Volume 8

Differentiating The Pure Monotheism of Islam from the Implied Monotheism of Judeo-Christian Traditions

Ash Shaikh Mir Asedullah Quadri

The article delves into the pure concept of Tawheed, the bedrock of Islamic monotheism, distinguishing it from the implied monotheistic perspectives of Judeo-Christian traditions. Tawheed (توحيد) is an Arabic term which means ‘oneness’ and ‘unity.’ In Islamic terminology it means the oneness of God. Tawheed in Islam transcends the acknowledgment of a single Creator of this Cosmos, representing a comprehensive oneness that influences every aspect of understanding, faith, and practice. The paper discusses the realistic, theological, and philosophical, dimensions of Tawheed, highlighting its uniqueness away from any typr of partnership with God. The article aims to articulate how Islamic monotheism, as embodied in Tawheed, is the truest form of monotheism, which is the basic faith of Islam distinguishing it from others in the religious sphere.

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Prophethood in Islam and it’s Distinction from Judeo- Christian Narratives

Ash Shaikh Mir Asedullah Quadri

This article offers a comprehensive exploration of the concept of prophethood in Islam, distinguishing it from the perspectives presented in Judeo-Christian traditions. It delves into the Islamic view of prophethood as a divine institution, where human prophets are seen as messengers of God, tasked with guiding humanity through their teachings. The article examines the characteristics of prophets in Islamic theology, emphasizing their infallibility and the universal nature of their messages. It also presents a comparative analysis of shared prophetic figures in Abrahamic faiths, highlighting the unique portrayal of these individuals in the Islamic narrative. The discussion extends to the authenticity and preservation of prophetic teachings in Islam, their impact on Islamic law, theology, societal norms, and the broader Muslim worldview. The article explains that the Islamic explanation of prophethood, marked by historical consistency and logical coherence, presents a distinct and sensible understanding of this pivotal religious concept.

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Comparative Analysis of the Qur'an's Revelation and Codification with Judeo-Christian Scriptures

Ash Shaikh Mir Asedullah Quadri

In this article, we discuss the unique process of the revelation, compilation, and preservation of the Qur'an, contrasting it with the developmental histories of other key Abrahamic scriptures, namely the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament. It explores how the Qur'an's formation, its methodical oral and written transmission, and its explicit claim as the final divine revelation distinctly set it apart. The article emphasizes the unaltered and meticulously preserved nature of the Qur'an, for its unparalleled authority and status within Islam. This comprehensive study underscores its role as a timeless and pristine guide in the Islamic faith, influencing countless aspects of Muslim life and culture.

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Understanding Divine Law in Islam

Ash Shaikh Mir Asedullah Quadri

Sharia, is a comprehensive and divine legal framework within Islam, governing not only personal conduct but also societal norms and state laws. This article aims to explain Sharia, elucidating its origins, principles, and unique structure. It traces the historical roots back to the Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم), highlighting its evolution and the role of consensus and analogical reasoning in its development. The article also delves into the categorization of human actions under Sharia and discusses its personal, criminal, economic, societal, and ritual aspects. A key focus is given to the diversity within Islamic jurisprudence, illustrated through the four major schools - Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali. Furthermore, the article presents a comparative analysis of Sharia with Jewish Halakha and Christian Canon Law, accentuating its distinctive approach as an all-encompassing guide for life. Addressing common misconceptions, the article sheds light on Sharia’s adaptability, gender perspectives, and its application in modern times. The conclusion reaffirms Sharia's role as not just a legal code, but as a path towards spiritual, moral, and societal harmony, embodying the essence of Islam's comprehensive guidance for humanity.

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Elucidating the Coherence of Islamic Eschatology

Ash Shaikh Mir Asedullah Quadri

This article delves into Islamic eschatology, drawing a comparative analysis with Judeo-Christian end-time narratives. It explores the distinctive Islamic concepts of the afterlife, the Day of Judgment, and the eternal realms of heaven (Jannah) and hell (Jahannam), underlining the unique features that set Islamic eschatology apart. Central to this discussion is the portrayal of the signs of the Day of Judgment and the descriptions of the afterlife, which are deeply embedded in the daily spiritual life and worldview of Muslims. The article further contrasts Islamic eschatology with Christian and Judaic doctrines, highlighting its theological coherence, its emphasis on moral accountability, and the practical implications for believers. Through a comprehensive analysis, the article aims to illuminate the sensibility and consistency of Islamic eschatology, affirming its position as a coherent and pragmatic approach to understanding the fate of humanity.

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The Islamic Perspective on Ahle Kitab (People of the Book)

Ash Shaikh Mir Asedullah Quadri

This article delves into the Islamic understanding of 'Ahle Kitab' (People of the Book), a term traditionally encompassing Jews and Christians. Contrary to the general perception, the Islamic perspective identifies 'Ahle Kitab' more specifically as the original followers of Prophets Musa (Moses) (عليه السلام) and Prophet Isa (Jesus) (عليه السلام) who adhered to monotheistic teachings of Islamic principles. The article explores the Quranic revelations, the historical context of the Constitution )صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم( of Medina, and the Prophet Muhammad's approach to delineating the identity and rights of 'Ahle Kitab'. It further examines the theological and doctrinal evolutions in Christianity and Judaism, highlighting their divergence from the original messages of the prophets. This exploration reveals significant implications for contemporary interfaith relations, emphasizing the importance of understanding the historical and theological nuances of 'Ahle Kitab' for informed and respectful dialogue in the modern world. The article concludes by reinforcing the Islamic commitment to principles of justice, coexistence, and mutual respect in the context of diverse religious identities.

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