Summary
Yes, Islam is an Abrahamic religion. Abrahamic religions share a common lineage through Prophet Abraham (as), whose legacy of monotheism and moral guidance unites them. Judaism, Christianity and Islam view Abraham as the patriarch and father of prophets. These religions share several common practices which originate from Abraham. Prophets such as Moses, Jesus and Muhammad (sa) are direct descendants of Abraham.
Table of Contents:
Abrahamic Religions
Abrahamic religions are monotheistic religions that originate from Prophet Abraham (as). Judaism, Christianity and Islam represent the most well-known examples of Abrahamic religions. These religions share a common lineage through Abraham’s sons. Moses (as), Jesus (as) and Muhammad (sa), the iconic figures of these three Abrahamic religions, are all descendants of Abraham.
All three religions share similar belief systems and practices. Abraham’s legacy unites them through their shared commitment to monotheism and moral guidance. Abrahamic religions comprise the largest religious movements globally. Although Judaism is the oldest of the Abrahamic religions, Christianity and Islam have the largest number of followers worldwide.
Is Islam an Abrahamic religion?
Islam is an Abrahamic religion. Its theology, practices and heritage are deeply rooted in the legacy of Prophet Abraham (as). As with Jews and Christians, Muslims recognize Abraham as a an important religious figure in Islam and honour him as the father of prophets. Muslims revere him as a prophet and role model (The Holy Qur`an, 4:126).
Muslims also respect Abraham (as) for his unwavering monotheistic views, submission, and devotion to God. They actively celebrate and uphold Abraham’s teachings. This shows his central role in Islam, similar to his central role in Judaism and Christianity.
Additionally, Muslims trace Prophet Muhammad (sa), the Holy Prophet of Islam, as a direct descendant of Abraham’s son, Ishmael.
Who was Prophet Abraham according to Islam?
According to Islam, Abraham is regarded as a model of faith and submission to Allah. He is described as someone who submitted to God alone. Muslims are instructed to follow the religion of Abraham (The Holy Qur`an 2:136).
Furthermore, in Islam the annual festival of sacrifice (Eid ul Adha) is celebrated to honour the willingness of Prophet Abraham (as) to sacrifice his son. He was going to do this in obedience to what he conceived to be a divine command.
a) Abraham and the Kaaba
The Kaaba is known as the first house of God, initially built by Prophet Adam (as). Abraham and his son Ishmael are described in the Quran to have re-constructed the Kaaba (The Holy Quran 2:128). The rebuilding of the Kaaba in Mecca is an important event in the history of Islam.
The Kaaba was an old building during Abraham’s time, and its structure had been mostly destroyed. Abraham, through Divine revelation, decided to rebuild the house with the help of his son Ishmael, who had settled in Mecca.
b) Abraham and Hajj (Pilgrimage)
Having rebuilt the Kaaba, a symbol of the One God, Abraham prayed to make the Kaaba a gathering place for believers. The Muslim Pilgrimage, or Hajj, contains several rituals directly from the life and actions of Abraham and his family members.
c) Abraham and Durood
Durood Sharif is a prayer recited by Muslims in their daily prayers, as well as at other occasions. In this prayer, Abraham is mentioned several times. This is because in Islam he is considered to be the patriarch of monotheism, a guide for humanity.
Muhammad (sa) is a continuation of Abraham’s legacy. Abraham’s life represents strong devotion and divine blessings. Including him in Durood Sharif reminds Muslims to follow in his footsteps in order to earn divine favours.
Why is Islam an Abrahamic religion?
Islam is considered an Abrahamic religion because its theology, practices and heritage are deeply rooted in the legacy of Prophet Abraham (as). Abraham is a revered prophet, messenger and role model (The Holy Quran 4:126).
In Islam, Abraham is respected for his unwavering monotheistic views, submission and devotion to God. His characteristics and beliefs are the basis of the Islamic faith. Prophet Muhammad (sa), the Holy Prophet of Islam, is a descendant from Abraham’s son, Ishmael.
What are the Abrahamic religions?
Judaism, Christianity and Islam are the three common Abrahamic religions. The central prophet figures of these three religions are the progeny of Isaac and Ishmael, two sons of Abraham.
Judaism is the oldest of the Abrahamic religions, originating from the promise made between God and Abraham as explained in the Torah. Abraham is considered the patriarch of the Jewish people, through his son Isaac. From among the progeny of Isaac arose many Jewish prophets, including Moses (Ahmad, 2023b).
Christianity views Abraham as a role model of faith, particularly his willingness to make sacrifices. Christians see Abraham’s covenant, which was fulfilled through Jesus Christ, as the foundation of God’s grace and salvation. Jesus is from among the progeny of Isaac, son of Abraham, and thus from among the lineage of Abraham (Ahmad, 2023b).
In Islam, Abraham is considered the father of prophets. He is held in high esteem for his submission and loyalty to God. The Quran portrays him as a man who opposed idolatry, re-established the concept of monotheism, and founded several religious practices such as Hajj (The Holy Quran 21:58-59, 37:94, 2:128). Prophet Muhammad (sa) is from among the progeny of Abraham through his son Ishmael (Ahmad, 2021; Ahmad, 2023a).
How is Abraham viewed in Islam?
Muslims view Abraham as one of the most honoured figures in Islam. He is a prophet, patriarch, and model for the believers due to his high level of obedience to God. His dedication to monotheism and rejection of idolatry showcases his courage and steadfastness.
Abraham is highlighted on many occasions in the Holy Quran. The Quran calls Abraham “Khalilullah”, meaning Friend of Allah, a title that signifies his close relationship with God (The Holy Quran 4:126). The Quran also describes Abraham as Hanif, meaning ever inclined to One God and monotheism (The Holy Quran 3:96).
Muslims admire Abraham’s resilience in enduring numerous trials. For Muslims, Abraham represents the epitome of submission to the Will of God. His life is an inspiration for Muslims. Abraham’s prayers for future generations are believed to have led to the rise of Prophet Muhammad (sa).
Common Practices that originate from Abraham
Abraham’s traditions and practices hold a significant meaning and influence several religious practices in Abrahamic religions. Some of these are:
a) Monotheism
Abraham is recognized as a role model for monotheism, rejecting idol worship and dedicating himself to the worship of One God.
In Judaism, monotheism is a central belief reflected in the prayer: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one” [Deuteronomy 6:4]. Christianity too claims monotheistic beliefs but interpreted through Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit).
Islam’s doctrine of Tauheed (oneness of God) is paramount, with Abraham serving as a model for pure monotheistic worship (The Holy Quran 2:136).
b) Circumcision
It is recorded that circumcision was a covenant between God and Abraham, as recorded in Genesis 17:10-14. It is referred to as the seal, and even considered by Jewish faith as essential for entry into Paradise (LaPine, 2022). In Judaism and Islam, circumcision is a religious obligation and Sunnah (practice of the Prophet Muhammad (sa)) for all male children. Christianity on the other hand does not mandate it.
c) Hajj (Pilgrimage)
Hajj, the Islamic Pilgrimage, is deeply rooted in Abraham’s practices, including Tawaf (circling of the Kaaba) , Sa`i, and Jamarat. These all reflect different stages and trials of Abraham’s life, and Muslims follow in his footsteps as they perform Hajj.
d) Qurbani (Sacrifice)
Qurbani originates from Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. According to Islamic tradition, God was satisfied with his willingness and asked him to instead sacrifice an animal. Thus, each year on Eid-ul-Adha, Muslims around the world sacrifice an animal to commemorate Abraham and Ishmael.
e) Prayer
Abraham is known for his devotion in prayer and supplications to God. He prayed for his progeny to also be observant over their prayers (The Holy Quran 14:41).
In Islam, prayers of Abraham are recited during the daily Salat, and Durood Sharif is also a component of Salat. Prayer plays an important role in Christianity and Judaism as well.
Difference between Abrahamic religions
Although all Abrahamic religions trace their origins to Prophet Abraham (as), they differ in some of their theology, sacred books, and practices.
Judaism emphasizes God’s transcendence, which is also found in Islam. Christians believe in the Trinity: the Father, the Son, and Holy Spirit. Jews and Christians honour Abraham’s legacy through his son Isaac.
Muslims believe in the prophets of Judaism and Christianity and hold them in high honour. Muslims believe and honour Abraham’s legacy through his son Ishmael, as Prophet Muhammad (sa) is among his progeny. Additionally, Muslims also revere Isaac and accept all prophets from his lineage.
How is Abraham a model of faith in Islam?
In Islam, Abraham is a timeless model of faith and devotion. The Quran presents his life as a strong example of unwavering belief, obedience and submission to Allah.
Abraham consistently rejected idolatry, challenging his own family and community. His courage to stand firm in his beliefs despite opposition exemplifies his strength. Additionally, his life demonstrates total submission to God’s commands. The Quran highlights the story of his willingness to sacrifice his son, Ishmael, when commanded by God.
Moreover, his trust and patience reflects extraordinary trust in God’s plan during times of uncertainty. For example, he agreed to leave his family in the barren valley of Mecca solely due to his reliance on God.
Relation of Prophet Muhammad (sa) to Abraham(as)
Prophet Muhammad (sa) is Abraham’s biological and spiritual descendent. Muhammad (sa) is from the progeny of Ishmael, Abraham’s son born to Hajira. Ishmael and his mother settled in Mecca through divine command, and soon after, the tribe of Jurhum also settled in the area.
The daughter of the chief of the Jurhum tribe was married to Ishmael and they had 12 sons. The people of Arabia, including the Quraish tribe, were descendants of Kedar, one of Ishmael’s sons. Thus, Muhammad (sa), who belonged to the tribe of Quraish, is a descendant of Ishmael, and thus a descendant of Abraham. (Ahmad, 2023a).
Common Prophets in Abrahamic religions
Judaism, Christianity and Islam share many of the same prophets. Some common prophets include Abraham, Adam, Noah, Moses, David, Solomon, Isaac, Ishmael, Jacob, and Joseph.
Jesus is regarded as a prophet in Christianity and Islam, and Muhammad (sa) is regarded as a prophet only in Islam.
How does Islam encourage interfaith respect among Abrahamic religions?
Islam greatly encourages interfaith dialogue between all religions, particularly Abrahamic religions. Islam fosters interfaith respect among Abrahamic religions through their shared principles and shared lineage through Abraham.
The Qur`an explicitly acknowledges the shared origin, referring to Jews and Christians as ‘People of the Book’. It urges Muslims to be respectful towards them. It highlights the common belief in One God and reverence of Abraham. It also highlights other common prophets in Abrahamic religions.
Islam urges dialogue and understanding among the religions. The Quran advises:
And argue not with the People of the Book except with what is best; but argue not at all with such of them as are unjust. And say, ‘We believe in that which has been revealed to us and that which has been revealed to you; and our God and your God is one; and to Him we submit.’ (The Holy Qur`an, 29:47)
Conclusion
Islam is an Abrahamic religion, along with Judaism and Christianity. This is because the lineage of the founder of Islam, Muhammad (sa), traces back to Prophet Abraham (as). Also the theology, practices and heritage of the Islamic faith are deeply rooted in the legacy of Prophet Abraham (as).