Kajian Komparatif: Ajaran Kitab-Kitab Sebelum Al-Qur'an dan Islam

The emergence of Islam as a distinct religious tradition in the 7th century CE was not a sudden phenomenon. It arose within a complex tapestry of existing religious and cultural influences, drawing upon and interacting with pre-Islamic beliefs and practices. This interaction is evident in the Quran itself, which frequently references and engages with the teachings of earlier scriptures, including the Torah, the Gospels, and the writings of earlier prophets. This article delves into a comparative study of the teachings found in these pre-Islamic scriptures and their relationship to the core tenets of Islam, exploring the continuities and divergences that shaped the development of Islamic thought.

The Abrahamic Lineage: Shared Roots and Divergent Paths

The Quran establishes a clear lineage of prophets, tracing its origins back to Adam and emphasizing the continuity of divine revelation. This lineage includes figures like Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad, all considered messengers of God. This shared lineage forms the foundation for a common ground between Islam and earlier Abrahamic faiths. The belief in one God, the importance of ethical conduct, and the concept of divine judgment are central tenets shared by Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. However, despite this shared heritage, significant differences emerged in the interpretation of divine revelation and the development of religious practices.

The Role of Scripture: Divine Revelation and Human Interpretation

The Quran asserts its status as the final and complete revelation from God, superseding previous scriptures. This claim has been a source of both unity and tension between Islam and other Abrahamic faiths. While acknowledging the validity of earlier scriptures, Islam emphasizes that the Quran provides the ultimate and definitive interpretation of God's will. This emphasis on the Quran as the final word has led to distinct theological and legal interpretations within Islam, often diverging from the interpretations found in earlier scriptures.

The Concept of Prophethood: Messengers and the Divine Message

The concept of prophethood is central to both Islam and earlier Abrahamic faiths. However, the specific roles and functions of prophets are interpreted differently. While all prophets are considered messengers of God, Islam emphasizes the unique position of Muhammad as the final prophet, sealing the chain of revelation. This belief has implications for the understanding of religious authority and the interpretation of scripture.

The Nature of God: Unity and Attributes

The concept of God's unity (tawhid) is a fundamental principle in Islam, rejecting any form of polytheism or idolatry. This emphasis on monotheism is shared with Judaism and Christianity, but the specific attributes and characteristics attributed to God differ across these faiths. Islam emphasizes God's absolute power, knowledge, and mercy, while also affirming his transcendence and uniqueness.

The Importance of Ethical Conduct: Moral Principles and Social Justice

Both Islam and earlier Abrahamic faiths place great emphasis on ethical conduct and social justice. The Quran outlines a comprehensive moral code, emphasizing the importance of honesty, compassion, charity, and the protection of the vulnerable. These principles are rooted in the teachings of earlier prophets, but Islam provides a unique framework for their application in a diverse and complex society.

Conclusion

The comparative study of pre-Islamic scriptures and Islam reveals both shared roots and significant divergences. While acknowledging the common lineage of prophets and the importance of ethical conduct, Islam asserts its unique status as the final revelation, emphasizing the Quran as the definitive source of divine guidance. This emphasis on the Quran has shaped the development of Islamic theology, law, and practice, leading to distinct interpretations and practices compared to earlier Abrahamic faiths. Understanding these continuities and divergences is crucial for fostering interfaith dialogue and promoting a deeper appreciation of the rich tapestry of religious traditions that have shaped human history.