Understanding the Roots of Conflict
The ongoing conflict between the Muslim world and the Jews is often seen through the lens of political and territorial disputes, especially regarding the Palestinian issue. However, this perspective misses a critical element deeply ingrained in Islamic theology—an enduring religious enmity mandated by the Qur'an and the Sunnah. This hostility is not simply a byproduct of modern geopolitical tensions but originates from the doctrinal teachings of Islam concerning Jews and Christians.
Theological Underpinnings
In Islamic doctrine, both Judaism and Christianity are viewed as deviations from the true monotheistic teachings that were originally revealed to the Children of Israel. The Qur'an positions Jewish patriarchs and prophets, including Jesus, as Muslims who preached Islam. This interpretation dismantles the foundations of both Judaism and Christianity, branding them as corrupted versions of the monotheistic faith that Islam claims to restore.
Veiled Terminologies and Misconceptions
Friendly terms like "People of the Book" and "Children of Israel" used in the Qur'an often obscure the deeper enmity toward Jews and Christians. These terms act as a veil, disguising Islam’s stance that Jewish and Christian scriptures were altered to erase prophecies about Muhammad. By asserting that Jewish and Christian patriarchs were, in fact, Muslims, Islam invalidates the religious legitimacy of Judaism and Christianity.
The Doctrine of Fitrah
Islamic theology introduces the concept of Fitrah, which asserts that all humans are born in a natural state of submission to Allah. According to this belief, every person is inherently a Muslim, and deviations into other religions are seen as distortions. This doctrine forms the basis for Islamic mission (Da’wah) and Jihad, which aim to return humanity to its original state of submission to Allah.
The Jihad Mandate
Jihad, often misunderstood as a purely defensive struggle, is a central part of Islam’s mission to convert or revert people to Islam. The Qur'an mandates Jihad not only to defend against physical attacks but also to fight against any opposition to Islamic teachings. This includes ideological resistance, criticism, or the mere presence of non-Muslims within Muslim societies.
Permanent Enmity and Continuous Jihad
Islamic texts portray Jews as perpetual enemies of Allah and His messenger, Muhammad. This enmity is seen as divinely ordained, making the conflict inherently religious rather than political. Therefore, resolving political issues, such as the Palestinian conflict, will not end this mandated Jihad against Jews. The theological basis for this enmity remains unchanged.
The conflict between Muslims and Jews extends beyond political and territorial disputes. It is rooted in a theological framework that mandates eternal enmity. Political resolutions alone cannot end the obligation of Jihad, as Islamic doctrine prescribes a perpetual struggle until the entire world embraces Islam. Understanding this religious dimension is crucial for comprehending the unending cycle of violence and conflict.
Your Complementary Copy
This article provides a thumb-nail summary of Chapter 4 from the book "Al-Yahud," which delves into the deep-rooted theological enmity between Muslims and Jews, as mandated by Islamic doctrine. The chapter explores how this enmity transcends political and territorial disputes, rooted in the Qur'an and the Sunnah, and how it fuels a perpetual Jihad against Jews and Christians. If you found this summary insightful and wish to delve deeper into the subject, 2414 has made the entire book available in an eBook format for free. Simply click on this link below, fill in your first name and email, and the eBook will be on its way to you. Click here for your complementary copy of the eBook Al-Yahud.