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Exploring the Unique Position of Islam as an Abrahamic Religion

January 06, 2025Culture3224
Exploring the Unique Position of Islam as an Abrahamic Religion The ti

Exploring the Unique Position of Islam as an Abrahamic Religion

The title of this article, 'Why is there no other Abrahamic religion after Islam?', reflects a common question in religious discourse. This discussion delves into the unique position of Islam within the Abrahamic family of religions, including its proscriptions, its governance, and the existence of more recent revelations from God.

The Unchangeable Guidance of Islam

Islam stands out among Abrahamic religions due to the finality of its scripture, the Quran. Unlike previous scriptures such as the Rig Veda and the Bible, which were subject to human interpretations and amendments, the Quran is seen as unchangeable and protected by the Creator. This protection ensures that the guidance provided for mankind extends from conception through life and beyond to the Hereafter.

Previous scriptures, such as the Rig Veda and the Bible, were often altered or subject to diverse interpretations over time. The Quran, however, retains its originality and remains a consistent guide for believers. The foundational teachings of all Divine scriptures are similar; the difference lies in the language used to convey them.

The Deviation of Quranic Guidelines

Regrettably, many Muslim countries and communities worldwide have strayed from the Quranic guidelines for governing economic, social, and other aspects of life. Instead of adhering to these true principles, they have followed man-made interpretations of Shariah, which are often based on misattributed or fabricated Hadiths from scholars like Bukhari.

Shariah, which is intended to govern Muslim life based on Islamic law and teachings, has become heavily influenced by the Abasiad period, specifically after 800 AD. This period saw the compilation of Hadiths to please rulers and other powerful entities, which deviated from the original teachings outlined in the Quran.

The Business of Religion

The assertion that Islam is not just a religion but also 'a haram/halal business' can be seen as an insightful critique. Islam emphasizes the distinction between permissible and impermissible actions (haram and halal). Selling goods or services under these criteria is a significant aspect of Islamic business practices. While the primary focus of Islam is not commercial but spiritual, the practical application of these principles can significantly impact economic and social structures.

The idea of 'religion or dharma means "surrendering or moving ahead" in the right path' highlights the essence of Islam and its core values. Surrendering to the will of Allah and striving to live according to His commandments is the ultimate goal of the faithful.

The Bahá?í Faith as an Abrahamic Successor

Despite the exclusivity claimed by Islam, there is evidence of an Abrahamic religion that was revealed after Islam. The Bahá?í Faith was founded in Iran in 1863, and its prophet is Hazrat Bahaullah. The Holy Book of the Bahá?í Faith is the Kitab-e-Aqdas. This faith is deeply rooted in the principles of unity and oneness of God, akin to the message of Islam and other Abrahamic religions.

Allah sent a message through Prophet Muhammad, who is seen as the last prophet in Islam. The Bahá?í Faith posits that God sends successive prophets in different times to guide humanity. This aligns with the belief that God continually sends guidance through new messengers to keep His teachings relevant and applicable to future generations. For further detailed information on the Bahá?í Faith, please visit their official website.

Final Thoughts

While Islam is the last revealed Abrahamic religion, the Bahá?í Faith represents another pathway of divine guidance in the form of the Abrahamic tradition. Both religions share foundational principles such as the oneness of God and the importance of prophets in guiding humanity. The continued relevance and evolution of these teachings highlight the importance of maintaining an open and inclusive dialogue within the context of world religions.

References:

Bahá?í International Community. (n.d.). Official Bahá?í Website