Christianity and Christians in Early Islamic Context
Etymology and Terminology
- Christianity: Arabic – Naṣrānīyah (نصرانية).
- Christian: Arabic – Naṣrān (نصران, singular) or Naṣāra (نصارى, plural); ʿĪsawī (عيسوي, follower of Jesus).
- Christianity: Turkish – Hristiyanlık (Hristiyanlık).
- Christian: Turkish – Hristiyan (Hristiyan).
Historical Context
Christianity had a significant presence in Arabia during the time of the Prophet Muhammad. Various tribes, such as the Banū Taghlib in Mesopotamia and the Banū G͟hassān in Syria, practised Christianity.
Theophilus, an Indian bishop sent by Emperor Constance in A.D. 342, established churches in Yemen, which exemplifies early Christian influence in the region. Similarly, a Christian community thrived in Najrān, where a bishop appointed by the Patriarch of Alexandria was stationed.
Muslim authors, such as those cited by Caussin de Perceval, recount the construction of a remarkable church in Ṣanʿāʾ, funded by the Byzantine Emperor and the Abyssinian Viceroy.
Christian Influence on Early Islam
Origins of Islam and its Interaction with Christianity
The Qur’an and early Islamic texts reflect a nuanced view of Christians:
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Acknowledgment: Certain Qur’anic verses exhibit respect towards Christians, acknowledging them among those who believe in God and the Last Day (Surah 2:62, Surah 5:85).
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Critique: Certain verses critique Christian doctrines such as the Trinity and the divinity of Jesus (Surah 4:156, Surah 5:75).
Jesus in Islamic and Christian Teachings
The Qur’an recognizes Jesus (ʿĪsā) as a significant prophet and messenger, albeit with notable theological differences from Christian teachings.
- Crucifixion: Islamic texts assert that Jesus was not crucified but rather it appeared so (Surah 4:156).
- Virgin Mary: Highly revered in the Qur’an, Mary (Maryam) is depicted as a pious and chosen woman, although she is often confused with Mary the sister of Aaron due to historical discrepancies.
Scriptural Pluralism and Respect
Islamic tradition, as gathered from various Hadiths, indicates sporadic recognition and utilization of Christian ethical teachings:
- Compassion and Altruism: Islamic texts mirror certain Christian ethical instructions, like generosity and visiting the sick, resembling the New Testament values (e.g., parallels with Matthew 6:3 and Matthew 25:31-46).
Legal and Social Status of Christians in Islamic States
Dhimmi Status
Under Islamic rule, Christians typically assumed the status of Dhimmis (ذمي), paying a Jizyah (tax) in exchange for protection and religious freedom, although subjected to legal and social limitations:
- Restrictions: Dhimmis were often restricted in their religious constructions, military participation, and attire to maintain a clear distinction from Muslims.
- Protection and Coexistence: Despite restrictions, historical records attest to periods of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
Qur’anic Verses on Christians
- Surah 5:85: “…thou wilt certainly find those to be nearest in affection to them who say, ‘We are Christians.’ This, because there are amongst them priests (qissīsūn) and monks, and because they are not proud.”
- Surah 2:62: “Verily, they who believe (Muslims), and they who follow the Jewish religion, and the Christians, and the Sabeites—whoever of these believeth in God and the last day, and doeth that which is right, shall have their reward with their Lord: fear shall not come upon them, neither shall they be grieved.”
Key Texts for Further Study
- “The Idea of the Muslim Community and the Dynamics of Change in Early Islam” by Michael Morony
- “Muhammad and the Believers at the Origins of Islam” by Fred M. Donner
- “Christianity in the Arab East” by Habib Badr
Takeaways and Conclusion
- The early Islamic period saw significant interaction with Christian communities, influencing both theological discourse and social practices.
- Christianity and its historical presence reminded early Muslims of the larger Abrahamic tradition, though doctrinal differences and historical conflicts sometimes led to tensions.
- The Qur’an and Hadith literature include attitudes towards Christianity that reflect a blend of critique, respect, and the shared foundation in monotheistic faith.
Understanding the intricate relationship between early Islam and Christianity provides a vital context for comprehending the broader Islamic worldview and the historic dynamics of interfaith relations.
