New Testament in Muslim Eyes: Paul's Letter to the Galatians

This book explores Christian origins by examining a key New Testament epistle, Paul's letter to the Galatian churches, seen by Christians as the charter of Christian liberty from the inherited Jewish law. It provides a close textual commentary on the Greek original against the backdrop of Quranic Arabic parallels and differences, asking if Paul qualifies as a prophet of Allah. It also assesses Paul's thoughts against the background of Islam's rival views of Abraham and his legacy. The Arabic Quran framed and inspired the life of the Arab Apostle, Muhammad, who was sent to all humanity. Pauline themes are set in dialectical tension with the claims of the Quran, and the core Pauline Christian doctrine of justification by faith alone is scrutinized and assessed from non-Christian, especially Islamic, stances. This book helps to build bridges between the two religions and will be a valuable resource to students and scholars of Biblical Studies, Islamic Studies, and the Philosophy of Religion.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 284 pages
Publication date: 11 June 2018
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate tapestry of Christian origins by examining a pivotal New Testament epistle, Paul's letter to the Galatian churches, revered by Christians as the cornerstone of their liberation from the inherited Jewish law. In its pages, The New Testament in Muslim Eyes offers a meticulous textual commentary on what is widely considered the earliest proclamation of Paul's apostleship and his unwavering devotion to the risen Christ. It sheds light on the nuances of the Greek original against the backdrop of an intriguing exploration of Quranic Arabic parallels and divergences. The book poses a thought-provoking question: Does Paul qualify as a prophet of Allah (God)? To answer this, the author embarks on a critical examination of Paul's claims in the context of Islam's competing views of Abraham and his legacy. The Arabic Quran, as the guiding light of the Arab Apostle, Muhammad, was sent to all humanity, Jew and Gentile alike, shaping his life and teachings. Pauline themes find themselves in dialectical tension with the assertions of the Quran. Akhtar skillfully compares and contrasts these two rival faiths in various aspects, including the resources of human nature, the salvation of the sinner, and the significance of the works of the law. Both Christians and Muslims converge on the importance of God's grace, recognizing it as a vital prerequisite for success in the realm of faith. The core Pauline Christian doctrine of justification by faith alone is subjected to thorough scrutiny and evaluation from a diverse range of non-Christian perspectives, particularly those of Islam. By presenting an Islamic perspective on Christian origins, this book serves as a valuable bridge-builder between the two religions. It will be an indispensable resource for students and scholars of Biblical Studies, Islamic Studies, and the Philosophy of Religion, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich tapestry of religious traditions.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 237 x 165 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138213494