Thoughts

The history of religion is an integral part of the history of human evolution. Since the dawn of human civilization, people have pondered over their own existence, the purpose of life, and the relationship between creation and the Creator. As a result of that contemplation, various religions have emerged. Although the external appearance of religions has changed due to time, culture, and geographical differences, one thing is very noticeable — all religions emphasize some basic human qualities. Such as: kindness, self-control, justice, altruism, and faith in a supreme power. These common principles prove that the guidance given by the Creator is essentially one and the same, although its manifestation has been in different forms in different societies and eras.

In this regard, the view of Islam is very clear and coherent. Islam not only presents itself as an independent religion, but also recognizes previous religions as part of a continuous divine message. The Quran states:

"He has ordained for you the religion which He gave to Noah and which We have revealed to you (O Muhammad) and which We gave to Abraham, Moses and Jesus—that they should establish religion and not be divided therein." (Surah Ash-Shura, 42:13).

This verse suggests that Islam views the history of religion as a continuum—where God has sent prophets and messengers to mankind from age to age to guide them to the right path. Therefore, Islam is not a new religion, but rather the complete and definitive version of the original monotheistic religion. This view helps to show respect for the followers of other religions and to acknowledge their fundamental principles.

Take, for example, the issue of kindness. In Christianity, Jesus (peace be upon him) said, "Love your neighbor." In Buddhism, it says, "Be kind to all living beings." In Hinduism, "Non-violence is the supreme religion" — this is a statement about compassion for living beings. In Islam, kindness is not just a moral guideline, but an integral part of faith. In a hadith, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "Be merciful to those on earth, and the Lord of the heavens will be merciful to you." (Tirmidhi). He even commanded kindness to animals and birds. This famous hadith, in which a sinful woman was granted Paradise by Allah for feeding a hungry dog, is a powerful message of the spread of Islam's kindness.

Islam's position on self-control is also very profound. While other religions talk about practicing self-control through fasting, sadhana, yoga, etc., Islam instructs us to attain piety or fear of Allah through fasting and voluntary acts of worship. But in Islam, self-control is not limited to giving up food. Rather, the main goal of Ramadan is to maintain restraint and purity in everything - eyes, mouth, mind. Allah says, “Fasting is prescribed for you that you may attain piety.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183). Here, self-control is considered a means of insight and spiritual purity.

The third similarity is the concept of one Creator. While all religions tend towards one supreme truth or ultimate reality, Islam presents the clearest, purest and most accurate form of monotheism. In Surah Al-Ikhlas of the Quran it is stated:

“Say, He is Allah, One. Allah is the Ever-Subsistent. He begets not, nor is He begotten. And He has no partner.”

This verse gives a clear idea not only of the existence of the Creator, but also of His nature — which is the basis of Tawhid. While Christianity believes that Jesus (peace be upon him) is the Son of God, Islam says that Jesus (peace be upon him) was a great prophet, but he was not God. This view maintains the purity of monotheism in Islam.

These religious similarities are not only acknowledged in Islam, but are interpreted as part of a larger divine plan. Islam teaches that a prophet was sent to every nation to guide them to the right path. Allah says:

“And indeed, We have sent among every nation a messenger, saying: ‘Worship Allah and avoid false deities.’” (Surah An-Nahl, 16:36).

This verse makes it clear that Islam is not just a religion for Muslims; it carries a universal message, which is Allah’s eternal call to humanity.

We can better highlight these similarities through interfaith dialogue, education, and joint social work. If educational institutions, the media, and religious leaders emphasize these similarities — then people will see each other as similar rather than as different. Mutual respect will develop, sectarianism will diminish, and a peaceful society will be possible.

Finally, Islam has not only declared itself as the true religion, but also acknowledged the true aspects of other religions and called for respect for all people. In the words of the Quran, “Your religion is for you, and my religion is for me.” (Surah Kafirun). This generosity and clear position has established Islam as a just, tolerant and humane religion.