Gospel of Barnabas - Origin, Controversies, and Significance in Islam

Gospel of Barnabas - Origin, Controversies, and Significance in Islam

Introduction

The Gospel of Barnabas is an apocryphal text that has been the subject of intense debate among scholars of both Islam and Christianity. Claiming to offer a more accurate account of the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, this gospel differs significantly from canonical Christian texts. It is particularly noted for its alignment with Islamic teachings, leading to speculation about its origins and purpose.

Etymology

The name “Barnabas” comes from the Greek “Βαρνάβας” (Barnabas), which is believed to be derived from the Aramaic/Hebrew phrase “בר נביא” (Bar Navi) meaning “son of the prophet” or “בר-נחמה” (Bar-Neḥemah) meaning “son of consolation.”

• Arabic: إنجيل برنابا (Injīl Barnaba)
• Turkish: Barnabas İncili

Overview and Historical Context

The Gospel of Barnabas is said to have various manuscript versions, the most famous being an Italian manuscript preserved in the library of Prince Eugene of Savoy and a Spanish translation allegedly made by an Aragonese Muslim named Moṣtafā de Aranda. The text contains 222 chapters and includes narratives similar to those found in the canonical Gospels but diverges in several crucial ways to align with Islamic theology.

Key Features and Claims

1. Prophetic References to Muhammad: The text substitutes the term “Paraclete” with “Periclyte,” interpreted to mean “famous” or “illustrious,” which Muslims assert foretells the coming of Muhammad.

2. Judas’ Crucifixion: The gospel claims that Judas Iscariot was transformed to look like Jesus and was crucified in His place, thereby denying the crucifixion of Jesus—a view that aligns with Islamic beliefs as stated in the Qurʾān (Surah 4:157).

3. Jesus’ Ascension Without Crucifixion: The gospel narrates that Jesus was taken up to the third heaven, avoiding death by crucifixion.

Controversies and Criticisms

• Forgery Allegations: Scholars argue that the Gospel of Barnabas is a forgery, possibly created by a Christian convert to Islam or an individual with limited understanding of both religions. This is suggested by the text’s errors, such as calling Muhammad the Messiah, a title traditionally reserved for Jesus in Islamic theology.

• Interfaith Polemics: The text is often cited in Muslim-Christian debates to support Islamic views about Jesus and to argue against the divinity and crucifixion of Christ as accepted in mainstream Christian doctrine.

Scholarly Views

Scholars like George Sale, who translated the Quran into English, opined that while the text was altered to serve Muslim purposes, some elements point towards a Christian origin before being modified. The Rev. Joseph White also highlighted discrepancies that indicate later Islamic influences.

Books for Further Studies

• “The Gospel of Barnabas” by Lonsdale and Laura Ragg
• “The Gospel of Barnabas: Its True Value” by M.A. Yusseff
• “The Influence of Islam on Christianity” by David W. Shenk

Takeaways

1. Interfaith Shaping: The Gospel of Barnabas represents a noteworthy example of how religion can be reshaped in the context of interfaith dialogues and polemics.

2. Historical Impact: Despite its disputed authenticity, this gospel has impacted both Islamic and Christian thought, particularly in how each faith views Jesus and his mission.

3. Critical Reading: Whether regarded as a genuine historical document or a later forgery, the Gospel of Barnabas is a critical text for understanding the mutual perceptions between Islam and Christianity.

Conclusion

The Gospel of Barnabas stands as a salient point of dialogue and contention between Islam and Christianity, reflective of broader interfaith dynamics. Its controversial claims necessitate cautious and critical analysis, enriching our understanding of how religious narratives can evolve and be appropriated across different theological landscapes.