Chapter VI, Islam, Basic theological Concepts, Summary and Analysis

Basically, the theological concepts of Islam parallel that of the Judeo-Christian idea—God, Creation, humanity, and the Day of Judgment. The Koran did not introduce the spirit world or monotheism to the Arabic people, as those things could already be found in their tradition. Muslims see Christianity as having compromised God by deifying Jesus Christ, whom the Muslims see only as a great prophet. Islam bases its center on the awesomeness of the power of God who inspires holy dread. It is by Allah's mercy that the Muslim has confidence and joy. To the Muslim, no barrier separates him from God. As in Judaism and Christianity, Muslim theology ascribes to God the willful and purposeful creation of the world. Islam suggests that people may forget their divine origins, and that...