The Salvation in the Bible and Qur’an…

Christianity and Islam share much common ground. Both the Christians and the Muslims trace their roots to Abraham. Both believe in Jesus as the Messiah and His second coming.  Both believe in prophecy, God's messengers (apostles), revelation, scripture, and the resurrection of dead. But both agreed not to agree on the doctrine of salvation. Actually there are different teachings on salvation even within the Christians and the Muslims. Some Christians believe in salvation by faith alone, the others believe in salvation by faith plus works; the teachings of salvation are different from church to church. The Scripture clearly teach that we are saved (justified) by faith in Christ and what He has done on the cross.  This faith alone saves us. Eph. 2:8-9, "For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. Not by works …" However, James says in James 2:24, "You see that a man is justified by works, and not by faith alone."

Is the Qur’an ALL inspired by God?

Before I answer this question let me ask you: Is the Bible all inspired by God? And what does that mean? Christians do believe that the Bible is inspired, but not nearly everyone is clear as to what that means. We read in the Bible:

2 Timothy 3:16 “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”

The teachings about the immortality of the soul in the Qur’an.

First of all please keep in mind that I am not a scholar neither am I an expert in the Qur’an. Do I understand all of the Qur’an; certainly not. Do I have any problem with verse(s) in the Scripture? Sure I do. My doubt is not about the veracity of the Qur’an or the Bible but my doubt is about the veracity of my understanding. Since I rejected my religious leaders precepts that require blindly following the opinion of the scholars and clerics, and since I accepted the God Words as the only source of my religion, whenever I encounter a problem with my understanding of a verse, I follow the divine advice to act patiently in seeking knowledge (Qur’an 20:114, Jeremiah 33:3), ask the experts (Q. 21:7) without following them blindly (Q. 17:36), and know that God is the one who will teach me and ultimately provide explanation  (Q. 75:16-19, Q. 2:186, John 14:26). I try to convey the best of what I know and if I make a mistake, please bring it to my notice...

Jews, Christians and Muslims agreed… Not to follow The Word of God.

The Jews, hundreds of years after Moses's death created Mishnah and Gemarrah and uphold them and the invented laws in them rather than the TORAH (revealed word of God). Thus, the Jews give up on the Old Testament and never recognize the New Testament.

In the city of Nicene 300 years after the death of Jesus, the pagan Trinity was accepted, and is now the primary source of a Christian's belief in defiance of the Bible which advocates the absolute worship of God Alone. By believing in trinity the Christians denied the Father and the Son. They forbid the Holy Scripture and “speak great words against the most High … and changed times and laws… (Dan 7:25) So, the Christians ignored the Bible and went astray.

What does the Qur’an says about Jesus: The Word of God…

In the Qur’an 4:171 Jesus is called, God’s Word. In Chapter 3:45 the Quran states that the angels, when announcing the unique conception of Jesus to Mary, told her that Allah was giving her good tidings “of a Word from him.” The expression here used, in the original Arabic, is kalimatin-minhu. Broken up, it means kalima (word), min (from), hu (him). Note this—Jesus is the only human being who ever lived who is called a Word from God. The same title is applied to him in the Bible:

He is clad in a robe dipped in blood, and the name by which he is called is the Word of God. (Revelation 19:13). See also John 1:1 and John 1:14.

What does the Qur’an says about Jesus: The Messiah…

Al-Masih Isa - "the Messiah Jesus". We read that when the angels first appeared to Mary they said of the holy child they had been sent to announce: Ismuhul Masihu Isabnu Maryam - "his name shall be the Messiah Jesus, son of Mary" (Chapter 3.45). Even before the conception of Jesus, therefore, the angels gave him the one title that is applied to him on no less than eleven occasions in the Qur'an, namely Al-Masih - "the Messiah".

What does the Qur’an says about Jesus: Is He merely another prophet?

The Qur’an teaches that Jesus is Kalimatullah, meaning The Word of God, Ruhullah, meaning The Spirit of God (4:171), Al-Masih, meaning The Messiah (3:45; 4.157; 4.172;  5.17; 5.72; 5.75;  9:31) Wajeeh, meaning worthy of esteem in this world and the next (3:45), Mubarak, meaning blessed (19:31). We read about His virgin birth in Qur’an (3:42-47; 19:16-31), His marvelous works (3:49; 5:110), His death, resurrection and ascension (4:157; 19:33,34; 3:55; 4:158) and we read about His second coming in (43:57-61).

You Are What You Worship

You Are What You Worship

Every religion is based upon some conception of God. Unfortunately many religions are based upon a conception of false gods, and some are even based upon false conceptions of the true God.

One thing is sure, for those who choose to worship, their whole life and character is molded by the type of person they perceive their God to be.

Hell - eternal torture by a loving God?

What is Hell?

The word HELL in the Bible is translated from GEHENNA- (Ge.hen'na) [Gr. form of the Heb. Geh Hin.nom', "Valley of Hinnom"]. This name appears 12 times in the Christian Greek Scriptures.

Gehenna was a the deep, narrow Valley of Hinnom, later known by this Greek name, and lay to the south/southwest of ancient Jerusalem and is the modern-day Wadi er-Rababi (Ge Ben Hinnom). (Jos 15:8; 18:16; Jer 19:2, 6) Judean Kings Ahaz and Manasseh engaged in idolatrous worship there, which included the making of human sacrifices by fire to Baal. (2Ch 28:1, 3; 33:1, 6; Jer 7:31, 32; 32:35) God said this was "a thing that I had not commanded and that had not come up into my heart" (Jer 7:31; 32:35). God looked at this as a terrible thing. Why would he use this as a picture of what he himself wanted to do? Where God planning to do the same, or was this the place they choose, away from God?

The Ten Commandments in the Qur’an

Comparison of the Ten Commandments with similar passages in the Qur’an

#1

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

Do not associate another deity with God.(Q 17:22)

 Know therefore that there is no god but God. (Q 47:19)

#2

 You shall not make for yourself an idol, or any likeness of what is in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the water under the earth. You shall not worship them or serve them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God... (Exodus 20:4-5)

Qur’an Trinity & Mary

Qur’an Trinity & Mary

The Christian doctrine of the Trinity defines God as three divine persons God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. The three persons are distinct yet coexist in unity, and are co-equal, co-eternal and consubstantial. According to this doctrine, God exists as three persons but is one God, meaning that God the Son and God the Holy Spirit have exactly the same nature or being as God the Father in every way.

And also many Christians have turned Mary into a godly figure:

Muslim believes that God has a Son

How come a Muslim believes that God has a Son?

We read in the Bible and Quran that God will answer our prayer.

Jeremiah 33:3 “Call to me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you know not.”

Qur’an 2:186 “And when My servants ask you concerning Me, then surely I am very near; I answer the prayer of the suppliant when he calls on Me, …”

Quran and the Father-Son relationship in the Bible.

Many Christians and Muslims believe that the Quran denying Father-Son relationship between God and Jesus Christ. If that’s true then the Quran must deny the New Testament; for the New Testament witness to the Father-Son relationship between God and Jesus Christ is undeniable. The consistency and repetition observed in the gospels is striking.

The Father and the Son in the Bible:

Matt 11:27, Matt 16:27, Luke 9:26, John 1:14, John 5:19,  John 5:20,  John 3:35, John 5:22, John 5:23, John 5:21, John 5:26,  John 6:39-40, John 6:27,  John 10:36, 1 John 4:14, John 17:1, 1 John 2:22,23, 1 John 2:24, 1 John 1:3

The Jews The Christians & The Straight Way.

The Straight Way

(Sirat Al-Mustaqim)

Sirat al-Mustaqim is the Arabic term for the straight way. In Islamic context, it has been interpreted as the right path or the right way. There are five obligatory daily prayers in Islam. Al-Fatihah is the prayer where the believer requests Allah for guidance on the path of those upon whom He has bestowed favors, not those upon whom wrath is brought down, nor those who went astray. During each prayer is the following phrase included: “Ihdina s-siraata l-mustaqeem, Siraata l-latheena anamta alaihim ghair al-mughdoobi alaihim wa la daaleen”.   

Dhimmi & Jizyah

“Dhimmi” (Arabic: ذمي, meaning "protected person")

We have one verse in Quran talking about Jizyah or Jizya (Arabic: جزية‎) is the extra tax imposed on non-Muslims (Dhimmi) who live under Muslim rule; Quran Chapter 9 verse 29 says:

“Fight those who believe not in Allah nor the Last Day, nor hold that forbidden which hath been forbidden by Allah and His Messenger, nor acknowledge the religion of Truth, (even if they are) of the People of the Book, until they pay the Jizya with willing submission, and feel themselves subdued.” (Quran 9:29)

Aqeeqah: the faultless sacrifice in Muslims tradition.

What is aqeeqah?

Aqeeqah is an Arabic word originally derived from the key word ‘aq’ which means to cut and shred.

On the birth of the child, the animal is offered in aqeeqah to obtain nearness to Allah and to offer ransom for the child. This sacrifice which is done for the newborn is called aqeeqah. The scholars differed concerning the ruling on ‘aqeeqah; some of them said that it is obligatory and others said that it is Sunnah mu’akkadah (a confirmed Sunnah).

Mighty Sacrifice From Paradise

Christianity is not a new religion but a historical manifestation of an eternal purpose, which was ordained in heaven. The whole Bible is about Jesus.  Jesus can be found in each and every book. In John 5:39, Jesus spoke about the scriptures that are now what we call the Old Testament.  Jesus said: "… These are the Scriptures that testify about me ...” John 5:39

The Meaning of Islam

The first thing that one should know and clearly understand about Islam is what the word "Islam" itself means. The religion of Islam is not named after a person nor was it named after a tribe. Islam is the religion of "Allah" and as such, its name represents the central principle of Allah's "God's" religion; the total submission to the will of Allah "God". The Arabic word "Islam" means the submission or surrender of one's will to the only true God worthy of worship "Allah" and anyone who does so is termed a "Muslim", The word also implies "peace" which is the natural consequence of total submission to the will of Allah. Hence, it was not a new religion brought by Prophet Muhammad in Arabia in the seventh century, but only the true religion of Allah re-expressed in its final form.

God in Islam

Muslims believe in GOD (in arabic Allah), the Supreme and Eternal, Infinite and Mighty, Merciful and Compassionate, The Creator and The Provider. According to Islamic belief, Allah "is unique (wāḥid) and inherently one (ʾaḥad), all-merciful and omnipotent."

The word Allah in the Arabic language means God, or more accurately, The One and Only Eternal God, Creator of the Universe, Lord of all lords, King of all kings, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful. The word Allah is also used by Arabic speaking Jews and Christians before Islam.

The human nature of Jesus Christ

Was Jesus Born With A Fallen Sinful Nature or With A Sinless Nature?

How important is this subject? The very core of the gospel is rooted in this subject. A misunderstanding of this subject will led to a misunderstanding of topics such as – Sin, Salvation, Perfection of Character, Keeping of the Commandments, Remnant, Overcoming, Righteousness by Faith, etc. It will affect your eternal destiny.

Keep this point in mind –

Remember, Jesus came to save all men and women including Adam and Eve after they had sinned. All those who were born after their sin,naturally inherited a fallen sinful nature including Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ..

Prophet Muhammed and the Christians.

Muhammad's promise to Christians

“In 628 AD, a delegation from St. Catherine’s Monastery came to Prophet Muhammed, requesting his protection. He responded by granting them a charter of rights, which is reproduced below in its entirety. St. Catherine’s Monastery is located at the foot of Mt. Sinai and is the world’s oldest monastery. It possesses a huge collection of Christian manuscripts, second only to the Vatican, and is a world heritage site, even boasting the oldest collection of Christian icons. Indeed, it is a treasure trove of Christian history that has remained safe for 1400 years under Muslim protection.

Does the verse 4:159 say "Jesus did not died"?

4/NİSÂ-159

وَاِنْ مِنْ اَهْلِ الْكِتَابِ اِلَّا لَيُؤْمِنَنَّ بِهٖ قَبْلَ مَوْتِهٖ وَيَوْمَ الْقِيٰمَةِ يَكُونُ عَلَيْهِمْ شَهٖيدًا

Transliteration

: Wa-in min ahli alkitabi illalayu/minanna bihi qabla mawtihi wayawma alqiyamati yakoonuAAalayhim shaheeda

Let us investigate a few sample translations of the verse:

What does the Quran say about the crucifixion of Jesus?

It is commonly held by Muslims that the crucifixion of Jesus Christ did not occur. Depending on the interpretation of the following verse, Muslim scholars have different opinions. Some believe that God gave someone Jesus' appearance, causing everyone to believe that Jesus was crucified.

It is stated in the Quran, That they said (in their boast), "We killed the Messiah Isa (Jesus) son of Maryam (Mary), The Messenger of Allah"- but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but so it was made to appear to them, and those who differ therein are full of doubts, with no (certain) knowledge, but only conjecture to follow, for of a surety They killed him not-Nay, Allah raised him up unto Himself; and Allah is Exalted in Power, Wise- Q 4:157-158.

Most Muslims believe this to mean that Jesus Christ never died but Allah made it appear to the people that he had been died. Most Muslims believe he was raised to Heaven without being put on the cross and God transformed another person to appear exactly like Jesus who was crucified instead of Jesus. This causes some serious problems that need to be addressed. If Allah tricked people into believing Jesus was died then this means that Allah started Christianity by his own deception, and He allowed Christians to be deceived. The whole foundation of the Christian faith is rested on death of Jesus. The historical reality of Jesus death is an essential of the Christian faith. Without Jesus death his resurrection becomes irrelevant, and without the resurrection Christianity itself is rendered meaningless, i.e. 1 Corinthians 15:14 "and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain." According to history hundreds of thousands of Christians--men, women, and children--were tortured and killed for their faith in Christianity. This means that Allah started Christianity and allowed thousands of people to give their life for something that was all a deception.

God in Bible and Qur'an

The word Allah in the Arabic language means God, or more accurately, The One and Only Eternal God, Creator of the Universe, Lord of all lords, King of all kings, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful. The word Allah to mean God is also used by Arabic speaking Jews and Christians.

Genesis 1:1 "In the beginning God created the Heaven and the Earth . . . "

[Genesis 1:1 - Arabic transliteration]
"Fee al-badi' khalaqa Allahu as-Samaawaat wa al-Ard . . . "

John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that . . . "

[John 3:16 - Arabic transliteration]
"Li-annhu haakadha ahabba Allahu al-'Aalama hataa badhala . . . "

Is Islam Antichrist?

Some preachers and teachers as well as numerous websites and media declaring the Islamic leaders are the Biblical Antichrist. But is this so? Do the prophecies in the Bible really line up with that assumption?

The only way to find this out is to go into our Bibles, study the prophecies, and then look in our history books to see if in fact Islam did what the prophecies say Antichrist will do.

If Islam is Antichrist we need to declare it across the land. But if Islam isn’t the home of the Antichrist, then according to the Word of God, we need to find out who really is responsible for fulfilling all these prophecies.

Islam & the Son Of God

The moment we begin to speak with a Muslim, typically he or she will get offended by the fact that we are calling Jesus the Son of God. This is because when we say "Son of God", they think we are talking about a son who was conceived in the traditional, "normal" way, and they believe this assertion is blasphemy. They are right to believe this assertion is blasphemy. We must clarify to the Muslim that when we say, "Son of God', we do not believe that God ever had a physical relationship with a woman to have this son.

As we look at the Quran and what the Holy book says about Isa Al-Masih (Jesus the Messiah), we see in chapter 19th the angel talking to Maryam (Mary):

Quran 19:19 He said: "Nay, I am only a messenger from thy Lord, (to announce) to thee the gift of a holy son.

 Here Isa (Jesus) is referred to as a Holy Son, but please take note what is says in chapter 112:

Quran 112:1 Say: He is Allah, the One and Only;

Quran 112:2 Allah, the Eternal, Absolute;

Quran 112:3 He begetteth not, nor is He begotten; (or, God neither gave birth nor is born)

Here we read that Allah begetteth no one.

Islam fights the major doctrine in Christianity. First, the doctrine of devils and seducing spirits had found its way into the church through the teachings of the trinity. And we know that there was many form of trinity in early church history. This condemned teaching is taught by the Churches and Quran attacks it very clearly;

Quran 5:73 “They do blaspheme who say: Allah is one of three in a Trinity: …”

Is Jesus Self-existent?

Does the Bible say that Jesus "self-existed"?

The trinity means; three self existed, co-equal co-eternal person made up one God. Do we have this teaching in the Bible? No. Do we ever read in the Bible “three person made up one God”? No.

We have ONE GOD and the Father of all. We have the Son and we have the Holy Spirit. Do we read anywhere in the Bible "this three made ONE GOD" No. then we doesn’t have the trinity in the Bible.

We have three Holy Person:

1. God the Father

2. The Son

3. The Holy Spirit

EGW use the word “Godhead” for this three person. Why? Because she knew the word "trinity" means something else then the word Godhead. The trinity entered the Christianity world 1500 years before EGW. She knew the teaching of the trinity very well and she knew what the word “trinity” means and she never ever used it. This is because the word ‘trinity’ automatically conveys to the human mind the idea of ‘three-in-one’ (tri-unity) whereas the word ‘Godhead’ contains no such meaning.

Does EGW knew God!?

Does Ellen White speak out about misunderstandings about God?


“There were those who were active in disseminating false ideas in regard to God. Light was given me that these men were making the truth of no effect by their false teachings. I was instructed that they were misleading souls by presenting speculative theories regarding God.… This is only one of the instances in which I was called upon to rebuke those who were presenting the doctrine of an impersonal God pervading all nature, and similar errors.” (Ellen White, Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, pages 292, 293) 

Note:  Ellen White knew who God was.  In many instances she had to rebuke those presenting false doctrines on this subject. If her husband or the other pioneers were speaking out against the trinity or “three in one or one in three God” as James White put it and she were Trinitarian she would have spoken out against them.  Especially considering that the alpha and omega of deadly heresies are in regard to this very doctrine.  Is this an important subject?  Let none tell you that it is not.  The trinity is the Omega of deadly heresies.  The trinity is an impersonal God.  Our God is the father of Jesus Christ. [John 20:17, Gal 1:3]  Ellen White would never bring in such an important doctrine quietly or privily as is being taught in the church today.  That’s a misrepresentation.

Unborrowed, Underived Life

Christ possessed original, unborrowed, underived life.  Does that mean he was not begotten?

“In Him [Christ] was life, original, unborrowed, underived. This life is not inherent in man. He can possess it only through Christ. He cannot earn it; it is given him as a free gift if he will believe in Christ as His personal Saviour.” (Ellen White, Signs of the Times, April 8, 1897; also in Selected Messages, book 1, pages 296, 297)

Note:  Please note that we also will possess original, unborrowed, underived life.  This does not mean that we are not adopted sons of God.  And this does not mean Christ was not the only begotten, nor does it mean he was not given it by his father. Joh 5:26  For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself.  Original, unborrowed, underived life was given to him by his father.  And we also can possess original, unborrowed, underived life through Christ.  It is amazing how these quotes that have been used to support a Trinity doctrine were pulled from there natural connection to support it when there is so much evidence that she did not believe in a trinity. 

Is EGW on error?

“The reason why the churches are weak and sickly and ready to die is that the enemy has brought influences of a discouraging nature to bear upon trembling souls. He has sought to shut Jesus from their view as the Comforter, as one who reproves, who warns, who admonishes them, saying, “This is the way, walk ye in it.” (Ellen White, Review & Herald, August 26, 1890, also in Reflecting Christ, page 21)

The True Jihad in Islam

 If you read the Qur’an carefully, so many verses are asking the reader to ponder, to strive for spiritual correction in themselves, (Holy Qur’an 2:177, 2:195, 2:203, 2:219, 2:238, 3:191, 10:5-6, 38:28 – and there are many more).

Prophet Muhammad stated, “the greatest jihad (which means struggle / striving) is with one’s self/ego”. The Prophet said in the Farewell Pilgrimage: "... The mujahid is he who makes jihad against himself (jahada nafsah) for the sake of obeying Allah." (Tirmidhi, Ahmad, Tabarani, Ibn Majah, al-Hakim, and Quda`i also relate it. The contemporary hadith scholar Shu`ayb al-Arna'ut confirmed that its chain of transmission is sound in his edition of Ibn Hibban, Sahih 11:203 (#4862).

Al-Haythami related the following version in the chapter on Jihad al-nafs in his Majma` al-zawa'id and declared it sound:

“The strong one is not the one who overcomes people; the strong one is he who overcomes his ego (ghalaba nafsah).”

Jihad is often mistakenly described as "holy war". If you open a modern English dictionary, you would probably find the definition of Jihad as “a holy war undertaken by Muslims against non-believers”. This is a very poor definition.  Before trying to define what Jihad is, we should first define what it is NOT.

Jihad is an Arabic word from the root Jee Ha Da. It literally means to struggle or strive. Jihad is struggling or striving in the way or sake of Allah. Jihad takes a very important status in the doctrine of Islam and is one of the basic duties for every Muslim. Though, it has nothing whatsoever to do with the term Holy War. Such a term, or its equivalent doesn’t exist in the Islamic doctrine. The Christian Crusaders in the mid-ages invented this ideology of Holy War. There is nothing “Holy” about wars. Wars only involve killings and disasters!

The Arabic word jihad can refer to any form of struggle, in a similar manner to the English word “fight”. You can fight, for instance, for human rights or to protect the environment, each of these is a jihad, requiring much effort and self sacrifice. Jihad when referring to warfare, according to the Holy Qur’an, refers to defensive war, a just war, fought to re-establish peace and security. As Abdullah Yusuf Ali wrote in his commentary on verse 2:190:

“War is permissible in self-defence, and under well-defined limits. When undertaken, it must be pushed with vigour (but not relentlessly), but only to restore peace and freedom for the worship of God. In any case strict limits must not be transgressed: women, children, old and infirm men should not be molested, nor trees and crops cut down, nor peace withheld when the enemy comes to terms.”

Jihad is NOT blowing up one’s self (Suicide is a sin in Islam)

Islam (Submission) condemns suicide as much as it condemns oppression and aggression against others. While the Muslims (Submitters) are commanded to stand for their rights and defend themselves, their properties and their freedom they are told to first resort to peace advocate tolerance and disregard the ignorant. The following verses from the Quran show how the Quran describes suicide.

(2:195) You shall spend in the cause of GOD; do not throw yourselves with your own hands into destruction. You shall be charitable; GOD loves the charitable.

(4:29) O you who believe, do not consume each others' properties illicitly - only mutually acceptable transactions are permitted. You shall not kill yourselves. GOD is Merciful towards you.

(4:30) Anyone who commits these transgressions, maliciously and deliberately, we will condemn him to Hell. This is easy for GOD to do.

The taking of life is allowed only by way of justice (i.e. the death penalty for murder), but even then, forgiveness is better.  "Nor take life - which Allah has made sacred - except for just cause..." (17:33).

In pre-Islamic Arabia, retaliation and mass murder was commonplace.  If someone was killed, the victim's tribe would retaliate against the murderer's entire tribe.  This practice was directly forbidden in the Qur'an (2:178-179).  Following this statement of law, the Qur'an says, "After this, whoever exceeds the limits shall be in grave chastisement" (2:178).  No matter what wrong we perceive as being done against us, we may not lash out against an entire population of people.

The Qur'an admonishes those who oppress others and transgress beyond the bounds of what is right and just.  "The blame is only against those who oppress men with wrongdoing and insolently transgress beyond bounds through the land, defying right and justice.  For such there will be a chastisement grievous (in the Hereafter)” (42:42).

Jihad is not perpetual war against non-Muslims, but the struggle to do good on earth for the sake of God.

The Prophet said,

"… And whoever commits suicide with piece of iron will be punished with the same piece of iron in the Hell Fire." Narrated Jundab the Prophet said, "A man was inflicted with wounds and he committed suicide, and so Allah said: My slave has caused death on himself hurriedly, so I forbid Paradise for him." (Hadith: Shahi Bukhari. Book 23. Funerals (Al-Janaa'iz). Volumn 002, Book 023, Hadith Number 445.)

Jihad is NOT killing innocent people

Jihad is NOT flying a plane into a building packed with civilians

Jihad is NOT fighting out of anger and hatred

Jihad is NOT killing others just because they don’t agree with you

Jihad is NOT killing others just because they are not Muslims

The real meaning of Jihad and “the greater Jihad”

One day, during the time when the early Muslim community was struggling for its very existence, the Prophet and his Companions had just returned from a particularly difficult battle. As they were beginning to relax, he turned to his beloved Companions and said, “We have just returned from the lesser jihad, but now we are entering the greater jihad.”

“Oh Prophet of God, what do you mean?”

“I mean,” he said, “that the greater jihad is the struggle with our own egos.” At the heart of Islamic teaching is the idea that there is an aspect of ourselves, the nafs, which can be translated variously as ego, self, or soul, that must be brought into line with our highest understanding and intention. If this is not done, it will enslave us and lead us away from the greater good. If we follow our selfish egoism, if we are enslaved to a myriad of personal likes and dislikes, the reality of the Divine Presence will slip further and further from our consciousness.

Terrorism is Not Jihad:

It is to be emphasized that terrorism against the innocent civilians, whether through aggression or suicidal means, is under no circumstances permissible in Islam. Terrorism is not Jihad, it is Fasad (mischief). It is against the teaching of Islam. Allah said: "When it is said to them: Make not mischief on the earth, they say why, we only want to correct things, Indeed they are the mischief doers, but they realize (it) not." (Al Baqarah 2:11-12)

Jihad has many forms,

·         Jihad of the heart/soul (jihad bin nafs/qalb)

·         Jihad by the tongue (jihad bil lisan)

·         Jihad by the pen/knowledge (jihad bil qalam/ilm)

·         Jihad by the hand (jihad bil yad)

·         Jihad by the sword (jihad bis saif)

Jihad of the Heart/Soul.

Jihad of the heart/soul; in Arabic: jihad bin nafs/qalb. It is referred as “the greater Jihad” (al-jihad al-akbar).

It is one’s inner struggle of good against evil; refraining oneself from the whispers of Shaitan (Satan). This process involves allowing Islam to transform one’s soul to achieving internal peace; and forgoing the hatred and anger.

“Jihad is ordained for you (Muslims) though you dislike it, and it may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you and that you like a thing which is bad for you. Allah knows but you do not know.” {Quran, Surah 2: Al-Baqarah, Verse 216; Mohsin Translation}

It’s obvious that “Jihad” in this verse means struggle of the heart and soul. When we have to stop or to train our heart and soul from flooding with the pleasure of this world, none of us like to stay away from pleasure; but God says: “it may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you and that you like a thing which is bad for you”

Jihad by the tongue.

Jihad by the tongue; in Arabic: jihad bil lisan. It is defending Islam and spreading Islam by scholarly lectures, speeches and debates. It often overlaps with Da’awah (invitation to Islam, or spreading the message of Islam). In The Last Sermon, Prophet Mohammed asked the listeners whether he has passed on the message to them; and they confirmed affirmatively. Then the Messenger of Allah ordered all those present today to pass on the same message to those who are not here today; and the last person to hear the message should understand it better than the people here.

Jihad by the pen/knowledge.

Jihad by the pen/knowledge; in Arabic: jihad bil qalam/ilm. This form of Jihad involves scholarly research of Islam in aiding the spread and defence of Islam; and publishing written articles in clearing misconceptions and correction lies against Islam.

Examples of such Jihad include the research and discovery of scientific evidences, literature miracles and mathematical miracles from the Quran. Messenger of Allah once stated that the ink of a scholar is holier than the blood of a martyr; and one who is reading looks handsome in front of Allah.

Jihad by the hand.

Jihad by the hand; in Arabic: jihad bil yad. This is a Jihad of action rather than words. At certain areas, it overlaps with Zakat (charity) and Hajj (pilgrimage). Some of its examples include giving charity to the poor and needy, performing Hajj or Ummrah, helping those who need help, saving people’s lives, etc. These are more of physical deeds instead of words.

“A person whose feet become dust ridden because of [striving] in the way of Allah will never be touched by the flames of Hell” {Sahih Bukhari 2811}

The most beautiful of all Jihad is a perfect Hajj. It involves testing of one’s patience and piety to the apex. The whole period of Hajj, with just one intention and aim, worshiping Allah!

Jihad by the sword.

Jihad by the sword; in Arabic: jihad bis saif. In contrary to Jihad of the heart/soul; this form of Jihad is referred as “the lesser jihad” (al-jihad alasghar). Sometimes it is necessary to undertake Jihad by the sword. This would include usage of arsenals and engaging in a combat. This could be simply a bunch of freedom fighters or an organised campaign of army. Jihad by the sword is use of arms to engage into a combat. It is not misuse of arms to create violence. There are only two situations were Jihad by the sword is allowed to be undertaken.

1) For self-defence. When someone attacks you or when your nation has been attacked. Engaging into combat due to self defence.

2) Fighting against evil and unjust. It is also a sin if a Muslim sees unjust been done, capable of stopping it, yet not doing anything about it. This can include war on drug, war on child labour as well as war on terror!

The western administration today seems to be launching a global war on terror, but are they the first to launch the war on terror? The Muslims already announced the war on terror fourteen centuries ago, under the name of Jihad bis saif! There are many rules and limitations when engaging in combat under the title of Jihad. For example, civilians are not to be harmed; trees are not to be cut down; asylum should be granted to surrendering enemy soldiers; etc.

“If one amongst the Pagans ask thee for asylum, grant it to him, so that he may hear the word of Allah; and then escort him to where he can be secure. That is because they are men without knowledge. {Quran, Surah 9: 6}

The above verse states that when an enemy soldier surrenders during a battle, the Muslim soldiers must grant asylum and in addition, escort him to safety! The treatment for prisoners of war is also clearly stated in the Quran. Prisoners of war under Muslim prisons are to eat, drink and dress the same Muslim soldiers eat, drink and dress. And even under the unfortunate event of shortage of food, it is the prisoners who are to eat first before the Muslim soldiers guarding them!

In the Qur’an 4:94, it is written:

“O you who have attained to faith, when you go forth [to war] in God’s cause, use your discernment, and do not – out of a desire for the fleeting gains of this worldly life – say unto anyone who offers you the greeting of peace, ‘Thou art not a believer’ [i.e. implying they are one of the enemy] for with God there are gains abundant. You, too, were once in the same condition – but God has been gracious unto you. Use, therefore, your discernment: verily, God is always aware of what you do.” Qur’an 4:94

This verse absolutely forbids treating non-combatants as enemies and using their supposed unbelief as an excuse for attacking them. The key phrase “use your discernment” (tabayyanu) imposes on the believers a duty of making sure, in every case, whether the persons concerned are actively engaged in hostilities or not. The lives of civilians are to be protected, even during wartime when one state is at war with another, even if they are civilians of the enemy state.

A closer look at the Sword.

Despite the fact that Jihad by the sword is the lesser Jihad, it is the only form of Jihad that most of the people in the world perceive Jihad as. This is unfortunate, especially for the Muslims. Many so-called “teachers of Islam” have been misusing this to assemble their so-called “holy army” to fight their so-called “holy war”. But you can’t blame the religion for what a few of its people do. In every society, there is a black sheep.

Self-Defence:

Since Jihad by the sword has been overwhelmingly magnified in the wrong angle, let’s take a closer look at it in the right angle.

What is wrong with Jihad by the sword if it is fighting for self-defence?

In the early years of revelation of Islam in Mecca, Muslims were not granted permission from Allah to fight. So the Muslims suffered both moral and physical humiliations from the non-Muslims in Mecca. The first verses regarding Jihad were then revealed allowing Muslims to undertake self-defence.

“And fight in the Way of Allah those who fight you, but transgress not the limits. Truly, Allah likes not the transgressors. {Quran, Surah 2: Al-Baqarah, Verse 190}

Many of the Quranic verses are being quoted out of context to wrongly justify terrorist actions. Yet, most of those verses are only referring to a particular situation; such as Battle of Badr or Battle of Uhud.

Intention and war against Satan:

“Those who believe, fight in the Cause of Allah, and those who disbelieve, fight in the cause of Satan. So fight against the friends of Satan. Ever feeble indeed is the plot of Satan.” {Quran, Surah 4: An-Nisa, Verse 76}

Now the second question is, what is wrong in fighting against evil and liberating people from sufferings?

“Once a person came to the Prophet and said that some people fight for the spoils of war, some for fame and some to show off their valour; he then asked the Prophet: “Which one of them fights in the way of God”. The Prophet replied: “Only that person fights in the way of God who sets foot in the battlefield to raise high the name of God”. {Sahih Bukhari 2810}

According to the Quran, a martyr who died in the way of Jihad is promised Paradise. But what are the criteria of martyr, or in other words, what are the criteria of a Holy Warrior undertaking the True Jihad?

The most famous of all Hadith is the one regarding everything we do are judged by our intensions. So who is an example of a Holy Warrior?

Ali bin Abu Talib, cousin of Prophet Mohammed and the fourth Caliph of the Islamic Ummah is a good example. During one of the battles, Ali was about to give a deathblow to an enemy soldier. Just then, that enemy soldier spat at Ali. Ali then suddenly stopped, threw down his sword and refused to kill that enemy soldier.

After the battle, Ali’s soldiers asked Ali why he suddenly stopped and refused to kill that enemy soldier on the battlefield. Ali explained that he got angry when that enemy soldier spat at him. So if he had killed that enemy soldier right then, he would be killing out of his own anger and no longer fighting for Justice. In the sight of Allah, he would then be no different from a murderer.

Was Ellen White Trinitarian?

Ellen White Trinitarian??  Let the testimonies speak.

Q. The great cost is known to only who?

a. Father and Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit.

“No man, nor even the highest angel, can estimate the great cost; it is known only to the Father and the Son" (BE, October 28. 1895)

A. Father and Son

Q. Who is to be exsalted?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

  

 Let the brightest example the world has yet seen be your example, rather than the greatest and most learned men of the age, who know not God, nor Jesus Christ whom he has sent. The Father and the Son alone are to be exalted.  {YI, July 7, 1898 par. 2} 

A. Father and Son

Q. Who is involved in the everlasting covernant? 

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

Father and Son are pledged to fulfill the terms of the everlasting covenant. God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Christ was not alone in making His great sacrifice. It was the fulfillment of the covenant made between Him and His Father before the foundation of the world was laid. With clasped hands they had entered into the solemn pledge that Christ would become the surety for the human race if they were overcome by Satan's sophistry.  {FLB 76.3} 

 As the divine Sufferer hung upon the cross, angels gathered about him, and as they looked upon him, and heard his cry, they asked, with intense emotion, "Will not the Lord Jehovah save him? Will not that soul-piercing cry of God's only begotten Son prevail?" Then were the words spoken: "The Lord hath sworn, and he will not repent. Father and Son are pledged to fulfill the terms of the everlasting covenant. God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  {YI, June 14, 1900 par. 5} 

Christ was not alone in making his great sacrifice. It was the fulfilment of the covenant made betweenhim and his Father before the foundation of the world was laid. With clasped hands they had entered into the solemn pledge that Christ would become the surety for the human race if they were overcome by Satan's sophistry.  {YI, June 14, 1900 par. 6} 

A. Father and Son

  

Q. Who did Adam and Eve worship/have allegence to, before their fall?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

The angels united with Adam and Eve in holy strains of harmonious music, and as their songs pealed forth from blissful Eden, Satan heard the sound of their strains of joyful adoration to the Father and Son. And as Satan heard it his envy, hatred, and malignity increased, and he expressed his anxiety to his followers to incite them (Adam and Eve) to disobedience and at once bring down the wrath of God upon them and change their songs of praise to hatred and curses to their Maker (The Story of Redemption, pp. 24-31).

How anxiously they waited to see if the holy pair would be deluded by the tempter, and yield to his arts! They asked themselves, Will the holy pair transfer their faith and love from the Father and Sonto Satan? Will they accept his falsehoods as truth? They knew that they might refrain from taking the fruit, and obey the positive injunction of God, or they might violate the express command of their Creator.  {1BC 1083.3} 

With what intense interest the whole universe watched the conflict that was to decide the position of Adam and Eve. How attentively the angels listened to the words of Satan, the originator of sin, as he ... sought to make of none effect the law of God through his deceptive reasoning! How anxiously they waited to see if the holy pair would be deluded by the tempter, and yield to his arts! They asked themselves, Will the holy pair transfer their faith and love from the Father and Son to Satan? Will they accept his falsehoods as truth?  {TMK 14.5} 

Adam and Eve assured the angels that they should never transgress the express command of God; for it was their highest pleasure to do his will. The angels united with Adam and Eve in holy strains of harmonious music; and as their songs pealed forth from blissful Eden, Satan heard the sound of their strains of joyful adoration to the Father and Son. And as Satan heard it, his envy, hatred, and malignity, increased, and he expressed his anxiety to his followers to incite them (Adam and Eve) to disobedience, and at once bring down the wrath of God upon them, and change their songs of praise to hatred, and curses to their Maker.  {1SP 34.3} 

A. Father and Son

Q. Who are the creators?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

  

After the earth was created, and the beasts upon it, the Father and Son carried out their purpose, which was designed before the fall of Satan, to make man in their own image. They had wrought together in the creation of the earth and every living thing upon it. And now God said to His Son, "Let us make man in our image." As Adam came forth from the hand of his Creator he was of noble height and of beautiful symmetry. He was more than twice as tall as men now living upon the earth, and was well proportioned. His features were perfect and beautiful. . . . Eve was not quite as tall as Adam. Her head reached a little above his shoulders. She, too, was noble, perfect in symmetry, and very beautiful.  {LHU 47.3} 

The Father and the Son rested after Their work of Creation. "Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God ended His work which He had made. . . . And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it He had rested." Genesis 2:1-3. The death of Christ was designed to be at the very time in which it took place. It was in God's plan that the work which Christ had engaged to do should be completed on a Friday, and that on the Sabbath He should rest in the tomb, even as the Father and Son had rested after completing Their creative work. The hour of Christ's apparent defeat was the hour of His victory. The great plan, devised before the foundations of the earth were laid, was successfully carried out.--Ms 25, 1898, pp. 3, 4. ("The Man of Sorrows," typed, February 24, 1898.) Released February, 1968.  {3MR 425.3} 

A. Father and Son

Q. Who was Lucifer 'next to' in heaven?

a. Christ

b. Trinity - Father, Son, Holy spirit, then Lucifer

  

Sin originated with him who, next to Christ, had been most honored of God and was highest in power and glory among the inhabitants of heaven. Lucifer, "son of the morning," was first of the covering cherubs, holy and undefiled. {PP 35.1} 

A. Christ

Q. Who was Satan once in copartnership with?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

Once Satan was in copartnership with God, Jesus Christ, and the holy angels. He was highly exalted in heaven and was radiant in light and glory that came to him from the Father and the Son, but he became disloyal and lost his high and holy position as covering cherub.  {CTr 10.2}

A. Father and Son 

Q. Who descended upon Mount Sinai?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

  

Notwithstanding this special direction of God, some did go out to gather manna on the seventh day, but they found none; and the Lord said unto Moses, “How long refuse ye to keep my commandments and my laws?” That there might be no mistake in the matter, the Father and the Son descended upon Mount Sinai, and there the precepts of His law were spoken in awful grandeur in the hearing of all Israel.—Manuscript 3, 1885. {CTr 109.6}

A. Father and Son

Q. Who made the sacrifice on mans behalf?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

Before the universe has been clearly presented the great sacrifice made by the Father and the Son in man's behalf. {GC88 671.1}

 Every question of truth and error in the longstanding controversy is made plain. God's justice stands fully vindicated. Before the whole world is clearly presented the great sacrifice made by the Father and the Son in man's behalf. The hour has come when Christ occupies His rightful position, and is glorified above principalities and powers and every name that is named. {SR 427.3}  

A. Father and Son

Q. Who are we to represent to the world?

  

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

The soul imbued with the love of Christ is one with Him; he communes with Christ, Christ is formed within, the hope of glory, and the Christian goes forth to represent the Father and the Son to the world (Signs of the Times, June 27, 1892).  {LHU 36.6}

A. Father and Son

Q. Who is our fellowship/communion with?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

  

God deals with men as individuals, giving to everyone his work. All are to be taught of God. Through the grace of Christ every soul must work out his own righteousness, maintaining a living connection with the Father and the Son. . . .  {AG 110.3} 

His fellowship is with the Father and the Son, and he knows more and still more of the divine will. He is filled with a constantly increasing love for God and for his fellowmen.--Letter 46, 1901.  {MM 127.3}

By daily communion with God he becomes mighty in a knowledge of the Scriptures. His fellowship is with the Father and the Son; and as he constantly obeys the divine will, he becomes daily better fitted to speak words that will guide wandering souls to the fold of Christ. {GW 23.2}

 Satan understands the power of such a testimony as a witness to the world of what grace can do in transforming character. . . . He will work every conceivable device to break this golden chain which links heart to heart of those who believe the truth and binds them up in close connection with theFather and the Son.  {AG 237.3} 

Saul longed to come into full harmony and communion with the Father and the Son; and in the intensity of his desire for pardon and acceptance he offered up fervent supplications to the throne of grace.  {AA 119.2} 

 Even so the members of Christ are as he was in this world. They are the sons of God and joint heirs with Christ; and the kingdom and the dominion belong to them. The world understand not their character and holy calling. They perceive not their adoption into the family of God. Their union and fellowship with the Father and Son are not manifested to the world, and while they behold their humiliation and reproach, it does not appear what they are, or what they shall be. They are strangers. The world knows them not, and appreciate not the motives which actuate them.  {4bSG 77.3} 

We must know what it is to practice self-denial, that we may come into sympathy with the Father and Son. Jesus said: "This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent."  {RH, July 5, 1892 par. 3} 

When through repentance and faith we accept Christ as our Saviour, the Lord pardons our sins, and remits the penalty prescribed for the transgression of the law. The sinner then stands before God as a just person; he is taken into favor with Heaven, and through the Spirit has fellowship with the Father and the Son.  {3SM 191.2} 

 Let us avail ourselves of the means provided for us that we may be transformed into His likeness, and be restored to fellowship with the ministering angels, to harmony and communion with the Father and the Son.  {SC 22.1} 

A. Father and Son

Q. Who did Enoch have fellowship with?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

Enoch kept the Lord ever before him, and the Inspired Word says that he "walked with God." He made Christ his constant companion. He was in the world, and performed his duties to the world; but he was ever under the influence of Jesus. He reflected Christ's character, exhibiting the same qualities in goodness, mercy, tender compassion, sympathy, forbearance, meekness, humility, and love. His association with Christ day by day transformed him into the image of Him with whom he was so intimately connected. Day by day he was growing away from his own way into Christ's way, the heavenly, the divine, in his thoughts and feelings. . . . His was a constant growth and he had fellowship with the Father and the Son. This is genuine sanctification.  {HP 337.4} 

A. Father and Son

  

Q. Who do we have open communion with in heaven?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

"I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it." Revelation 21:22. The people of God are privileged to hold open communion with the Father and the Son. "Now we see through a glass, darkly." 1 Corinthians 13:12. We behold the image of God reflected, as in a mirror, in the works of nature and in His dealings with men; but then we shall see Him face to face, without a dimming veil between. We shall stand in His presence, and behold the glory of His countenance.  {FLB 363.5} 

A. Father and Son

Q. Who are the temple in heaven?

a. Lord God Almighty and the Lamb

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

"I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it." Revelation 21:22. The people of God are privileged to hold open communion with the Father and the Son. "Now we see through a glass, darkly." 1 Corinthians 13:12. We behold the image of God reflected, as in a mirror, in the works of nature and in His dealings with men; but then we shall see Him face to face, without a dimming veil between. We shall stand in His presence, and behold the glory of His countenance.  {FLB 363.5}  

A.  Lord God Almighty and the Lamb

Q. Every lesson reveals to us?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

The utterances of priest and minister are not needed to save men from error. Those who consult the divine Oracle will have light. In the Bible every duty is made plain. Every lesson given is comprehensible. Every lesson reveals to us the Father and the Son. The word is able to make all wise unto salvation. In the word the science of salvation is plainly revealed. Search the Scriptures, for they are the voice of God speaking to the soul. (158)  {8T 157.2}

A. Father and Son

Q. Who do we honor when we talk about the law?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

We honor both the Father and the Son when we talk about the law. The Father gave us the law, and the Son died to magnify it and make it honorable (MS 5, 1885).  {6BC 1073.4} 

A. Father and Son

Q. Who's glory do we shine forth in?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

Prepare for the judgment, that when Christ shall come to be admired in all them that believe, you may be among those who will meet Him in peace. In that day the redeemed will shine forth in the glory of the Father and the Son. The angels, touching their golden harps, will welcome the King and His trophies of victory--those who have been washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb. A song of triumph shall peal forth, filling all heaven. Christ has conquered. He enters the heavenly courts, accompanied by His redeemed ones, the witnesses that His mission of suffering and sacrifice has not been in vain.  {AH 550.2} 

  

A. Father and Son

Q. The salvation of perishing souls brings joy to who?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

What enterprise will be most dear to the heart of infinite love? What work will bring the greatest satisfaction and joy to the Father and the Son? The salvation of perishing souls.--Manuscript 51, 1901.  {CME 47.3} 

  

A. Father and Son

  

Q. The necessity of a mediator was seen and felt by who?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

Christ had not been forced to do this [bear the guilt of a perishing world]. He had volunteered to lay down His life to save the world. The claims of God’s government had been misapprehended through the deceptive words and works of Satan, and the necessity of a mediator was seen and felt by theFather and the Son. . . . {CTr 267.2}

A. Father and Son

Q. There is in nature the continual working of who?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

Many teach that matter possesses vital power,-- that certain properties are imparted to matter, and it is then left to act through its own inherent energy; and that the operations of nature are conducted in harmony with fixed laws, with which God himself cannot interfere. This is false science, and is not sustained by the word of God. Nature is the servant of her Creator. God does not annul his laws, or work contrary to them; but he is continually using them as his instruments. Nature testifies of an intelligence, a presence, an active energy, that works in and through her laws. There is in nature the continual working of the Father and the Son. Christ says, "My Father worketh hitherto, and I work." [John 5:17.]  {CE 194.3}

A. Father and Son

Q. Every world throughout immensity engages the care and support of who?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

Every world throughout immensity engages the care and support of the Father and the Son; and this care is constantly exercised for fallen humanity. Christ is mediating in behalf of man, and the order of unseen worlds also is preserved by His mediatorial work. Are not these themes of sufficient magnitude and importance to engage our thoughts, and call forth our gratitude and adoration  to God?  {MYP 254.1}

A. Father and Son

Q. Angels and archangels admire and love who?

a. Father and  Son

b. Trinity - Father, Son and Holy spirit

Angels and archangels wonder at this great plan of redemption; they admire and love the Father and the Son as they behold the mercy and love of God. {SD 295.5}

A. Father and Son