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Islam

Claims that come up in conversation about Islam, with a short answer and the texts to open.

The Bible and the Qur’an

  1. What you will hear

    The Bible Christians read was corrupted, so it is no longer the Torah and the Gospel God revealed.

    The Qur’an’s tahrif verses speak of concealing, misreading, and twisting words, and the biblical text is substantially the same before and after Muhammad.

    • Qur’an 2:75Qur’an 2:75 · Saheeh InternationalDo you covet [the hope, O believers], that they would believe for you while a party of them used to hear the words of Allāh and then distort it [i.e., the Torah] after they had understood it while they were knowing?Qur’an 2:75 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 2:79Qur’an 2:79 · Saheeh InternationalSo woe to those who write the "scripture" with their own hands, then say, "This is from Allāh," in order to exchange it for a small price. Woe to them for what their hands have written and woe to them for what they earn.Qur’an 2:79 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 4:46Qur’an 4:46 · Saheeh InternationalAmong the Jews are those who distort words from their [proper] places [i.e., usages] and say, "We hear and disobey" and "Hear but be not heard" and "Rāʿinā," twisting their tongues and defaming the religion. And if they had said [instead], "We hear and obey" and "Wait for us [to understand]," it would have been better for them and more suitable. But Allāh has cursed them for their disbelief, so they believe not, except for a few.Qur’an 4:46 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 5:13Qur’an 5:13 · Saheeh InternationalSo for their breaking of the covenant We cursed them and made their hearts hardened. They distort words from their [proper] places [i.e., usages] and have forgotten a portion of that of which they were reminded. And you will still observe deceit among them, except a few of them. But pardon them and overlook [their misdeeds]. Indeed, Allāh loves the doers of good.Qur’an 5:13 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 7363Sahih al-Bukhari 7363 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated Ubaidullah: Ibn `Abbas said, "Why do you ask the people of the scripture about anything while your Book (Qur'an) which has been revealed to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) is newer and the latest? You read it pure, undistorted and unchanged, and Allah has told you that the people of the scripture (Jews and Christians) changed their scripture and distorted it, and wrote the scripture with their own hands and said, 'It is from Allah,' to sell it for a little gain. Does not the knowledge which has come to you prevent you from asking them about anything? No, by Allah, we have never seen any man from them asking you regarding what has been revealed to you!"Sahih al-Bukhari 7363 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source

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  2. A Christian objection

    The Qur’an affirms the Torah and the Gospel as God’s word, present in Muhammad’s day, and then contradicts what those books say about Jesus.

    If those books were God’s word, the Qur’an contradicts God. If they were not, the Qur’an was wrong to treat them as revealed, present, and binding.

    • Qur’an 5:47Qur’an 5:47 · Saheeh InternationalAnd let the People of the Gospel judge by what Allāh has revealed therein. And whoever does not judge by what Allāh has revealed - then it is those who are the defiantly disobedient.Qur’an 5:47 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 10:94Qur’an 10:94 · Saheeh InternationalSo if you are in doubt, [O Muḥammad], about that which We have revealed to you, then ask those who have been reading the Scripture before you. The truth has certainly come to you from your Lord, so never be among the doubters.Qur’an 10:94 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 4:157Qur’an 4:157 · Saheeh InternationalAnd [for] their saying, "Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary, the messenger of Allāh." And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain.Qur’an 4:157 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • 1 Corinthians 15:31 Corinthians 15:3 · King James VersionFor I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;1 Corinthians 15:3 · King James VersionOpen source

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  3. What you will hear

    The Islamic dilemma fails: the Qur’an confirms the original Torah and Gospel, and the Bible Christians read was corrupted.

    The Qur’an tells the People of the Gospel to judge by the Gospel they have, and the manuscripts of that Gospel predate Muhammad.

    • Qur’an 5:48Qur’an 5:48 · Saheeh InternationalAnd We have revealed to you, [O Muḥammad], the Book [i.e., the Qur’ān] in truth, confirming that which preceded it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it. So judge between them by what Allāh has revealed and do not follow their inclinations away from what has come to you of the truth. To each of you We prescribed a law and a method. Had Allāh willed, He would have made you one nation [united in religion], but [He intended] to test you in what He has given you; so race to [all that is] good. To Allāh is your return all together, and He will [then] inform you concerning that over which you used to differ.Qur’an 5:48 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 2:79Qur’an 2:79 · Saheeh InternationalSo woe to those who write the "scripture" with their own hands, then say, "This is from Allāh," in order to exchange it for a small price. Woe to them for what their hands have written and woe to them for what they earn.Qur’an 2:79 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 7363Sahih al-Bukhari 7363 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated Ubaidullah: Ibn `Abbas said, "Why do you ask the people of the scripture about anything while your Book (Qur'an) which has been revealed to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) is newer and the latest? You read it pure, undistorted and unchanged, and Allah has told you that the people of the scripture (Jews and Christians) changed their scripture and distorted it, and wrote the scripture with their own hands and said, 'It is from Allah,' to sell it for a little gain. Does not the knowledge which has come to you prevent you from asking them about anything? No, by Allah, we have never seen any man from them asking you regarding what has been revealed to you!"Sahih al-Bukhari 7363 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source
    • Qur’an 6:115Qur’an 6:115 · Saheeh InternationalAnd the word of your Lord has been fulfilled in truth and in justice. None can alter His words, and He is the Hearing, the Knowing.Qur’an 6:115 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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  4. What you will hear

    When the Qur’an says it confirms the earlier scriptures, it means the original Torah and Gospel, not the Bible Christians read today.

    The Qur’an speaks of those books as present with the people of Muhammad’s day, and it tells them to judge by the Gospel they have.

    • Qur’an 3:3Qur’an 3:3 · Saheeh InternationalHe has sent down upon you, [O Muḥammad], the Book in truth, confirming what was before it. And He revealed the Torah and the GospelQur’an 3:3 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 5:47Qur’an 5:47 · Saheeh InternationalAnd let the People of the Gospel judge by what Allāh has revealed therein. And whoever does not judge by what Allāh has revealed - then it is those who are the defiantly disobedient.Qur’an 5:47 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 10:94Qur’an 10:94 · Saheeh InternationalSo if you are in doubt, [O Muḥammad], about that which We have revealed to you, then ask those who have been reading the Scripture before you. The truth has certainly come to you from your Lord, so never be among the doubters.Qur’an 10:94 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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  5. A Christian objection

    Qur’an 5:47 tells the People of the Gospel to judge by what God revealed in it, and Qur’an 10:94 tells Muhammad to ask those who have been reading the Book before him.

    Those verses put the Torah and the Gospel in people’s hands in the seventh century. A corruption story that removes that Bible also removes the book the Qur’an tells them to use.

    • Qur’an 5:47Qur’an 5:47 · Saheeh InternationalAnd let the People of the Gospel judge by what Allāh has revealed therein. And whoever does not judge by what Allāh has revealed - then it is those who are the defiantly disobedient.Qur’an 5:47 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 5:48Qur’an 5:48 · Saheeh InternationalAnd We have revealed to you, [O Muḥammad], the Book [i.e., the Qur’ān] in truth, confirming that which preceded it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it. So judge between them by what Allāh has revealed and do not follow their inclinations away from what has come to you of the truth. To each of you We prescribed a law and a method. Had Allāh willed, He would have made you one nation [united in religion], but [He intended] to test you in what He has given you; so race to [all that is] good. To Allāh is your return all together, and He will [then] inform you concerning that over which you used to differ.Qur’an 5:48 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 10:94Qur’an 10:94 · Saheeh InternationalSo if you are in doubt, [O Muḥammad], about that which We have revealed to you, then ask those who have been reading the Scripture before you. The truth has certainly come to you from your Lord, so never be among the doubters.Qur’an 10:94 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Matthew 5:17Matthew 5:17 · King James VersionThink not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.Matthew 5:17 · King James VersionOpen source

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  6. What you will hear

    The Injil was a book given to Jesus himself, and it is not the four Gospels.

    The Qur’an speaks of a Gospel Christians already had and could judge by. In the New Testament the gospel is the message about Jesus in Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

    • Qur’an 5:46Qur’an 5:46 · Saheeh InternationalAnd We sent, following in their footsteps, Jesus, the son of Mary, confirming that which came before him in the Torah; and We gave him the Gospel, in which was guidance and light and confirming that which preceded it of the Torah as guidance and instruction for the righteous.Qur’an 5:46 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 5:47Qur’an 5:47 · Saheeh InternationalAnd let the People of the Gospel judge by what Allāh has revealed therein. And whoever does not judge by what Allāh has revealed - then it is those who are the defiantly disobedient.Qur’an 5:47 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Mark 1:1Mark 1:1 · King James VersionThe beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God;Mark 1:1 · King James VersionOpen source

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  7. What you will hear

    Paul invented Christianity by turning the prophet Jesus into a divine saviour.

    The death, resurrection, and deity of Jesus are in the Gospels and in a creed Paul says he received. The Jerusalem apostles accepted his gospel.

    • 1 Corinthians 15:31 Corinthians 15:3 · King James VersionFor I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;1 Corinthians 15:3 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Galatians 2:9Galatians 2:9 · King James VersionAnd when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.Galatians 2:9 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Qur’an 3:52Qur’an 3:52 · Saheeh InternationalBut when Jesus felt [persistence in] disbelief from them, he said, "Who are my supporters for [the cause of] Allāh?" The disciples said, "We are supporters for Allāh. We have believed in Allāh and testify that we are Muslims [submitting to Him].Qur’an 3:52 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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  8. What you will hear

    Nothing is like Allah, so he cannot be seen and he is not Jesus.

    The Qur’an says nothing is like him and also speaks of his Face, the Throne, and faces looking at their Lord. Christians say the Son is the image of the invisible God.

    • Qur’an 42:11Qur’an 42:11 · Saheeh International[He is] Creator of the heavens and the earth. He has made for you from yourselves, mates, and among the cattle, mates; He multiplies you thereby. There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.Qur’an 42:11 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 6:103Qur’an 6:103 · Saheeh InternationalVision perceives Him not, but He perceives [all] vision; and He is the Subtle, the Aware.Qur’an 6:103 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Colossians 1:15Colossians 1:15 · King James VersionWho is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:Colossians 1:15 · King James VersionOpen source

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  9. What you will hear

    The Qur’an was carefully collected under Abu Bakr and Uthman, and God has guarded its text.

    Sahih al-Bukhari records that collection, the burning of other copies, and a companion’s objection. That history is the fair comparison when the Bible’s manuscripts are challenged.

    • Qur’an 15:9Qur’an 15:9 · Saheeh InternationalIndeed, it is We who sent down the message [i.e., the Qur’ān], and indeed, We will be its guardian.Qur’an 15:9 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 4986Sahih al-Bukhari 4986 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated Zaid bin Thabit: Abu Bakr As-Siddiq sent for me when the people of Yamama had been killed (i.e., a number of the Prophet's Companions who fought against Musailima). (I went to him) and found `Umar bin Al- Khattab sitting with him. Abu Bakr then said (to me), "`Umar has come to me and said: "Casualties were heavy among the Qurra' of the Qur'an (i.e. those who knew the Qur'an by heart) on the day of the Battle of Yamama, and I am afraid that more heavy casualties may take place among the Qurra' on other battlefields, whereby a large part of the Qur'an may be lost. Therefore I suggest, you (Abu Bakr) order that the Qur'an be collected." I said to `Umar, "How can you do something which Allah's Apostle did not do?" `Umar said, "By Allah, that is a good project." `Umar kept on urging me to accept his proposal till Allah opened my chest for it and I began to realize the good in the idea which `Umar had realized." Then Abu Bakr said (to me). 'You are a wise young man and we do not have any suspicion about you, and you used to write the Divine Inspiration for Allah's Messenger (ﷺ). So you should search for (the fragmentary scripts of) the Qur'an and collect it in one book." By Allah If they had ordered me to shift one of the mountains, it would not have been heavier for me than this ordering me to collect the Qur'an. Then I said to Abu Bakr, "How will you do something which Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) did not do?" Abu Bakr replied, "By Allah, it is a good project." Abu Bakr kept on urging me to accept his idea until Allah opened my chest for what He had opened the chests of Abu Bakr and `Umar. So I started looking for the Qur'an and collecting it from (what was written on) palme stalks, thin white stones and also from the men who knew it by heart, till I found the last Verse of Surat at-Tauba (Repentance) with Abi Khuzaima Al-Ansari, and I did not find it with anybody other than him. The Verse is: 'Verily there has come unto you an Apostle (Muhammad) from amongst yourselves. It grieves him that you should receive any injury or difficulty..(till the end of Surat-Baraa' (at-Tauba) (9.128-129). Then the complete manuscripts (copy) of the Qur'an remained with Abu Bakr till he died, then with `Umar till the end of his life, and then with Hafsa, the daughter of `Umar.Sahih al-Bukhari 4986 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 4987Sahih al-Bukhari 4987 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated Anas bin Malik: Hudhaifa bin Al-Yaman came to `Uthman at the time when the people of Sham and the people of Iraq were Waging war to conquer Arminya and Adharbijan. Hudhaifa was afraid of their (the people of Sham and Iraq) differences in the recitation of the Qur'an, so he said to `Uthman, "O chief of the Believers! Save this nation before they differ about the Book (Qur'an) as Jews and the Christians did before." So `Uthman sent a message to Hafsa saying, "Send us the manuscripts of the Qur'an so that we may compile the Qur'anic materials in perfect copies and return the manuscripts to you." Hafsa sent it to `Uthman. `Uthman then ordered Zaid bin Thabit, `Abdullah bin AzZubair, Sa`id bin Al-As and `AbdurRahman bin Harith bin Hisham to rewrite the manuscripts in perfect copies. `Uthman said to the three Quraishi men, "In case you disagree with Zaid bin Thabit on any point in the Qur'an, then write it in the dialect of Quraish, the Qur'an was revealed in their tongue." They did so, and when they had written many copies, `Uthman returned the original manuscripts to Hafsa. `Uthman sent to every Muslim province one copy of what they had copied, and ordered that all the other Qur'anic materials, whether written in fragmentary manuscripts or whole copies, be burnt.Sahih al-Bukhari 4987 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source

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  10. A Christian objection

    The Qur’an has never been changed. God promised to guard it, and one text has come down intact.

    Qur’an 15:9 is the promise. Sahih al-Bukhari also records a later collection, the burning of other copies, and verses companions said they recited that are not in the collected book.

    • Qur’an 15:9Qur’an 15:9 · Saheeh InternationalIndeed, it is We who sent down the message [i.e., the Qur’ān], and indeed, We will be its guardian.Qur’an 15:9 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 4987Sahih al-Bukhari 4987 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated Anas bin Malik: Hudhaifa bin Al-Yaman came to `Uthman at the time when the people of Sham and the people of Iraq were Waging war to conquer Arminya and Adharbijan. Hudhaifa was afraid of their (the people of Sham and Iraq) differences in the recitation of the Qur'an, so he said to `Uthman, "O chief of the Believers! Save this nation before they differ about the Book (Qur'an) as Jews and the Christians did before." So `Uthman sent a message to Hafsa saying, "Send us the manuscripts of the Qur'an so that we may compile the Qur'anic materials in perfect copies and return the manuscripts to you." Hafsa sent it to `Uthman. `Uthman then ordered Zaid bin Thabit, `Abdullah bin AzZubair, Sa`id bin Al-As and `AbdurRahman bin Harith bin Hisham to rewrite the manuscripts in perfect copies. `Uthman said to the three Quraishi men, "In case you disagree with Zaid bin Thabit on any point in the Qur'an, then write it in the dialect of Quraish, the Qur'an was revealed in their tongue." They did so, and when they had written many copies, `Uthman returned the original manuscripts to Hafsa. `Uthman sent to every Muslim province one copy of what they had copied, and ordered that all the other Qur'anic materials, whether written in fragmentary manuscripts or whole copies, be burnt.Sahih al-Bukhari 4987 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 6830Sahih al-Bukhari 6830 · Muhammad Muhsin Khanamong what Allah revealed, was the Verse of the Rajam (the stoning of married person (male & female) who commits illegal sexual intercourse, and we did recite this Verse and understood and memorized it. Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) did carry out the punishment of stoning and so did we after him. I am afraid that after a long time has passed, somebody will say, 'By Allah, we do not find the Verse of the Rajam in Allah's Book,' and thus they will go astray by leaving an obligation which Allah has revealed. And the punishment of the Rajam is to be inflicted to any married person (male & female), who commits illegal sexual intercourse, if the required evidence is available or there is conception or confession. And then we used to recite among the Verses in Allah's Book: 'O people! Do not claim to be the offspring of other than your fathers, as it is disbelief (unthankfulness) on your part that you claim to be the offspring of other than your real father.'Sahih al-Bukhari 6830 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source

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  11. What you will hear

    There is only one Qur’an. The readings are ways of reciting it, not different wording or different books.

    Bukhari 4992 reports seven ahruf. Sunni scholarship later counted seven, then ten, canonical readings. Printed Hafs and Warsh differ at Qur’an 2:184, and companions disputed one another’s recitation.

    • Sahih al-Bukhari 4992Sahih al-Bukhari 4992 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated `Umar bin Al-Khattab: I heard Hisham bin Hakim reciting Surat Al-Furqan during the lifetime of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) and I listened to his recitation and noticed that he recited in several different ways which Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) had not taught me. I was about to jump over him during his prayer, but I controlled my temper, and when he had completed his prayer, I put his upper garment around his neck and seized him by it and said, "Who taught you this Sura which I heard you reciting?" He replied, "Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) taught it to me." I said, "You have told a lie, for Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) has taught it to me in a different way from yours." So I dragged him to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) and said (to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ)), "I heard this person reciting Surat Al-Furqan in a way which you haven't taught me!" On that Allah's Apostle said, "Release him, (O `Umar!) Recite, O Hisham!" Then he recited in the same way as I heard him reciting. Then Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "It was revealed in this way," and added, "Recite, O `Umar!" I recited it as he had taught me. Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) then said, "It was revealed in this way. This Qur'an has been revealed to be recited in seven different ways, so recite of it whichever (way) is easier for you (or read as much of it as may be easy for you).Sahih al-Bukhari 4992 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source
    • Qur’an 2:184Qur’an 2:184 · Saheeh International[Fasting for] a limited number of days. So whoever among you is ill or on a journey [during them] - then an equal number of other days [are to be made up]. And upon those who are able [to fast, but with hardship] - a ransom [as substitute] of feeding a poor person [each day]. And whoever volunteers good [i.e., excess] - it is better for him. But to fast is best for you, if you only knew.Qur’an 2:184 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 15:9Qur’an 15:9 · Saheeh InternationalIndeed, it is We who sent down the message [i.e., the Qur’ān], and indeed, We will be its guardian.Qur’an 15:9 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 4986Sahih al-Bukhari 4986 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated Zaid bin Thabit: Abu Bakr As-Siddiq sent for me when the people of Yamama had been killed (i.e., a number of the Prophet's Companions who fought against Musailima). (I went to him) and found `Umar bin Al- Khattab sitting with him. Abu Bakr then said (to me), "`Umar has come to me and said: "Casualties were heavy among the Qurra' of the Qur'an (i.e. those who knew the Qur'an by heart) on the day of the Battle of Yamama, and I am afraid that more heavy casualties may take place among the Qurra' on other battlefields, whereby a large part of the Qur'an may be lost. Therefore I suggest, you (Abu Bakr) order that the Qur'an be collected." I said to `Umar, "How can you do something which Allah's Apostle did not do?" `Umar said, "By Allah, that is a good project." `Umar kept on urging me to accept his proposal till Allah opened my chest for it and I began to realize the good in the idea which `Umar had realized." Then Abu Bakr said (to me). 'You are a wise young man and we do not have any suspicion about you, and you used to write the Divine Inspiration for Allah's Messenger (ﷺ). So you should search for (the fragmentary scripts of) the Qur'an and collect it in one book." By Allah If they had ordered me to shift one of the mountains, it would not have been heavier for me than this ordering me to collect the Qur'an. Then I said to Abu Bakr, "How will you do something which Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) did not do?" Abu Bakr replied, "By Allah, it is a good project." Abu Bakr kept on urging me to accept his idea until Allah opened my chest for what He had opened the chests of Abu Bakr and `Umar. So I started looking for the Qur'an and collecting it from (what was written on) palme stalks, thin white stones and also from the men who knew it by heart, till I found the last Verse of Surat at-Tauba (Repentance) with Abi Khuzaima Al-Ansari, and I did not find it with anybody other than him. The Verse is: 'Verily there has come unto you an Apostle (Muhammad) from amongst yourselves. It grieves him that you should receive any injury or difficulty..(till the end of Surat-Baraa' (at-Tauba) (9.128-129). Then the complete manuscripts (copy) of the Qur'an remained with Abu Bakr till he died, then with `Umar till the end of his life, and then with Hafsa, the daughter of `Umar.Sahih al-Bukhari 4986 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source

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  12. What you will hear

    Muslims and Christians worship the same God, the God of Abraham.

    Both confess one God and reject many gods. Christians also confess that this one God is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and that Jesus is God.

    • Qur’an 112:1Qur’an 112:1 · Saheeh InternationalSay, "He is Allāh, [who is] One,Qur’an 112:1 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Deuteronomy 6:4Deuteronomy 6:4 · King James VersionHear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:Deuteronomy 6:4 · King James VersionOpen source
    • John 1:1John 1:1 · King James VersionIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.John 1:1 · King James VersionOpen source

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  13. What you will hear

    Allah is simply the Arabic word for God, so the God of the Qur’an is the God of the Bible.

    The word can name God. The Qur’an says God has no son. The Bible says the Word was God, and Jesus is the Son.

    • Qur’an 3:18Qur’an 3:18 · Saheeh InternationalAllāh witnesses that there is no deity except Him, and [so do] the angels and those of knowledge - [that He is] maintaining [creation] in justice. There is no deity except Him, the Exalted in Might, the Wise.Qur’an 3:18 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 5:72Qur’an 5:72 · Saheeh InternationalThey have certainly disbelieved who say, "Allāh is the Messiah, the son of Mary" while the Messiah has said, "O Children of Israel, worship Allāh, my Lord and your Lord." Indeed, he who associates others with Allāh - Allāh has forbidden him Paradise, and his refuge is the Fire. And there are not for the wrongdoers any helpers.Qur’an 5:72 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 112:1Qur’an 112:1 · Saheeh InternationalSay, "He is Allāh, [who is] One,Qur’an 112:1 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • John 1:1John 1:1 · King James VersionIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.John 1:1 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Mark 15:34Mark 15:34 · King James VersionAnd at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?Mark 15:34 · King James VersionOpen source

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Who Jesus Is

  1. What you will hear

    God cannot have a son, because he does not beget and has no consort.

    Christians deny a physical begetting too. The Son is the eternal Son, not a child God produced with a partner.

    • Qur’an 19:88Qur’an 19:88 · Saheeh InternationalAnd they say, "The Most Merciful has taken [for Himself] a son."Qur’an 19:88 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 112:1Qur’an 112:1 · Saheeh InternationalSay, "He is Allāh, [who is] One,Qur’an 112:1 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 5:18Qur’an 5:18 · Saheeh InternationalBut the Jews and the Christians say, "We are the children of Allāh and His beloved." Say, "Then why does He punish you for your sins?" Rather, you are human beings from among those He has created. He forgives whom He wills, and He punishes whom He wills. And to Allāh belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth and whatever is between them, and to Him is the [final] destination.Qur’an 5:18 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • John 1:18John 1:18 · King James VersionNo man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.John 1:18 · King James VersionOpen source

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  2. What you will hear

    The Qur’an forbids saying “three,” and Christians worship God, Jesus, and Mary.

    The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are one God. A triad of God, Jesus, and Mary is not the Trinity, and Christians reject it.

    • Qur’an 4:171Qur’an 4:171 · Saheeh InternationalO People of the Scripture, do not commit excess in your religion or say about Allāh except the truth. The Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary, was but a messenger of Allāh and His word which He directed to Mary and a soul [created at a command] from Him. So believe in Allāh and His messengers. And do not say, "Three"; desist - it is better for you. Indeed, Allāh is but one God. Exalted is He above having a son. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And sufficient is Allāh as Disposer of affairs.Qur’an 4:171 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 5:73Qur’an 5:73 · Saheeh InternationalThey have certainly disbelieved who say, "Allāh is the third of three." And there is no god except one God. And if they do not desist from what they are saying, there will surely afflict the disbelievers among them a painful punishment.Qur’an 5:73 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 5:116Qur’an 5:116 · Saheeh InternationalAnd [beware the Day] when Allāh will say, "O Jesus, Son of Mary, did you say to the people, 'Take me and my mother as deities besides Allāh?'" He will say, "Exalted are You! It was not for me to say that to which I have no right. If I had said it, You would have known it. You know what is within myself, and I do not know what is within Yourself. Indeed, it is You who is Knower of the unseen.Qur’an 5:116 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Deuteronomy 6:4Deuteronomy 6:4 · King James VersionHear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:Deuteronomy 6:4 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Matthew 28:19Matthew 28:19 · King James VersionGo ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:Matthew 28:19 · King James VersionOpen source

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  3. What you will hear

    Jesus is the Messiah, a word from God, and a spirit from him, and he is still a created prophet.

    Those titles are the Qur’an’s own honours. The Gospel says the Word who was God became flesh.

    • Qur’an 3:45Qur’an 3:45 · Saheeh International[And mention] when the angels said, "O Mary, indeed Allāh gives you good tidings of a word from Him, whose name will be the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary - distinguished in this world and the Hereafter and among those brought near [to Allāh].Qur’an 3:45 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 4:171Qur’an 4:171 · Saheeh InternationalO People of the Scripture, do not commit excess in your religion or say about Allāh except the truth. The Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary, was but a messenger of Allāh and His word which He directed to Mary and a soul [created at a command] from Him. So believe in Allāh and His messengers. And do not say, "Three"; desist - it is better for you. Indeed, Allāh is but one God. Exalted is He above having a son. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And sufficient is Allāh as Disposer of affairs.Qur’an 4:171 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • John 1:1John 1:1 · King James VersionIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.John 1:1 · King James VersionOpen source
    • John 1:14John 1:14 · King James VersionAnd the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.John 1:14 · King James VersionOpen source

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  4. What you will hear

    If Jesus prayed, called the Father greater, and did not know the hour, he cannot be God.

    The Son truly became man. Texts about his human life do not cancel the texts that call him God.

    • Mark 13:32Mark 13:32 · King James VersionBut of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.Mark 13:32 · King James VersionOpen source
    • John 14:28John 14:28 · King James VersionYe have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.John 14:28 · King James VersionOpen source
    • John 17:3John 17:3 · King James VersionAnd this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.John 17:3 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Qur’an 19:30Qur’an 19:30 · Saheeh International[Jesus] said, "Indeed, I am the servant of Allāh. He has given me the Scripture and made me a prophet.Qur’an 19:30 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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  5. A Christian objection

    By the Qur’an’s own descriptions of what God alone does, Jesus does those same things in the Gospel.

    The Qur’an says God gives life, is the First and the Last, and comes with the angels. The Gospel says Jesus does the same.

    • Qur’an 22:6Qur’an 22:6 · Saheeh InternationalThat is because Allāh is the True Reality and because He gives life to the dead and because He is over all things competentQur’an 22:6 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 57:3Qur’an 57:3 · Saheeh InternationalHe is the First and the Last, the Ascendant and the Intimate, and He is, of all things, Knowing.Qur’an 57:3 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 89:22Qur’an 89:22 · Saheeh InternationalAnd your Lord has come and the angels, rank upon rank,Qur’an 89:22 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • John 5:21John 5:21 · King James VersionFor as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will.John 5:21 · King James VersionOpen source

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  6. What you will hear

    Jesus was not crucified. It was made to appear so, and God raised him.

    The crucifixion is in the four Gospels, in the creed Paul received, and in Tacitus. Jesus said it would happen.

    • Qur’an 4:157Qur’an 4:157 · Saheeh InternationalAnd [for] their saying, "Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary, the messenger of Allāh." And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain.Qur’an 4:157 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Mark 15:24Mark 15:24 · King James VersionAnd when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take.Mark 15:24 · King James VersionOpen source
    • 1 Corinthians 15:31 Corinthians 15:3 · King James VersionFor I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;1 Corinthians 15:3 · King James VersionOpen source

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  7. What you will hear

    Jesus was a Muslim, because the Qur’an calls his disciples Muslims.

    The Qur’an uses that word for people who submit to God, including Abraham. Jesus recited the Shema, prayed to the Father, and was crucified, which the Qur’an denies.

    • Qur’an 3:52Qur’an 3:52 · Saheeh InternationalBut when Jesus felt [persistence in] disbelief from them, he said, "Who are my supporters for [the cause of] Allāh?" The disciples said, "We are supporters for Allāh. We have believed in Allāh and testify that we are Muslims [submitting to Him].Qur’an 3:52 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 3:67Qur’an 3:67 · Saheeh InternationalAbraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but he was one inclining toward truth, a Muslim [submitting to Allāh]. And he was not of the polytheists.Qur’an 3:67 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Mark 12:29Mark 12:29 · King James VersionAnd Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:Mark 12:29 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Qur’an 4:157Qur’an 4:157 · Saheeh InternationalAnd [for] their saying, "Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary, the messenger of Allāh." And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain.Qur’an 4:157 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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  8. What you will hear

    Jesus never said he was God. He was a prophet who prayed to God.

    He forgave sins, said “Before Abraham was, I am,” and “I and my Father are one,” and Thomas called him “My Lord and my God.” Prayer to the Father means the Son is not the Father.

    • Mark 2:5–7Mark 2:5–7 · King James Version2:5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. 2:6 But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, 2:7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only?Mark 2:5–7 · King James VersionOpen source
    • John 8:58John 8:58 · King James VersionJesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.John 8:58 · King James VersionOpen source
    • John 10:30John 10:30 · King James VersionI and my Father are one.John 10:30 · King James VersionOpen source
    • John 20:28John 20:28 · King James VersionAnd Thomas answered and said unto him, My LORD and my God.John 20:28 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Qur’an 5:72Qur’an 5:72 · Saheeh InternationalThey have certainly disbelieved who say, "Allāh is the Messiah, the son of Mary" while the Messiah has said, "O Children of Israel, worship Allāh, my Lord and your Lord." Indeed, he who associates others with Allāh - Allāh has forbidden him Paradise, and his refuge is the Fire. And there are not for the wrongdoers any helpers.Qur’an 5:72 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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  9. What you will hear

    God did not become a man. The incarnation says what the Qur’an denies.

    The Catechism says the Son of God assumed a human nature and remained truly God. John 1:14 says the Word was made flesh. The Qur’an says he neither begets nor is born.

    • John 1:14John 1:14 · King James VersionAnd the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.John 1:14 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Philippians 2:6Philippians 2:6 · King James VersionWho, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:Philippians 2:6 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Qur’an 4:171Qur’an 4:171 · Saheeh InternationalO People of the Scripture, do not commit excess in your religion or say about Allāh except the truth. The Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary, was but a messenger of Allāh and His word which He directed to Mary and a soul [created at a command] from Him. So believe in Allāh and His messengers. And do not say, "Three"; desist - it is better for you. Indeed, Allāh is but one God. Exalted is He above having a son. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And sufficient is Allāh as Disposer of affairs.Qur’an 4:171 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 112:1–4Qur’an 112:1-4 · Saheeh International1 Say, "He is Allāh, [who is] One, 2 Allāh, the Eternal Refuge. 3 He neither begets nor is born, 4 Nor is there to Him any equivalent."Qur’an 112:1-4 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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  10. What you will hear

    “My God, why have you forsaken me?” shows Jesus was not God, or that he was not the one on the cross.

    The sentence is Psalm 22:1. The psalm ends with God hearing the sufferer. The cry is the Son bearing sin, inside the crucifixion the Qur’an denies.

    • Mark 15:34Mark 15:34 · King James VersionAnd at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?Mark 15:34 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Psalm 22:1Psalms 22:1 · King James VersionMy God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?Psalms 22:1 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Psalm 22:24Psalms 22:24 · King James VersionFor he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted; neither hath he hid his face from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.Psalms 22:24 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Qur’an 4:157Qur’an 4:157 · Saheeh InternationalAnd [for] their saying, "Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary, the messenger of Allāh." And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain.Qur’an 4:157 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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Muhammad

  1. What you will hear

    Muhammad was a real man in Mecca and Medina, and that is why he is a prophet.

    The Qur’an names him, and the biography dates his death to 8 June 632. A man in Arabia is not the same claim as a prophet after Jesus, whom Thomas calls Lord and God.

    • Qur’an 33:40Qur’an 33:40 · Saheeh InternationalMuḥammad is not the father of [any] one of your men, but [he is] the Messenger of Allāh and seal [i.e., last] of the prophets. And ever is Allāh, of all things, Knowing.Qur’an 33:40 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 3:144Qur’an 3:144 · Saheeh InternationalMuḥammad is not but a messenger. [Other] messengers have passed on before him. So if he was to die or be killed, would you turn back on your heels [to unbelief]? And he who turns back on his heels will never harm Allāh at all; but Allāh will reward the grateful.Qur’an 3:144 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • John 20:28John 20:28 · King James VersionAnd Thomas answered and said unto him, My LORD and my God.John 20:28 · King James VersionOpen source

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  2. What you will hear

    Hadith describe Muhammad’s height, color, and hair, so that description is the pattern to follow.

    Sunni reports say medium height, neither absolutely white nor deep brown. The Qur’an calls him a pattern and does not give that list. Christians follow Jesus, who is God.

    • Sahih al-Bukhari 3547Sahih al-Bukhari 3547 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated Rabi`a bin Abi `Abdur-Rahman: I heard Anas bin Malik describing the Prophet (ﷺ) saying, "He was of medium height amongst the people, neither tall nor short; he had a rosy color, neither absolutely white nor deep brown; his hair was neither completely curly nor quite lank. Divine Inspiration was revealed to him when he was forty years old. He stayed ten years in Mecca receiving the Divine Inspiration, and stayed in Medina for ten more years. When he expired, he had scarcely twenty white hairs in his head and beard." Rabi`a said, "I saw some of his hairs and it was red. When I asked about that, I was told that it turned red because of scent. "Sahih al-Bukhari 3547 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source
    • Qur’an 33:21Qur’an 33:21 · Saheeh InternationalThere has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allāh an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allāh and the Last Day and [who] remembers Allāh often.Qur’an 33:21 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • John 1:1John 1:1 · King James VersionIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.John 1:1 · King James VersionOpen source

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  3. What you will hear

    Jesus foretold a messenger named Ahmad, and the Helper in John 14–16 is Muhammad.

    John’s Helper is the Holy Spirit, who stays with the disciples, teaches them, and glorifies Jesus. No Gospel manuscript says Ahmad.

    • Qur’an 61:6Qur’an 61:6 · Saheeh InternationalAnd [mention] when Jesus, the son of Mary, said, "O Children of Israel, indeed I am the messenger of Allāh to you confirming what came before me of the Torah and bringing good tidings of a messenger to come after me, whose name is Aḥmad." But when he came to them with clear evidences, they said, "This is obvious magic."Qur’an 61:6 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • John 14:16John 14:16 · King James VersionAnd I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;John 14:16 · King James VersionOpen source
    • John 14:26John 14:26 · King James VersionBut the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.John 14:26 · King James VersionOpen source

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  4. What you will hear

    Islam has a fixed number of prophets, and Muhammad is the last.

    The Qur’an names messengers and says some stories were not told. It does not print a total. It calls Muhammad the seal. Christians say God has spoken by the Son, who is God.

    • Qur’an 4:164Qur’an 4:164 · Saheeh InternationalAnd [We sent] messengers about whom We have related [their stories] to you before and messengers about whom We have not related to you. And Allāh spoke to Moses with [direct] speech.Qur’an 4:164 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 33:40Qur’an 33:40 · Saheeh InternationalMuḥammad is not the father of [any] one of your men, but [he is] the Messenger of Allāh and seal [i.e., last] of the prophets. And ever is Allāh, of all things, Knowing.Qur’an 33:40 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Hebrews 1:1Hebrews 1:1 · King James VersionGod, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,Hebrews 1:1 · King James VersionOpen source

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  5. What you will hear

    Muhammad could not read or write, so the Qur’an is a miracle.

    The Qur’an calls him the unlettered prophet, and the same root is also “unlearned.” A treaty report says he wrote or had the line written. Letters do not make him a prophet after Jesus.

    • Qur’an 7:157Qur’an 7:157 · Saheeh InternationalThose who follow the Messenger, the unlettered prophet, whom they find written [i.e., described] in what they have of the Torah and the Gospel, who enjoins upon them what is right and prohibits them from what is wrong and makes lawful for them what is good and forbids them from what is evil and relieves them of their burden and the shackles which were upon them. So they who have believed in him, honored him, supported him and followed the light which was sent down with him - it is those who will be the successful.Qur’an 7:157 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 29:48Qur’an 29:48 · Saheeh InternationalAnd you did not recite before it any scripture, nor did you inscribe one with your right hand. Then [i.e., otherwise] the falsifiers would have had [cause for] doubt.Qur’an 29:48 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 3Sahih al-Bukhari 3 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated 'Aisha (the mother of the faithful believers): The commencement of the Divine Inspiration to Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) was in the form of good dreams which came true like bright daylight, and then the love of seclusion was bestowed upon him. He used to go in seclusion in the cave of Hira where he used to worship (Allah alone) continuously for many days before his desire to see his family. He used to take with him the journey food for the stay and then come back to (his wife) Khadija to take his food likewise again till suddenly the Truth descended upon him while he was in the cave of Hira. The angel came to him and asked him to read. The Prophet (ﷺ) replied, "I do not know how to read." The Prophet (ﷺ) added, "The angel caught me (forcefully) and pressed me so hard that I could not bear it any more. He then released me and again asked me to read and I replied, 'I do not know how to read.' Thereupon he caught me again and pressed me a second time till I could not bear it any more. He then released me and again asked me to read but again I replied, 'I do not know how to read (or what shall I read)?' Thereupon he caught me for the third time and pressed me, and then released me and said, 'Read in the name of your Lord, who has created (all that exists), created man from a clot. Read! And your Lord is the Most Generous." (96.1, 96.2, 96.3) Then Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) returned with the Inspiration and with his heart beating severely. Then he went to Khadija bint Khuwailid and said, "Cover me! Cover me!" They covered him till his fear was over and after that he told her everything that had happened and said, "I fear that something may happen to me." Khadija replied, "Never! By Allah, Allah will never disgrace you. You keep good relations with your kith and kin, help the poor and the destitute, serve your guests generously and assist the deserving calamity-afflicted ones." Khadija then accompanied him to her cousin Waraqa bin Naufal bin Asad bin 'Abdul 'Uzza, who, during the pre-Islamic Period became a Christian and used to write the writing with Hebrew letters. He would write from the Gospel in Hebrew as much as Allah wished him to write. He was an old man and had lost his eyesight. Khadija said to Waraqa, "Listen to the story of your nephew, O my cousin!" Waraqa asked, "O my nephew! What have you seen?" Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) described whatever he had seen. Waraqa said, "This is the same one who keeps the secrets (angel Gabriel) whom Allah had sent to Moses. I wish I were young and could live up to the time when your people would turn you out." Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) asked, "Will they drive me out?" Waraqa replied in the affirmative and said, "Anyone (man) who came with something similar to what you have brought was treated with hostility; and if I should remain alive till the day when you will be turned out then I would support you strongly." But after a few days Waraqa died and the Divine Inspiration was also paused for a while.Sahih al-Bukhari 3 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source

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  6. What you will hear

    Muhammad is the prophet like Moses in Deuteronomy 18, the one the Qur’an says is written in the Torah and the Gospel.

    Deuteronomy 18 promises a prophet from among Israel, and the New Testament applies that promise to Jesus. The Torah and the Gospel do not name Muhammad.

    • Deuteronomy 18:15Deuteronomy 18:15 · King James VersionThe LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken;Deuteronomy 18:15 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Acts 3:22Acts 3:22 · King James VersionFor Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.Acts 3:22 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Qur’an 7:157Qur’an 7:157 · Saheeh InternationalThose who follow the Messenger, the unlettered prophet, whom they find written [i.e., described] in what they have of the Torah and the Gospel, who enjoins upon them what is right and prohibits them from what is wrong and makes lawful for them what is good and forbids them from what is evil and relieves them of their burden and the shackles which were upon them. So they who have believed in him, honored him, supported him and followed the light which was sent down with him - it is those who will be the successful.Qur’an 7:157 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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Practice and Law

  1. What you will hear

    A mosque is the house of worship, and prayer faces Mecca.

    The Qur’an says the masjids are for Allah and turns the face toward the Sacred Mosque. Jesus says the Father is worshiped in spirit and truth, not on one mountain.

    • Qur’an 72:18Qur’an 72:18 · Saheeh InternationalAnd [He revealed] that the masjids are for Allāh, so do not invoke with Allāh anyone.Qur’an 72:18 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 2:144Qur’an 2:144 · Saheeh InternationalWe have certainly seen the turning of your face, [O Muḥammad], toward the heaven, and We will surely turn you to a qiblah with which you will be pleased. So turn your face [i.e., yourself] toward al-Masjid al-Ḥarām. And wherever you [believers] are, turn your faces [i.e., yourselves] toward it [in prayer]. Indeed, those who have been given the Scripture [i.e., the Jews and the Christians] well know that it is the truth from their Lord. And Allāh is not unaware of what they do.Qur’an 2:144 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • John 4:24John 4:24 · King James VersionGod is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.John 4:24 · King James VersionOpen source

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  2. What you will hear

    Islam honors women, and men and women are equal in the Qur’an.

    The Qur’an says a woman’s work is not lost, and it also puts men in charge, gives a son twice a daughter’s share, and counts two women as witnesses for one man. Christians say male and female are both in the image of God, and that Jesus is God.

    • Qur’an 3:195Qur’an 3:195 · Saheeh InternationalAnd their Lord responded to them, "Never will I allow to be lost the work of [any] worker among you, whether male or female; you are of one another. So those who emigrated or were evicted from their homes or were harmed in My cause or fought or were killed - I will surely remove from them their misdeeds, and I will surely admit them to gardens beneath which rivers flow as reward from Allāh, and Allāh has with Him the best reward."Qur’an 3:195 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 4:34Qur’an 4:34 · Saheeh InternationalMen are in charge of women by [right of] what Allāh has given one over the other and what they spend [for maintenance] from their wealth. So righteous women are devoutly obedient, guarding in [the husband's] absence what Allāh would have them guard. But those [wives] from whom you fear arrogance - [first] advise them; [then if they persist], forsake them in bed; and [finally], strike them [lightly]. But if they obey you [once more], seek no means against them. Indeed, Allāh is ever Exalted and Grand.Qur’an 4:34 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 4:11Qur’an 4:11 · Saheeh InternationalAllāh instructs you concerning your children [i.e., their portions of inheritance]: for the male, what is equal to the share of two females. But if there are [only] daughters, two or more, for them is two thirds of one's estate. And if there is only one, for her is half. And for one's parents, to each one of them is a sixth of his estate if he left children. But if he had no children and the parents [alone] inherit from him, then for his mother is one third. And if he had brothers [and/or sisters], for his mother is a sixth, after any bequest he [may have] made or debt. Your parents or your children - you know not which of them are nearest to you in benefit. [These shares are] an obligation [imposed] by Allāh. Indeed, Allāh is ever Knowing and Wise.Qur’an 4:11 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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  3. A Christian objection

    Aisha was a child when Muhammad married her.

    Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim record her saying she was married at six and that the marriage was consummated at nine. Qur’an 33:21 calls Muhammad an excellent pattern.

    • Sahih al-Bukhari 5133Sahih al-Bukhari 5133 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated `Aisha: that the Prophet (ﷺ) married her when she was six years old and he consummated his marriage when she was nine years old, and then she remained with him for nine years (i.e., till his death).Sahih al-Bukhari 5133 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source
    • Sahih Muslim 1422Sahih Muslim 1422 · Abdul Hamid Siddiqui'A'isha (Allah be pleased with her) reported: Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) married me when I was six years old, and I was admitted to his house at the age of nine. She further said: We went to Medina and I had an attack of fever for a month, and my hair had come down to the earlobes. Umm Ruman (my mother) came to me and I was at that time on a swing along with my playmates. She called me loudly and I went to her and I did not know what she had wanted of me. She took hold of my hand and took me to the door, and I was saying: Ha, ha (as if I was gasping), until the agitation of my heart was over. She took me to a house, where had gathered the women of the Ansar. They all blessed me and wished me good luck and said: May you have share in good. She (my mother) entrusted me to them. They washed my head and embellished me and nothing frightened me. Allah's Messenger (, may peace be upon him) came there in the morning, and I was entrusted to him.Sahih Muslim 1422 · Abdul Hamid SiddiquiOpen source
    • Qur’an 33:21Qur’an 33:21 · Saheeh InternationalThere has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allāh an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allāh and the Last Day and [who] remembers Allāh often.Qur’an 33:21 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source

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  4. What you will hear

    Muslims go to a paradise of gardens, rivers, and spouses.

    The Qur’an describes that garden and the Fire, and it includes believing women. Christians hope for the Father’s house through Jesus, not for that garden.

    • Qur’an 2:25Qur’an 2:25 · Saheeh InternationalAnd give good tidings to those who believe and do righteous deeds that they will have gardens [in Paradise] beneath which rivers flow. Whenever they are provided with a provision of fruit therefrom, they will say, "This is what we were provided with before." And it is given to them in likeness. And they will have therein purified spouses, and they will abide therein eternally.Qur’an 2:25 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 9:72Qur’an 9:72 · Saheeh InternationalAllāh has promised the believing men and believing women gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they abide eternally, and pleasant dwellings in gardens of perpetual residence; but approval from Allāh is greater. It is that which is the great attainment.Qur’an 9:72 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • John 14:2John 14:2 · King James VersionIn my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.John 14:2 · King James VersionOpen source

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  5. What you will hear

    Muslims believe in one God, his angels, his books, his messengers, the Last Day, and divine decree, and they practice the testimony, prayer, zakat, fasting, and Hajj.

    Those are the lines the Qur’an and a Sunni hadith name. Christians confess that the one God is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and that Jesus is God.

    • Qur’an 4:136Qur’an 4:136 · Saheeh InternationalO you who have believed, believe in Allāh and His Messenger and the Book that He sent down upon His Messenger and the Scripture which He sent down before. And whoever disbelieves in Allāh, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day has certainly gone far astray.Qur’an 4:136 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 3:19Qur’an 3:19 · Saheeh InternationalIndeed, the religion in the sight of Allāh is Islām. And those who were given the Scripture did not differ except after knowledge had come to them - out of jealous animosity between themselves. And whoever disbelieves in the verses of Allāh, then indeed, Allāh is swift in [taking] account.Qur’an 3:19 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 8Sahih al-Bukhari 8 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated Ibn 'Umar: Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: Islam is based on (the following) five (principles): 1. To testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and Muhammad is Allah's Messenger (ﷺ). 2. To offer the (compulsory congregational) prayers dutifully and perfectly. 3. To pay Zakat (i.e. obligatory charity) . 4. To perform Hajj. (i.e. Pilgrimage to Mecca) 5. To observe fast during the month of Ramadan.Sahih al-Bukhari 8 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source
    • John 1:1John 1:1 · King James VersionIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.John 1:1 · King James VersionOpen source

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  6. What you will hear

    Islam and Christianity worship the same God and honor the same Jesus, and the remaining differences are secondary.

    Both speak of one God and of Jesus. They divide on whether Jesus is God, whether he was crucified, and whether God is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

    • Qur’an 4:171Qur’an 4:171 · Saheeh InternationalO People of the Scripture, do not commit excess in your religion or say about Allāh except the truth. The Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary, was but a messenger of Allāh and His word which He directed to Mary and a soul [created at a command] from Him. So believe in Allāh and His messengers. And do not say, "Three"; desist - it is better for you. Indeed, Allāh is but one God. Exalted is He above having a son. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And sufficient is Allāh as Disposer of affairs.Qur’an 4:171 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 4:157Qur’an 4:157 · Saheeh InternationalAnd [for] their saying, "Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary, the messenger of Allāh." And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain.Qur’an 4:157 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • John 1:1John 1:1 · King James VersionIn the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.John 1:1 · King James VersionOpen source

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  7. What you will hear

    Jihad in the Qur’an means only a personal, inner struggle, not fighting.

    Some verses speak of striving with the Qur’an. Other verses command fighting, including the sword verse. Sahih al-Bukhari 25, a Sunni hadith, says he was ordered to fight until people testify, pray, and give zakat.

    • Qur’an 25:52Qur’an 25:52 · Saheeh InternationalSo do not obey the disbelievers, and strive against them with it [i.e., the Qur’ān] a great striving.Qur’an 25:52 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 9:5Qur’an 9:5 · Saheeh InternationalAnd when the inviolable months have passed, then kill the polytheists wherever you find them and capture them and besiege them and sit in wait for them at every place of ambush. But if they should repent, establish prayer, and give zakāh, let them [go] on their way. Indeed, Allāh is Forgiving and Merciful.Qur’an 9:5 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 2:190Qur’an 2:190 · Saheeh InternationalFight in the way of Allāh those who fight against you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allāh does not like transgressors.Qur’an 2:190 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 25Sahih al-Bukhari 25 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated Ibn 'Umar: Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: "I have been ordered (by Allah) to fight against the people until they testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and that Muhammad is Allah's Messenger (ﷺ), and offer the prayers perfectly and give the obligatory charity, so if they perform that, then they save their lives and property from me except for Islamic laws and then their reckoning (accounts) will be done by Allah."Sahih al-Bukhari 25 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source

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  8. What you will hear

    Islam does not punish a person for leaving the religion.

    The Qur’an says there is no compulsion in religion. Sahih al-Bukhari 6922 and Sahih Muslim 1676a, Sunni hadith, order death for the one who changes his religion or leaves the community.

    • Qur’an 2:256Qur’an 2:256 · Saheeh InternationalThere shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the religion. The right course has become distinct from the wrong. So whoever disbelieves in ṭāghūt and believes in Allāh has grasped the most trustworthy handhold with no break in it. And Allāh is Hearing and Knowing.Qur’an 2:256 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 6922Sahih al-Bukhari 6922 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated `Ikrima: Some Zanadiqa (atheists) were brought to `Ali and he burnt them. The news of this event, reached Ibn `Abbas who said, "If I had been in his place, I would not have burnt them, as Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) forbade it, saying, 'Do not punish anybody with Allah's punishment (fire).' I would have killed them according to the statement of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ), 'Whoever changed his Islamic religion, then kill him.'"Sahih al-Bukhari 6922 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source
    • Sahih Muslim 1676aSahih Muslim 1676a · Abdul Hamid Siddiqui'Abdullah (b. Mas'ud) reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying: It is not permissible to take the life of a Muslim who bears testimony (to the fact that there is no god but Allah, and I am the Messenger of Allah, but in one of the three cases: the married adulterer, a life for life, and the deserter of his Din (Islam), abandoning the community.Sahih Muslim 1676a · Abdul Hamid SiddiquiOpen source

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  9. What you will hear

    Muslim women wear a covering because the Qur’an commands it, and the reports differ on the face.

    Qur’an 24:31 tells believing women to draw their head coverings over their chests. Qur’an 33:59 gives the outer garment so they will be known and not abused. Bukhari 4758 describes heads and faces covered. Abu Dawud 4104 points to the face and hands, and Abu Dawud calls that report mursal.

    • Qur’an 24:31Qur’an 24:31 · Saheeh InternationalAnd tell the believing women to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts and not expose their adornment except that which [necessarily] appears thereof and to wrap [a portion of] their headcovers over their chests and not expose their adornment [i.e., beauty] except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands' fathers, their sons, their husbands' sons, their brothers, their brothers' sons, their sisters' sons, their women, that which their right hands possess [i.e., slaves], or those male attendants having no physical desire, or children who are not yet aware of the private aspects of women. And let them not stamp their feet to make known what they conceal of their adornment. And turn to Allāh in repentance, all of you, O believers, that you might succeed.Qur’an 24:31 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 33:59Qur’an 33:59 · Saheeh InternationalO Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to bring down over themselves [part] of their outer garments. That is more suitable that they will be known and not be abused. And ever is Allāh Forgiving and Merciful.Qur’an 33:59 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Sahih al-Bukhari 4758Sahih al-Bukhari 4758 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanNarrated `Aishah: May Allah bestow His Mercy on the early emigrant women. When Allah revealed: "... and to draw their veils all over their Juyubihinna (i.e., their bodies, faces, necks and bosoms)..." (V.24:31) they tore their Murat (woolen dresses or waist-binding clothes or aprons etc.) and covered their heads and faces with those torn Muruts.Sahih al-Bukhari 4758 · Muhammad Muhsin KhanOpen source
    • Sunan Abi Dawud 4104Sunan Abi Dawud 4104 · sunnah.com EnglishAsma, daughter of AbuBakr, entered upon the Messenger of Allah wearing thin clothes. The Messenger of Allah turned his attention from her. He said: O Asma', when a woman reaches the age of menstruation, it does not suit her that she displays her parts of body except this and this, and he pointed to his face and hands. Abu Dawud said: This is a mursal tradition (i.e. the narrator who transmitted it from 'Aishah is missing) Khalid b. Duraik did not see 'Aishah.Sunan Abi Dawud 4104 · sunnah.com EnglishOpen source

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  10. What you will hear

    Sharia is one statute book that every Muslim country applies in the same words.

    Britannica says sharia is considered divine and immutable, and that fiqh, the human effort to state it, is changeable. The Qur’an speaks of an ordained way and of a law and a method. Sunni schools are named on the Sunni page.

    • Qur’an 45:18Qur’an 45:18 · Saheeh InternationalThen We put you, [O Muḥammad], on an ordained way concerning the matter [of religion]; so follow it and do not follow the inclinations of those who do not know.Qur’an 45:18 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 5:48Qur’an 5:48 · Saheeh InternationalAnd We have revealed to you, [O Muḥammad], the Book [i.e., the Qur’ān] in truth, confirming that which preceded it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it. So judge between them by what Allāh has revealed and do not follow their inclinations away from what has come to you of the truth. To each of you We prescribed a law and a method. Had Allāh willed, He would have made you one nation [united in religion], but [He intended] to test you in what He has given you; so race to [all that is] good. To Allāh is your return all together, and He will [then] inform you concerning that over which you used to differ.Qur’an 5:48 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Britannica, fiqh

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  11. What you will hear

    A Christian and a Muslim may marry.

    Qur’an 5:5 permits marriage to chaste women from the People of the Scripture. Qur’an 2:221 and 60:10 do not permit a believing woman to marry a polytheistic or disbelieving man. 2 Corinthians 6:14 says not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers.

    • Qur’an 5:5Qur’an 5:5 · Saheeh InternationalThis day [all] good foods have been made lawful, and the food of those who were given the Scripture is lawful for you and your food is lawful for them. And [lawful in marriage are] chaste women from among the believers and chaste women from among those who were given the Scripture before you, when you have given them their due compensation, desiring chastity, not unlawful sexual intercourse or taking [secret] lovers. And whoever denies the faith - his work has become worthless, and he, in the Hereafter, will be among the losers.Qur’an 5:5 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Qur’an 60:10Qur’an 60:10 · Saheeh InternationalO you who have believed, when the believing women come to you as emigrants, examine [i.e., test] them. Allāh is most knowing as to their faith. And if you know them to be believers, then do not return them to the disbelievers; they are not lawful [wives] for them, nor are they lawful [husbands] for them. But give them [i.e., the disbelievers] what they have spent. And there is no blame upon you if you marry them when you have given them their due compensation [i.e., mahr]. And hold not to marriage bonds with disbelieving women, but ask for what you have spent and let them [i.e., the disbelievers] ask for what they have spent. That is the judgement of Allāh; He judges between you. And Allāh is Knowing and Wise.Qur’an 60:10 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • 2 Corinthians 6:142 Corinthians 6:14 · King James VersionBe ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?2 Corinthians 6:14 · King James VersionOpen source

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  12. What you will hear

    Allah has ninety-nine names, and memorizing them brings a person into paradise.

    Sahih al-Bukhari 7392 says that. The page does not print the list. The Qur’an says the best names belong to God. The Bible names the LORD, I AM, and the Almighty, and says the Word was God.

    • Sahih al-Bukhari 7392Sahih al-Bukhari 7392 · sunnah.com EnglishNarrated Abu Huraira: Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Allah has ninety-nine Names, one-hundred less one; and he who memorized them all by heart will enter Paradise."Sahih al-Bukhari 7392 · sunnah.com EnglishOpen source
    • Qur’an 7:180Qur’an 7:180 · Saheeh InternationalAnd to Allāh belong the best names, so invoke Him by them. And leave [the company of] those who practice deviation concerning His names. They will be recompensed for what they have been doing.Qur’an 7:180 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • Exodus 34:6Exodus 34:6 · King James VersionAnd the LORD passed by before him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,Exodus 34:6 · King James VersionOpen source

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  13. What you will hear

    The Temple Mount is Al-Aqsa, the place of the Night Journey.

    Qur’an 17:1 names the night journey to al-Masjid al-Aqsa. The Hashemite page calls the whole compound Al-Aqsa, including the Dome of the Rock. The Bible says Solomon built the house of the Lord there.

    • Qur’an 17:1Qur’an 17:1 · Saheeh InternationalExalted is He who took His Servant [i.e., Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ)] by night from al-Masjid al-Ḥarām to al-Masjid al-Aqṣā, whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.Qur’an 17:1 · Saheeh InternationalOpen source
    • 1 Kings 6:11 Kings 6:1 · King James VersionAnd it came to pass in the four hundred and eightieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon’s reign over Israel, in the month Zif, which is the second month, that he began to build the house of the LORD.1 Kings 6:1 · King James VersionOpen source
    • Matthew 24:2Matthew 24:2 · King James VersionAnd Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.Matthew 24:2 · King James VersionOpen source

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