There is a great deal of tension between Islam and Judaism in the modern day world, but interestingly enough, it is merely a modern trend. How do I know that? Read this article very carefully, and with an open mind. Keep in mind that I’m not a prophet or trying to tell you how it is, because that depends on you and your reasoning. I am saddened by the conflict between Jews and Muslims, and if my words could carry the weight, they would stop the conflict right here, right now. My heart says that I must at least try.
I have a lot of interest in many of the world’s major religions, including Islam and Judaism. I came across the following verse in the Qur’an, the premier book upon which the modern understanding of Islam is premised.
Those who believe (in the Qur’an), and those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Christians and the Sabians,- any who believe in God and the Last Day, and work righteousness, shall have their reward with their Lord; on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve. – Qur’an, sura 2 (Al-Baqarah), ayat 62.
It seems to me that religion is not the source of the problem between Islam and Judaism since they both are Abrahamic religions based on love and compassion. It is enough to see that word Islam has same roots as the Hebrew word shalom, which means peace. If we look at history, we can see how Muslims and Jews cooperated and coexisted peacefully. A great example of this is that of Andalusia in Spain, where after the victory of Tariq ibn Zyad in 711, coming of Moors was warmly welcomed by Jewish people. This is admitted by both Muslim and Christian records.
Science and philosophy of Islam were made available to educated Jews, and as a result, knowledge and benefits of medicine, commerce, finance, and agriculture greatly increased. History is full of similar examples of cooperation. Great works of art, music, science and philosophy came from that cooperation. The very idea that Muslims and Jews have worked together so effectively in the past gives a spark of hope that it can indeed be done again. I wouldn’t be happier than to see different nations and different religions working together for the higher goal, our spiritual achievements that would bring us closer together.
I cannot write about Islam and Jewish people and not mention Jerusalem, which has sadly, in modern times, become a symbol of division between Islam, Christianity and Judaism – each of which has a beautiful message of peace and love. As history teaches us, this was not always the case. Jerusalem was once a great center of free practice of different religions and mutual cooperation. It seemed like paradise on earth for much of Islamic history.
I am convinced that it could be like that even now, if only we would recognize one truth. As all Abrahamic religions preach, we are all sons of Great Father, God. It is forbidden to kill your own brother because that is not good, but evil. Do unto others as you would do unto yourself brings explanation as to why killing is evil. I am convinced that if enlightened people would stand up against this kind of evil, the possibility of interfaith peace and tolerance is extremely high.
“Is there any Reward for good–other than good?” Qur’an, 55:60.
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