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Do Muslims believe in the old Testament?

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In a Nutshell:

Muslims believe that the original Torah revealed to Prophet Moses (as) was divinely inspired by Allah (swt). However, they hold the view that the current Old Testament has been corrupted over time and the Quran (swt) is the final revelation superseding all previous scriptures.


Table of Contents

In a Nutshell
Introduction
Quranic Verses
Ahadith
Companions' Opinions
Traditional Scholars' Quotes
Do Muslims Believe in the Old Testament Analysis
5 Misconceptions about the Old Testament and Muslims
5 Objections to the Muslim View of the Old Testament
FAQs: Do Muslims Believe in the Old Testament?


Introduction

Muslims hold a profound respect for the prophets and messengers of the Abrahamic faiths, including Moses, Jesus, David and Solomon (as). Islam considers the original divinely revealed scriptures, such as the Tawrat (Torah) given to Moses (as) and the Zabur (Psalms) given to David (as), to be the true word of Allah (swt).

However, a core tenet of Islamic belief is that these previous revelations, although containing truths, were meant for specific peoples and times. Muslims believe that over the centuries, human interference has led to alterations and distortions within the texts of these older scriptures. Therefore, Muslims consider the Quran (swt) as the final, complete and uncorrupted revelation to humankind, superseding all previous scriptures.

This article will delve into the Muslim perspective on the Old Testament, exploring the evidence from the Quran (swt), the Sunnah and the views of Islamic scholars, both past and present.


Evidences

Quranic Verses

And We did certainly give Moses the Torah and followed up after him with messengers. And We gave Jesus, the son of Mary, clear proofs and supported him with the Pure Spirit...(Quran 2:87)

...He has sent down upon you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming what was before it. And He revealed the Torah and the Gospel before, as guidance for the people...(Quran 3:3-4)

And how do they come to you for decision while they have the Torah, in which is the law of Allah? Then they turn away, [even] after that; but those are not [in fact] believers. (Quran 5:43)

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...(Quran 5:44)

Ahadith (Sayings of the Prophet (pbuh))

Narrated Abu Hurairah (ra): The Prophet (pbuh) said, The prophets are paternal brothers; their mothers are different, but their religion is one. (Sahih al-Bukhari)

Narrated Ibn 'Abbas (ra): The Prophet (pbuh) said: I have been given five things which were not given to any one else before me...And I have been given the right to intercede (on the Day of Resurrection)...And all the prophets (who came) before me used to be sent to their nations only but I have been sent to all mankind... (Sahih al-Bukhari)


Do Muslims Believe in the Old Testament Analysis

The verses from the Quran (swt) and the ahadith underscore the Islamic belief that Allah (swt) has revealed guidance to humankind through a series of prophets and scriptures throughout history. Muslims acknowledge the divine origins of the Torah, Psalms and the Gospel but express that their original forms have undergone changes over time. While Muslims revere the prophets mentioned in the Old Testament, they believe the Quran (swt) brings the final, uncorrupted message to humanity, fulfilling and superseding the previous revelations.

move on to the next sections!

Companions' Opinions

Abdullah ibn Abbas (ra), a cousin of the Prophet (pbuh) and renowned scholar: Do not ask the People of the Book [Jews and Christians] about anything, for they will not guide you aright. Either they will tell you a lie, or they will tell you the truth and you will not understand it.

Ali ibn Abi Talib (ra), the fourth Caliph and a close companion of the Prophet (pbuh): The knowledge and wisdom which Allah granted to the prophets has been preserved in the Quran.

Traditional Scholars' Quotes

Ibn Taymiyyah (1263-1328 CE): The Torah and the Gospel were revelations from Allah, but they are not preserved in their original form today.

Ibn Kathir (1300-1373 CE): The scriptures that were revealed before the Quran were sent down for a specific time and people, whereas the Quran is the final revelation for all of humanity until the Day of Judgment.

Yusuf al-Qaradawi (1926-2022 CE): The Quran is the ultimate criterion for Muslims and it confirms some parts of the previous scriptures while abrogating or correcting others.


5 Misconceptions about the Old Testament and Muslims

Muslims completely reject the Old Testament.Muslims respect and acknowledge the divine origin of the original Torah but believe its current form has been altered.

Muslims don't believe in the prophets of the Old Testament.Muslims revere the prophets mentioned in the Old Testament as righteous messengers of God.

Islam teaches that the Old Testament is entirely fabricated.Muslims believe the original Torah was true but hold that it's been altered over time.

Muslims consider the Old Testament to be irrelevant.Muslims view the Old Testament as a significant part of religious history but consider the Quran the final and authoritative word of God.

Muslims have no respect for the People of the Book (Jews and Christians).Islam teaches respect for the People of the Book, believing they received partial revelations from Allah.


5 Objections to the Muslim View of the Old Testament

Archaeological evidence suggests the Old Testament has been preserved.While there are archaeological discoveries that support some historical events, Muslims believe this does not guarantee preservation of the text's divine message.

There is a long chain of transmission for the Old Testament.Muslims argue even a strong chain of transmission does not rule out human error or deliberate changes.

Similarities between the Quran and the Old Testament prove the latter's authenticity.Muslims view these similarities as remnants of the original revelation but maintain the Old Testament still has alterations.

The Quran affirming past scriptures means it affirms the current Old Testament.Muslims assert the affirmation is for the original revelations, not their current forms.

Rejecting the Old Testament leads to disrespect of Prophets (as).Muslims strongly disagree, emphasizing their utmost respect for all prophets of God.

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FAQs: Do Muslims Believe in the Old Testament?

Do Muslims believe the Old Testament is inspired by God?Muslims believe the original Torah revealed to Moses (as) was indeed divinely inspired by Allah (swt). However, they believe alterations have occurred over time.

Do Muslims believe the prophets mentioned in the Old Testament?Muslims deeply respect and revere the prophets mentioned in the Old Testament, including Abraham, Moses, David, Solomon and Jesus (peace be upon them all).

If Muslims believe in the Old Testament prophets, why not the scripture itself?Muslims believe the core message of the prophets has been preserved in the Quran. The core concern lies in the belief that the original words of the Torah experienced changes over centuries.

Do Muslims follow any laws from the Old Testament?Muslims adhere to the laws and guidance of the Quran, which is considered the final and complete revelation. Laws revealed in previous scriptures may still hold relevance or have been modified within the Quranic revelation.

What is the Muslim view of the People of the Book (Jews and Christians)?Islam fosters a spirit of respect for the People of the Book. Muslims are taught to engage in peaceful dialogue and find common ground.


Conclusion

The Islamic perspective on the Old Testament holds a complex, nuanced position rooted in respect for divinely inspired origins but acknowledging the realities of textual changes over time. Muslims firmly revere the Abrahamic prophets and acknowledge the Old Testament's place within religious history.

At the heart of Islamic belief lies the conviction that the Quran (swt) serves as the ultimate and uncorrupted message from Allah (swt) for all humanity, guiding believers to a path of righteousness and salvation. This emphasis on the finality of the Quranic revelation shapes the Muslim understanding and approach to previous scriptures.

While Muslims and those adhering to the Old Testament may hold differing viewpoints regarding its current state, a commitment to mutual understanding and interfaith respect can pave the way for constructive dialogue and peaceful coexistence between these Abrahamic faiths.

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Historical Context:A brief exploration of textual changes in the Old Testament, including scholarly debates and historical analysis.
Comparative Analysis:A comparison of specific narratives within the Old Testament and the Quran, highlighting similarities and differences.
Contemporary Perspectives:A discussion on how modern Muslim scholars approach the Old Testament and engage in interfaith dialogue.

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