Bible vs Quran: similarities vs difference

Of course. A comparison of the Quran and the Bible is a profound and complex topic, central to understanding both Islam and Christianity. It’s important to approach this with respect for both faiths.

Here is a comparative look at the Quran and the Bible across several key dimensions.

1. Origin and Revelation

Feature The Quran The Bible Source & Revealer Muslims believe the Quran is the literal, unchanging, and final Word of God (Allah), revealed directly to the Prophet Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel. Christians believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God, written by human authors who were guided by the Holy Spirit. It is seen as God’s message through human words and contexts. LanguageArabic exclusively. The Quran is considered miraculous and untranslatable in its essence. Translations are considered “interpretations of the meanings.” Originally written in Hebrew (OT), Aramaic (parts of OT), and Greek (NT). It is considered fully authoritative in translation, as the message is seen as transcending the original language. Process of Revelation Revealed to one person (Muhammad) over a period of 23 years. The revelation was witnessed, memorized, and written down during the Prophet’s lifetime. A collection of writings by numerous authors (over 40) from different backgrounds over approximately 1,500 years.

2. Structure and Content

Feature The Quran The Bible Structure114 Surahs (chapters), not arranged chronologically but roughly by length (longest to shortest, except the opening chapter). It is not a narrative. Two main parts: Old Testament (OT) and New Testament (NT). It is a collection of books of various genres: law, history, poetry, prophecy, gospels, epistles. Length Approximately the length of the Christian New Testament. Significantly longer than the Quran (the OT alone is much larger). Narrative StyleAllusive and thematic. It often refers to stories of past prophets (like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus) but does not tell them as continuous narratives. The purpose is to convey moral, theological, and legal lessons. Detailed and narrative. Stories are often told in a linear, chronological fashion with characters, dialogue, and plot development (especially in the OT historical books and the Gospels). Central FigureGod (Allah). The Quran is fundamentally God’s speech. Even verses about Muhammad are spoken by God. The focus is on God’s Oneness, Will, and Majesty. Jesus Christ. The entire Bible is seen by Christians as pointing to Jesus. The OT foreshadows him, and the NT reveals his life, teachings, death, and resurrection.

3. Theological Content: Key Similarities and Differences

Shared Figures, Different Roles

Both books feature many of the same prophets, but their roles and stories often differ.

  • Adam: The first man and prophet. Story of creation and expulsion from Eden is similar.
  • Abraham (Ibrahim): A pivotal figure of pure monotheism in both. The Quran emphasizes his rejection of idolatry and his submission to God (Islam means submission).
  • Moses (Musa): A major prophet who received revelation (the Tawrat) and confronted Pharaoh. The Exodus story is detailed in both.
  • Mary (Maryam): Highly revered in both. The Quran dedicates a whole chapter to her and affirms the virgin birth of Jesus.
  • Jesus (Isa): This is the most significant point of theological divergence.
    • In the Bible: The Son of God, part of the Holy Trinity, who died on the cross for humanity’s sins and was physically resurrected.
    • In the Quran: A great Prophet and Messiah, born of the Virgin Mary, performed miracles by God’s permission, but not the Son of God. He was not crucified; instead, God raised him to Himself and it was made to appear so to others. He will return before the Day of Judgment. The Quran strongly rejects the concept of the Trinity (Quran 5:73).

Core Theological Concepts

Concept In the Quran In the Bible GodStrict, uncompromising Monotheism (Tawhid). God is One, Unique, and has no partners, children, or equals. He is transcendent and merciful. Monotheistic, but understood as a Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) – one God in three persons. This is a central mystery of the Christian faith. Sin & Salvation Humans are born pure. Sin is primarily an act of disobedience, not an innate state. Salvation is achieved through belief in One God, good deeds, and God’s mercy. There is no concept of original sin or a vicarious atonement. Humans are born with Original Sin from Adam’s fall. Salvation is achieved through faith in the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross. It is by God’s grace, received through faith. The Afterlife Detailed descriptions of Heaven (Jannah) and Hell (Jahannam). Admission to Heaven is based on God’s judgment of one’s faith and deeds. Also contains descriptions of Heaven and Hell. For Christians, eternal life is granted through acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

4. Preservation and Authority

Feature The Quran The Bible Preservation Muslims believe the Quran has been perfectly and miraculously preserved, both orally and in text, since its revelation. The same text is used universally by all Muslims. Christians believe the Bible is the inspired and authoritative Word of God. Scholars acknowledge a process of compilation, translation, and transmission over centuries, with minor textual variants in ancient manuscripts, though the core message is considered intact. Role in Faith The ultimate and final authority in all matters of faith, law, and practice. It is the central miracle of Islam. The primary and sacred scripture. Its authority for Christians is derived from its witness to Jesus Christ.

Summary Table

Aspect Quran Bible Nature of Revelation Literal Word of God Inspired Word of God Language Sacred in Arabic Authoritative in translation Central Focus God’s Oneness and Will The Life and Work of Jesus Christ View of Jesus A revered Prophet, not divine The Son of God, central to salvation Core Theology Strict Monotheism Trinitarian Monotheism Salvation Faith + Good Deeds + God’s Mercy Grace through Faith in Christ Preservation Believed to be perfect and unchanged Believed to be divinely inspired despite human transmission process

Conclusion:

While the Quran and the Bible share a common geographical and prophetic heritage, they are fundamentally different books with distinct theological cores. The Bible is a library of books culminating in the story of Jesus Christ, while the Quran is a single book understood as the final divine discourse, confirming previous messages but correcting what it sees as human alterations and re-establishing pure monotheism.

Understanding these differences is key to a respectful and meaningful dialogue between the two faiths.

Sharing Quran & prophets SA’s teachings