Christianity Versus Islam

Christianity versus Islam Christianity, the largest religion in the world, has followers in every country. Islam is the second largest religion in the world. About 20% of the world's population follow it. It is the fastest growing religion. In a few years, it is reported that Islam will be the religion with the largest number of followers on Earth, superseding Christianity (Braswell, 2000). “To be classified as a Christian, one is expected to accept the major Christian beliefs, to be following the way of life that Jesus taught, and to be a part of the Christian community” (Huntington, 1996, p. 15). Islam is an Arabic word that means submission or surrender to the will of Allah (God). The other literal meaning of the word Islam is peace for it brings peace of mind to individuals. Muslim (or Moslem) is one who submits to the will of God. Islam refers to the religion, and Muslim refers to the one who embraces Islam (Braswell, 2000). The violence of September 11 and the current war against terrorism have made millions of Americans interested in wanting to learn more about the Islamic religion. Today, many articles are posted on the internet comparing Christianity to Islam. There are many misconceptions as

I wanted to compare the similarities and differences between the world's two most popular religions. They believe that the most serious problems result from the fact that human beings have lost sight of their proper relationship to God. Muslims believe those who die while believing that "There is no true god but God, and Muhammad is the Messenger (Prophet) of God" and are Muslim will be rewarded on that day and will be admitted to Paradise forever, as God has said: But those who die while not believing that "There is no true god but God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God" or are not Muslim will lose Paradise forever and will be sent to Hellfire (Al-Hilali Khan, 1994, p. Like every other religion, Islam also claims to be the one and only true way to God. The second opposing argument I want to dispute is that Islam oppresses women. Even though four wives is much better then ten or more, I still do not think that polygamy is a very fair practice. During his prophetic mission, Jesus performed many miracles. It is common for religions to believe that this life is a test for each individual for the life after death. Also, it is necessary for people to have faith, to believe in something, or to acquire a sense of belonging. To review, Islam does not oppress women, but some Muslim men oppress women. Both religions focus attention on the human relationship with God. The third opposing argument that I am against when it comes to Islam is that Islam permits polygamy. Lastly, both faiths believe in heaven, hell, and the after life and both claim that their religion is the true religion. It is stated in the Qur'an that the only allowed form of war is soldier against soldier (killing old men, women, or children or destruction of property is unacceptable) (Al-Hilali Khan, 1994). The New Testament is much less severe; for example, "regarding a woman caught in adultery, Jesus said that whoever is without sin should cast the first stone" (Edwards, 2000, 59).