Islam, in its developed form, is considered closer to Judaism.
This proximity stems from several key factors, primarily the shared emphasis on strict monotheism and the historical and cultural context in which both religions emerged. While both Christianity and Islam trace their roots back to Abraham and share certain figures and narratives with Judaism, the theological developments within Christianity, such as the concept of the Trinity, created a greater divergence from core Jewish beliefs.
Here's a breakdown of the similarities and differences:
Shared Monotheistic Foundation
Both Judaism and Islam uphold a strict monotheism, believing in one indivisible God. This contrasts with the Christian concept of the Trinity, which posits God as existing in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Similarities Between Judaism and Islam:
- Strict Monotheism: The absolute oneness and indivisibility of God (Tawhid in Islam).
- Rejection of Incarnation: Both religions reject the idea that God could become incarnate in human form.
- Emphasis on Law: Both place significant emphasis on religious law (Halakha in Judaism, Sharia in Islam) as a guide for daily life.
- Dietary Laws: Similarities exist in dietary laws, such as the prohibition of pork. While the specifics differ (Kashrut in Judaism, Halal in Islam), the underlying principle of prescribed dietary practices is shared.
- Practices: Similar Rituals such as praying multiple times a day, fasting, and giving to charity.
- Abrahamic Lineage: Both trace their lineage back to Abraham.
Differences Between Judaism and Christianity
- The Trinity: Christianity's central doctrine of the Trinity is fundamentally different from Jewish monotheism.
- Jesus's Role: Judaism does not recognize Jesus as the Messiah or the Son of God, while he is central to Christian belief.
- Emphasis on Grace vs. Law: Christianity emphasizes grace and faith in Jesus Christ as the path to salvation, while Judaism emphasizes adherence to God's law.
Historical and Cultural Context
Islam developed in a cultural context more closely aligned with that of early Judaism. Both emerged from Semitic Middle Eastern cultures, influencing their languages, customs, and legal traditions.
Summary
While all three religions share a connection to Abraham, the theological and legal similarities between Judaism and Islam result in a closer alignment between the two faiths. Islam's emphasis on the indivisibility of God, the importance of religious law, and shared cultural roots makes it the closer of the two to Judaism.
