The relationship between the Quran and the Bible is a subject of profound interest and importance, both for interfaith dialogue and for understanding the historical and theological connections between Islam and the other Abrahamic faiths, Judaism and Christianity. The Quran, the holy book of Islam, references the Bible frequently, acknowledging it as a significant revelation from God, yet also offering a distinct perspective on its contents and authenticity.
The Acknowledgment of Previous Scriptures
One of the fundamental tenets of Islam is the belief in the continuity of divine revelation. Muslims are taught that God has sent prophets to every nation throughout history, each bringing guidance tailored to their people and time. The Quran explicitly acknowledges the Torah (Tawrat), the Psalms (Zabur), and the Gospel (Injil) as revelations from God given to prophets Moses, David, and Jesus respectively.
The Quran states:
“Indeed, We sent down the Torah, in which was guidance and light. The prophets who submitted [to Allah] judged by it for the Jews, as did the rabbis and scholars by that with which they were entrusted of the Scripture of Allah, and they were witnesses thereto…” (Quran 5:44)
“And We sent, following in their footsteps, Jesus, the son of Mary, confirming that which came before him in the Torah; and We gave him the Gospel, in which was guidance and light and confirming that which preceded it of the Torah as guidance and instruction for the righteous.” (Quran 5:46)
These verses highlight the Quran’s recognition of the previous scriptures as divine guidance, affirming their original messages and their role in the spiritual lives of the people to whom they were sent.
The Concept of Tahrif: Alteration and Corruption
While the Quran acknowledges the original scriptures, it also introduces the concept of “tahrif,” or textual alteration. Muslims believe that while the original revelations were pure and true, they have been subject to human corruption over time. This belief is derived from various Quranic verses that suggest the people of the book (Jews and Christians) have distorted the scriptures.
For example, the Quran states:
“So woe to those who write the ‘scripture’ with their own hands, then say, ‘This is from Allah,’ in order to exchange it for a small price. Woe to them for what their hands have written and woe to them for what they earn.” (Quran 2:79)
“And indeed, there is among them a party who alter the Scripture with their tongues so you may think it is from the Scripture, but it is not from the Scripture. And they say, ‘This is from Allah,’ but it is not from Allah. And they speak untruth about Allah while they know.” (Quran 3:78)
These verses imply that the texts available to Jews and Christians at the time of Muhammad (peace be upon him) had been tampered with, thus necessitating the final and unaltered revelation of the Quran.
Confirming and Correcting Previous Revelations
The Quran often serves to confirm the messages of previous prophets while also correcting what it views as distortions. For instance, it acknowledges the virgin birth of Jesus (Isa) and his role as a prophet, but it refutes the divinity of Jesus, a core Christian belief.
The Quran says:
“O People of the Scripture, do not commit excess in your religion or say about Allah except the truth. The Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, was but a messenger of Allah and His word which He directed to Mary and a soul [created at a command] from Him. So believe in Allah and His messengers. And do not say, ‘Three’; desist – it is better for you. Indeed, Allah is but one God. Exalted is He above having a son…” (Quran 4:171)
This verse underscores the Quran’s role in affirming monotheism and correcting what it sees as theological errors introduced in previous scriptures. The concept of the Trinity and the divine sonship of Jesus are seen as later developments not part of the original revelation given to Jesus.
The Role of the People of the Book
The Quran refers to Jews and Christians as “People of the Book” (Ahl al-Kitab), a term of respect recognizing their possession of earlier revelations. This designation underscores the shared heritage and common ground between Islam, Judaism, and Christianity.
In various verses, the Quran calls for a respectful and peaceful relationship with the People of the Book. For example:
“Say, ‘O People of the Book, come to a word that is equitable between us and you – that we will not worship except Allah and not associate anything with Him and not take one another as lords instead of Allah.'” (Quran 3:64)
Moreover, the Quran acknowledges the piety and righteousness of some among the People of the Book:
“They are not [all] the same; among the People of the Scripture is a community standing [in obedience], reciting the verses of Allah during periods of the night and prostrating [in prayer]. They believe in Allah and the Last Day, and they enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and hasten to good deeds. And those are among the righteous.” (Quran 3:113-114)
These verses indicate that the Quranic perspective on Jews and Christians is nuanced, recognizing both the potential for piety and the theological disagreements.
The Finality of the Quran
While the Quran acknowledges previous scriptures, it also asserts its own finality and completeness. Muslims believe that the Quran is the final revelation, superseding previous scriptures, and that it serves as a guardian over them.
The Quran states:
“And We have sent down to you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming that which preceded it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it. So judge between them by what Allah has revealed and do not follow their inclinations away from what has come to you of the truth.” (Quran 5:48)
This verse encapsulates the Islamic belief that the Quran confirms previous revelations while also serving as the ultimate criterion for judging religious truths. It is seen as the culmination of a series of divine messages that began with the earlier prophets.
Implications for Interfaith Relations
Understanding the Quran’s perspective on the Bible is crucial for fostering meaningful interfaith dialogue between Muslims, Jews, and Christians. Recognizing the shared respect for earlier revelations can serve as a foundation for building mutual understanding and respect.
At the same time, acknowledging theological differences and the belief in textual corruption should be approached with sensitivity. Constructive dialogue requires an appreciation of both commonalities and differences, grounded in mutual respect and a willingness to understand the other’s perspective.
Conclusion
The Quran presents a complex and multifaceted perspective on the Bible. It acknowledges the divine origin of previous scriptures, asserts their subsequent corruption, and positions itself as the final and unaltered word of God. This view is integral to Islamic theology and shapes Muslim interactions with Jews and Christians.
By exploring these Quranic views with openness and respect, adherents of the Abrahamic faiths can find common ground and engage in dialogue that honors their shared spiritual heritage while addressing their distinctive beliefs. This approach not only enhances interfaith understanding but also contributes to a more harmonious and respectful coexistence.