How is Islam different from Catholicism?

In a Nutshell: Islam and Catholicism, both rooted in the Abrahamic tradition, believe in one God, but differ significantly in their understanding of God's nature, the role of Jesus, salvation and religious practices. Introduction: What are Islam and Catholicism? Islam and Catholicism are two of the world's major religions, both tracing their origins back to Abraham (Ibrahim). Muslims believe in one God, Allah (swt) and follow the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (saw). Catholics are Christians who adhere to the teachings of Jesus Christ (as) and follow the guidance of the Pope. Despite these shared Abrahamic roots, Islam and Catholicism have developed distinct theological concepts and practices. Background: Abrahamic Roots and Shared Beliefs Both Islam and Catholicism acknowledge prophets like Abraham (as), Moses (as) and Jesus (as). They share a belief in angels, scripture and the Day of Judgement. Muslims believe the Quran is the final revealed message from God, superseding previous scriptures. Catholics revere the Bible, including the Old and New Testaments. Key Differences: An Analysis of Islam and Catholicism Concept of God (Tawhid vs. Trinity): Islam emphasizes Tawhid, the absolute oneness of God (swt). Muslims reject the Christian concept of the Trinity, which posits God as three persons: Father, Son (Jesus) and Holy Spirit. Quran 2:163: Say, 'He is Allah, [who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, Nor is there to Him any equivalent.' Jesus (Prophet vs. Son of God): Muslims revere Jesus (as) as a prophet, but not the Son of God or divine. Hadith: Bukhari, Book of Prophets, Hadith 34: Prophets are ... Jesus, son of Mary, the Word of God and a spirit from Him. Catholics believe Jesus (as) is the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity and incarnate as God-man. Scripture (Quran vs. Bible): Muslims believe the Quran is the literal word of God (swt) revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (saw) through the Angel Gabriel (as). The Quran is seen as perfect and unaltered. Catholics believe the Bible is divinely inspired scripture, but acknowledge a human element in its authorship and transmission. The Catholic Church recognizes various denominations with differing views on the Bible's interpretation. Salvation (Faith and Deeds vs. Faith Alone): Muslims believe in salvation through faith (iman) and righteous deeds (amal). Good works demonstrate the sincerity of one's faith. Catholics generally believe in salvation through faith alone in Jesus Christ (as), although good works are seen as important fruits of faith. Religious Practices (Prayer, Fasting, Charity, Pilgrimage): Both religions emphasize prayer, but Muslims pray five times daily at specific times, while Catholics have more varied prayer practices. Muslims observe Ramadan, a month of fasting, while Catholics may fast during Lent. Both religions encourage charity (zakat in Islam) and helping those in need. Muslims perform Hajj, a pilgrimage to Mecca, as a pillar of Islam if able, while Catholic pilgrimages are not mandatory. Role of Religious Authority (Imams vs. Clergy): Islam has no centralized clergy. Imams lead prayers in mosques but do not possess the same authority as Catholic priests. Catholicism has a hierarchical structure with priests, bishops and the Pope as the head of the Church. The Afterlife (Heaven and Hell): Both religions believe in Heaven and Hell as eternal destinations for the righteous and wicked, respectively. Concepts of Heaven and Hell differ in detail between Islam and Catholicism.