, then accept their pledge and ask forgiveness for them. Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Surat Al-Mumtahana: 12)

### The Torah

Do not steal... Do not deceive one another. (Leviticus, 19: 11)

... thieves break into houses, bandits rob in the streets; but they do not realize that I remember all their evil deeds. Their sins engulf them; they are always before Me. (Hosea, 7: 1-2)

### The Gospel

Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, and honor your father and mother. (Mark, 10: 19)

## Treating Parents Well

Your Lord has decreed that you should worship none but Him, and that you should show kindness to your parents. Whether one or both of them reach old age with you, do not say "Ugh!" to them out of irritation, and do not be harsh with them. Rather, speak to them with gentleness and generosity. (Surat Al-Isra: 23)

### The Gospel

Honor your father and mother. (Luke, 18: 20; Matthew, 19: 19)

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother – which is the first commandment with a promise – that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the Earth. (Ephesians, 6: 1-3)

You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother. (Mark, 10: 19)

### The Torah

Honor your father and your mother. (Exodus, 20: 12)

Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the Lord your God is giving you. (Deuteronomy 5, 16)

# Chapter 6: Uniting in Ideological Debate

When humanity's present living conditions are scrutinized, the need for alliance among the believers, become apparent. Social ills, among them conflicts, wars, genocide, poverty, famine, social injustice, and moral degeneration, pose a serious threat to many countries. Moreover, a great number of innocent people suffering under those conditions are desperately waiting for a helping hand to be extended. Conscientious people around the world are trying to help them. Aid packages are dispatched to areas affected by famine, peace envoys are trying to protect people in war zones, and efforts are being made to curb crime and decadence. But these efforts are regional and limited to finding solutions to the most pressing issues. In fact, it is actually possible to eradicate all kinds of human suffering and to bring happiness, security, and prosperity to the world.

However, achieving this goal depends on identifying the true causes of such ills – the decline of religious morality – and eradicating their ideological basis. The fact that the law of the strong prevails throughout the world is partly responsible for this situation, for this attitude engenders a social model based upon self-interest. Even more seriously, it has replaced affection, love, sympathy, compassion, and cooperation with conflict, greed, and dispute. In short, it disregards humanity's obligation to serve Allah, view this life as a realm of testing designed to win His good pleasure, and strive for the Hereafter.

The ideological changes that took place in the nineteenth century laid the foundations for the spiritual collapse in the next century. Whereas the majority of people believed in Allah's existence until that time, these changes enabled atheism to become a major influence. In the eighteenth century, such materialists as Denis Diderot (d. 1784) and Baron D'Holbach (d. 1789) asserted that the universe had existed forever and that only matter existed, and this view found an ever-increasing following in Europe. In the nineteenth century, atheism expanded further with the influence of such thinkers as Ludwig Feuerbach (d. 1872), Karl Marx (d. 1883), Friedrich Engels (d. 1894), Friedrich Nietzsche (d. 1900), Emile Durkheim (d. 1917), and Sigmund Freud (d. 1939).

Charles Darwin (d. 1882) did the greatest service to atheism by devising his theory of evolution, which was designed to oppose creation. Darwinism provided a scientific answer to the question of how humanity and other life forms emerged – a question that atheists had never managed to answer until that time. He proposed that nature had a mechanism that could enliven dead matter and give rise to millions of species. Many people, unfortunately, believed this erroneous idea.

At the end of the nineteenth century, atheists had formulated a worldview that, they claimed, explained everything. They postulated that the universe was not created, but had existed since eternity and thus had no beginning. They assumed that its clear order and equilibrium was coincidental and devoid of purpose. Darwinism claimed to answer the question of how humanity and all other beings were created. Marx and Durkheim provided atheistic answers to history and sociology, and Freud did the same for psychology. These theories, however, were shown to be baseless and without merit by the scientific, political, and social developments of the twentieth century. And, moreover, discoveries in astronomy, biology, psychology, and social behavior completely destroyed atheisms' propositions.

During this period, however, movements based on Darwinism and materialism devastated humanity. Such ideologies as communism, fascism, racism, nihilism, and existentialism caused people great sorrow and engendered countless conflicts, wars, and calamities. Their aftereffects continue to be felt today, albeit with a lesser impact, and certain circles persist in defending Darwinism as a scientific fact. We will briefly scrutinize how Darwinism is being imposed on nations and what the consequences are. But first, we want to point out an important fact.

At present, the burden of responsibility rests upon the shoulders of all conscientious believers to do something about the global situation created by all ideologies opposed to religious morality. All Christians, Jews, and Muslims should join in this effort, for they are the target of these atheistic ideologies. Therefore, the sincere People of the Book and sincere Muslims must cooperate, join forces, and tell the world of Darwinism's false worldview, which is based on materialism, not science. All of the other anti-religious ideologies (e.g., communism, fascism, racism) as well as decadence must be fought together on an ideological level so that the world can enjoy peace, tranquility, and justice in the near future. When this great task has been completed, suffering, hardship, killing, calamity, injustice, and destitution will make way for enlightenment, calmness, prosperity, wealth, health, and good fortune.

## Darwinism: The Source of Corrupted Values

The theory of evolution proposes that life emerged coincidentally and then developed and evolved as a consequence of the struggle for survival. Consequently, Darwinism's underlying message is that you are not answerable to anyone; that you owe your life to coincidence; and that you must fight and, if necessary, oppress others in order to survive, as you are living in a world of self-interest and conflict. These are the moral implications of such Darwinist slogans as _natural selection, struggle for survival, and survival of the fittest._ Obviously, this worldview is the exact opposite of the worldview based on religious morality. Moreover, if forms the basis of the anti-religion front.

Studying society's values is enough to expose Darwinism's destructive nature. When we look at present-day societies, we see that most people live for self-preservation, a good job, material wealth, more money, entertainment – in other words, for success in the _struggle for survival._ Such people naturally seek a good and happy life. However, religious morality also requires people to take care of the needy, cooperate with each other, and avoid selfishness. Darwinism does not concern itself with other people; in fact, it teaches its adherents that if any benefit can be had from the hardship of others, so be it.

Especially among the young people, luxurious houses and cars, unlimited financial means, fame, wealth, and power have become ideals. Not wondering about the purpose of their existence and hardly ever pondering Allah's Existence and Might, they consider themselves to be independent beings that have no responsibilities toward our Creator. They would rather not be reminded of death, which is a reality for all beings, resurrection, and the Day of Judgment. But such willful ignorance does not affect the truth. Even if they ignore such questions until death comes for them or turn away from all reminders of truth, they remain nothing more than created and feeble servants who will die one day and be brought to His presence for judgment.

These people often are not even aware of Darwinism's influence on their lives. Worse, great number of them believe that Darwinism is a subject matter of biology and therefore none of their concern. Even if they are not aware of the theory of evolution's influence, their continued exposure to it deeply affects their worldview.

People who consider themselves to be highly evolved animals reflect their corrupted worldview in their behavior and decision-making: They are selfish, greedy, ruthless, and cruel, and oblivious of the need to practice compassion, mercy, devotion, and modesty. This attitude naturally gives rise to social disorder and causes social as well as moral collapse.

Another undesirable side effect is the ensuing belief that one's personal self-interest is the only thing that matters. Within such societies, altruism, love, respect, and compassion have all been forgotten. Such conditions push people into loneliness and despair. Out of these conditions come stress, discontent, unhappiness, and worry, all of which make many people's lives living nightmares. The resulting spiritual void drives some people to alcohol, drugs, gambling, suicide, or other disastrous courses.

Decadence continues to spread rapidly in societies whose people have abandoned spiritual values. The rising levels of homosexuality and prostitution, sexual crimes, rape, and sexually transmitted disease are important indicators of decadence. Prostitution destroys families and people's self-respect. Homosexuality and other sexual practices that all divinely revealed Books have condemned are now considered normal in many parts of the world, and people who oppose such immorality are accused of being out of date. It is certainly no sign of progress that homosexuals can get married officially in some countries, coordinate their efforts at the international level, and display aggressive behavior against religious morality.

Decadence is also widespread in the political realm. The twentieth century was characterized by the most horrific and destructive wars in human history. Countless people were killed, injured, or disabled in terrorist or anarchist attacks. Such cruelty is perpetrated by anti-religion ideologies (e.g., communism, fascism, and racism), all of which are offshoots of Darwinism. Regional wars, conflicts, and bloody acts of terror continue to erupt in many parts of the world.

At present, vast numbers of people live in destitution and hardship. Statistics reveal that famine, destitution, and the gap in wealth distribution have reached alarming levels. These negative developments are the natural consequences of a world order based on selfishness, self-interest, and other materialistic values.

Social degradation is also reflected in the increasing number of crimes committed. Throughout the world, illegal activities are increasing and the scope of criminal activities continues to expand. These are the natural consequences of abandoning spiritual and moral values. People far from religious morality consider all types of crimes (e.g., theft, fraud, robbery, and blackmail) to be normal and do not believe that such practices can ever be eradicated.

This gloomy picture is the result of the increasing penetration of materialist philosophies over the past two centuries. Beginning in Europe, it has now spread around the world. This product of rejecting belief in Allah, which features such lies as you are not answerable or you are highly evolved animals that struggle for survival in the jungle, has proven to be remarkably resilient.

## Two Choices

Having presented and explained the reasons for humanity's current deplorable state, we now must ask the following question: What is the best and most appropriate thing to do about the prevailing conditions?

For anyone who sees the destructiveness of immorality, injustice and degeneration, there are two options: either ignore it or mobilize to fight it. Those who choose the first option remain passive and uninterested in what is happening around them. They fool themselves by asking rhetorically: Am I going to save the world? or What could I do, anyway? In conversations, they express their sorrow over the sad state of affairs and donate some time or money to various charities, but make no effort to eradicate these evils. Such people should remember that those who remain silent in the face of suffering, hardship, and evil, or who do not do their utmost to combat them, share in the responsibility for their continued existence.

The second option, mobilizing all means in an ideological struggle to save the world from its present condition, is the one that all sincere believers choose. They never give up the struggle and continue to contribute as best they can. Sincere, reasonable, conscientious, and responsible people must choose this second option. Since the evil and immoral tyrants present a united front against religious morality, sincere People of the Book and sincere Muslims must unite against this alliance of evil, pool all of their mental and material resources, and then fight this ideological war together. All sincere Jews, Christians, and Muslims are responsible for doing their utmost in this regard. By embarking on this path, they ensure the gradual emergence of honest, respectful, loving, accepting, sensitive, and virtuous people who will live together in an environment of peace, tranquility, security, happiness, and prosperity.

In the present environment of hardship and troubles, sincere Jews, Christians, and Muslims must be even more accepting, conciliatory, complementary, and respectful of each other. They should not forget that unity, togetherness, and cooperation bring success, and that dispute, argument, and conflict bring nothing but weakness. The current situation demands the immediate formation of such an alliance. Besides the ideological debate against the enemies of religious morality, all believers must prepare for the most celebrated era in human history: the second coming of the Prophet Jesus (pbuh).

# Chapter 7: Belief in Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) and The Messiah (pbuh) in the Divine Faiths

"The End Times" is a term used to describe the final days of earth, prior to Judgment Day. In this period, according to Islamic belief, humanity will be confronted by terrible corruption and degeneration. This dark age will be one of increasing injustice, oppression, famine and poverty, moral collapse, war and conflict, anarchy and disorder. It will come to an end with people returning to Allah and religious moral values. Want will be replaced by plenty, injustice and oppression by justice and understanding, and anarchy and disorder by an environment of peace and security, and the world will enjoy a hitherto unseen beauty and abundance. Allah will make the return to earth of the Prophet Jesus (peace be upon him) and Hazrat Mahdi (peace be upon him), a holy personage whose name means "he who has found the path of salvation" the means whereby the world attains enlightenment and abundance. These are all valuable glad tidings imparted by our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) as indicated in the Qur'an.

The portents of the End Times, the characteristics of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) who will appear in that age, the changes to take place after his coming, and the return to Earth of the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) have already been covered in detail in earlier books. (For details, see Portents and Features of Hazrat Mahdi's (pbuh) Coming, The End of Times and Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh), The Golden Age, The Signs of Jesus' (pbuh) Second Coming, The End Times and The Beast of the Earth, The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) and Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will Come in this Century all by Harun Yahya)

In this book we will briefly describe the second coming of the Prophet Jesus (pbuh), awaited with great excitement by Christians and Muslims, and the coming of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) which appears in the Torah and bears a close resemblance to Islamic sources.

The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) and Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) Will Appear in This Century

Works by great and esteemed scholars of Ahl al-Sunnah, including Sunan Abu-Dawud and Letters of Imam Rabbani, explicitly state that Allah sends an individual every century in order to revive and rid religious morals of any innovations:

"Allah will raise for this community at the beginning of EVERY HUNDRED YEARS the one who will renovate its religion for it." (Sunan Abu Dawud, 5/100)

One hadith handed down from our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) states that Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will appear in 1400 in the words:

"People will gather around Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) in the year 1400." (Risalat al-Huruj al-Mahdi, p. 108)

The religious moral values of Islam will rule the whole world, as the result of a specific process, in this century, while the system of the dajjal (the antichrist) that opposes those values will entirely disappear. But following this period of progression, that will last for approximately 100 years, the world will again find itself in a phase of degeneration, around the 1500s according to the Islamic calendar. In one hadith narrated by many scholars, including Imam Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, a great Ahl al-Sunnah hadith and Islamic jurisprudence scholar, our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) says that 5600 years had passed up until his own day:

Ahmad Ibn Hanbal transmitted in his 'Ilal:

FIVE THOUSAND SIX HUNDRED YEARS HAVE PASSED FROM THIS WORLD. (Al-Burhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir az-zaman, p. 89)

Many other hadith contain explicit references to the life span of the world being 7000 years:

Anas Ibn Malik narrates that the Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) said: THE LIFE SPAN OF THE WORLD IS SEVEN DAYS IN THE DAYS OF THE HEREAFTER. Almighty Allah has said: ONE DAY IN THE SIGHT OF YOUR LORD IS LIKE A THOUSAND OF YOUR YEARS. Allah will ASCRIBE THE EQUIVALENT OF GOOD DEEDS OF THE SEVEN THOUSAND YEARS OF THE AGE OF THIS WORLD to the one who meets the need of any of his brothers in the faith on the path of Allah as if he spends his days in fasting and his nights in worship. (Al-Muttaqi al-Hindi, Al-Burhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir az-Zaman, p. 88)

Narrated from Daqqaq Ibn Zaid al-Juhani:

I told the Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) of a dream I had had. In that dream the Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) was at the top step of a seven-stepped pulpit. He said: THE SEVEN-STEPPED PULPIT YOU SEE IS THE SEVEN THOUSAND YEARS OF AGE OF THIS WORLD. (Al-Muttaqi al-Hindi, Al-Burhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir az-Zaman, p. 8)

Said Nursi, the renovator of the Islamic 1300s and the greatest one of the last millennium, cited the 1500s as the period of dominion of Islamic moral values. He stated that Muslims would enjoy a time of clear and explicit victory up until then. He said that in the years after that, the rise of the moral values of Islam would come to an end and that the Last Day would break for the unbelievers in the Islamic year 1545. (Allah knows the truth.)

"A group from my community will remain in truth until Allah's command [the Last Day]."

The abjad calculation of the clause "A group from my community..." which is **1542 (2117)** implies its (the community's) time of survival. The abjad calculation of the clause "will remain in truth" (when the gemination mark is counted) gives **1506 (2082)** ; it indicates until that date (2082) it will continue its work of enlightenment evidently and obviously, and maybe victoriously; then until 1542 (2117) in secrecy and defeat. The abjad calculation of the clause "until Allah's command" (when the gemination mark is counted) suggests that **THE LAST DAY WILL BEFALL** the unbeliever in 1545 (2120). (Kastamonu Addendum, p. 33)

The great Sunni scholar al-Barzanji states that the life span of the world will not last until the Islamic 1600, in other words, that the Last Day is expected to come in Islamic 1500s by Allah's leave. (Allah knows the truth.)

THE LIFE OF THIS COMMUNITY WILL EXCEED 1,000 YEARS, YET BE LIMITED TO 1,500 YEARS ... (Muhammad ibn 'Abd ar-Rasul Barzanji, Al-Isha'ah li Ashrat as-Sa'ah, The Portents of the Last Day, p. 299)

Suyuti's statement made on the basis of the hadith handed down from our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) is as follows:

"THE LIFE OF MY COMMUNITY WILL NOT EXCEED 1500 YEARS. (Suyuti, al-Kasfu an Mujawazati Hazihil Ummah al-Alfu, al-hawi lil Fatawi. 2/248, Tafsir Ruh-ul Bayan. Bursawi 4/262, Ahmad ibn Hanbal, Kitab al-'Ilal, p. 89)

Bearing in mind that we are currently in the year Hijri 1430 and that the 14th Hijri century will last until Hijri 1500, then Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) should definitely appear in this century. Because no other century remains in which Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) could appear.

The fact that just about all of the signs of the End Times revealed by our Prophet (May Allah bless him and grant him peace) have been taking place one after the other since 1400 clearly shows that we are living in the End Times and that Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will appear this century .

To summarize, as is clear from the hadiths of the Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) and statements by great Islamic scholars, the Islamic 1400s we are now living in is the age of the second coming of the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) and the coming of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh). The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will return to earth in this century, Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will appear and the moral values of Islam will rule the world.

## The Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) Second Coming According to the Qur'an

In the Qur'an Allah reveals that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) did not die and was not killed. Rather, he was raised up to Allah's presence and will be returned to Earth at a time of His choice.

This part of the book will examine the Qur'anic evidence for this. (For detailed information, see Harun Yahya, The Glad Tidings of the Messiah (pbuh), Global Publishing, [Istanbul: 2003].)

1. Those who sought to kill the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) failed. Thus, their claim to have killed him is based only upon their assumption:

And [on account of] their saying: "We killed the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, Messenger of Allah." They did not kill him and they did not crucify him; rather, it was made to seem so to them. Those who argue about him are in doubt about it. They have no real knowledge of it, just conjecture. But they certainly did not kill him. (Surat An-Nisa: 157)

2. The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) did not die, but was taken from the dimension of human existence to the Presence of Allah:

Allah raised him [Jesus] up to Himself. Allah is Almighty, All-Wise. (Surat An-Nisa: 158)

3. The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) is a sign for the Hour:

He [Jesus] is a sign of the Hour. Have no doubt about it. But follow me. This is a straight path. (Surat Az-Zukhruf: 61)

This verse signals the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) return in the End Times, because the Prophet Jesus(pbuh) lived approximately six centuries before the Qur'an's revelation. Therefore, we cannot understand his first life as a sign of the Hour or, in other words, a sign of the End Times. Given this interpretation, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will return in the End Times, in other words, in the period we are living in today and that this is a sign of the Day of Judgment.

4. The Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) followers will be preferred over unbelievers until the end of time:

When Allah said: ''Jesus, I will take you back and raise you up to Me, and purify you of those who do not believe. And I will place the people who follow you above those who do not believe until the Day of Resurrection. Then you will all return to Me, and I will judge between you regarding the things about which you differed." (Surah Al 'Imran: 55)

Allah says that the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) true followers will be superior to the unbelievers until the Day of Judgment. He only had a few followers while he was alive on Earth and, after his ascension to Allah's Presence, the true religion revealed to him was gradually falsified. During the next two centuries his followers were persecuted ruthlessly, for they did not have any political power. Therefore, we cannot say that the early Christians dominated the unbelievers and, therefore, that they were the subject of this verse.

Today, Christianity is far from its original state as the real religion taught by the Prophet Jesus (pbuh). In this situation, the expression I will place the people who follow you above those who do not believe until the Day of Resurrection, takes on a clear meaning: A community of the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) followers will live until that time. This community will emerge on the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) second coming and be preferred over the unbelievers until the Day of Judgment.

5. All People of the Book will believe in Jesus (pbuh) before he dies:

There is not one of the People of the Book who will not believe in him before he dies; and on the Day of Resurrection he [Jesus] will be a witness against them. (Surat An-Nisa: 159)

This verse contains three promises in relation to the Prophet Jesus (pbuh), all of which have not yet been fulfilled: first, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will die like all other human beings; second, all People of the Book will believe in him before he dies. (Both of these prophecies will be realized when he comes again); and third, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will be a witness over the People of the Book on the Day of Judgment.

6. The Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) second coming is proclaimed in Surah Maryam:

[Jesus said: ] "Peace be upon me the day I was born, the day I die, and the day I am raised up again alive." (Surah Maryam: 33)

When this verse is considered together with Surat Al 'Imran: 55, an important fact emerges, for in this latter verse Allah states that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) was raised up to Allah's Presence. This verse contains no reference to his death or killing. However, Surah Maryam 19: 33 speaks of the day that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will die. This second "death" is only possible with the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) return to Earth to live among humanity for a certain number of years.

7. The following verse indicates the Prophet Jesus'(pbuh) return to Earth:

He will teach him [Jesus] the Book and Wisdom, and the Torah and the Gospel. (Surah Al 'Imran: 48)

When we look at other verses to understand the meaning of Book in this verse, we realize the following: As it is used in conjunction with the Gospel and the Torah in the same sentence, it must stand for the Qur'an, as the verse below suggests:

He has sent down the Book to you with truth, confirming what was there before it. And He sent down the Torah and the Gospel. (Surah Al 'Imran: 3)

Many other verses state that wisdom and the Book were revealed to Mohammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace). The following is one such verse:

Allah has sent down the Book and Wisdom to you, and taught you what you did not know before. Allah's favor to you is indeed immense. (Surat An-Nisa: 113)

As the book revealed to Prophet Mohammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) was the Qur'an, the Book referred to in Surat Al 'Imran 3: 48, which the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will be taught, is most probably the Qur'an. Given that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) knew the Torah and the Gospel, obviously he will learn the Qur'an on his second coming.

8. Surah Al 'Imran 3: 59 states: **"The likeness of Jesus in Allah's Sight is the same as Adam."** This verse points out similarities between the two Prophets. For example, both the Prophet Adam (pbuh) and the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) did not have a father. Moreover, it could be indicating that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will be brought down to Earth in the End Times, just as the Prophet Adam (pbuh) was brought down from Paradise.

9. The word kahlaan, in Surat Al-Ma'ida: 110 and Surah Al 'Imran: 46 is further proof for the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) return to Earth. These verses are as follows:

Remember when Allah said: ''Jesus, son of Mary, remember My blessing to you and to your mother, when I reinforced you with the Purest Spirit so that you could speak to people in the cradle and when you were fully grown." (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 110)

[The angels said to Mary: ] "He [Jesus] will speak to people in the cradle and also when fully grown, and will be one of the righteous." (Surah Al 'Imran: 46)

The dictionary meaning of _kahlaan,_ which denotes the adult stages of the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) life, is between 30-50 years of age, at the borderline of youth and old age. Islamic scholars agree that this word denotes that part of a person's life that begins after one becomes 35 years old.

Islamic scholars base their view on the hadiths, transmitted by Ibn `Abbas, that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) was raised up to the heavens at the beginning of his thirtieth year and that he will live for another 40 years on his return. Scholars say that his old age will occur after his return to Earth. Therefore, this verse is a proof for the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) return.17

All Prophets spoke with people, invited them to religion, and taught religion at a mature age. But the Qur'an does not use this word for any other Prophet. Thus, _kahlaan_ indicates the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) miraculous return to Earth, as the expressions of _while in the cradle and when fully grown_ come one after the other in the verses, indicating the two miraculous times.

The Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) speaking from the cradle was a miracle, for such a thing had never happened before. This suggests that the expression when fully grown, which appears immediately after the other, is also a miracle. If this expression indicates the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) life before he was raised up to Allah's Presence, the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) speech would not have been a miracle. This is why the verse points out two miraculous times: when he was in the cradle (the first) and when fully grown (the second). Therefore, the expression when fully grown most probably indicates the miraculous time following his miraculous return to Earth, when he will speak with people again.

## The Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) Return in the Gospel

The Gospel describes the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) second coming in detail. (Matthew, 24: 36; Mark, 13: 32-33) and that he will come unexpectedly, which is why people must be aware and ready (Matthew, 24: 44, 25: 13; Mark, 13: 35-37; Luke, 12: 40).

The circumstances and telltale signs of his return that are known are given below: Anarchy and chaos will increase in the End Times (the final period of the world); wars and conflicts will be commonplace; decadence will be widespread; love and trust between people will be lost; treachery, infidelity, and cruelty will increase; and most people will be far from religious morality. One other indication will be the large number of false prophets or messiahs that will appear. The Gospel describes this era as follows:

Jesus answered: "Watch out that no one deceives you. For many will come in my name, claiming: 'I am Jesus,' and will deceive many. You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All of these are the beginning of birth pains... At that time, many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false Prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold. But he who stands firm to the end will be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come. (Matthew, 24: 4-14)

It also depicts the situation of the societies before the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) second coming, as follows:

But mark this: There will be terrible times in the Last Days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God – having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them. (2 Timothy, 3: 1-5)

According to the Gospel, when these developments are taking place, the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) return will be imminent (Matthew, 24: 33). One further telltale sign will be the widespread denial that he will really come. The Gospel reveals this, as follows:

First of all, you must understand that in the Last Days scoffers will come, scoffing and following their own evil desires. They will say: "Where is this 'coming' he promised? Ever since our fathers died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation." (2 Peter, 3: 3-4)

The signs of the End Times as described in the hadiths of Prophet Mohammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) are very similar to those described in the Gospel. Our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) also related in detail the circumstances and condition of the world in this time, and revealed that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) would be sent back to Earth during that period. Some of these signs are given below:

When anarchy prevails throughout the world, mischief appears, roads are cut, some attack others, the elder do not show mercy for the younger, and the younger fail to be polite toward the elder...18

The Hour will come when one kills his own brother.19

_The Hour will come when the evil ones become successors in your world._ 20

_The Hour will come when violence, bloodshed, and anarchy become common._ 21

_The unlawful things become lawful... is one of the signs of the Hour._ 22

_Large cities perish, as if they never existed._ 23

_In the End Times, such people will appear who will trade their religion in return for worldly benefits. To appear clement, they will wrap around sheep skin; their tongues will be sweeter than candy, but their hearts will be as hard as a wolf's heart._ 24

_There are two great events before the Day of Judgment... and then years of earthquakes._ 25

_Deceiving years will pass by. During those years... people will trust the traitorous person, and the honest person will be deemed traitorous._ 26

_People will not respect the elderly or show mercy to the young ones. Adultery will become widespread... to such an extent that people will commit adultery in the middle of a street._ 27

_Hunger and the high cost of living will become widespread._ 28

_The Hour will become near when people cease to do good deeds, and do not enjoin good deeds and forbid bad deeds..._ 29

_The increase in the number of evil ones, deeming liars as honest and honest ones as liars, deeming traitorous ones as reliable, and reliable ones as traitorous... are among the signs of the Hour._ 30

Those who pay attention to what is going on in the world, both in their own area and more further afield, can see that these signs are taking place one after the other in our own time. We receive almost daily news of conflict from different parts of the world; people are troubled by corruption, injustice, and other social ills; and dishonesty, fraud, cheating, fornication, and sexual license are rising by the day. Disregard for moral values prevents true love and compassion between people, and an atmosphere of distrust and anxiety eventually engulfs everyone. The numbers of devastating famine, earthquakes, and other natural disasters are increasing, and shocking events are clearly happening all around us. Of course such events have taken place in the past, but never have these signs occurred so clearly and comprehensively as they are right now. This situation is a clear sign, Allah willing, of the Prophet Jesus, the Messiah's (pbuh) imminent return in this period, a truly historic event and a cause for excitement and joy for all believers.

## The Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) Characteristics According to the Qur'an

The Qur'an contains a great deal of information about the Prophet Jesus (pbuh). For example, he was born without a father, following the good tidings that an angel revealed to Mary, and performed miracles, by Allah's will, such as speaking with people while still an infant. Throughout his life, he was an exemplary servant of Allah and called people to become genuine servants of Allah.

The following are some of the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) features:

\- The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) is the word and Messenger of Allah:

O People of the Book! Do not go to excess in your religion. Say nothing but the truth about Allah. The Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, was only the Messenger of Allah and His Word, which He cast into Mary, and a Spirit from Him. (Surat An-Nisa: 171)

\- He was given the name Jesus, the Messiah (pbuh):

When the angels said: "Mary, your Lord gives you good news of a Word from Him. His name is the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, of high esteem in this world and the Hereafter, and one of those brought near." (Surah Al 'Imran: 45)

\- He is a sign for humanity:

... **and she [Mary], who protected her chastity. We breathed into her some of Our Spirit and made her and her son a Sign for all the worlds. (Surat Al-Anbiya: 91)**

\- His mother Mary was chosen and preferred by Allah above all other women:

And when the angels said: "Mary, Allah has chosen you and purified you. He has chosen you over all other women." (Surah Al 'Imran: 42)

\- He spoke with people while still in the cradle:

[The angels said: ] "He will speak to people in the cradle and also when fully grown, and will be one of the righteous." (Surah Al 'Imran: 46)

\- He performed many miracles by Allah's will:

As a Messenger to the tribe of Israel, saying: "I have brought you a Sign from your Lord. I will create the shape of a bird out of clay for you and then breathe into it, and it will be a bird, by Allah's permission. I will heal the blind and the leper, and bring the dead to life, by Allah's permission. I will tell you what you eat and what you store up in your homes. There is a Sign for you in that, if you are believers." (Surah Al 'Imran: 49)

Remember when Allah said: ''Jesus, son of Mary, remember My blessing to you and to your mother, when I reinforced you with the Purest Spirit so that you could speak to people in the cradle and when you were fully grown; and when I taught you the Book and Wisdom, and the Torah and the Gospel; and when you created a bird-shape out of clay by My permission and then breathed into it and it became a bird by My permission; and healed the blind and the leper by My permission; and when you brought forth the dead by My permission; and when I held back the tribe of Israel from you, when you brought them the Clear Signs, and those of them who did not believe said: 'This is nothing but downright magic.' "(Surat Al-Ma'ida: 110)

\- He preached the Gospel sent as guidance and confirmation of the Torah (errors, myths, and legends entered the Gospel at a later date):

And We sent Jesus, son of Mary, following in their footsteps, confirming the Torah that came before him. We gave him the Gospel containing guidance and light, confirming the Torah that came before it, and as guidance and admonition for those who guard against evil. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 46)

Then We sent Our Messengers following in their footsteps and sent Jesus, son of Mary, after them, giving him the Gospel. We put compassion and mercy in the hearts of those who followed him. They invented monasticism – We did not prescribe it for them – purely out of desire to gain the pleasure of Allah, but even so they did not observe it as it should have been observed. To those of them who believed We gave their reward, but many of them are deviators. (Surat Al-Hadid: 27)

\- He was supported with Purest Spirit:

We gave Moses the Book and sent a succession of Messengers after him. We gave Jesus, son of Mary, the Clear Signs and reinforced him with the Purest Spirit. Why, then, whenever a Messenger came to you with something your lower selves did not desire, did you grow arrogant, and deny some of them and murder others? (Surat Al-Baqara: 87)

These Messengers: We favored some of them over others. Allah spoke directly to some of them and raised up some of them in rank. We gave Clear Signs to Jesus, son of Mary, and reinforced him with the Purest Spirit. If Allah had willed, those who came after them would not have fought each other after the Clear Signs came to them, but they differed. Among them are those who believe and among them are those who do not believe. If Allah had willed, they would not have fought each other. But Allah does whatever He wills. (Surat Al-Baqara: 253)

\- His Disciples assisted him:

O you who believe! Be helpers of Allah as Jesus, son of Mary, said to the Disciples: "Who will be my helpers to Allah?" The Disciples said: "We will be the helpers of Allah." One faction of the tribe of Israel believed, and the other disbelieved. So We supported those who believed against their enemy, and they became victorious. (Surat As-Saff: 14)

\- He was a role model for the Israelites:

He [Jesus, son of Mary] is only a servant on whom We bestowed Our blessing and whom We made an example for the tribe of Israel. (Surat Az-Zukhruf: 59)

\- The unbelievers conspired to assassinate him, but Allah foiled their plots and raised him up to His Presence:

They planned, and Allah planned. But Allah is the best of planners. When Allah said: ''Jesus, I will take you back, raise you up to Me, and purify you of those who do not believe. And I will place the people who follow you above those who do not believe until the Day of Resurrection. Then you will all return to Me, and I will judge between you regarding the things about which you differed." (Surah Al 'Imran: 54-55)

## Recognizing the Prophet Jesus (pbuh)

People are curious about how the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will be recognized on his second coming and what features will reveal his true identity. As a person of superior knowledge, intellect, body, and virtue, he will have an expression of Prophethood on his face. His strong fear and respect of Allah and deep faith will enlighten his face. This enlightenment on his face will be so revealing that people who encounter him will know that they are dealing with a superior human being.

Allah reveals that he is **"of high esteem in the world and the Hereafter, and one of those brought near"** (Surah Al 'Imran: 45). Thus, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will be recognized by his respectability, honor, and superiority, just as all other Prophets were. Those who see him will know him instantly, and their hearts will have no doubts; those who have denied his return will realize their error straight away.

The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will be recognizable by the qualities of Prophethood, but other signs will also make him recognizable, such as that he will have no family or relatives, and no one will have known him from an earlier period in his life.

## When the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) Returns There Will No One Who Knows Him from Before

How will we recognize the Prophet Jesus (pbuh)? Surely he will have all the attributes of a Prophet, which will enable believers to recognize him. Moreover, no one will have seen or known him before, and no one will know his past. No one will know his physical qualities, face, or voice. Even if some people make such claims, they cannot prove them, for everyone who knew the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) has been dead for approximately two thousand years. Mary, Zachariah (pbuh), his Disciples, the Jewish leaders of that era, and those who were taught by the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) have all died.

As we explained earlier, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) was created without a father, by Allah's command Be! Centuries later, he has no known relatives. In fact, Allah compares the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) creation to the Prophet Adam's (pbuh):

The likeness of Jesus in Allah's Sight is the same as Adam. He created him from earth and then He said to him: "Be!" and he was. (Surah Al 'Imran: 59)

As set out in the verse, Allah told the Prophet Adam to " Be ! " and that is how he was created. The first creation of the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) also took place by Allah telling him to "Be!" The Prophet Adam(pbuh) had no mother or father. When the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) entered the world, he had only a mother, Hazrat Mary (pbuh); but he returns to earth, his mother will no longer be alive.

No doubt, this situation removes the threat of false Messiahs. On his second coming, no one will be able to cast doubt on the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) as the Messiah, because he will be instantly recognizable by this fact: No one will be able to say that he or she knows him. Besides, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will have all the attributes of His chosen Messengers: virtue, pureness, wisdom, convincing speech, foresight, and modesty. Naturally, these will set him apart from false Messiahs and enable true believers to recognize him in the light of faith and to believe in him.

The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will remove all of Christianity's false beliefs and practices, free both the Christian and the Islamic worlds from their errors, and call all people to live by the true religion and superior morality, and together with Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh), he will instrumental in the moral values of Islam ruling the world.

Many hadiths of Hazrat Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) also give the good tidings about his return. A few of them are given below:

I swear, the son of Mary [Jesus (pbuh)] will perform hajj or umra or perform both.31

The Hour will not come until you see ten signs: the smoke, the antichrist, the Beast, the Sun rising from the West, the descent of Jesus (pbuh) son of Mary... 32

_By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, son of Mary [Jesus (pbuh)] will shortly descend among you people [Muslims] as a just ruler..._ 33

Hadiths reveal that a Golden Age era will begin after the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) return, a time in which wealth, tranquility, peace, happiness, and ease of life will rule. It will see new developments in art, medicine, communication, manufacturing, transport, and many other fields, completely unlike what we have seen in any other time. In addition, morality will define the lives of people. The hadiths describe this era, as follows:

Earth will fill with union of faiths, just as a bowl is filled with water. No enmity will remain among people. And all enmities, struggle, hostility, and jealousy will disappear.34

People will have so many possessions that no one will accept any.35

_Earth will fill with justice, just as a bowl is filled with water. Everyone will worship Allah. No strife or war will remain... Earth will be like a silver table; it will grow its plants, just as it was in the time of Adam. A bunch of grapes will satisfy a person. A group of people will feed on a single pomegranate. An ox will be very cheap, just as a horse will be very cheap._ 36

## Awaiting the Prophet Jesus (pbuh)

For us Muslims, Jesus' (pbuh) second coming is of utmost importance. Born as a miracle of Allah, he invited the Israelites to the righteous path, performed many miracles in their presence, and is the Messiah and Allah's word (Surat An-Nisa: 171). When he returns, the differences between Christians and Muslims, who actually share the same values and have the same belief in Allah, will be resolved. According to the Qur'an, Christians are the closest to Muslims in terms of affection. Once their differences have been resolved, Muslims and Christians will unite, and the Jews will believe in the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) and find enlightenment (Surat An-Nisa: 159). Thus, these three divinely revealed religions will merge into one religion based on belief in Allah and obedience to the Prophet Jesus (pbuh), and will then ideologically defeat all anti-religion philosophies and idolatry, thus finally ridding the world of war, conflict, racism, ethnic hostility, tyranny, and injustice. People will live in a golden age of peace, happiness, and tranquility.

This will be one of the most significant events in world history. The merger of the three divinely revealed religions will mean that both North and South America, Europe, the Islamic world, Africa, Russia, and Israel will form an alliance under a common religion, something that has never been witnessed before.

The Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) second coming is one of the greatest miracles in human history. Allah's chosen Prophets, by His will, performed various miracles. By His grace, 2,000 years ago in Palestine, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) revived the dead, cured lepers and the blind, and gave life to lifeless objects (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 110), all by Allah's will.

It will be a great miracle to witness the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) return to begin life once again without parents and as an adult. Existing materialist philosophies, already weakened to the point of collapse on a scientific as well as philosophical level, will be destroyed. People will see clear proof of Allah's existence and might.

Based on the signs revealed in the Qur'an and the hadiths, as well as the scholars' opinion, we believe that this event is imminent. We Muslims are excited about this and are doing everything we can to prepare ourselves and the world for the arrival of this celebrated guest. We call on Christians to be sensitive, conscientious, and passionate about this, too.

## Is Christendom Ready for the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) Return?

The love of the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) made Christians virtuous throughout history. Allah describes Christians in the following terms:

You will find the people most affectionate to those who have faith are those who say: "We are Christians." That is because some of them are priests and monks and because they are not arrogant. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 82)

In another verse Allah speaks of the Christians' positive morality:

Then We sent Our Messengers following in their footsteps, and sent Jesus, son of Mary, after them, giving him the Gospel. We put compassion and mercy in the hearts of those who followed him. (Surat Al-Hadid: 27)

Throughout history Christians endured much tyranny, withdrew from the world's pleasures, and made many sacrifices. All of these are proof of their sincerity, but at a time when the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) return is imminent, this sincerity needs to be reaffirmed.

The Gospel states repeatedly that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will return. For example, it says that he [Jesus] will appear a second time,... to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him (Hebrews, 9: 28). Since this promise is certain, all Christians are obliged to make this the basis of their worldview, be ready and waiting at all times, and act accordingly wherever they may be.

Many Christians are convinced that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will return soon, because most of the prophecies related to the Messiah's (pbuh) arrival have been fulfilled already. The expansion of religious morality across the world, the near collapse of materialist philosophies, and the fact that people are turning to the belief in Allah are important signs. It would be there inappropriate for Christians to remain impassive about this event.

Since his second coming is imminent, this must become the most important issue on Christendom's agenda. Since the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will unite all believers, the differences between Christians will soon be rendered meaningless and therefore, the separations, disputes, and animosities must be abandoned. As all Muslims and Christians will unite under one common belief when he arrives, it is necessary to begin working on overcoming the bias and distrust between them straight away.

The last chapter of the Gospel says:

The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of Jesus [Messiah], and He will reign forever and ever. (Revelation, 11: 15)

Come, let us prepare together for the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) imminent arrival. Knowing that he will teach us the truth, let us respect our differences in faith. Let us try to bring the peace, brotherhood, compassion, love that he envisages to the world. Let us fight together the ideological war against the philosophies and ideologies that oppose him and deny Allah.

Come, let us await one of the world's greatest miracles together.

## The Coming of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) is Announced in All The Holy Scriptures

The "End Times," the period immediately preceding the end of the world, will contain a series of portents that Allah has revealed in all the sacred scriptures. In this special age, when disorder and strife reach their fiercest level, when people are as far removed from religious moral values as they can possible be, when degeneration is at a peak, our Lord will send Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) – "he who gives the way to salvation." With his powerful love and fear of Allah Who has sent him to fulfill this important task, Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will be a means of salvation for the whole world. By Allah's will, Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will be successful in this duty, as is written in his destiny, and will cause faith in Allah and religious moral values to reign supreme.

For that reason, the appearance of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will be one of the greatest events in history, one that is mentioned in all the sacred scriptures. Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) has been awaited not just since the time of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), but for many thousands of years. The hadith of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) reveal that the coming of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) is described in all the sacred scriptures Allah revealed:

Nuaym has stated: "I find Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) thus in the pages of the Prophets (in the scriptures revealed to Adam, Seth, Enoch and Abraham [peace be upon them]): There will be no cruelty and nothing shameful in the actions of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh)." (Al-Muttaqi al-Hindi, Al-Burhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir az-Zaman, p. 21.)

The books of the Prophets reveal that "The work of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) is not cruel and evil." (Ibn Hajar al-Haythami, Al-Qawl al-Mukhtasar fi `Alamat al-Mahdi al-Muntadhar, p. 49.)

Ibn al-Munawi says: "Thus it is written in the book of Daniel (pbuh)... Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will appear, and Almighty Allah will save those previously subject to persecution and believers. The sunnah will be revived with him..." (This hadith is to be found in a handwritten copy of Al-Muttaqi al-Hindi, Al-Burhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir az-Zaman in the Suleymaniye Library.)

These hadiths make it clear that all Abrahamic religions deal with the subject of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh). Thousands of years ago, both the Torah and the Gospels described, the coming of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh), his qualities and activities, and how he will be a vehicle for the reign of faith in Allah and the religious values. Such passages can be seen in those parts of the Torah and the Gospels that are compatible with the verses of the Qur'an and the hadiths of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace).

That the Scriptures revealed by Allah contain descriptions of the coming of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh), thousands of years before the fact, is another proof of this event's enormous significance. The attributes and activities of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh), Allah's final herald and bearer of warnings, are of great importance in the End Times, so close to Judgment Day. In addition, all believers have a major responsibility to make everyone aware of this vital issue and to be the spiritual supporters of this holy person.

The Messiah Awaited by the Jews and Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) Awaited by Muslims are One and the Same Holy Personage

The term "Messiah," also known as the "awaited savior" in the revealed faiths, is manifested as Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) in Islamic belief. The system of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) in Islam appears as the period of "Messiah" in Judaic scriptures. The Messiah whose coming the Jews anticipate for the salvation of mankind in the End Times is the same Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) awaited by Muslims.

However, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh), whose second coming as the Messiah is awaited by Christians, is not Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh). Muslims also believe that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will return to earth during the End Times; however, when the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) does return, he will do so as a follower of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) – with whom, by Allah's leave, he will help Islamic moral values to prevail across the world.

According to reliable reports handed on from our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), "The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will perform the prayer behind Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh)." (Ibn Hajar al-Haythami, Al-Qawl al-Mukhtasar fi `Alamat al-Mahdi al-Muntadhar, p. 24.)

This report appears as follows in other hadiths:

The Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will appear from the sky and accept his sovereignty. People will say to the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) "Lead the prayer," but he will respond, "The ameer is among you." He will say, "This is a gift of Allah to the community of Muhammad." (Ibn Hajar al-Haythami, Al-Qawl al-Mukhtasar fi `Alamat al-Mahdi al-Muntadhar, p. 24.)

When Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) is performing the morning prayer with the faithful at the Bayt al-Maqdis, the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will appear, and the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) will place his hands on his shoulder and say, "The call to the prayer has been issued for you, so you must lead it," and finally Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will lead the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) and the faithful in prayer. (Ibn Hajar al-Haythami, Al-Qawl al-Mukhtasar fi `Alamat al-Mahdi al-Muntadhar, p. 25.)

It is also revealed in authentic hadiths of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) and Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will appear at the same time and struggle together to spread Islamic moral values over the world. These facts, which appear in several authentic hadiths, show that the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) and Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) will meet in the End Times, and will carry on their intellectual struggle together.

As mentioned above, the Messiah (Mashiach) awaited by the Jews, on the other hand, is in fact Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh). In Judaic texts, the term "Messiah" in a general way can also be used to refer to kings and high priests, so that the meaning is those "anointed to serve and close to Allah." However, the specific Messiah awaited by the Jews is an envoy, a religious leader who will be sent by Allah in the End Times, bring the world under his dominion and, by the will of Allah, turn people towards His path. And this description fits Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) in Islam.

In addition, an examination of the Torah and other Judaic scriptures shows that the individual described as the Messiah possesses the characteristics of Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh), and that their activities and changes these two will bring about in the world are exactly the same. For that reason, the Messiah awaited by the Jews is actually Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh).

In the hadiths of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), Hazrat Mahdi's (pbuh) resemblance to the People of Israel, the descendants of the Prophets, is highly significant. Some of the hadiths on this subject read as follows:

Hazrat Mahdi's (pbuh) stature and posture resemble those of the People of Israel. (Ibn Hajar al-Haythami, Al-Qawl al-Mukhtasar fi `Alamat al-Mahdi al-Muntadhar, pp. 36-29.)

His [Hazrat Mahdi's (pbuh)] body is an Israelite one. (Al-Muttaqi al-Hindi, Al-Burhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir az-Zaman, p. 24.)

Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) is like one of the People of Israel. (His demeanor resembles theirs, it is majestic and wise.) (Al-Muttaqi al-Hindi, Al-Burhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir az-Zaman, pp. 23-30.)

Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) has an Israelite body. He resembles one of the greatest of the People of Israel. (Ibn Hajar al-Makki)

His [Hazrat Mahdi's (pbuh)] body is like that one of an Israelite. (Mar'i ibn Yusuf al-Maqdisi, Fera Idu Fevaidi'l Fiqr Fi'l Imam al-Mahdi al-Muntadhar)

He [Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh)] will resemble one of the Israelites [in his external appearance]. (Al-Uqayli, An-Najmu's-saqib fi Bayan Anna'l Mahdi min Awladi Ali b. Abu Talib Ale't-Tamam wa al-Qamal)

It is as if he [Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh)] is a man from the people of Israel. (Nuaym ibn Hammad, vr. 52a; Mar'i ibn Yusuf al-Maqdisi, Fera Idu Fevaidi'l Fiqr Fi'l Imam al-Mahdi al-Muntadhar)

Allah reveals in the Qur'an that He has chosen and sanctified the Prophet Abraham (pbuh) and his line (Surat Al-Baqara, 130, Surat Al 'Imran, 33). The same information also appears in the Torah (Genesis, 22: 17, 12: 2).

(For more detailed information on this subject, see Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) Is A Descendant of the Prophet Abraham(pbuh), by Harun Yahya)

## Allah Promises Dominion to the Line of the Prophet Abraham (pbuh)

The People of Israel, the People of Isaac and the People of Ishmael referred to in the Torah are all from the line of the Prophet Abraham (pbuh). All are descended from the Prophet Abraham (pbuh), one blessed by Allah. The holy personage who bears the title of "he who bestows the path of salvation" in the Abrahamic religions – and who will appear in the End Times as a means whereby the moral values of true belief come to rule the world – is also descended from the Prophet Abraham (pbuh). This means that Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) himself is descended from the Prophet Abraham (pbuh).

Allah protected the two branches of the descendants of the Prophet Abraham (pbuh) in order for them to establish their dominion. In the End Times, He will unite the Imam al-Mahdi (pbuh) and the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) in order for that promise to be fulfilled. This period of dominion, revealed in the Qur'an and in the hadiths of our Prophet (may Allah bless him and grant him peace), is also promised in the Torah to a community descended from the line of the Prophet Abraham (pbuh):

I will bless you greatly, and increase your offspring like the stars of the sky and the sand on the seashore. Your offspring shall inherit their enemies' gate; all the nations of the world shall be blessed through your descendants – all because you obeyed My voice. (Genesis, 22: 17-18)

God said to Abraham: ... I will make you into a great nation. I will bless you and make you great; you shall become a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and he who curses you, I will curse. All the families of the earth will be blessed through you. (Genesis, 12: 1-3)

I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars of the sky, and grant them all these lands. All the nations on earth shall be blessed through your descendants. (Genesis, 26: 4)

Your descendants will be like the dust of the earth, and you will spread out to the west and to the east, to the north and to the south. All peoples on earth will be blessed through you and your offspring. (Genesis, 28: 14)

Parts of the Torah that describe how true believers of Allah will have leadership and responsibility on earth and how religious moral values will prevail in the End Times, the final age of this world:

The Lord replied, "I have forgiven them, as you asked. Nevertheless, as surely as I live and as surely as the glory of the Lord fills the whole earth." (Numbers, 14: 20-21)

... The meek will inherit the land and enjoy great peace... for the power of the wicked will be broken, the Lord upholds the righteous. The days of the blameless are known to the Lord and their inheritance will endure forever... (Psalm, 37: 11, 17-18)

All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations will bow down before him, for dominion belongs to the Lord. (Psalm, 22: 27-28)

For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the Lord will inherit the land. A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found. (Psalm, 37: 9-10)

_... For the power of the wicked will be broken, but the Lord upholds the righteous... The wicked will perish: The Lord's enemies will be like the beauty of the fields, they will vanish_ _–_ _vanish like smoke. (Psalm, 37: 17, 20)_

Wait for the Lord and keep his way... The salvation of the righteous comes from the Lord... The Lord helps them and delivers them; He delivers them from the wicked and saves them, because they take refuge in him. (Psalm, 37: 34, 39-40)

As these passages make clear, the "dominion" described in the Torah is not that of one specific group or lineage over other communities, but that of sincere faith in Allah and of the moral values of the true faith – commanded to everyone by Allah – over the world. However, expressions of praise for the believing Jews in the Torah are the good news imparted to devout believers when the Torah was revealed. Therefore, taking Torah passages referring to the dominion promised to the People of Israel as the superiority of a certain nation, without considering sincere faith in Allah, will not be a correct approach.

In fact, the concept of "the dominion of the moral values of the religion (deen)," which exists in Islam and Judaism, is the eradication of evils and difficulties stemming from religious moral values not being complied with on earth with the commencement of that compliance, and the spread of moral virtues. Muslims hope that the moral values commanded by Allah – namely, solidarity, justice, honesty, loyalty, modesty, forgiveness and compassion – will form the basis of relations between people, and construct an environment wherein everyone competes to behave in accord with moral values to attain Allah's pleasure. The establishment of such a climate will undoubtedly eradicate all evils stemming from the lack of these virtues. Muslims who share that understanding aim not to possess power and sovereignty, but to use any blessings Allah bestows on them in the finest manner in order to spread the moral values of the faith. This excellent attribute of Muslims is revealed in the Qur'an:

... those who, if We establish them firmly on the earth, will establish the prayer and pay alms, and command what is right and forbid what is wrong. The end result of all affairs is with Allah. (Surat Al-Hajj, 41)

# Chapter 8: Come, Let Us Unite

All of the truths revealed thus far show that the People of the Book and Muslims have very similar beliefs and worldviews. Followers of all three divinely revealed religions believe in Allah's unity; that He created the universe and all living beings from nothing; and that people should order their lives according to divine revelation. The moral code and ideals of social life contained in the parts of the Torah and the Gospel are very much like those of the Qur'an.

Sure, there are some fundamental differences in terms of faith that have become the subject of disputes and even wars between the three divinely revealed religions. But at a time when anti-religion and atheist ideologies dominate the world, it is necessary to accentuate the similarities among the three religions.

Putting our differences aside is not something impossible. Consider what happens when we learn of rescue efforts launched to help the survivors of earthquakes or large-scale floods. Something in common draws our attention to such images, and soon people of different countries, nations, and religions mobilize themselves and their resources to cooperate with one another in order to save the affected people. Even countries that hate each other drop their mutual hatred at such times of hardship and rush to the help of the affected country without a second thought. This is what humanity should do anyhow. It is an act of grave indecency to bring up past problems, conflicts, disputes, arguments, and prejudices when people are desperately waiting to be rescued from the rubble of their homes or from the threat of drowning.

Let us visualize the situation of the world's nations: The global activities of atheist and materialist ideologies, social degeneration, decadence, poverty, famine, increasing evil, disintegrating families, spiritually starved people, crime, murder, fights, conflicts, wars, and troubles... No doubt, these and other evil acts are dragging the world at alarming speed toward spiritual as well as physical destruction. Atheistic materialism and other destructive ideologies are threatening people's lives here and in the Hereafter. All of this shows that the billions of people are, in reality, no different from the victims of natural disasters awaiting rescue.

It is the duty of all faithful, sincere, conscientious, and rational Christians, Jews, and Muslims to cooperate against evil, join forces in the ideological battlefield, and work together in unity and harmony. This unity must be based on the principles of love, respect, affection, compassion, understanding, harmony, and cooperation. The urgency of the situation must be remembered, and disputes, arguments, and all other human-made (and therefore artificial) barriers between people must be abandoned.

When we look at the Torah, the Gospel, and the Qur'an, we see that they all recommend using friendly words and conducting oneself properly and with dignity. The Christians' attitude toward others is described, as follows, in the Gospel:

... _always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. (1 Thessalonians 5: 15)_

... _to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men. (Titus, 3: 2)_

The Torah states that Jews must treat people well:

Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the LORD God Almighty will be with you, just as you say He is. Hate evil, love good; maintain justice in the courts... (Amos, 5: 14-15)

In the Qur'an, Allah states the importance of virtue, righteousness, and responding to evil with goodness and commands Muslims to approach Christians and Jews in the appropriate manner.

In the Qur'an Allah clearly states that the People of the Book are closer to Muslims than idolaters or atheists.

Even though some Jewish and Christian beliefs and practices no longer accord with the original divine revelations, their revealed books still contain moral values based on divine revelation and a code of good and evil, which is why their food is halal (lawful) for Muslims. Likewise, Muslim men are allowed to marry Jewish and Christian women, for:

Today all good things have been made halal [lawful] for you. The food of those given the Book is also halal for you, and your food is halal for them. So are chaste women from among the believers and chaste women of those given the Book before you, once you have given them their dowries in marriage, not in fornication or taking them as lovers. But as for anyone who rejects faith, his actions will come to nothing, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 5)

These rules show that Muslims and the People of the Book can establish good relations among themselves through marriage and the sharing of food, both of which enable the formation of warm human relationships and tranquil togetherness. It is inconceivable that Muslims could have different views when the Allah demands a moderate and tender approach in the Qur'an.

Therefore, Muslims must approach Christians and Jews with respect and politeness and inform them of the Qur'an's call to unite under a common word. The secret of such an alliance is found in this call:

Say: "O People of the Book, come to a proposition that is the same for us and you – that we should worship none but Allah, not associate any partners with Him, and not take one another as lords besides Allah." (Surah Al 'Imran: 64)

## Come, Let Us Unite in Proclaiming Allah's Existence and the Reality of Creation

The universe is full of evidence that disproves the unbelievers' misguided and erroneous philosophies. All people who listen to the voice of their conscience and study the universe and nature in a sincere and unbiased manner will find the evidence of creation wherever they look. Everything, whether alive or lifeless, contains messages that teach us Allah's superior art of creation. Thus, we are surrounded by the signs of His existence and unity.

In order to destroy the unbelievers' claim that everything evolved accidentally, it is necessary to examine and inform others of the evidence for creation in the light of modern science. Conscientious people, who come to see the spectacular structures and perfect systems in living beings, the extraordinary order in the universe and billions of sensitive balances will realize that these could not have been the result of coincidental developments, but that they are the creation of Allah. In this way, the coincidence lie will be destroyed. The evidence for creation covers Allah's existence and oneness, as well as His supreme might, wisdom, and art. They will lead people to notice Allah's existence and to turn to Him.

One of the most effective ways to remove the people's unawareness of this truth is to display the many proofs of creation and its perfection in great detail. This will cause people to think about those things that they have always taken for granted. For example, each person's body is a great proof of creation. Our eyes are more complex and superior to the most advanced cameras in the world. All of our bodily functions work in harmony and in equilibrium with each other, and chemical processes that could otherwise be reproduced only in huge chemical plants are carried out perfectly well in our relatively small internal organs. Allah created countless foodstuffs for us, all of which grow in the same soil and yet have different delicious tastes, smells, appearances, vitamins, and the minerals we need to stay alive and healthy. All of the fruits, vegetables, and other sources of food present evidence for Allah's creation. At this time and age, most people consume Allah's gifts without ever pondering this reality and so never think to thank Him for them. In order to end such unawareness, sincerely religious believers must join forces.

In many verses of the Qur'an Allah invites people to ponder such facts and to witness and understand these proofs for Allah's existence and greatness. Among them is the following passage:

Do you not see how He created seven heavens in layers, and placed the Moon as a light in them and made the Sun a blazing lamp? Allah caused you to grow from the soil and will return you to it and bring you out again. Allah has spread Earth out as a carpet for you so that you could use its wide valleys as roadways. (Surah Nuh: 15-20)

The subjects mentioned in these verses are so detailed that scholars could – and have – written volumes about them. For instance, the seven strata of the heavens and their effects on and benefits to the world's ecological systems and life on Earth; the Moon and the Sun's influence on the seasons, the climate, day and night, and over the life of people – when people think about such things, their worldview is broadened and their faith is strengthened. The slightest changes to these systems are similarly awe-inspiring, especially when the dangers of such changes are considered. The whole universe is full of such details, and yet most people hardly ever ponder these wonders in their daily lives. Telling people about these proofs of creation and their ramifications on their own lives will lead them to contemplate and thus recognize Allah's Power and Might.

Naturally, people who admit Allah's existence will find their lives, morality, and general behavior greatly affected, for they will do their best to obey His commands and live by His morality. This, in turn, will increase the number of people who are gentle, modest, understanding, patient, loyal, selfless, compassionate, brave, open-minded, honest, and just, and the world will become a beautiful place due to the expansion of His morality.

Therefore, come and let us investigate the reality of creation; let us research them and announce them to all people; let us invite them to love Allah, be thankful to Him, live by the morality He prescribes, and worship Him in order to earn His good pleasure.

## Come, Let Us Unite against Darwinism

As we stated earlier, atheist, materialist, and other anti-religion power centers are waging an unprecedented war against religious morality. They have been working systematically across the world to divert people from Allah's path, have them deny Allah's existence and unity, and annihilate religious morality.

Amazingly, they claim to be following a scientific system that has all the answers: Darwinism. However, this system only leads people into atheism by encouraging them to reject His existence and creation. They portray the world as an arena in which only the fittest survive and seek to distance people from religious morality, and thereby turn them into selfish and merciless animals. The famous atheist evolutionist, Prof. Richard Dawkins, sums up the theory of evolution's mission as follows: "Darwin made it possible to be an intellectually fulfilled atheist."37

In reality, the theory of evolution does not make this possible for them, because the theory is in clear conflict with recent scientific discoveries. Many sciences (e.g., paleontology, biochemistry, genetics, comparative anatomy, and biophysics) prove that the creation of life cannot be explained through natural processes and natural selection, as evolutionists claim. In short, evolution is defended not by science, but in spite of science.

However, the leading positions of power in the scientific world and in the media are filled by people who continue to assert that the theory of evolution is absolute truth. Seeking to keep this theory alive at all costs, they have no qualms about concealing or twisting those scientific discoveries that refute it, or belittling or disparaging those discoveries that expose its falsity or those scientists who criticize it. This inquisition causes many scientists and researchers to conceal their true views so that they will not be excommunicated by having their funds cut off or their reputations destroyed.

All people who believe in Allah must join forces to resist and, ultimately, overthrow the Darwinist dictatorship ruling the world of science and thought.

Therefore, come let us unite; let us use the scientific and technological means of the twenty-first century to tell the world that Darwinism is nothing but a sham, and that the true source of life is creation.

## Come, Let Us Unite for Peace

Allah commands believers to make peace with each other and to defend it against those who conspire to make war without justification (i.e., not for self-defense or protecting the innocent), and curses those who create disorder and kill innocent people. Believers who abide by Allah's prescribed morality have a duty to work for peace and security and to provide a world in which all people can live in peace and tranquility.

Wars fought to acquire more land, prove the supremacy of one's nation or race over another, and dominate other nations leave nothing behind but dead innocent people, cripples, orphans, mentally disturbed individuals, destroyed cities, devastated civilizations, destitution, fear, and hunger. These losses, which affect all parties involved in warfare, take many long years – even generations – to replace.

The lack of religious morality is the source of all wars, skirmishes, and bloodshed. Sometimes, people claiming to act in the name of religion can manipulate other people who are not sufficiently well-informed about religion to commit crimes that are completely incompatible with religious morality. Those who believe that disagreements and problems should be resolved through violence tyrannize people with their despotism and oppression. Believers must join forces against them and oppose their efforts to legitimize their tyranny.

Therefore, let us unite; let us eradicate all causes of conflict and fighting by telling people about the true morality of religion. Let us prove to people that there is absolutely no cause for conflict between different religions by our united efforts and actions. Let us tell people about the love of Allah in order to spread love, understanding and compassion.

# Conclusion

The true friend, helper, guardian, and protector of believers is Allah. He knows everything and has power over everything. In addition, He eases the believers' burdens and makes them strong and superior. This is why believers never succumb to hopelessness, despair, sorrow, carelessness, or surrender.

Allah promises in the following verse that He will help those who follow His path:

Those who were expelled from their homes without any right, merely for saying: "Our Lord is Allah." If Allah had not driven some people back by means of others, monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, in which Allah's name is mentioned much, would have been pulled down and destroyed. Allah will certainly help those who help Him – Allah is All-Strong, Almighty. (Surat Al-Hajj: 40)

Allah also conveys the following good news: Irrespective of the indestructible appearance of the unbelievers' rule and conspiracies, their efforts will come to naught and they will not achieve the results they desire. Every conspiracy and scheme to disseminate evil and immorality will eventually fail, and the schemes of those who organize evil and immorality will turn against them, for Allah states:

They concocted their plots, but their plots were with Allah, even if they were such as to make the mountains vanish. Do not imagine that Allah will break His promise to His Messengers. Allah is Almighty, Exactor of punishment. (Surah Abraham: 46-47)

It only increased their aversion, shown by their arrogance in the land and evil plotting. But evil plotting envelops only those who do it. Do they expect anything but the pattern of previous peoples? You will not find any changing in the pattern of Allah. You will not find any alteration in the pattern of Allah. (Surah Fatir: 42-43)

The duty of all believers is clear, whether they are Muslims, Jews, or Christians: to unite and join forces in order to establish societies dominated by peace, tranquility, prosperity, morality, goodness, happiness, and security. If we coordinate our efforts for such a pure undertaking, Allah will give us success. Every believing Christian, Muslim, and Jew is responsible to do whatever he or she can in this respect. Given that they believe in the One and Only Allah, try to win His good pleasure, have submitted to Him wholeheartedly, praise Him, and advocate essentially the same values, it is only natural for them to join together to fight their common foe.

Jews, Christians, and Muslims must permanently end all of their historical disputes, prejudices, misunderstandings, and conflicts caused by bigotry and bias. They must not forget that we have not even one day to waste. Followers of all three divinely revealed religions should approach each other with understanding and love, for what matters most is to point out their common ground and make things easier for everyone, to be constructive and complimentary, and to unite.

The prejudices caused by ignorance or by the agitation of those who oppose the morality of religion must be eradicated. All of the walls that have been erected over the years among and against the followers of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism only help the unbelievers undermine and lead people further away from religious morality. In this book, we have called upon the People of the Book: Let us join forces in the ideological fight against all ideologies that promote immorality and irreligion, especially Darwinism. Let us pool our technological resources and knowledge, our experience and efforts. Let us announce the errors of the followers of Darwinism, evolutionism, and materialism in the light of current scientific research. Let us move together to tell all people that Almighty Allah created the universe and all things therein, whether alive or lifeless, along with all of the supporting evidence and its miracles.

No doubt, those who call to goodness, recommend doing good and avoiding evil, and work together in this holy cause can expect salvation and eternal happiness. The unbelievers will be at a loss, whereas the believers will receive an eternal reward:

By the Late Afternoon, truly man is in loss – except for those who believe and do right actions and urge each other to the truth and urge each other to steadfastness. (Surat Al-'Asr: 1-3)

# The Deception of Evolution

Darwinism, in other words the theory of evolution, was put forward with the aim of denying the fact of Creation, but is in truth nothing but failed, unscientific nonsense. **This theory, which claims that life emerged by chance from inanimate matter, was invalidated by the scientific evidence of miraculous order in the universe and in living things, as well as by the discovery of about 300 million fossils revealing that evolution never happened.** In this way, **science confirmed the fact that Allah created the universe and the living things in it.** The propaganda carried out today in order to keep the theory of evolution alive is based solely on the distortion of the scientific facts, biased interpretation, and lies and falsehoods disguised as science.

Yet this propaganda cannot conceal the truth. The fact that **the theory of evolution is the greatest deception in the history of science** has been expressed more and more in the scientific world over the last 20-30 years. Research carried out after the 1980s in particular has revealed that the claims of Darwinism are totally unfounded, something that has been stated by a large number of scientists. In the United States in particular, many scientists from such different fields as biology, biochemistry and paleontology recognize the invalidity of Darwinism and employ the fact of Creation to account for the origin of life.

We have examined the collapse of the theory of evolution and the proofs of Creation in great scientific detail in many of our works, and are still continuing to do so. Given the enormous importance of this subject, it will be of great benefit to summarize it here.

## The Scientific Collapse of Darwinism

As **a pagan doctrine** going back as far as ancient Greece, the theory of evolution was advanced extensively in the nineteenth century. The most important development that made it the top topic of the world of science was Charles Darwin's The Origin of Species, published in 1859. In this book, he opposed, in his own eyes, the fact that Allah created different living species on Earth separately, for he erroneously claimed that all living beings had a common ancestor and had diversified over time through small changes. **Darwin's theory was not based on any concrete scientific finding; as he also accepted, it was just an "assumption."** Moreover, as Darwin confessed in the long chapter of his book titled **"Difficulties on Theory," the theory failed in the face of many critical questions.**

Darwin invested all of his hopes in new scientific discoveries, which he expected to solve these difficulties. However, contrary to his expectations, scientific findings expanded the dimensions of these difficulties. The defeat of Darwinism in the face of science can be reviewed under three basic topics:

1) The theory cannot explain how life originated on Earth.

2) No scientific finding shows that the "evolutionary mechanisms" proposed by the theory have any evolutionary power at all.

3) The fossil record proves the exact opposite of what the theory suggests.

In this section, we will examine these three basic points in general outlines:

## The First Insurmountable Step: The Origin of Life

The theory of evolution posits that all living species evolved from a single living cell that emerged on the primitive Earth 3.8 billion years ago. How a single cell could generate millions of complex living species and, if such an evolution really occurred, why traces of it cannot be observed in the fossil record are some of the questions that the theory cannot answer. However, first and foremost, we need to ask: **How did this "first cell" originate?**

Since the theory of evolution ignorantly denies Creation, it maintains that the "first cell" originated as a product of blind coincidences within the laws of nature, without any plan or arrangement. According to the theory, inanimate matter must have produced a living cell as a result of coincidences. Such a claim, however, is inconsistent with the most unassailable rules of biology.

## "Life Comes From Life"

In his book, Darwin never referred to the origin of life. The primitive understanding of science in his time rested on the assumption that living beings had a very simple structure. Since medieval times, spontaneous generation, which asserts that non-living materials came together to form living organisms, had been widely accepted. It was commonly believed that insects came into being from food leftovers, and mice from wheat. Interesting experiments were conducted to prove this theory. Some wheat was placed on a dirty piece of cloth, and it was believed that mice would originate from it after a while.

Similarly, maggots developing in rotting meat was assumed to be evidence of spontaneous generation. However, it was later understood that worms did not appear on meat spontaneously, but were carried there by flies in the form of larvae, invisible to the naked eye.

Even when Darwin wrote The Origin of Species, the belief that bacteria could come into existence from non-living matter was widely accepted in the world of science.

However, five years after the publication of Darwin's book, Louis Pasteur announced his results after long studies and experiments, that disproved spontaneous generation, a cornerstone of Darwin's theory. In his triumphal lecture at the Sorbonne in 1864, Pasteur said: "Never will the doctrine of spontaneous generation recover from the mortal blow struck by this simple experiment."38

For a long time, advocates of the theory of evolution resisted these findings. However, as the development of science unraveled the complex structure of the cell of a living being, the idea that life could come into being coincidentally faced an even greater impasse.

## Inconclusive Efforts of the Twentieth Century

The first evolutionist who took up the subject of the origin of life in the twentieth century was the renowned Russian biologist Alexander Oparin. With various theses he advanced in the 1930s, he tried to prove that a living cell could originate by coincidence. These studies, however, were doomed to failure, and Oparin had to make the following confession:

Unfortunately, however, the problem of the origin of the cell is perhaps the most obscure point in the whole study of the evolution of organisms.39

Evolutionist followers of Oparin tried to carry out experiments to solve this problem. The best known experiment was carried out by the American chemist Stanley Miller in 1953. Combining the gases he alleged to have existed in the primordial Earth's atmosphere in an experiment set-up, and adding energy to the mixture, Miller synthesized several organic molecules (amino acids) present in the structure of proteins.

Barely a few years had passed before it was revealed that this experiment, which was then presented as an important step in the name of evolution, was invalid, for the atmosphere used in the experiment was very different from the real Earth conditions.40

After a long silence, Miller confessed that the atmosphere medium he used was unrealistic.41

**All the evolutionists' efforts throughout the twentieth century to explain the origin of life ended in failure.** The geochemist Jeffrey Bada, from the San Diego Scripps Institute accepts this fact in an article published in _Earth_ magazine in 1998:

_Today as we leave the twentieth century, we still face the biggest unsolved problem that we had when we entered the twentieth century: How did life originate on Earth?_ 42

## The Complex Structure of Life

The primary reason why the theory of evolution ended up in such a great impasse regarding the origin of life is that even those living organisms deemed to be the simplest have outstandingly complex structures. The cell of a living thing is more complex than all of our man-made technological products. **Today, even in the most developed laboratories of the world, a living cell cannot be produced by bringing organic chemicals together.**

The conditions required for the formation of a cell are too great in quantity to be explained away by coincidences. The probability of proteins, the building blocks of a cell, being synthesized coincidentally, is 1 in 10950 for an average protein made up of 500 amino acids. In mathematics, a probability smaller than 1 over 1050 is considered to be impossible in practical terms.

The DNA molecule, which is located in the nucleus of a cell and which stores genetic information, is a magnificent databank. If the information coded in DNA were written down, it would make a giant library consisting of an estimated 900 volumes of encyclopedias consisting of 500 pages each.

A very interesting dilemma emerges at this point: DNA can replicate itself only with the help of some specialized proteins (enzymes). However, the synthesis of these enzymes can be realized only by the information coded in DNA. As they both depend on each other, they have to exist at the same time for replication. This brings the scenario that life originated by itself to a deadlock. Prof. Leslie Orgel, an evolutionist of repute from the University of San Diego, California, confesses this fact in the September 1994 issue of the _Scientific American_ magazine:

_It is extremely improbable that proteins and nucleic acids, both of which are structurally complex, arose spontaneously in the same place at the same time. Yet it also seems impossible to have one without the other. And so, at first glance, one might have to conclude that life could never, in fact, have originated by chemical means._ 43

No doubt, if it is impossible for life to have originated spontaneously as a result of blind coincidences, then it has to be accepted that life was **"created."** This fact explicitly invalidates the theory of evolution, whose main purpose is to deny Creation.

## Imaginary Mechanism of Evolution

The second important point that negates Darwin's theory is that both concepts put forward by the theory as "evolutionary mechanisms" were understood to have, in reality, no evolutionary power.

Darwin based his evolution allegation entirely on the mechanism of "natural selection." The importance he placed on this mechanism was evident in the name of his book: The Origin of Species, By Means of Natural Selection...

Natural selection holds that those living things that are stronger and more suited to the natural conditions of their habitats will survive in the struggle for life. For example, in a deer herd under the threat of attack by wild animals, those that can run faster will survive. Therefore, the deer herd will be comprised of faster and stronger individuals. However, unquestionably, this mechanism will not cause deer to evolve and transform themselves into another living species, for instance, horses.

Therefore, the mechanism of natural selection has no evolutionary power. Darwin was also aware of this fact and had to state this in his book The Origin of Species:

_Natural selection can do nothing until favourable individual differences or variations occur._ 44

## Lamarck's Impact

So, how could these "favorable variations" occur? Darwin tried to answer this question from the standpoint of the primitive understanding of science at that time. According to the French biologist Chevalier de Lamarck (1744-1829), who lived before Darwin, living creatures passed on the traits they acquired during their lifetime to the next generation. He asserted that these traits, which accumulated from one generation to another, caused new species to be formed. For instance, he claimed that giraffes evolved from antelopes; as they struggled to eat the leaves of high trees, their necks were extended from generation to generation.

Darwin also gave similar examples. In his book The Origin of Species, for instance, he said that some bears going into water to find food transformed themselves into whales over time.45

However, the laws of inheritance discovered by Gregor Mendel (1822-84) and verified by the science of genetics, which flourished in the twentieth century, utterly demolished the legend that acquired traits were passed on to subsequent generations. Thus, natural selection fell out of favor as an evolutionary mechanism.

## Neo-Darwinism and Mutations

In order to find a solution, Darwinists advanced the "Modern Synthetic Theory," or as it is more commonly known, Neo-Darwinism, at the end of the 1930s. Neo-Darwinism added mutations, which are distortions formed in the genes of living beings due to such external factors as radiation or replication errors, as the "cause of favorable variations" in addition to natural mutation.

Today, the model that Darwinists espouse, despite their own awareness of its scientific invalidity, is neo-Darwinism. The theory maintains that millions of living beings formed as a result of a process whereby numerous complex organs of these organisms (e.g., ears, eyes, lungs, and wings) underwent "mutations," that is, genetic disorders. Yet, there is an outright scientific fact that totally undermines this theory: **Mutations do not cause living beings to develop; on the contrary, they are always harmful.**

The reason for this is very simple: **DNA has a very complex structure, and random effects can only harm it.** The American geneticist B. G. Ranganathan explains this as follows:

_First, genuine mutations are very rare in nature. Secondly, most mutations are harmful since they are random, rather than orderly changes in the structure of genes; any random change in a highly ordered system will be for the worse, not for the better. For example,_ _if an earthquake were to shake a highly ordered structure such as a building, there would be a random change in the framework of the building which, in all probability, would not be an improvement._ 46

Not surprisingly, no mutation example, which is useful, that is, which is observed to develop the genetic code, has been observed so far. All mutations have proved to be harmful. It was understood that mutation, which is presented as an "evolutionary mechanism," is actually a genetic occurrence that harms living things, and leaves them disabled. (The most common effect of mutation on human beings is cancer.) Of course, a destructive mechanism cannot be an "evolutionary mechanism." Natural selection, on the other hand, "can do nothing by itself," as Darwin also accepted. This fact shows us that **there is no "evolutionary mechanism" in nature.** Since no evolutionary mechanism exists, no such any imaginary process called "evolution" could have taken place.

## The Fossil Record: No Sign of Intermediate Forms

The clearest evidence that the scenario suggested by the theory of evolution did not take place is the fossil record.

According to the unscientific supposition of this theory, every living species has sprung from a predecessor. A previously existing species turned into something else over time and all species have come into being in this way. In other words, this transformation proceeds gradually over millions of years.

Had this been the case, numerous intermediary species should have existed and lived within this long transformation period.

For instance, some half-fish/half-reptiles should have lived in the past which had acquired some reptilian traits in addition to the fish traits they already had. Or there should have existed some reptile-birds, which acquired some bird traits in addition to the reptilian traits they already had. Since these would be in a transitional phase, they should be disabled, defective, crippled living beings. Evolutionists refer to these imaginary creatures, which they believe to have lived in the past, as "transitional forms."

If such animals ever really existed, there should be millions and even billions of them in number and variety. More importantly, the remains of these strange creatures should be present in the fossil record. In The Origin of Species, Darwin explained:

If my theory be true, numberless intermediate varieties, linking most closely all of the species of the same group together must assuredly have existed... Consequently, evidence of their former existence could be found only amongst fossil remains.47

However, **Darwin was well aware that no fossils of these intermediate forms had yet been found.** He regarded this as a major difficulty for his theory. In one chapter of his book titled "Difficulties on Theory," he wrote:

_Why, if species have descended from other species by insensibly fine gradations, do we not everywhere see innumerable transitional forms? Why is not all nature in confusion instead of the species being, as we see them, well defined?... But, as by this theory innumerable transitional forms must have existed, why do we not find them embedded in countless numbers in the crust of the earth?... Why then is not every geological formation and every stratum full of such intermediate links? Geology assuredly does not reveal any such finely graduated organic chain; and this, perhaps, is the most obvious and gravest objection which can be urged against my theory._ 48

## Darwin's Hopes Shattered

However, although evolutionists have been making strenuous efforts to find fossils since the middle of the nineteenth century all over the world, **no transitional forms have yet been uncovered.** All of the fossils, contrary to the evolutionists' expectations, show that **life appeared on Earth all of a sudden and fully-formed.**

One famous British paleontologist, Derek V. Ager, admits this fact, even though he is an evolutionist:

_The point emerges that if we examine the fossil record in detail, whether at the level of orders or of species, we find – over and over again – not gradual evolution, but the sudden explosion of one group at the expense of another._ 49

This means that in the fossil record, all living species suddenly emerge as fully formed, without any intermediate forms in between. This is just the opposite of Darwin's assumptions. Also, this is very strong evidence that all living things are created. The only explanation of a living species emerging suddenly and complete in every detail without any evolutionary ancestor is that it was created. This fact is admitted also by the widely known evolutionist biologist Douglas Futuyma:

_Creation and evolution, between them, exhaust the possible explanations for the origin of living things. Organisms either appeared on the earth fully developed or they did not. If they did not, they must have developed from pre-existing species by some process of modification. If they did appear in a fully developed state, they must indeed have been created by some omnipotent intelligence._ 50

Fossils show that living beings emerged fully developed and in a perfect state on the Earth. That means that "the origin of species," contrary to Darwin's supposition, is not evolution, but Creation.

## The Tale of Human Evolution

The subject most often brought up by advocates of the theory of evolution is the subject of the origin of man. The Darwinist claim holds that man evolved from so-called ape-like creatures. During this alleged evolutionary process, which is supposed to have started 4-5 million years ago, some "transitional forms" between present-day man and his imaginary ancestors are supposed to have existed. According to this completely imaginary scenario, four basic "categories" are listed:

1. Australopithecus

2. Homo habilis

3. Homo erectus

4. Homo sapiens

Evolutionists call man's so-called first ape-like ancestors Australopithecus, which means "South African ape." These living beings are actually nothing but an old ape species that has become extinct. Extensive research done on various Australopithecus specimens by two world famous anatomists from England and the USA, namely, Lord Solly Zuckerman and Prof. Charles Oxnard, shows that these apes belonged to an ordinary ape species that became extinct and bore no resemblance to humans.51

Evolutionists classify the next stage of human evolution as "homo," that is "man." According to their claim, the living beings in the Homo series are more developed than Australopithecus. Evolutionists devise a fanciful evolution scheme by arranging different fossils of these creatures in a particular order. This scheme is imaginary because it has never been proved that there is an evolutionary relation between these different classes. Ernst Mayr, one of the twentieth century's most important evolutionists, contends in his book One Long Argument that "particularly historical [puzzles] such as the origin of life or of Homo sapiens, are extremely difficult and may even resist a final, satisfying explanation."52

By outlining the link chain as Australopithecus > Homo habilis > Homo erectus > Homo sapiens, evolutionists imply that each of these species is one another's ancestor. However, recent findings of paleoanthropologists have revealed that Australopithecus, Homo habilis, and Homo erectus lived at different parts of the world at the same time.53

Moreover, a certain segment of humans classified as Homo erectus have lived up until very modern times. **Homo sapiens neandarthalensis and Homo sapiens sapiens (present-day man) co-existed in the same region.** 54

This situation apparently indicates the invalidity of the claim that they are ancestors of one another. The late Stephen Jay Gould explained this deadlock of the theory of evolution although he was himself one of the leading advocates of evolution in the twentieth century:

_What has become of our ladder if there are three coexisting lineages of hominids (A. africanus, the robust australopithecines, and H. habilis), none clearly derived from another? Moreover, none of the three display any evolutionary trends during their tenure on earth._ 55

Put briefly, the scenario of human evolution, which is "upheld" with the help of various drawings of some "half ape, half human" creatures appearing in the media and course books, that is, frankly, by means of propaganda, is nothing but **a tale with no scientific foundation.**

Lord Solly Zuckerman, one of the most famous and respected scientists in the U.K., who carried out research on this subject for years and studied Australopithecus fossils for 15 years, finally concluded, despite being an evolutionist himself, **that there is, in fact, no such family tree branching out from ape-like creatures to man.**

Zuckerman also made an interesting "spectrum of science" ranging from those he considered scientific to those he considered unscientific. According to Zuckerman's spectrum, the most "scientific"—that is, depending on concrete data—fields of science are chemistry and physics. After them come the biological sciences and then the social sciences. At the far end of the spectrum, which is the part considered to be most "unscientific," are "extra-sensory perception"—concepts such as telepathy and sixth sense—and finally "human evolution." Zuckerman explains his reasoning:

_We then move right off the register of objective truth into those fields of presumed biological science, like extrasensory perception or the interpretation of man's fossil history, where to the faithful [evolutionist] anything is possible – and where the ardent believer [in evolution] is sometimes able to believe several contradictory things at the same time._ 56

**The tale of human evolution** boils down to nothing but the prejudiced interpretations of some fossils unearthed by certain people, who blindly adhere to their theory.

## Darwinian Formula!

Besides all the technical evidence we have dealt with so far, let us now for once, examine what kind of a superstition the evolutionists have with an example so simple as to be understood even by children:

The theory of evolution asserts that life is formed by chance. According to this irrational claim, lifeless and unconscious atoms came together to form the cell and then they somehow formed other living things, including man. Let us think about that. When we bring together the elements that are the building-blocks of life such as carbon, phosphorus, nitrogen and potassium, only a heap is formed. No matter what treatments it undergoes, this atomic heap cannot form even a single living being. If you like, let us formulate an "experiment" on this subject and let us examine on the behalf of evolutionists what they really claim without pronouncing loudly under the name **"Darwinian formula":**

Let evolutionists put plenty of materials present in the composition of living things such as phosphorus, nitrogen, carbon, oxygen, iron, and magnesium into big barrels. Moreover, let them add in these barrels any material that does not exist under normal conditions, but they think as necessary. Let them add in this mixture as many amino acids and as many proteins—a single one of which has a formation probability of 1 in 10950—as they like. Let them expose these mixtures to as much heat and moisture as they like. Let them stir these with whatever technologically developed device they like. Let them put the foremost scientists beside these barrels. Let these experts wait in turn beside these barrels for billions, and even trillions of years. Let them be free to use all kinds of conditions they believe to be necessary for a human's formation. No matter what they do, they cannot produce from these barrels a human, say a professor that examines his cell structure under the electron microscope. They cannot produce giraffes, lions, bees, canaries, horses, dolphins, roses, orchids, lilies, carnations, bananas, oranges, apples, dates, tomatoes, melons, watermelons, figs, olives, grapes, peaches, peafowls, pheasants, multicoloured butterflies, or millions of other living beings such as these. Indeed, they could not obtain even a single cell of any one of them.

Briefly, **unconscious atoms cannot form the cell** by coming together. They cannot take a new decision and divide this cell into two, then take other decisions and create the professors who first invent the electron microscope and then examine their own cell structure under that microscope. **Matter is an unconscious, lifeless heap, and it comes to life with Allah's superior creation.**

The theory of evolution, which claims the opposite, is a total fallacy completely contrary to reason. Thinking even a little bit on the claims of evolutionists discloses this reality, just as in the above example.

## Technology in the Eye and the Ear

Another subject that remains unanswered by evolutionary theory is the excellent quality of perception in the eye and the ear.

Before passing on to the subject of the eye, let us briefly answer the question of how we see. Light rays coming from an object fall oppositely on the eye's retina. Here, these light rays are transmitted into electric signals by cells and reach a tiny spot at the back of the brain, the "center of vision." These electric signals are perceived in this center as an image after a series of processes. With this technical background, let us do some thinking.

**The brain is insulated from light.** That means that its inside is completely dark, and that no light reaches the place where it is located. Thus, the "center of vision" is never touched by light and may even be the darkest place you have ever known. However, you observe a luminous, bright world in this pitch darkness.

The image formed in the eye is so sharp and distinct that even the technology of the twentieth century has not been able to attain it. For instance, look at the book you are reading, your hands with which you are holding it, and then lift your head and look around you. Have you ever seen such a sharp and distinct image as this one at any other place? Even the most developed television screen produced by the greatest television producer in the world cannot provide such a sharp image for you. This is a three-dimensional, colored, and extremely sharp image. For more than 100 years, thousands of engineers have been trying to achieve this sharpness. Factories, huge premises were established, much research has been done, plans and designs have been made for this purpose. Again, look at a TV screen and the book you hold in your hands. You will see that there is a big difference in sharpness and distinction. Moreover, the TV screen shows you a two-dimensional image, whereas with your eyes, you watch a three-dimensional perspective with depth.

For many years, tens of thousands of engineers have tried to make a three-dimensional TV and achieve the vision quality of the eye. Yes, they have made a three-dimensional television system, but it is not possible to watch it without putting on special 3-D glasses; moreover, it is only an artificial three-dimension. The background is more blurred, the foreground appears like a paper setting. Never has it been possible to produce a sharp and distinct vision like that of the eye. In both the camera and the television, there is a loss of image quality.

Evolutionists claim that the mechanism producing this sharp and distinct image has been formed by chance. Now, if somebody told you that the television in your room was formed as a result of chance, that all of its atoms just happened to come together and make up this device that produces an image, what would you think? How can atoms do what thousands of people cannot?

If a device producing a more primitive image than **the eye could not have been formed by chance,** then it is very evident that the eye and the image seen by the eye could not have been formed by chance. The same situation applies to the ear. The outer ear picks up the available sounds by the auricle and directs them to the middle ear, the middle ear transmits the sound vibrations by intensifying them, and the inner ear sends these vibrations to the brain by translating them into electric signals. Just as with the eye, the act of hearing finalizes in the center of hearing in the brain.

The situation in the eye is also true for the ear. That is, **the brain is insulated from sound** just as it is from light. It does not let any sound in. Therefore, no matter how noisy is the outside, the inside of the brain is completely silent. Nevertheless, the sharpest sounds are perceived in the brain. **In your completely silent brain, you listen to symphonies, and hear all of the noises in a crowded place. However, were the sound level in your brain measured by a precise device at that moment, complete silence would be found to be prevailing there.**

As is the case with imagery, decades of effort have been spent in trying to generate and reproduce sound that is faithful to the original. The results of these efforts are sound recorders, high-fidelity systems, and systems for sensing sound. Despite all of this technology and the thousands of engineers and experts who have been working on this endeavor, no sound has yet been obtained that has the same sharpness and clarity as the sound perceived by the ear. Think of the highest-quality hi-fi systems produced by the largest company in the music industry. Even in these devices, when sound is recorded some of it is lost; or when you turn on a hi-fi you always hear a hissing sound before the music starts. However, the sounds that are the products of the human body's technology are extremely sharp and clear. A human ear never perceives a sound accompanied by a hissing sound or with atmospherics as does a hi-fi; rather, it perceives sound exactly as it is, sharp and clear. This is the way it has been since **the creation of man.**

So far, no man-made visual or recording apparatus has been as sensitive and successful in perceiving sensory data as are the eye and the ear. However, as far as seeing and hearing are concerned, a far greater truth lies beyond all this.

## To Whom Does the Consciousness that Sees and Hears within the Brain Belong?

Who watches an alluring world in the brain, listens to symphonies and the twittering of birds, and smells the rose?

The stimulations coming from a person's eyes, ears, and nose travel to the brain as electro-chemical nerve impulses. In biology, physiology, and biochemistry books, you can find many details about how this image forms in the brain. However, you will never come across the most important fact: Who perceives these electro-chemical nerve impulses as images, sounds, odors, and sensory events in the brain? **There is a consciousness in the brain that perceives all this without feeling any need for an eye, an ear, and a nose.** To whom does this consciousness belong? Of course it does not belong to the nerves, the fat layer, and neurons comprising the brain. This is why Darwinist-materialists, who believe that everything is comprised of matter, cannot answer these questions.

For **this consciousness is the spirit created by Allah,** which needs neither the eye to watch the images nor the ear to hear the sounds. Furthermore, it does not need the brain to think.

Everyone who reads this explicit and scientific fact should ponder on Almighty Allah, and fear and seek refuge in Him, for He squeezes the entire universe in a pitch-dark place of a few cubic centimeters in a three-dimensional, colored, shadowy, and luminous form.

## A Materialist Faith

The information we have presented so far shows us that **the theory of evolution is incompatible with scientific findings.** The theory's claim regarding the origin of life is inconsistent with science, the evolutionary mechanisms it proposes have no evolutionary power, and fossils demonstrate that **the required intermediate forms have never existed.** So, it certainly follows that the theory of evolution should be pushed aside as an unscientific idea. This is how many ideas, such as the Earth-centered universe model, have been taken out of the agenda of science throughout history.

However, the theory of evolution is kept on the agenda of science. Some people even try to represent criticisms directed against it as an "attack on science." Why?

The reason is that this theory is an indispensable dogmatic belief for some circles. These circles are **blindly devoted** to materialist philosophy and adopt Darwinism because it is the only materialist explanation that can be put forward to explain the workings of nature.

Interestingly enough, they also confess this fact from time to time. A well-known geneticist and an outspoken evolutionist, Richard C. Lewontin from Harvard University, confesses that he is "first and foremost a materialist and then a scientist":

_It is not that the methods and institutions of science somehow compel us accept a material explanation of the phenomenal world, but, on the contrary, that we are forced by our a priori adherence to material causes to create an apparatus of investigation and a set of concepts that produce material explanations, no matter how counter-intuitive, no matter how mystifying to the uninitiated. Moreover, that materialism is absolute, so we cannot allow a Divine [intervention]..._ 57

These are explicit statements that **Darwinism is a dogma** kept alive just for the sake of adherence to materialism. This dogma maintains that there is no being save matter. Therefore, it argues that inanimate, unconscious matter brought life into being. It insists that millions of different living species (e.g., birds, fish, giraffes, tigers, insects, trees, flowers, whales, and human beings) originated as a result of the interactions between matter such as pouring rain, lightning flashes, and so on, out of inanimate matter. This is a precept contrary both to reason and science. Yet Darwinists continue to ignorantly defend it just so as not to acknowledge, in their own eyes, the evident existence of Allah.

Anyone who does not look at the origin of living beings with a materialist prejudice sees this evident truth: **All living beings are works of a Creator,** Who is All-Powerful, All-Wise, and All-Knowing. **This Creator is Allah,** Who created the whole universe from non-existence, in the most perfect form, and fashioned all living beings.

## The Theory of Evolution: The Most Potent Spell in the World

Anyone free of prejudice and the influence of any particular ideology, who uses only his or her reason and logic, will clearly understand that belief in the theory of evolution, which brings to mind the superstitions of societies with no knowledge of science or civilization, is quite impossible.

As explained above, those who believe in the theory of evolution think that a few atoms and molecules thrown into a huge vat could produce thinking, reasoning professors and university students; such scientists as Einstein and Galileo; such artists as Humphrey Bogart, Frank Sinatra and Luciano Pavarotti; as well as antelopes, lemon trees, and carnations. Moreover, as the scientists and professors who believe in this nonsense are educated people, it is quite justifiable to speak of this theory as "the most potent spell in history." Never before has any other belief or idea so taken away peoples' powers of reason, refused to allow them to think intelligently and logically, and hidden the truth from them as if they had been blindfolded. This is an even worse and unbelievable blindness than the totem worship in some parts of Africa, the people of Saba worshipping the Sun, the tribe of the Prophet Abraham (as) worshipping idols they had made with their own hands, or some among the people of the Prophet Moses (as) worshipping the Golden Calf.

In fact, Allah has pointed to this lack of reason in the Qur'an. In many verses, He reveals that some peoples' minds will be closed and that they will be powerless to see the truth. Some of these verses are as follows:

As for those who do not believe, it makes no difference to them whether you warn them or do not warn them, they will not believe. Allah has sealed up their hearts and hearing and over their eyes is a blindfold. They will have a terrible punishment. (Surat Al-Baqara: 6-7)

... **They have hearts with which they do not understand. They have eyes with which they do not see. They have ears with which they do not hear. Such people are like cattle. No, they are even further astray! They are the unaware. (Surat Al-A'raf: 179)**

Even if We opened up to them a door into heaven, and they spent the day ascending through it, they would only say: "Our eyesight is befuddled! Or rather we have been put under a spell!" (Surat Al-Hijr: 14-15)

Words cannot express just how astonishing it is that this spell should hold such a wide community in thrall, keep people from the truth, and not be broken for 150 years. It is understandable that one or a few people might believe in impossible scenarios and claims full of stupidity and illogicality. However, "magic" is the only possible explanation for people from all over the world believing that unconscious and lifeless atoms suddenly decided to come together and form a universe that functions with a flawless system of organization, discipline, reason, and consciousness; a planet named Earth with all of its features so perfectly suited to life; and living things full of countless complex systems.

In fact, in the Qur'an Allah relates the incident of the Prophet Moses (as) and Pharaoh to show that some people who support atheistic philosophies actually influence others by magic. When Pharaoh was told about the true religion, he told the Prophet Moses (as) to meet with his own magicians. When the Prophet Moses (as) did so, he told them to demonstrate their abilities first. The verses continue:

He said: "You throw." And when they threw, they cast a spell on the people's eyes and caused them to feel great fear of them. They produced an extremely powerful magic. (Surat Al-A'raf: 116)

As we have seen, Pharaoh's magicians were able to deceive everyone, apart from the Prophet Moses (as) and those who believed in him. However, his evidence broke the spell, or "swallowed up what they had forged," as revealed in the verse:

We revealed to Moses: "Throw down your staff." And it immediately swallowed up what they had forged. So the Truth took place and what they did was shown to be false. (Surat Al-A'raf: 117-118)

As we can see, when people realized that a spell had been cast upon them and that what they saw was just an illusion, Pharaoh's magicians lost all credibility. In the present day too, unless those who, under the influence of a similar spell, believe in these ridiculous claims under their scientific disguise and spend their lives defending them, abandon their superstitious beliefs, they also will be humiliated when the full truth emerges and the spell is broken. In fact, world-renowned British writer and philosopher Malcolm Muggeridge, who was an atheist defending evolution for some 60 years, but who subsequently realized the truth, reveals the position in which the theory of evolution would find itself in the near future in these terms:

I myself am convinced that **the theory of evolution** , especially the extent to which it's been applied, **will be one of the great jokes in the history books in the future.** Posterity will marvel that so very flimsy and dubious an hypothesis could be accepted with the incredible credulity that it has.58

That future is not far off: On the contrary, people will soon see that "chance" is not a deity, and will look back on **the theory of evolution as the worst deceit and the most terrible spell in the world.** That spell is already rapidly beginning to be lifted from the shoulders of people all over the world. Many people who see its true face are wondering with amazement how they could ever have been taken in by it.

They said, "Glory be to You! We have no knowledge

except what You have taught us. You are

the All-Knowing, the All-Wise."

(Surat Al-Baqara: 32)

# Notes

1. Yrd. Doc. Dr. Orhan Atalay, Dogu-Bati Kaynaklarinda Birlikte Yasama (Co-existence in Eastern-Western Sources) (Istanbul: Gazeteciler ve Yazarlar Vakfi Publications, 1999), 95.

2. "Islam and anti-Semitism," 31 January 2004; www.worldhistory.com/wiki/I/Islam -and-anti-Semitism.htm

3. "Muhammad's Treaties with non-Muslims;"www.fortunecity.com/marina/commodity/1089/id94.htm

4. Majid Khadduri, War and Peace in the Law of Islam (Baltimore: The Johns Hopkins Press, 1955), 193-94.

5. Levent Ozturk, Asr-i Saadetten Hacli Seferlerine Kadar Islam Toplumunda Hiristiyanlar (Christians in Islamic Society from the Blessed Period of the Prophet to the Crusades) (Istanbul: Iz Publishing Co., 1998), 114-15.

6. Fred Aprim, "The A to Z of the ancient Chaldeans and their relation to modern Chaldeans;" www.atour.com /education/20001021a.html

7. Mark Cohen, Hac ve Hilal Altinda Ortacaglarda Yahudiler (Under Crescent and Cross: The Jews in the Middle Ages) (Istanbul: Sarmal Publishing, 1997), 185.

8. Osman Turan, Turk Cihan Hakimiyeti Mefkuresi Tarihi (A History of the Ideal of Turkish World Sovereignty) (Istanbul: Nakislar Publishing, 1979), 193.

9. Abraham Danon, in the Review Yossef Daath, no. 4.

10. Felipe Torroba Bernaldo de Quiros, The Spanish Jews (Madrid, [Rivadeneyra] 1966), 17.

11. Ilhan Bardakci, "Biz Hic Irk Olmamisiz" (We Have Never Been a Race!), Tercuman Magazine, May 7, 1983.

12. Levent Ozturk, Asr-i Saadetten (Christians in Islamic Society from the Blessed Period of the Prophet to the Crusades), 437.

13. Ibid., 188.

14. Majid Khadduri, War and Peace in the Law of Islam (Baltimore: The Johns Hopkins Press, 1955), 184; Abu Yusuf, Ya'qub ibn Ibrahim al-Ansari, Kitap al-Kharaj, (Cairo: 1352 ah), 143-44.

15. Ibid., 186; Abu Yusuf, Kitap al-Kharaj, 140-41.

16. Abu Yusuf, Kitap al-Kharaj, 139; al-Baladhuri, Futuh al-Buidan, 187.

17. Israel Shahak, "Poverty, Religious Instruction Breed Xenophobia in Israel," Washington Report on Middle East Affairs, July-August 1994.

18. Al-Muttaqi al-Hindi, Al-Burhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir al-Zaman, 12.

19. Muhammad ibn 'Abd al-Rasul Barzanji , Al-Isha'ah li- Ashrat al-Sa'ah, 141.

20. Ibid.

21. Al-Muttaqi Al-Hindi, Muntakhab Kanzul Ummaal.

22. Mukhtasar Tazkirah Qurtubi, 454.

23. Al-Muttaqi al-Hindi, Al-Burhan fi Alamat al-Mahdi Akhir al-Zaman, 38.

24. Hadith at-Tirmidhi, Zuhd, 60.

25. Narrated by Umm Salama (r.a.).

26. Mukhtasar Tazkirah Qurtubi, 476.

27. Ibid., 476

28. Ibid., 440.

29. Ibid.,480.

30. Son Zamanlarla Ilgili Hadisler (Hadiths Related the End Times), 92.

31. Muhammed Khalil Herras, Fasl al-Maqal fi raf`i `Isa hayyan wa nuzulihi wa qatlihi ad-Dajjal, (Cairo: Makatabat as-Sunnah, 1990), 20.

32. Sahih Muslim, Kitab al-Hajj, 216, 1252.

33. Al-Gifari (r.a.), Buyuk Hadis Kulliyati (Complete Hadiths), al-Rudani, 5:362.

34. Sahih Bukhari, 102 and Sahih Muslim, 242.

35. Sahih Muslim, 1:136.

36. Sunan Ibn Majah, 10:340.

37. Ibn Majah, narrated by Abu Umama (r.a.), Buyuk Hadis Kulliyati (Complete Hadiths), al-Rudani, 5:370-72.

38. Richard Dawkins, The Blind Watchmaker (London: WW Norton, 1986), 6.

39. Sidney Fox, Klaus Dose, Molecular Evolution and The Origin of Life, W. H. Freeman and Company, San Francisco, 1972, p. 4.

40. Alexander I. Oparin, Origin of Life, Dover Publications, NewYork, 1936, 1953 (reprint), p. 196.

41. "New Evidence on Evolution of Early Atmosphere and Life," Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society, vol 63, November 1982, 1328-1330.

42. Stanley Miller, Molecular Evolution of Life: Current Status of the Prebiotic Synthesis of Small Molecules, 1986, p. 7.

43. Jeffrey Bada, Earth, February 1998, p. 40.

44. Leslie E. Orgel, "The Origin of Life on Earth," Scientific American, vol. 271, October 1994, p. 78.

45. Charles Darwin, The Origin of Species by Means of Natural Selection, The Modern Library, New York, p. 127.

46. Charles Darwin, The Origin of Species: A Facsimile of the First Edition, Harvard University Press, 1964, p. 184.

47. B. G. Ranganathan, Origins?, Pennsylvania: The Banner of Truth Trust, 1988, p. 7.

48. Charles Darwin, The Origin of Species: A Facsimile of the First Edition, p. 179.

49. Charles Darwin, The Origin of Species, p. 172.

50. Derek A. Ager, "The Nature of the Fossil Record," Proceedings of the British Geological Association, vol 87, 1976, p. 133.

51. Douglas J. Futuyma, Science on Trial, Pantheon Books, New York, 1983, p. 197.

52. Solly Zuckerman, Beyond The Ivory Tower, Toplinger Publications, New York, 1970, 75-14; Charles E. Oxnard, "The Place of Australopithecines in Human Evolution: Grounds for Doubt", Nature, vol 258, 389.

53. "Could science be brought to an end by scientists' belief that they have final answers or by society's reluctance to pay the bills?" Scientific American, December 1992, p. 20.

54. Alan Walker, Science, vol. 207, 7 March 1980, p. 1103; A. J. Kelso, Physical Antropology, 1st ed., J. B. Lipincott Co., New York, 1970, p. 221; M. D. Leakey, Olduvai Gorge, vol. 3, Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1971, p. 272.

55. Jeffrey Kluger, "Not So Extinct After All: The Primitive Homo Erectus May Have Survived Long Enough To Coexist With Modern Humans," Time, 23 December 1996.

56. S. J. Gould, Natural History, vol. 85, 1976, p. 30.

57. Solly Zuckerman, Beyond The Ivory Tower, p. 19.

58. Richard Lewontin, "The Demon-Haunted World," The New York Review of Books, January 9, 1997, p. 28.

59. Malcolm Muggeridge, The End of Christendom, Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1980, p. 43.

# Captions:

16

People of the Book! Our Messenger has come to you, making clear to you much of the Book that you have kept concealed, and passing over a lot. A Light has come to you from Allah and a Clear Book. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 15)

20

He has sent down the Book to you with truth, confirming what was there before it. And He sent down the Torah and the Gospel, previously, as guidance for humanity... (Surah Al 'Imran: 3-4)

Then We revealed to you: "Follow the religion of Abraham, a man of pure natural belief. He was not one of the idolaters." (Surat An-Nahl:123)

27

... he said to his sons, "What will you worship when I have gone?" They said, "We will worship your God, the God of your forefathers, Abraham, Ishmael and Isaac – one God. We are Muslims submitted to Him." (Surat Al-Baqara: 133)

32

This painting depicts the Prophet Jesus (pbuh) healing the sick, one of the miracles he performed by Allah's will. It is on display in the Louvre Museum. "Jesus Healing the Blind of Jericho" by Nicolas Poussin (1594-1665).

46

We have appointed a law and a practice for every one of you. Had Allah willed, He would have made you a single community, but He wanted to test you regarding what has come to you. So compete with each other in doing good. Every one of you will return to Allah..... (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 48)

50

Six of Prophet Muhammad's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) original letters inviting various kings and provincial governors to Islam have been preserved. These historic documents show his supreme virtue, forgiveness and affection toward others, and his determination to teach Islam. Rulers and their subjects were invited in the most appropriate way to live the true religious life, and their accepting and effective language have led many people to believe in Islam. The wisdom inherent in our Prophet's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) style is an example for all Muslims to follow. The above letter was sent to al-Mundhir bin Sawa, Ruler of Bahrain. The letter reads: "... Peace be upon you! I praise Allah with no associate, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger. Thereafter, I remind you of Allah, the Mighty, the Glorious. Whoever accepts admonition, does it for his own good. Whoever follows my messengers and acts in accordance with their guidance, he, in fact, accepts my advice..."

51

The letter to the Christian king of Ethiopia Negus (or al-Najashi) is an important example of the Muslims' attitude toward Christians. Following Muhammad's (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) letter and his discussions with the Muslim leader and the leader of the Makkan delegation sent to take them back to Makkah, King Najashi proclaimed that he would protect all Muslims who sought refuge in his country. The letter said:

"I praise Allah to you, except Whom there is none to be worshipped, the King, the Holy, the Peace, the Faithful, the Watcher, and I bear witness that Jesus, son of Mary, is the Spirit of Allah and His Word, Which He cast to Mary the virgin, the good, the pure, so that she conceived Jesus. Allah created him from His Spirit and His Breathing. I call you to Allah, the Unique without partner, and to His obedience, and to follow me and believe in that which came to me, for I am the Messenger of Allah.

... I invite you and your armies to Allah. I have accomplished my work and my admonition, so receive my advice. Peace upon all those that follow True Guidance."

The original of the letter sent by the Prophet Muhammad (may Allah bless him and grant him peace) to Shamir al-Ghassani, king of Ghassan.

57

Left: Caliph Umar's declaration to the Orthodox patriarch Sophronios in 638. This declaration guaranteed all of the Christians' rights in the Holy Land.

58

The Deyr Yakup Monastery in Edessa (Urfa), first century.

59

The Germus village church in Edessa (Urfa).

The People of the Book's various places of worship and holy places were carefully protected by Muslim administrators.

60

The history of the St. George monastery in Ariha goes back to the fifth century.

61

The St. Sabbas Monastery was built at the beginning of the fourth century.

There are many historical places of worship and holy places in Jerusalem and its vicinity. The area is sacred to all Muslims, Jews, and Christians. Many monasteries and churches dating back to the fourth century have been preserved. Under Muslim administrators, Jews, Christians, and Muslims freely prayed in their respective places of worship and lived in peace and security. Alliances of genuine believers can recreate the same atmosphere of tranquility today.

62

A painting depicting Mt. Sinai.

Only argue with the People of the Book in the kindest way – except in the case of those of them who do wrong – saying, "We believe in what has been sent down to us and what was sent down to you. Our God and your God are one and we submit to Him." (Surat Al-Ankabut: 46)

65

Under Ottoman rule, Jews, Christians, and Muslims lived as friends, and the People of the Book were content with the Muslims' administration. This engraving depicts the prayer ceremony in the Ahida Synagogue held for the Ottoman army's victory against the Russians. The ceremony was attended by the grand vizier.

The people with the strongest claim to Abraham are those who followed him and this Prophet and those who believe. Allah is the Protector of the believers. (Surah Al 'Imran: 68)

66

A painting depicting the arrival of the sultan and his entourage in a Christian city and the spectacular welcome he received. Unknown, seventeenth century.

68

The above picture shows Catholic, Orthodox, Jewish, and Muslim religious leaders together in Palestine. The peace brought to the area ended with the Ottoman Empire's collapse. Creating peace will be possible only by establishing an alliance of all genuine believers.

69

A sermon by the chief rabbi of the great synagogue of Jerusalem, 1836. Jews living under Ottoman rule practiced their religion in complete freedom.

70-71

Glory be to Him Who took His servant on a journey by night from the Sacred Mosque [Masjid al-Haram] to the Further Mosque [Masjid al-Aqsa], whose surroundings We have blessed, in order to show him some of Our Signs. He is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing. (Surat Al-Isra: 1)

"The Mosque of Omar on the Ancient Site of The Temple," by David Roberts, Mathaf Gallery, London.

72

The Church of the Holy Sepulcher visited by Christian pilgrims, 1836. Christian pilgrims could visit Palestine, then under Muslim administration, as they wished and worship freely.

74-75

Among the people of the Book there are some who believe in Allah and in what has been sent down to you and what was sent down to them, and who are humble before Allah. They do not sell Allah's Signs for a paltry price. Such people will have their reward with their Lord. And Allah is swift at reckoning. (Surah Al 'Imran: 199)

A photograph of the Wailing Wall, 1900.

81

They were only ordered to worship Allah, making their religion sincerely His as people of pure natural belief, and to perform prayer and give the alms – that is the religion of the correct. (Surat Al-Bayyina: 5)

82

Those of you possessing affluence and ample wealth should not make oaths that they will not give to their relatives and the very poor and those who have migrated in the way of Allah. They should rather pardon and overlook. Would you not love Allah to forgive you?... (Surat An-Nur: 22)

89

Thousands of people died in the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.

91

Qur'an cited in the Cathedral

_Sabah_ newspaper, 15 September 2001

Certain circles tried to blame all Muslims for the 9/11 attacks, even though Islamic morality forbids violence and aggression. After the attacks, President Bush visited a mosque in Washington, DC, where he stated that Islam is a religion of peace and advised Americans to beware people who seek to misinform them. Muslims and Christians prayed together for all of those who lost their lives in the attacks.

94

Left: An article by Rabbi Eric Yoffie, who condemned attacks on Muslims by some radicals in the aftermath of 9/11. Radicalism of whatever stripe can only be eradicated by teaching and spreading true religious morality.

Palestine is one of the world's most problematic regions. Fortunately, however, a dialogue and cooperation against atheist Zionism has begun to develop among rational Jews and Muslims. The article, "Building a Better Future Together," relates the efforts being made by joint Muslim-Jewish initiatives in the field of technology. Another article, "A bridge over water cooperation," reveals joint Muslim-Jewish ventures to resolve the water problem in Palestine. An environment in which religious morality is practiced will increase the number of such joint initiatives and, Allah willing, deliver lasting prosperity, tranquility, and security.

95

This article, "Cleric condemns suicide attacks," published on the BBC's website, quotes Sheikh Muhammad Sayed Tantawi as saying that such attacks are irreconcilable with Islam.

Right: The statement of Islamic scholar Yusuf al-Qaradawi, who says "Islam Does Not Permit Aggression Against Innocent People."

The fact that radicalism and violence are incompatible with Islam is frequently stated by Islamic scholars. The grand imam of the renowned al-Azhar University, Sheikh Muhammad Sayed Tantawi, whose views are highly respected by Muslims, said the following about the suicide bombings targeting civilians in Israel:

I am against those who say that attacking women, children, or any other civilians is permitted, just because the children may grow up to serve in the army. This is ridiculous, ugly talk that is totally rejected. And it totally contradicts the recommendations of the Prophet. Aggression against honest people is completely prohibited by Islamic law. (Frank Gardner, "Restoring Faith in Islam," BBC News, December 26, 2001.)

Another man of religion who expresses similar views is Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia, Sheikh Abdul Aziz bin Abdullah al-Sheikh. His words "[it] is a form of suicide, and therefore condemned," are an expression of the fact that such attacks are incompatible with Islam.

The dean of the London's Muslim College, Dr. Zaki Badawi, also asserts that radicalism and violence have no place in Islam:

I personally think they are wrong in their understanding of Islam and I think that it is terrible to commit a crime against innocent people because this is against Muslim law. (Frank Gardner, "Restoring Faith in Islam," BBC News, December 26, 2001.)

96

One of the most important ways of preventing radicalism is establishing an interfaith cooperation. One example of such a dialogue is the traditional Alexandria meetings hosted by the Patriarch of Alexandria.

Above: The text of the speech on the Muslim-Christian cooperation by the Patriarch of Alexandria. Right: The declaration of the 2002 meeting.

103

Make allowances for people, command what is right, and turn away from the ignorant. (Surat Al-A'raf: 199)

113

A painting depicting Crusaders damaging al-Aqsa Mosque.

115

The Church of the Nativity.

119

The inhuman attack on the Mosque of Abraham was reported by _Newsweek_ under the headline: "Massacre in a Mosque."

_Newsweek_ , 7 March 1994.

The radical Jewish settler Baruch Goldstein opened fire on Muslims during their morning prayer in the Mosque of Abraham, killing 67 and wounding a further 300.

Time, 7 March 1994.

121

The attacks of radical Jews are condemned by conscientious and rational people in the Jewish community. One such critique is given by the Jewish religious leader Jonathan Magonet, who is known for his important works on interreligious friendship. Magonet points out the common values between the three religions in his book _Talking to the Other_. The book also reveals information about the special service in a London synagogue held for the Muslims massacred in the Mosque of Abraham. During this service, which was attended by many Jews and Muslims, passages from the Qur'an and the holy Jewish scriptures were read, and Jews and Muslims prayed together for those who had lost their lives. This service was explained in detail in an article entitled "An Evening of Prayer for the martyrs of the Massacre at the Hebron Mosque."

Rabbi Meir Kahane was the founder of the radical Zionist Kach organization. This group is organized in Israel as Kach and in the United States as the Jewish Defense League.

122

The Dome of the Rock and the Wailing Wall.

123

Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and fair admonition, and argue with them in the kindest way. Your Lord knows best who is misguided from His way. And He knows best who are guided. (Surat An-Nahl: 125)

133

He is Allah. There is no god but Him. Praise be to Him in this world and the Hereafter. Judgment belongs to Him. You will be returned to Him. (Surat Al-Qasas: 70)

134

Allah is my Lord and your Lord so worship Him. This is a straight path. (Surat Az-Zukhruf: 64)

137

All greatness belongs to Him in the heavens and Earth. He is the Almighty, the All-Wise. (Surat Al-Jathiyya: 37)

138

Say, "Whether you conceal what is in your breasts or make it known, Allah knows it. He knows what is in the heavens and what is on earth. Allah has power over all things." (Surah Al 'Imran: 29)

139

Everything in the heavens and the Earth glorifies Allah. He is the Almighty, the All-Wise. (Surat Al-Hadid: 1)

143

Ask forgiveness of your Lord. Truly He is Endlessly Forgiving. (Surah Nuh: 10)

144

Allah desires to make things clear to you and to guide you to the correct practices of those before you and to turn towards you. Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise. (Surat An-Nisa: 26)

145

... **If anyone among you does evil out of ignorance and then afterwards repents and puts things right, He is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Surat Al-An'am: 54)**

164

Do they make things into partner-gods which cannot create anything and are themselves created? (Surat Al-A'raf: 191)

165

Which are not capable of helping them and cannot even help themselves? (Surat Al-A'raf: 192)

166

... **Yet the life of this world, compared to the Hereafter, is only fleeting enjoyment. (Surat Ar_Ra'd: 26)**

169

Wealth and sons are the embellishment of the life of this world. But, in your Lord's sight, right actions which are lasting bring a better reward and are a better basis for hope. (Surat Al-Kahf: 46)

181

Turn to your Lord and submit to Him before punishment comes upon you, for then you cannot be helped. (Qur'an, 39:54)

187

Allah, there is no god but Him. He will gather you to the Day of Resurrection about which there is no doubt. And whose speech could be truer than Allah's? (Surat An-Nisa: 87)

189

Say: "What do you think? If Allah's punishment were to come upon you or the Hour, would you call on other than Allah if you are being truthful?" (Surat Al-An'am: 40)

193

He Who created death and life to test which of you is best in action. He is the Almighty, the Ever-Forgiving. (Surat Al-Mulk: 2)

194

Say, "People of the Book! Come to a

proposition which is the same for us and you that we should worship none but Allah and not associate any partners with Him and not take one another as lords besides Allah. "If they turn away, say," Bear witness

that we are Muslims."

(Surah Al 'Imran: 64)

212

Whether you keep your words secret or say them out loud He knows what the heart contains. Does He Who created not then know? He is the All-Pervading, the All-Aware. (Surat Al-Mulk: 13-14)

233

He directs the whole affair from heaven to earth. Then it will again ascend to Him on a Day whose length is a thousand years by the way you measure. (Surat As-Sajda: 5)
239

Therefore be patient with a patience which is beautiful. (Surat Al-Ma'arij: 5)

245

The metaphor of those who spend their wealth in the Way of Allah is that of a grain which produces seven ears, in every ear there are a hundred grains. Allah gives such multiplied increase to whoever He wills. Allah is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing. (Surat Al-Baqara: 261)

246

Allah does not wrong anyone by so much as the smallest speck. And if there is a good deed Allah will multiply it and pay out an immense reward direct from Him. (Surat An-Nisa: 40)

253

Ward off evil with what is better. We know very well what they express. (Surat Al-Muminun: 96)

260- 261

They are not all the same. There is a community among the People of the Book who are upright. They recite Allah's Signs throughout the night, and they prostrate. They believe in Allah and the Last Day, and enjoin the right and forbid the wrong, and compete in doing good. They are among the righteous. (Surah Al 'Imran: 113-114)

269

Is he whose breast is opened to Islam, and who is therefore illuminated by his Lord? Woe to those whose hearts are hardened against the remembrance of Allah! Such people are clearly misguided. (Surat Az-Zumar: 22)

279

Allah has prepared Gardens for them with rivers flowing under them, remaining in them timelessly, for ever.

That is the great victory

(Surat At-Tawba, 89)

241

Charles Darwin

246

Decadence, which occurs when societies abandon religious morality, currently affects almost all countries.

252

Societies that become disconnected from religious morality experience increased levels of aggression and violence, because people follow their own selfish desires instead of their conscience, as required by religious morality.

257

... **We gave Clear Signs to Jesus, son of Mary, and reinforced him with the Purest Spirit... (Surat Al-Baqara: 253)**

265

We will set up the Just Balance on the Day of Resurrection, and no soul will be wronged in any way. Even if it is no more than the weight of a grain of a mustard seed, We will produce it. We are sufficient as a Reckoner. (Surat Al-Anbiya: 47)

274

During the initial period of the End Times, hardship, trouble famine, disorder, and conflict increase dramatically, and people long desperately for a savior.

278

Saint Columba Altarpiece, right panel, "Presentation of Christ," painted by Rogier van der Weyden.

280-281

You who believe! Be helpers of Allah as "Jesus son of Mary said to the Disciples, 'Who will be my helpers to Allah?" The Disciples said, "We will be the helpers of Allah."....

... One faction of the tribe of Israel believed and the other disbelieved. So We supported those who believed against their enemy and they became victorious. (Surat As-Saff: 14)

287

The Originator of the heavens and Earth. When He decides on something, He just says to it, "Be!" and it is. (Surat Al-Baqara: 117)

290

Allah raised him up to Himself. Allah is Almighty, All-Wise. (Surat An-Nisa: 158)

292- 293

And We sent Jesus son of Mary following in their footsteps, confirming the Torah that came before him. We gave him the Gospel containing guidance and light, confirming the Torah that came before it, and as guidance and admonition for those who guard against evil. The people of the Gospel should judge by what Allah sent down in it. Those who do not judge by what Allah has sent down, such people are deviators. (Surat Al-Ma'ida: 46-47)

300

They desire to extinguish Allah's Light with their mouths but Allah will perfect His Light, though the disbelievers hate it. (Surat As-Saff: 8)

314

Those who disbelieve are the friends and protectors of one another. If you do not act in this way there will be turmoil in the land and great corruption. (Surat Al-Anfal: 73)

320

You will not be denied the reward for any good thing you do. Allah knows those who guard against evil. (Surah Al 'Imran: 115)

324

Richard Dawkins

332

Who could have a better religion than someone who submits himself completely to Allah and is a good-doer, and follows the religion of Abraham, a man of pure natural belief?... (Surat An-Nisa: 125)

333

Say, "Allah speaks the truth, so follow the religion of Abraham, a man of pure natural belief. He was not one of the idolaters." (Surat Al'Imran: 95)

339

Louis Pasteur

340

Alexander Oparin

342

One of the facts nullifying the theory of evolution is the incredibly complex structure of life. The DNA molecule located in the nucleus of cells of living beings is an example of this. The DNA is a sort of databank formed of the arrangement of four different molecules in different sequences. This databank contains the codes of all the physical traits of that living being. When the human DNA is put into writing, it is calculated that this would result in an encyclopaedia made up of 900 volumes. Unquestionably, such extraordinary information definitively refutes the concept of coincidence.

344

Natural selection only selects out the disfigured, weak, or unfit individuals of a species. It cannot produce new species, new genetic information, or new organs.

345

French biologist Lamarck put forward a very unreasonable claim that giraffes evolved from antelopes. In fact, God created giraffes specially just like all other living things.

347

The direct effect of mutations is always harmful. A deformed hand, the product of mutation.

349

LIVING FOSSILS REFUTE EVOLUTION

Fossils are proof that evolution never happened. As the fossil record shows, living things came into being in a single moment, with all the characteristics they possess and never altered in the least for so long as the species survived. Fish have always existed as fish, insects as insects and reptiles as reptiles. There is no scientific validity to the claim that species develop gradually. Almighty Allah created all living things.

A 54-to-37-million-year-old fossil sunfish

A 295-million-year-old fossil sea urchin

A 125-million-year-old fossil cicada

A 50-million-year-old fossil sequoia leaf

351

Evolutionist newspapers and magazines often print pictures of primitive man. The only available source for these pictures is the imagination of the artist. Evolutionary theory has been so dented by scientific data that today we see less and less of it in the serious press.

FALSE

358

Darwin did not even want to think about the eye. It is impossible for the eye to happen by coincidence because the eye is perfect and yet so complex. It is the obvious truth that God has created the eye.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Adnan Oktar, who writes under the pen-name Harun Yahya, was born in Ankara in 1956. Since the 1980s, the author has published many books on faith-related, scientific and political issues. He is well-known as the author of important works disclosing the imposture of evolutionists, their invalid claims, and the dark liaisons between Darwinism and such bloody ideologies as fascism and communism.

All of the author's works share one single goal: to convey the Qur'an's message, encourage readers to consider basic faith-related issues such as Allah's existence and unity and the Hereafter; and to expose irreligious systems' feeble foundations and perverted ideologies. His more than 300 works, translated into 63 different languages, enjoy a wide readership across the world.

By the will of Allah, the books of Harun Yahya will be a means through which people in the twenty-first century will attain the peace, justice, and happiness promised in the Qur'an.

# Back Cover:

We are living in an era in which the world is in need of peace, friendship, and solidarity more than ever. The conflicts and tensions which left their mark on the 20th century, are continuing on full speed in this century as well. Innocent people all around the world are suffering because of these conflicts and tensions. Despite the urgent need for solidarity and cooperation, certain circles are inciting conflict, particularly conflict between the world's two greatest and deep-rooted civilizations. This is a problem that should be labored upon. It is apparent that a clash of civilizations as demanded by such people would cause a disaster of epic proportions. One of the best ways of preventing such a disastrous war among civilizations is to strengthen the understanding and cooperation in between these civilizations. This is not a hard task, because there are no fundamental differences in between Islam and the Western world as claimed by certain circles. On the contrary, there are lots of common points in between the Judeo-Christian culture that forms the foundation of the western civilization and Islam. After taking these common features as basis, finding solutions to the problems in the world in cooperation, would not be difficult. The alliance which will be formed in between devout people is a natural result of sincere believers' quest for justice, peace, and their desire to serve humanity. This alliance in between the members of the three religions is not a relation that would be limited with meetings and conferences; it is the unity of devout people who defend common values, who strive for the same goal, who aim to bring solution to common problems. And this unity will be one of the main contributing factors to tranquility at a time when Prophet Jesus' (peace be upon him) second coming is expected and Hazrat Mahdi (pbuh) is present on Earth.

