Gospel in Islam
Definition and Etymology
Gospel, known as Injīl (انجيل) in Arabic, refers specifically to one of the revealed books in Islamic theology. It is believed to have been given to Prophet Isa (Jesus Christ, peace be upon him) by God. The term “Gospel” originates from the Old English gōdspel, meaning “good news.” In the Islamic tradition, the Injīl is understood as the holy scripture that was revealed before being incorporated into the New Testament but is distinct and not identical in form.
Quranic Perspective
The Quran mentions the Injīl in several verses, emphasizing that it was a guidance and light provided to Jesus (Isa). According to Islamic belief, the original message of the Injīl has been altered, and contemporary Gospels are seen as containing only fragments of the original divine revelation.
Verse Reference:
- “And 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…” (Quran 5:46)
Significance in Islam
The Injīl holds significant importance in Islam as one of the four major divine books, the others being the Torah (Tawrat), the Psalms (Zabur), and the Quran. Recognizing the Injīl underlines Islam’s acknowledgment of preceding scriptures and prophets. However, Muslims rely on the Quran as the final and unaltered word of God, which confirms and supersedes previous revelations.
Interfaith Relations
Understanding the concept of Injīl is vital for fostering dialogue between Muslims and Christians. It highlights common prophetic figures and shared reverence for divine guidance, thus serving as a bridge for interfaith mutual respect and understanding.
Arabic Translation
- Gospel: Injīl (Arabic: إنجيل)
Turkish Translation
- Gospel: İncil
Suggested Books for Further Study
- “The Bible, The Qur’an and Science” by Maurice Bucaille
- “Islam and Christianity” by Muḥammad Ḥusayn Ḥakim
- “Jesus in the Qur’an” by Geoffrey Parrinder
- “Christianity: An Islamic Perspective” by Sheikh Ahmed Deedat
Takeaways
- Injīl (Gospel) in Islam is the divine scripture revealed to Prophet Isa (Jesus).
- Mentioned in the Quran, it is respected but considered altered in its current form.
- Plays a crucial role in interfaith dialogue, acknowledging shared prophetic heritage.
- Enhances understanding of Islamic recognition of earlier divine scriptures.
Conclusion
The Gospel, or Injīl, is an essential aspect of Islamic theology and holds a revered position, reflecting Islam’s connection and continuity with earlier Abrahamic traditions. Understanding its role enriches both academic inquiry and interfaith engagements, fostering deeper mutual respect and knowledge.
