Compare and Contrast Islam and Christianity
- PART ONE (250 WORDS)
The Islamic world view on the question of origin- The Quran offers verses that describe the story of creation. For example, in Yunus 10; 3, it says that “Surely, your Lord is Allah who created the heavens and the earth"(Renard 2011). The Quran goes on to say the Allah is the creator of everything. These verses are a testimony that indeed Islam acknowledges that the earth and all that is in was created by Allah.
On the question of identity- according to Islam, identity is supposed to mean the way of life of all Muslims. There are a set of beliefs, practices as well as ideologies that are supposed to be upheld by all faithful Muslims. These beliefs are derived from the holy Quran, and his Prophet Muhammad is a good example that is supposed to be emulated (Renard 2011). This identity sets all Muslims apart from other people and strong Muslims from weak ones.
On the question of meaning/ purpose- God gave man the power of action, will and knowledge, to use in order to give their lives meaning and purpose. Human beings are supposed to do as Allah pleases, and that is their sole purpose in life.
On the question of morality- in the Islamic religion, God is stands as the standard gauge for morality. When human beings were created, they were given the power to choose between good and bad. They are supposed to choose to do ‘good’ and not engage in evil activities. Human beings are, therefore, expected to ask for divine guidance from God.
On the question of destiny-, All human beings will be judged according to their actions when they were alive. The good deeds will be balanced against the bad deeds and depending on the outcome; everyone will be rewarded accordingly.
- PART TWO (250 WORDS)
On the question of origin- the Islamic worldview and Christianity share so much in common. In the story of Genesis in the Christian bible, the story is told of how God created the earth (Gauss 2009). The Quran also talks of creation in a scattered way throughout, and that is the point at which they contrast with each other.
On the question of identity- Christians identify with Jesus Christ. Most of their practices and beliefs are from the holy Bible which gives guidance on how human beings are supposed to live. Jesus set a good example that is to be emulated by all Christians.
On the question of meaning/ purpose- unlike Muslims, Christians believe that human beings were created in the image and likeness of God. He was set apart from the rest of the creation for the sole purpose of worship and praising God. Just like the Muslims, man was given the power to do as they please, but the difference is on how to go about it, according to Christians, man is supposed to tend to God’s creation whereas Muslims belief that his purpose is to do God’s will (Gauss 2009).
On the question of morality-, Christianity holds on the notion of salvation through believing in Jesus Christ. Islam asks believers to seek guidance from God on those things they are supposed to do. Both share the ideologies of humans possessing the powers to choose right from wrong.
On the question of destiny-, both agree on a judgment that will come. Everyone will be rewarded according to their actions while, on earth, sinners will be punished and those who kept their faith will be rewarded.
References
Gauss, J. F. (2009). Islam & Christianity: A Revealing Contrast. New York: Bridge Logos
Renard, J. (2011). Islam and Christianity: Theological Themes in Comparative Perspective. Los Angeles: University of California.
