Thought for the Week: A Christian Reads The Quran

Having read at least one book on all key religions, The Quran was the last one for me to complete. I was surprised how short the Quran is compared to The Bible and other texts. It is shorter and a quicker read than The New Testament for example. My brief first thoughts here are just that, and as with The Bible would no doubt take years of study to truly grasp. There are 97 versus where Jesus (Isa to Muslims) is mentioned, with the clear message that He is seen only as a Prophet. He is though one of many. There are also many mentions of Mary and that she was a virgin. Other similarities are, manna from heaven and the worshiping of the calf and the sin that it was, mentions too of the devil, Satan, an evil one. I saw no text that would lead someone to hate and extremism or to do evil things, just guidance to live a good life, to improve The Self and return to Allah, to God. I like the often repeated text which promises a garden (or tree) beneath which rivers flow, for those that live a righteous life. If I were to build a house of my design, it would too have a nice garden, trees and a river flowing beside it. The first reading of The Quran coupled with my visits to The Mahabba meetings has given me a better understanding and respect of the faith of Muslims. In the text I saw only a description of deep faith, belief in Allah/God and lessons and rules which if followed, lead us back to Him. Mark Blunden, member of the Christian faith

Date: Monday 2nd September 2024