In a traditional history of Islam, one major chapter is usually dedicated to the Islamic empires, which lasted from the early medieval period to, technically, the fall of the Ottoman Empire after World War I. The details of the rapid conquests, the general trend of expansion over the centuries, and, most of all, the legendary accounts of fabulous... Continue Reading →
QURAN: Divine Authorship or Authored by Men?
Introduction As is true of any scripture, the Qur’an is a vital part of understanding Islam both as it is practiced today and as its origins are described. Since most non-Muslims have never read the Qur’an, a brief introduction is in order. The word “Qur’an” means “recitation” in Arabic and is thought to be derived from the Syriac... Continue Reading →
Pre-Islamic Overview: Paganism or Heretical Monotheism?
The traditional accounts describe Arabs before the time of Muhammad as being in a state of confusion, which Muslims refer to as “Jahiliyyah.” This term means that the Arabs were spiritually lost, and their practices were strongly opposed to Allah’s ways – they did not know the truth and were always fighting among themselves.
Why Should I Consider the Bible as the One Book of Truth?
The Bible is a revelation from our Heavenly Father, about our Heavenly Father, i.e., his will and purposes. (1 Thess. 2:13) If we take the things we learn and apply them in our lives, we will live a life far more beneficial than those who do not. As we grow in knowledge, we will draw... Continue Reading →
Identifying the One Book of Truth
What does the Quran say about “God’s Word”? Surah 2:4 says, “[The righteous] trust what has been revealed to you [Mohammed] and to others before you, and firmly believe in the life to come.” What is meant by “what has been revealed . . . to others before you”?
Is the Quran from God or Man?
The orthodox Islamic position on the Quran is that it is “uncreated” and “it was written from the beginning in golden rays on a gigantic tablet in the highest heavens.” (Morris 1916) The objective of this claim is to place the Quran above all else, even making it equal to God himself.