The Divine Code & Domain
One of the most critical fallacies that has been saved in the "˜hard discs of minds' by most of the people and intelligentsia even, is the hypothesis, being proliferated far and wide dishonestly that Judaism and Hinduism and sometime Christianity are also counted therewith, are the ancient most religions. And as a consequence thereof Jews, Hindus and Christians are being misconstrued as the ancient most nations respectively. But this is a serious misperception entirely. As a matter of fact it is Islam alone, which is not only the ancient most religion (which hems-in a complete code of life) - but at the same time it is the updated most religion as well. And as it is, Muslim Nation is second to none as an ancient most & original most nation throughout the entire cosmos.
Islam is the foremost, for Islam alone is a God Given Gift among the rest of the religions and ergo is the Divine Religion, which encompasses a complete code of life for the entire humanity. And that's why it is not simply a religion rather "˜the religion' (viz Ad-Deen). This was bestowed upon the first Man viz Father of Humanity, the Prophet Adam (PBUH) - when the latter was ordained for dwelling in the earth. Allah (SWT) says: "We said: "get ye down all from here; and if, as is sure, there comes to you guidance from Me, whosoever follows My guidance, on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve". (Surah Al Baqarah 2-38). And thus its antiquity goes beyond the humanity itself, for the there was no other religion at that time. And ergo Islam is second to none in antiquity as well as integrity.
Now so far its modernity is concerned, Islam is the only latest and up-to-date religion, for it was concluded, consolidated, accomplished and made functional by Allah Almighty through His last and latest Prophet, Mohammad (PBUH) himself in all aspects of life. All the Prophets "˜peace be upon them' were given the task to preach and establish Islam and that's why, Muslims alone believe in all the Prophets (PBUT). Because all of the Prophets (PBUT), right from the first Prophet, Adam (PBUH) to the last Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) were Muslims and were preaching Islam.
Islam - the Natural System of Divine Laws:
One of the basic meanings of Islam is submitting one's will before the Creator Allah Almighty. So if we cite this basic meaning of Islam then one is left with no option but to say that Islam is virtually a comprehensive "˜Divine Code of Laws' for all the creatures whatsoever viz the humankind, the animals and the botanical life - the organic & inorganic entities in its all manifestations right through the universe. And this is why that all the creatures even the nonliving things follow the "˜Natural System of Divine Laws' insofar as choice has not been granted to. Right from the tiny atom to the ever spending cosmos, all of them have been obeying the same "˜Religion of Divine Laws' without any exception. The entire flora and fauna of the entire universe follow absolutely the instinct code it has been fixed by the Creator, Almighty Allah.
There is absolutely only one God - all the prophets PBUT were appointed and sent by the one God, Almighty and hence they PBUT brought and taught His only one religion, Islam to the one humanity created from the one parent family, Adam & Eve, in this one world - and which has been in implementation as the "˜Divine Regulation' mutatis mutandis in the entire universe, as well. Allah Almighty alone has pronounced and proven as such and save Him none has ever pronounced as such.
And so there has been absolutely oneness in Godhood, oneness in parentage of humanity, oneness in the Divine Books viz Al-Kitab, oneness in the preaching of the Prophets teachings, oneness in the composition of humanity, oneness in composition of natural living world, oneness in composition of natural nonliving world, oneness in the entire living beings, oneness in the universal facts, oneness in the scientific facts, oneness in the basics of morality, oneness in the natural laws, oneness in life, oneness in the fatality of all the creatures, oneness in behavior of living as well as nonliving beings!!! If the "˜they' want to trace the trails of humanity in terms of race the matter goes back to father of humanity, viz Prophet Adam PBUH "“ and if "˜they' want to trace the trails of humanity in terms of religion the matter goes back to the Prophet Adam PBUH, whose religion was Islam!!!
Being the Divine Laws, Allah Almighty alone can amend or suspend the "˜Natural Laws' and no one else can interfere in the realm. For instance according to natural law fire has been devised to scorch everything - but it did not do that when Allah Almighty suspended this rule of fire in the case of Prophet Ibrahim PBUH which had been ignited by his deniers for burning him (PBUH). Allah Almighty says: the Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) refused to lay His will before the then pagan ruler, Nimrod. Hence his (PBUH) deniers responded with igniting fire for him (PBUH). Allah Almighty refers to; "So naught was the answer of (Abraham's) people except that they said - "Slay him or burn him." But Allah did save him from the fire. "Verily in this are Signs for people who believe" (29:24). Allah Almighty says further; We said: O fire, be coolness and peace for Abraham" (21:69). Similar exceptions from the "˜Divine Natural Laws' known as "˜Miracles of the Prophets' have been taken by Allah Almighty in respect of almost all of His Prophets (PBUT).
Human being has been granted some option by Allah Almighty in terms of obedience or defiance hence Human being alone can breach the Divine Laws but only in the domain where Allah Almighty has bestowed some option. So far the rest are concerned none in the creatures save the human being can break the Divine Laws. Neither the animals nor the plants can consume other than what has been designed for their consumption - and so forth in terms of their other deliberations. And which means the overall submission on their part to the Almighty Allah (SWT).
Rabb-al-Aalameen "“ Lord for all Worlds:
Allah Almighty is the "˜Rabbul Aalameen' viz "˜Lord of the worlds'. Allah Almighty therefore Says in the Holy Qur'an: "Whatever is in the heavens and on earth, doth declare the Praises and Glory of Allah. To Him belongs dominion, and to Him belongs praise - and He has power over all things". (Surah At-Taghabun: 64 -1).
Rahmat-al-lil-Aalameen - Mercy for all Worlds:
Likewise His last Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) is the Universal Prophet and thus Allah Almighty says: "We sent thee (Mohammad) not, but as a Mercy for all creatures" (viz Rahmat-al-lil-Aalameen) (Holy Qur'an 21:107). Nay, "We have not sent you (Mohammad) but as a Messenger to all mankind, giving them glad tidings, and warning them (against sin), but most of men know not." (Surah Saba, 34:28). Nay, "Say (O Mohammad): 'O mankind! I am sent unto you all, as the Messenger of Allah, to Whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth." (Surah A'raf: 7-157).
Hidayat-al-lil-Aalameen -Guidance for all Worlds:
And so is the "˜Religion Islam' which is the Universal Religion hence Allah Almighty says in the Holy Qur'an: "Verily this (Islam) is no less than a message to all the worlds." viz Hidayat-al-lil-Aalameen - (Surah Atakwir: 81-27). Similarly God says further; "The first House (of worship) appointed for men was that at Bakka (Mecca) - Full of blessing and of guidance for all kinds of beings" ( Surah Al-Imr'an: 3-96).
And so all the creatures, whatsoever, wheresoever, howsoever and whensoever are bound to bow their will before the Divine Will of the Allah Almighty wherever there is no option from the Allah Almighty. Right from the tiny atom to the massive celestial bodies in the immeasurable and ever expending cosmos has been complying absolutely with the Divine Code since their creation. Similar has been the case in living beings right from the tiny cells to the gigantic living beings. At whatever time, if life traces will be found somewhere else in other planets, anywhere in the universe, Islam will be the "˜Divine Rule'.
One must bear in mind that Muslim is the only nation who believes in one God, the last Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) along with all other Prophets (PBUT) - all the Divine Books & the Divine Manuscripts (howsoever they have not been distorted) - the Angles and the day of Judgement as have been ordained by Him the Almighty. And this is why Muslims have been unanimous to maintain the sanctity of them all. And this is why that none among other nations cares for them ever. And thus the Muslims have therefore upheld the last Divine Book, Al Qur'an given the blessing of Allah (SWT).
And one must not forget that nothing but this faith (viz Islam) along with the corresponding deeds (viz Islamic deeds) - and no color, caste and creed making any distinction in humankind before Allah Almighty. Abu Talib was Prophet's real & the friendliest uncle; nevertheless this blood relationship could not overcome the split between them. Similar was the case of Prophet Ibrahim PBUH; who was Abul Anbiya (viz Father of Prophets) nonetheless his own unbeliever father, Azar found no relationship with him, PBUH. Parallel was the case of unbeliever son, and unbeliever wife of Prophet Noah PBUH with him (PBUH). Allah Almighty says in Holy Qur'an: "O Mankind! Lo! We have created you from male and female - and have made nations - and tribes that ye may know one another. Lo! The noblest of you, in the sight of Allah, is the best in conduct. Lo! Allah is Knower - Aware." (Surah al-Hujurat: 39-13).
Conversely, all other nonbeliever-nations had been defying the "˜Divine Realities' from the day one in the respective periods of the Holy Prophets PBUT and afterwards as a nation. Many of Holy Prophets PBUT have been killed or tortured by them. For, none of the Prophets PBUT was preaching any of other religion but Islam. They are refuting them right now as well by denying the universal message of Islam. Islam is not time specific. The unbelievers believing in any thing but in one God, the Prophets, (PBUT), the Divine Books, the Divine Manuscripts, the Angles and the Day of Judgement as has been commanded by Allah Almighty. And this is why that no other nation has either protected other Divine Manuscripts or believing in or observing any sanctity about them. And thus have lost their respective Books, had been ascribed to the erstwhile Prophets (PBUT) by Allah Almighty.
Likewise none in the world other than Muslims believes in any Prophet in the proper and true sense of the word, for none of the Prophets PBUT was preaching any religion but Islam. And given that all other nations, the Jews and Christians in particular have concocted very outlandish and ridiculous stories against the Holy Prophets (PBUT) sent to them for guidance. And it was for this reason that Christians believes in crucifixion of the Prophet, Isa Ibn Maryam viz Jesus son of Mary (viz Jesus Messiah) PBUH. The question is; had the then Jews or Christians been His believers or followers, would have they preferred him (PBUH) to be crucified by themselves, even if their myth about the crucifixion is presumed? In fact the erstwhile Jews had killed or caused to be killed brutally most of the erstwhile Prophets (PBUT). For example; the then Tetrarch of Galilee and Perea (4bc- ad39), Herod Antipas on demand of a dancer, Salome; the daughter of his concubine, Herodias (viz former wife of his half brother Herod) presented Prophet Yahya viz John the Baptist PBUH truncated head before her. (Matthew 14: 3, 12, Mark 6:14 -29, Luke 3:19-20).
So much so that when the Roman military governor, or procurator, Pontius Pilate asked the Jews crowd for exercising option to pardon the Jesus Messiah (PBUH) or the notorious robber, Barabbas. Jews crowd pressed in one voice for execution of the Prophet Jesus Messiah PBUH instead of the Barabbas. (Matthew 27:15, Mark 15:6, John 18:39)
The Gospels are also agreed that the then Jews religious leaders incited the people to agitate for the release of the robber, Barabbas and for the execution of Jesus Messiah. Likewise Judas Iscariot, an apostle of the Prophet Jesus Messiah PBUH, who according to the Gospels of Matthew and Mark, betrayed the Prophet Jesus PBUH by handing over him PBUH to the chief priest for 30 pieces of silver. (Matthew 27:3-5, Acts 1:16-20). Can one still cling to the claim that the Jews or Christians were/are believers of the Isa Ibn Maryam (viz Jesus Christ son of Mary) PBUH? All the references are chosen from the Holy Bibles.
However it was disclosed in the Holy Qur'an that Allah Almighty rescued the Prophet Isa Ibn Maryam PBUH in the words: "And because of their saying; we slew the Messiah Isa son of Mary, Allah's messenger - they slew him not, nor crucified, but it appeared so unto them; and lo! Those who disagree concerning it are in doubt thereof; they have no knowledge thereof save pursuit of a conjecture; they slew him not for certain. But Allah took him up unto Himself - Allah is ever Mighty, Wise". (Surah An-Nisa: 4 - 157,158)
Each Prophet (PBUH) has claimed, declared and ratified by Allah Almighty to be a Prophet and Muslim. And given this fact all the Prophets PBUT have ratified each other as well as all their respective Divine Books as the Divine Books & Manuscripts would reveal. But none of the founder of any other creed has ever claimed, or has been declared and ratified by Allah Almighty to be a Muslim, let alone a Prophet.
The World Three Holiest Shrines:
All the three Grandest and the Holiest Religious Shrines in the world i.e. (i) "˜Al-Masjid-Al- Haram' (viz Mosque of Inviolable) or Baithullah Sharif at "˜Mecca Al-Mukkaramah' (viz Mecca the Blessed), (ii) "˜Mosque of Mohammad' at "˜Medinah Al-Munawwara' (viz Medinah the Radiant) (iii) and the "˜Al Aqsa Mosque' or Baithul Maqdis or Al-Haram Al-Sharif were built by Prophets (PBUT) primarily. Whereas the "˜Dome of the Rock' (viz Qubbat As-Sakhrah in Arabic) is part of the Holy Sanctuary, a famous Islamic shrine situated in Jerusalem. The 9th Caliph, Abd al-Malik built The "˜Dome of the Rock' in 72 AH or between 687 and 691CE by Byzantine craftsmen from Constantinople sent to the Caliph by the Byzantine Emperor.
The "˜Al -Masjid-Al-Haram' (one of its name is: Bait ul Ateeq) - originally built by Prophet Adam (PBUH) - refurbished by Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) along with His Son Prophet Ismael (PBUH) - whose era is round about 800/900 years before the Prophet Moses PBUH and 1300 years before the Prophet Suleiman PBUH.
The "˜Mosque of Mohammad' built by Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) along with His Companions (Allah be pleased with them) immediately after the Hijrah (viz migration) to "˜Medinah Al-Munawwara' in 1 AH viz 622 AD.
And the "˜Al Aqsa Mosque' (Al-Haram Al-Sharif) or "˜Baithul Maqdis' was originated by Prophet Dawood (viz Prophet David) PBUH and completed by Prophet Suleiman (viz Prophet Solomon) PBUH. And this is why that Allah Almighty has used the term "mosque" for this holiest shrine, as "˜Masjid' in the Holy Qur'an and not as temple, synagogue or "˜the first temple' as misbelieved by Jews. Occasionally this "˜Holy Shrine' has been in occupation of Jews & Christians but this does not connote that the "˜Baithul Maqdis' converted into their temple. As "˜Al -Masjid-Al-Haram' at Mecca had also been in the occupation of nonbelievers occasionally but that did not denote the conversion of the "˜Al -Masjid-Al-Haram' into temple or synagogue.
At the heart of Jerusalem there is the "˜Noble Sanctuary' or "˜Baithul Maqdis' or "˜Al-Haram Al-Sharif' enclosing over 35 acres of fountains, gardens, buildings, David wells and domes. The Holy "˜Al-Aqsa Mosque' is situated in the southernmost part and the much celebrated "˜Dome of the Rock' viz Qubbat As-Sakhrah is located somewhat in the centre towards the northern part of the Noble Sanctuary' viz the "˜Baithul Maqdis' or "˜Al-Haram Al-Sharif'. Whereas on the left of the "˜Holy Al-Aqsa Mosque' lies the famous "˜Holy Omar Mosque' which was built by the second rightly guided Caliph, Omar, namely, "˜Farooq the Great' (may Allah be pleased with him) in the "˜Baithul Maqdis' also known as "˜Al-Haram Al-Sharif' in 637 AC after conquering the Jerusalem. The entire area is regarded as a Mosque and comprises nearly one sixth of the walled city of Jerusalem viz Al-Quds Al Sharif. It is also worth mentioning that the "˜ Sacred Rock' in the Dome viz As-Sakhrah, was fixed inside the Dome viz Qubbat by the 9th Caliph, Abd al-Malik during building the "˜Dome of Rock' - for that is the "˜Rock' which is believed by Muslims to be the spot from which Prophet Muhammad PBUH ascended through the heavens to Allah Almighty while accompanied by the archangel, Gabriel during his "˜Miraculous Night Journey' referred to in the holy verse 17:1 given below. Apart from the aforementioned three World Holiest Shrines all other places and locations pertaining to the manmade creeds, if are sacred according to the respective none Muslim creeds, are also manmade just like their manmade creeds, and hence are man-sanctified. And given this fact the names of worships places of all other creeds are also manmade.
Here I pose two questions in this regard are of vital importance; firstly, what was the name of "˜Al Aqsa Mosque' (farthest Mosque) viz "˜Baithul Maqdis' when Jerusalem was occupied in result of a very stern military action by Romans and the same was destroyed by the Roman Commander, Titus, son of the then Roman Emperor, namely Titus Flavius Sabinus Vespasianus in 70 AD? And secondly, what was the name of the "˜Al Aqsa Mosque' (farthest Mosque) viz "˜Baithul Maqdis' when the same was destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar II, King of Babylonia in 587 BCE? Allah Almighty says in Holy Qur'an: "Glory to (Allah) Who did take His servant for a Journey by night from the Sacred Mosque (al-Masjid al-Haram) to the farthest Mosque, (al-Masjid al-Aqsa) whose precincts We did bless, - in order that We might show him some of Our Signs - for He is the One Who heareth and seeth (all things)." (Surah Bani Israel 17:1) Whereas in holy verse No: 7 of the same Surah, Allah Almighty covers the two times destruction of the Holy place of worship at too different occasions; for second time in 70 AD - and for the first time in 587 BC in the words: "If ye did well, ye did well for yourselves; if ye did evil, (ye did it) against yourselves. so when the second of the warnings came to pass, (We Permitted your enemies) to disfigure your faces, and to enter your Masjid (viz Baithul Maqdis) As They had entered it before, and to visit with destruction all that fell into their power." (Surah Bani Israel- 17:7).
Here in both of these Holy Verses, Allah Almighty has disclosed the fact that status of the Holy Place of worship referred to above was that of a Masjid right from the outset, irrespective of the intermittent desecration of even both; the first & third Holiest Shrines aforementioned, by the nonbelievers. Gold can't be altered by putting it in the dirt. Putting idols in such Holy places in odd times of Muslims does not mean alteration of their original rank. The "˜Al -Masjid-Al-Haram' was also cleaned out of idols by Prophet Mohammad PBUH immediately after the victorious entry in the "˜Mecca the Blessed'. All the world three holiest shrines are "˜Divine' and "˜Islamic' in origin hence they are legacy of Islam & Prophets PBUT of Islam and thus Muslims are the only legal & legitimate successor & heir in re thereof .
The subject is very simple to comprehend. All the three main religions viz Islam, Judaism and Christianity and the main three Divine Books, The Holy Qur'an, The Holy Torah, (the Old Testament) and The Holy Gospel (viz the New Testament) are agreed upon at one amongst other facts is; that Prophet Adam and his wife Eve PBUT are the ascendant parents of the entire human race. Modern science has also proved this fact. Obviously, Prophet Adam & his wife PBUT landed on this earth as one couple - apparently their religion, language, culture, civilization was also one and the same - subsequently they developed family which was apparently limited in the first instant and grown with passage of time accordingly. Since parents were Muslim hence their immediate family would also have been Muslims (or at least could have not been Jew or Christian or else), for perceptibly there was no other creed at that movement. And with passage of time the parent family would have developed into tribe and the tribe into tribes and then the tribes into nation and this way the nation into nations. And thus with passage of time and space (viz expanse) the differences among them would have sprouted and protruded intermittently - and thus they would have branched out fitfully as different outfits. And so whenever the "˜Divine Directions' were got polluted, Allah Almighty preferred to choose among them the Prophets PBUT and send them accordingly to the respective populations - as and when Allah Almighty pleased to decide in the emerging circumstances. So as to be drawn the people inward to the real "˜Divine Directions' from the missed and mixed up ones - and refurbish it according to the available circumstances. And hence 124,000 Prophets PBUT are believed to have been assigned the task by Allah Almighty. And given this fact all the Prophets PBUT had been preaching nothing but Islam - and this is why that the Muslims alone as a nation have been owning and believing all of them PBUT. And this is why that none as a nation amongst other nations has ever owned or believed them as Prophets PBUT - rather all of them PBUT had been defied, many had been martyred or tortured in their respective tenures by the respective nations other than Muslims. And this is why that according to Muslims all the Prophets PBUT have been equally sacred - and exactly vice versa according to other nations. And this is why that "˜The Ka'ba' in Mecca (viz Bibekkata Mubaraka) was meant to be the Qiblah from the beginning. As the Rabbul-Aalameen (viz God of Worlds) has revealed in the Holy Qur'an: "Most surely the first house appointed for mankind is the one at Bekka, (viz Mecca) blessed and guidance for the nations" viz lil-Aalameena. ( Surah Al-Imr'an: 3-96).
The Ka'ba, however, was full of idols when the Prophet Mohammad PBUH began preaching his message of "˜Tawheed' (the Oneness) - hence the Prophet Mohammad PBUH and His early followers of Islam worshipped towards the direction of Jerusalem (viz "˜Al-Ard Al-Muqaddasah' - means the Sacred Land) till 2 AH, until by and large the faith in Muslims pro the real Creator Allah Almighty on one hand and against the idolatry on the other got matured.
And this is also worth mentioning here that right from the beginning Muslims alone have been naming their sons and daughters after the names of all Prophets & their relations PBUT without any exception like they do after the names of the Universal Prophet Mohammad, "˜Rehmatal-lil-Aalameen' PBUH & his relations. And this is why that none of the founder of any other creed has ever claimed or declared himself as a prophet or presented his message as a Divine Message - nor proclaimed any manuscript to that effect. The grand founders of man made creeds; Buddhism, Confucianism, Zoroastrianism, Taoism, Jainism, Mormonism, Sikhism and Shintoism, have never proclaimed themselves as prophets. I have not mentioned Judaism and Hinduism for, unlike other man made creeds both of them do not having founder personas. These two have been sprouted from their respective local customs and traditions, which were moulded into creeds by their rabbis and swamis respectively. And so far Christianity is concerned Saint Paul was its founder, who moulded it in 43/44 AD and the Council of Niccaea endorsed it in a grand council, convened by Constantine the Great, emperor of Rome in 325 AD in Niccaea (now Ä°znik, Turkey), a city of ancient Bithynia, in the Asia Minor - meaning thereby round about 467 years after the alleged death of the Magnificent Prophet, Isa Ibn Maryam viz Jesus Messiah son of Mary (PBUH).
Thus as the time succeeded, the divergence among the humanity also succeeded accordingly in terms of faiths and hence in cultures and civilizations and languages like many other things. Humankind has been disagreed in ways of thinking and doing but they could not deny or alter the nitty-gritty of humankind which implies the unity of origin of human race. The presence of counterfeit currency does not mean that the real currency was nullified or replaced. Similar is the case of Islam. Humankind brought about so many counterfeit versions of religion but this does not mean nullification of Islam. Mohammad PBUH being the last Prophet, Allah Almighty determined to conserve Islam in the lasting form. And the outcome is before us that everything has been changed & changing but Islam, for Islam is the religion for the entire cosmos right from the day one till the day last - hence many things have been corrupted but Islam, for Allah Almighty has been safeguarding it Himself. Thus some Muslims even might have corrupted but so far the Religion of Islam is concerned it has been intact. It is said that round about 73 outfits have either been or have to be come out in Muslims "“ and this phenomenon has tainted some Muslims but never the Islam.
So far splintering in other creeds is concerned albeit they are man made creeds similar has been the case in them viz Judaism & Christianity, wherefrom also many cults of assortments have been branched out.
Those who are searching his or their identity simply in a certain civilization or culture must not forget that every civilization and culture sprouts wholly or partly from a religion. Civilizations and cultures are periphery not the nucleus - civilizations and cultures are the symptom not the essence - civilizations and cultures are the shadows not the substance and must be said; civilizations and cultures are the wear not the wearer.
The validity & authenticity of the Holy Qur'an is admitted by almost all the sane scholars of all the religions and so none would be able to contradict these conclusive proofs therefrom, what I want to convey.
Mankind were one Community & Prophet Adam was the Progenitor:
"Mankind were one ummah (viz community), then they differed. Had it not been for a word that went forth before from Thy Lord, their differences would have been settled between them." ((Surah Yunus: 10-19)
Nay, Allah Almighty says in Holy Qur'an: "mankind were one community, and Allah sent (unto them) prophets as bearers of good tidings and as warners, and revealed therewith the scriptures with the truth that it might judge between mankind concerning that wherein they differed concerning it, after clear proofs had come unto them, through hatred one of another. And Allah by his will guided those who believe unto the truth of that concerning which they differed; Allah guideth whom he will unto a straight path." (Surah Al-Baqarah: 2-213).
Allah Almighty emphasize to the entire humanity that: "Verily, this Ummah (viz brotherhood) of yours is a single Ummah, and I am your Lord and Cherisher: Therefore serve me (and no other) - But (later generations) cut off their affair (of unity), one from another: (yet) will They all return to us." (Surah Al Anbiyaa: 21-92, 93).
Allah Almighty lay emphasis on this fact further: "And Verily this brotherhood of yours is a single brotherhood, and I am your Lord and Cherisher: Therefore fear me (and no other) - But people have cut off their affair (of unity), between them, into sects: Each party rejoices in that which is with itself". (Surah Al Mu'minuun: 23-52, 53).
Allah Almighty says in Holy Qur'an "o mankind! Lo! We have created you from male and female - and have made nations - and tribes that ye may know one another. Lo! The noblest of you, in the sight of Allah, is the best in conduct. Lo! Allah is knower - aware." (Surah al-Hujurat: 39-13).
Allah Almighty addresses all the humanity as "˜Children of Prophet Adam' PBUH:
Allah Almighty therefore describes all the humanity as children of Prophet Adam PBUH: "O ye Children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover your shame, as well as to be an adornment to you. But the raiment of righteousness, - that is the best. Such are among the Signs of Allah, that they may receive admonition!" (Surah Al A'raf: 7-26)
Similarly: "O ye Children of Adam! Let not Satan seduce you, in the same manner as he got your parents out of the Garden, stripping them of their raiment, to expose their shame: for he and his tribe watch you from a position where ye cannot see them: We made the evil ones friends (only) to those without faith". (Surah Al A'raf: 7-27)
"O Children of Adam! Wear your beautiful apparel at every time and place of prayer: eat and drink: But waste not by excess, for Allah loveth not the wasters." (Surah Al A'raf: 7-31)
"O ye Children of Adam! Whenever there come to you apostles from amongst you, rehearsing My signs unto you, - those who are righteous and mend (their lives), - on them shall be no fear nor shall they grieve." (Surah Al A'raf: 7- 35)
"Did I not enjoin on you, O ye Children of Adam, that ye should not worship Satan; for that he was to you an enemy avowed? (Surah Ya-Sin: 36-60)
Thus creation of humankind from the same parents confirms the fundamental inter se equality of human being in terms of ancestry, legacy and proprietary rights in the natural assets in this planet and others on one hand and the merit oriented nobility of human being on the other. Had the German philosopher and founder of communism, Karl Marx (1818-1883) made this reality of morality as spiritual foundation of his theory, the scientific socialism famously known as communism, that won't had been so baseless and would had not collapsed so soon, for want of morality!!! For, nothing stay longer without any built in moral cohesion force!!! Without having the soul of morality everything corporeal being is dead and every dead thing is bound to vanish and never to flourish!!!
Here it is also worth mentioning and to be considered more profoundly; the Atheists, Darwinists and those who are called Evolutionists in particular, who believe that the present day human being was not something which was created as such and that the present day human being which was the most backward stuff of the planet was the outcome of passing through of centuries & millennia long complicated permanent changes/evolutions in inhabitants of the earth over the course of many generations. Although this theory, famously known as "˜Evolution Theory' to the arch contrast of "˜Creation Theory' has been proven something as the most rubbish entity ever seen. And this is no place to compare both the theories here. What I want doing here is; to invite reader's minds towards the status & manners of the "Parent Couple of the Human Race" - viz Prophet Adam & his wife Eve PBUT- when they came out of paradise to this planet. Allah Almighty didn't send them without a precept, but well arranged a complete guidance for them PBUT. God has therefore made reference to: "We said: "get ye down all from here; and if, as is sure, there comes to you guidance from Me, whosoever follows My guidance, on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve". (Surah Al Baqarah 2-38).
And it is also worth mentioning that prior that exit from paradise, they both had been there in the heaven, the most splendor location and living therein for a considerable time and enjoyed life in the highest and idealist form. Of course they would had been eating food of superb quality - wearing cloths of splendid and elegant style and exquisite status - they would had been enjoying lives in the most magnificent locations and palaces of high grandeur - they would had been leading life in the most superior manners and styles, after all they were the number one human couple and were Divine Guests above all. Obviously they would have attained an unprecedented and unparallel high class culture and manners. And definitely they would have passed on the same superb culture and manners to their immediate progeny at least!!! So it is rubbish to think even that in the beginning human being was not created as such and were the most backward stuff and had evolved from the millennia long evolution process - and that it is the present day western civilization which is the human pinnacle in terms of civilization. Different development and achievements in different surroundings, locations and periods of time by different populations do not mean negation of fundamental status of living beings. Right today all nations are at different levels and at variance in terms of progressions and many things - and the same has been the pattern throughout the history.
Allah (SWT) says: "we have honoured the sons of Adam; provided them with transport on land and sea; given them for sustenance things good and pure; and conferred on them special favours, above a great part of our creation".
Similarly Allah Almighty says in another place, "He hath ordained for you that religion which he commanded unto Noah - and that which we inspire in thee (Mohammad) - and that which we commanded unto Ibrahim, Moses, and Messiah, saying: establish the religion, and be not divided therein: dreadful for idolaters is that unto which thou callest them. Allah chooses for himself those whom He pleases, and guides to himself those who turn (towards him)". (Surah Ash-Shura: 42-13).
Abul Anbiyaa, Prophet Ibrahim - Abraham PBUH:
Almighty Allah says in the Holy Qur'an; "Ibrahim was neither a Jew, nor a Nasara; but he was an upright Muslim and who was not of the idolaters" (Surah Al-e-Imran: 3-67).
The Abul Anbiyaa, Prophet Ibrahim (viz Abraham) PBUH had sent his nephew Prophet Lot (PBUH) in the eastern Jordon, his son Prophet Ishaq (PBUH) in Syria and Palestine and elder son Prophet Isma'il (PBUH) in the interior Arab for preaching Islam. Prophet Ya'qub (PBUH), Prophet Yusuf (PBUH), Prophet Moses (PBUH), Prophet Dawud (PBUH), Prophet Suleman, (PBUH) Prophet Yahya (PBUH) and Prophet Isa Ibn Maryam (PBUT) are descendants of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) through his son Prophet Ishaq (PBUH). While the Arabs and Quraish tribes are Prophet Ibrahim's descendants through his elder son, Prophet Isma'il (PBUH) - these descendants are also known as "˜Bani Isma'il' (viz Sons of Isma'il). Since, Prophet Ibrahim's (PBUH) grand son, Prophet Ya'qub's (PBUH) name was also Israel hence his descendants are famously known as "˜Bani Israel' (viz Sons of Israel or People of Israel).
Allah Almighty (SWT) says: "Allah did choose Adam and Noah, the family of Ibrahim, and the family of 'Imran above all people" (Surah Al Imran 3-33).
Noah (PBUH) said; ""¦ my reward is only due from Allah, and I have been commanded to be one from Muslims". (Yunus: 10-72).
Allah (SWT) says about Ibrahim (PBUH) and his Sons (PBUT): "when his Lord said to him, be a Muslim, he said: I became Muslim (viz I bow my will) to the Lord and Cherisher of the universe." (Surah: Al-Baqarah 2-131).
About Prophet Ibrahim sons God says: "and this was the legacy that Prophet Ibrahim left to his sons, and so did Yaqub (viz Jacob); "oh my sons! Allah hath chosen the faith (viz Islam) for you; therefore die not unless you are Muslims". (Surah: Al-Baqarah: 2-32).
Allah Almighty (SWT) reveals about Prophet Yaqub (viz Prophet Israel) (PBUH): "nay! Were you witness when death visited Yaqub, when he said to his sons: what will you worship after me? They said: "˜we will worship your Allah and the Allah of your fathers; Ibrahim and Ismael and Ishaq, one (true) Allah only, and onto him we are Muslims." (Al-Baqarah: 2-133).
Allah says about prayers of Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) & Prophet Ismael (PBUH): "our Lord! Make of us Muslims, (viz bowing to thy will), and of our progeny an Ummah of Muslims (viz bowing to thy will)."
Allah reminds to the unbelievers, "Ye People of the Book! Why dispute ye about Abraham, when the Law (viz Torah) and the Gospel (viz New Testament) were not revealed till after him? Have ye no understanding"? [Surah Al Imran 3:65]
Allah says in respect of Prophet, Lot (PBUH) and His people: ""¦ We found there but one house of Muslim. (Surah: Adh-Dhariyat 51-36).
Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) (AS) prays to Allah: "Make me to die Muslim and join me to the righteous." (Surah Yusuf 12- 101)
Prophet Moses (PBUH) says to his people: "O my people! If ye have believed in Allah then put trust in Him, if ye are indeed Muslim." (Younus "“ Jonah: 10-84)
God says that all Prophets' of Bani-Israel religion was Islam:
"Lo! We did reveal the Torah (to Moses) - wherein was guidance and a light by which the prophets judged, who were Muslims who then turned Jews". (Surah: Al-Maeda: 5-44)
Allah (SWT) says about Prophet Isa (PBUH) disciples: "And when I inspired the disciples (saying): believe in me and in my messenger, they said; we believe, bear witness that we are Muslim." (Surah: Al-Maedah 5-111).
God discloses about Pharaoh: "When the fact of drowning overtook him (pharaoh) he exclaimed; I believe that there is no god save Him (God) in whom the children of Israel believe and I am from Muslims." (Younus- Jonah: 10-90).
About the Queen Saba God says: "She (Saba) said my Lord! Lo! I become Muslim with Solomon to the Lord of the Worlds." (Surah: An-Naml 27-44)
Likewise Allah Almighty says in Surah Al-Nahl: "and verily we have risen in every nation a messenger (proclaiming) serve Allah and shun false gods"¦" - (Surah Nahl 16-36).
Prophet Isa Ibn Maryam prophecy about Prophet Mohammad in the Holy Qur'an:
Pinpointed prophecy proclaimed about Prophet Mohammad PBUH by Prophet Isa Ibn Maryam viz Jesus son of Mary (PBUH) in the words; "And remember, Isa (viz Jesus), the son of Mary, said: "O Children of Israel! I am the apostle of Allah (sent) to you, confirming the Law (which came) before me, and giving Glad Tidings of a Messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad. But when he came to them with Clear Signs, they said, this is evident sorcery!" (Al Qur'an 61:6)
Nay, "Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered Prophet, whom they find mentioned in their own (scriptures) in the law (viz the Old Testament) and the Gospel (viz the New Testament)". (Surah Al-Araf 7 - 157)
Prophecy about Prophet Mohammad PBUH in the Old Testament:
In Deuteronomy (Old Testament) Prophet Moses PBUH stated that God told him: "I will raise up for them a prophet like you from among their brothers; I will put my words in his mouth, and he will tell them everything I command him. If anyone does not listen to my words that the prophet speaks in my name, I myself will call him to account." (Old Testament - Deuteronomy 18:18-19).
Also, Prophet Isaiah PBUH speaks of the servant of God in the words: His "chosen one" and "messenger" who will bring down a law. "He will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope." (Old Testament - Isaiah 42:4).
Nay, "And the book is delivered to him that is not learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I am not learned." (Old Testament - Isaiah 29 - 12)
Verse 11, connects that awaited one with the descendants of Kedar. Who is Kedar? According to Genesis 25:13, Kedar was the second son of Ishmael, the ancestor of the Prophet Muhammad (Isaiah 42:1-13).
Nay, "His mouth is most sweet: yea, he is altogether lovely. This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem." (Old Testament - Song of Solomon 5 - 16)
Prophecy about Prophet Mohammad PBUH in the New Testament:
"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever." (John 14 "“ 16)
Nay, "But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me." (John 15 -26)
Prophecy about Prophet Mohammad PBUH in Hindu Holy Scriptures:
In this regard as well as in case of Buddhism my entire reliance is on the high valued research work of the world renowned research scholar, Dr. Zakir Naik Hussein.
"A malecha (i.e. alien) spiritual teacher will appear with his companions. His name will be Mohammad. Raja (Bhoj) after giving this Maha Dev Arab (of angelic character) a bath in the Panchgavya and the Ganga water (i.e. purifying him of all sins) offered him the present of his sincere devotion and showing him all reverence said, "I make obeisance to thee. O ye! The pride of mankind, the dweller in Arabia, Ye have collected a great force to kill the Devil and you yourself have been protected from the malecha opponents." (Bhavishya Purana in the Pratisarag Parv III Khand 3 Adhay 3 Shloka 5 to 8).
Nay, "The Malecha (i.e. the evil doers) have spoiled the well-known land of the Arabs. Arya Dharma (Aryan religion - Hinduism) is not to be found in the country. Before also there appeared a misguided fiend whom I had killed; he has now again appeared being sent by a powerful enemy. To show these enemies the right path and to give them guidance, the well-known Muhammad (pbuh), is busy in bringing the Pishachas to the right path. O Raja, You need not go to the land of the foolish Pishachas, you will be purified through my kindness even where you are. At night, he of the angelic disposition, the shrewd man, in the guise of Pishacha said to Raja Bhoj, "O Raja! Your Arya Dharma has been made to prevail over all religions, but according to the commandments of Ishwar Parmatma, I shall enforce the strong creed of the meat eaters. My followers will be men circumcised, without a tail (on his head), keeping beard, creating a revolution announcing the Aadhaan (viz Muslim pray-call) and will be eating all lawful things. He will eat all sorts of animals except swine. They will not seek purification from the holy shrubs, but will be purified through warfare. On account of their fighting the irreligious nations, they will be known as Musalmaans. I shall be the originator of this religion of the meat-eating nations."
(Maharishi Vyas has prophesised in Bhavishya Purana in the Pratisarag Parv III Khand 3 Adhay 3 Shloka 10 -27 "“ "˜The Principal Upanishads' English Translation and Notes by: S. Radhakrishnan "“ according to the valued research work of Dr. Z. Hussein Niek)
Prophecy about Prophet Mohammad PBUH in Parsi Holy Scriptures:
"When the Persians will do such deeds, a man from among the Arabs will be born whose followers shall overthrow and dissolve the kingdom and religion of the Persians".
"And the arrogant people (Persians) will be subjugated. Instead of the temple of fire and the house of idols they will see the House of Abraham without any idols as their Qibla."
"And they (Muslims) will be a mercy to the worlds. And they will capture the places of temples of fire, Madain (Ctesiphon), nearby lands, Tus and Balkh, and other eminent and sacred places (of Zoroastrians). "And their leader (viz Prophet Muhammad) will be an eloquent man whose words and message will be clear and far-reaching." The word "˜Astvat-ereta' has been used in most of the prophecies in the Holy Scriptures of Zoroastrians, which means "˜Praised One' - equivalent of Mohammad in Arabic.
Prophecy about Prophet Mohammad PBUH in Buddhism Holy Scriptures:
Almost all Buddhist books contain this prophecy. It is in Chakkavatti Sinhnad Suttanta D. III, 76:
"There will arise in the world a Buddha named Maitreya (the benevolent one) a holy one, a supreme one, an enlightened one, endowed with wisdom in conduct, auspicious, knowing the universe"
"What he has realized by his own supernatural knowledge he will publish to this universe. He will preach his religion, glorious in its origin, glorious at its climax, glorious at the goal, in the spirit and the letter. He will proclaim a religious life, wholly perfect and thoroughly pure; even as I now preach my religion and a like life do proclaim. He will keep up the society of monks numbering many thousands, even as now I keep up a society of monks numbering many hundreds".
According to Sacred Books of the East volume 35 pg. 225:
"It is said that I am not an only Buddha upon whom the leadership and order is dependent. After me another Buddha maitreya of such and such virtues will come. I am now the leader of hundreds; he will be the leader of thousands."
According to the Gospel of Buddha by Carus pg. 217 and 218 (From Ceylon sources):
"Ananda said to the Blessed One, "˜Who shall teach us when thou art gone"?
And the Blessed one replied, 'I am not the first Buddha who came upon the earth nor shall I be the last. In due time another Buddha will arise in the world, a holy one, a supremely enlightened one, endowed with wisdom in conduct, auspicious, knowing the universe, an incomparable leader of men, a master of angels and mortals. He will reveal to you the same eternal truths, which I have taught you. He will preach his religion, glorious in its origin, glorious at the climax and glorious at the goal. He will proclaim a religious life, wholly perfect and pure such as I now proclaim. His disciples will number many thousands while mine number many hundreds.'
Ananda said, 'How shall we know him?'
The Blessed one replied, 'He will be known as Maitreya'."
The Sanskrit word "˜Maitreya' or its equivalent in Pali "˜Metteyya' means loving, compassionate, merciful and benevolent. It also means kindness and friendliness, sympathy, etc. One Arabic word which is equivalent to all these words is "˜Rahmat'. And this is the title Allah Almighty has bestowed upon Prophet Mohammad PBUH as Rahmat-al-lil-Aalameen, means Mercy for all Creatures. In Surah Al-Anbiya Allah Almighty says: "We sent thee not, but as a mercy for all creatures." (Al-Qur'an 21:107)
All other religions are manmade and splinters simply:
All other religions are manmade and splinters simply, which were coined by the nonbelievers and/or renegade believers from Islam, given the defilement that was made with passage of time. Ergo I can say with authority that all other religions are the corruption (viz altered form) of Islam and all other nations are corruption of Muslim Nation. And this is due to this cause that all the basic notions of Islam can be viewed easily in all other religions - though in a much distorted forms. All Prophets (PBUT) claimed as Prophets of Islam and were endorsed so by Allah Almighty - but none of the founder of any manmade creed has either claimed as Prophet or endorsed so by Allah Almighty. In all other manmade religions the concept of God, Prophets, Angels, Divine Scriptures, Day of Judgment, Virtues, Vices and Offering Sacrifice subsist in one way or the other. So much so that Allah is the proper name in Arabic for The One and Only God, The Creator and Sustainer of the cosmos. It is used by the Arab Christians and Jews for the God - namely "˜Eloh-im' in Hebrew; 'Allaha' in Aramaic, the mother tongue of Prophet Jesus, PBUH.
And we must not forget that Adam (PBUH) was the first human being who was told about all these Sacred Realities in the first instance. So the question is whether peoples other than Muslims could have acquainted with in the first instance about all those Sacred Realities, without counterfeiting them from Islam? Since the followers of all other religions in the first instant were those who were defying Islam - hence they were trying to craft different versions of Islam, satisfying their own choices, some of them by design and some of them by default. For this reason they did it in the shapes of all manmade prevailing creeds.
This phenomenon of metamorphosis in religion can be observed even in the current era; so many outfits viz sects have fractured from Islam and they are lying at different distances from Islam - some of them lie within, some lie at distance and some of them have skipped the circle of Islam. But surely in every domain one and only one currency alone having the genuine legitimacy - and in the presence thereof none of the counterfeit currency has any worth to work, similar has been the case in the realm (viz the entire cosmos) of Almighty Allah.
All the three Holy Books (viz Torah, Gospel & Qur'an) are from the same source i.e. Al Kitaab:
"To Thee (O Mohammad) we sent the Scripture (viz Qur'an) in truth, confirming the "˜Al Kitaab' (viz The Divine Scripture) that came before it, and guarding it In safety - so judge between them by what Allah hath revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging from the truth that hath come to thee. To each among you have we prescribed a law and an open way"¦.." (Surah Al Ma'idah:5-48)
"It was We who revealed the law (viz Torah to Moses) - therein was guidance and light. By its standard have been judged the (these so called) Jews, by the prophets who were Muslims - similar was done by the rabbis and the doctors of law: for to them was entrusted the protection of Allah's book, and they were witnesses thereto - therefore (O children of Israel) fear not men, but fear me, and sell not my signs for a miserable price. If any do fail to judge by (the light of) what Allah hath revealed, they are (no better than) Unbelievers". (Surah Al Ma'idah: 5 "“ 44)
We ordained therein for them: "Life for life, eye for eye, nose or nose, ear for ear, tooth for tooth, and wounds equal for equal. But if any one remits the retaliation by way of charity, it is an act of atonement for himself. And if any fail to judge by (the light of) what Allah hath revealed, they are (No better than) wrong-doers". (Surah Al Ma'idah: 5-45)
"And in their footsteps We sent Jesus the son of Mary, confirming the Law (viz Torah) that had come before him: We sent him the Gospel: therein was guidance and light, and confirmation of the Law that had come before him: a guidance and an admonition to those who fear Allah".
(Surah Al Ma'idah:5-46) Prophet Moses (PBUH):
Prophet Moses (PBUH) was also as the best Muslim & glorious Prophet as all other Prophets (PBUT) had been and hence He was also preaching Islam and only Islam - and he had nothing to do with Judaism. Hence Prophet Moses (PBUH) said, "O pharaoh, I am a messenger from the Lord of the worlds, incumbent in that I should not speak regarding God anything except the truth. I have brought to you a clear proof from your Lord, so send forth with me the children of Israel". (Surah Al-Aa'raf 7-104,105). About the Jews as will as Nasara (i.e. Christians), Almighty Allah says: "the Jews call Uzair a son of Allah and the Nasara call Messiah the son of Allah. That is a saying from their mouth; (in this) they but imitate what the unbelievers of old used to say. Allah's curse be on them: how they are deluded away from the truth!" (Surah At-Taubah: 9-30) In addition to that Almighty Allah says: "they taken as Lords besides Allah their rabbis and their monks, Messiah the son of Mary when they were bidden to worship only God there is no god save Him. Be He glorified from all that they ascribe as partner (unto Him)"! (Surah At-Taubah 9:31).
Judaism was the brainchild of the Jewish rabbis, they named it after the name of Prophet Jacob's (PBUH) fourth son, Judah or Judea (viz Yehuda) - centuries after the lifetime of the Prophet Moses (PBUH). The Jewish Rabbis begin the nitty gritty of Judaism as a creed, in about 4th century BC and this process was completed in about 5th century AD - means round about 8/9 centuries after the sad demise of the Prophet Moses (PBUH). And that's why Allah Almighty has addressed Jews in this way: "say (o Mohammad): o ye who become Jews! If ye claim that ye are favored of Allah apart from (all) mankind, then long for death if ye are truthful". (Surah: Al-Jumu'ah 62-6).
After passing away of the Prophet Suleiman (viz Solomon) PBUH his Kingdom bisected in two parts; Judea or Yehuda (The name Judea is a Romanized version of the Hebrew Yehuda) - and Israel. Judea or Yehuda got its name from Judea or Yehuda, the name of Prophet Yaqoob's (viz Jacob's) (PBUH) fourth son, Judea) - subsequently also applied to one of the tribes of Jews. According to Jews history Prophet Moses (PBUH) passed away in 1272 BC - that means round about 19 centuries before when Muhammad (PBUH) was proclaimed as the Last Prophet (PBUH) by Allah Almighty.
Prophet Isa Ibn Maryam viz Jesus (PBUH):
Likewise Christians do not believe in the Prophet Isa Ibn Maryam viz Jesus (PBUH). Because He was as the best Muslim as all other Prophets (PBUT) have been. So far the terms "˜Christians' and "˜Christianity' are concerned the same did not have any existence in the lifetime of the Jesus Messiah (PBUH). And as evident from The Holy Qur'an, the true followers of the Jesus Messiah (PBUH) were never and nowhere named as "˜Christians.' They were named as Muslims and/or as a relative term "˜Ansar-ullah' viz "˜Allah's helpers' by the Allah Almighty - as the Holy Qur'an would reveal: that "when Isa became conscious of their disbelief, he cried who will be my helpers (viz mun ansar'ee?) - in the cause of Allah (viz illallah) the disciples said; we will be Allah's helpers (ansar-ullah) - we believe in Allah and bear thou witness that we are Muslims" (Surah Al-e-Imran: 3-52). In another place in the same Surah, Allah Almighty says; "and he (your prophet) commanded you not that ye should take the angels and the prophets for lords. Would he (your prophet) command you to disbelieve after ye had become Muslims?" (Surah Al-e-Imran: 3-80).
And being non-Muslims, the Christians therefore believe in Christianity - that was crafted mostly by St Paul (3-62 AD) - a Jewish convert Christian, along with others in Antakya (viz Antioch, Turkey), far after the elevation of the Jesus Messiah (PBUH) to the Heaven.
Here it is also worth mentioning that given their misnomer about "˜Nasara', either by default or by design Christian priests misconstrued the term "˜Nasara' from the word "˜Ansar-ullah' and/or from the word "˜Nasra' - viz Nazareth, a city in Israel, the birth place of the Isa Messiah (viz the Jesus) PBUH and thus were using it (namely) Nasara for the followers of their religion (viz Christianity) for a longer period. Whereas Allah Almighty has addressed the true followers of the Isa Messiah (PBUH) in the first instance as "˜Ansar-ullah' with reference to the context of what they had declared on the query; viz "the disciples said; we will be Allah's helpers (ansar-ullah) - we believe in Allah and bear thou witness that we are Muslims" (Surah Al-e-Imran: 3-52). But after passage of many years when there were no true followers of Prophet Isa Messiah (viz the Jesus) PBUH any longer - and the so-called followers of Isa Messiah (PBUH) were in fact following the coined dogma of Christianity - consequently thenceforth they were not called "˜Ansar-ullah' - but they were called "˜Nasara' and that too in the converted sense - and that's why Allah gives the reference in the words: "and with those who say; we are "˜Nasara' we made covenant but they forgot a part of that whereof they were admonished" - (first part of Holy Verse No: 14 of Surah Al Ma'idah). On the other hand the then Jews used the word "˜Galilee' or "˜converted outfit of "˜Nasaria' as a slang for the then Christians. Whereas the term Christian was also given to them as slang by the then polytheists of Antakya - during the preaching of the new creed by St Paul in 43/44 AD. And thus finding no other name St Paul, along with others also owned up the term "˜Christians' and "˜Christianity' for the followers and the creed respectively.
Islam being the natural Religion (viz Ad-Deen) has also been illustrious in its name, for its name; Islam has also been God Given, right from the day one. And that's why that in first part of Surah Al-Hajj, Allah Almighty says; "and strives for Allah with the endeavor which is his right. He has chosen you, and has not laid upon you in religion hardships; it is the faith of your father Ibrahim. It is He who has named you Muslims, both before and in this (scripture)"¦" (Surah Al-Hajj 22:78).
Names of the Man-made Creeds:
Now so far the names of all other religions are concerned since all those creeds were manmade, hence their names were also manmade and/or ascribed to some celebrity or region and that too in some cases centuries after the surge thereof. For instance, Jewish rabbis ascribed their creed, Judaism (viz Yehudiat) to Judea or Judah (viz Yehuda), after the name of Prophet Jacob's (PBUH) fourth son, Judah viz Yehuda, centuries after the lifetime of the Prophet Moses (PBUH).
In the same way, St Paul (3-62 AD) had to draw upon the names of Christians & Christianity for the followers & the creed respectively in the period of his extensive three journeys during the AD 40s and 50s.
Similarly, Hindus had had no name or even a known founder of their so-called religion. They used to call their creed as "˜Sanatan Dharma'. And it were the modern orientalists who crept the word Hinduism for making reference to the religion of those who were performing rituals of Sanatan Dharma or were claiming to be the followers of the creed. A renowned Hindu scholar, Nirad C. Choudhry writes in his book, "The Continent of Circe":
"I am surprised to find how many people even among those who are well-educated think that we are Hindus because we have a religion called Hinduism and that word is comparable to 'Christian' or 'Muslim'. It had no such association for the Hindus or for their neighbors in former times. This crept in when Modern European Orientalists began to study the religions of India. They found that the Hindus had no other name for the whole complex of their religious feelings, beliefs and practices except the phrase "˜Sanatan Dharma or the Eternal Way. They did not have even a word of their own for religion in European sense; and so the Orientalists coined the word Hinduism to describe that complex of religion. Actually we Hindus are not Hindus because we follow a religion called or understood as Hinduism; our religion has been given the very imprecise label "˜Hinduism' because it is the jumble of the creeds and rites of a people known as Hindus after their country. On this analogy the Greek religion might be called Hellenism and Graecism".
And thus we have no option but to admit that no other religion has either been Divine or could have been - and this is why no other creed has got Divine name ever. This is history and the best history is said to be one, wherein the things are stated as they had been. I mean to say that I have done my job and one must not infer that I destined to offend or hurt the heart of any one.
BY: AFTAB ALAM ADVOCATE, (High Court)
SWAT, NWFP Pakistan.
Email: aftabalam_advocate@hotmail.com
http://www.aftabalamadvocate.com/
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