The Children of Israel in the Light of the Quran
The Quran speaks extensively about the Children of Israel, their prophets, their scripture, and their covenant with God. Judaism, as understood through the Quran, is not a separate religion disconnected from God’s guidance. Rather, it is part of the same Abrahamic tradition that unites all prophets. God blessed the Children of Israel with scripture, knowledge, and prophethood, entrusting them with the responsibility to uphold righteousness and monotheism.
A Community Chosen for Responsibility
In the Quran, the Children of Israel were chosen not for privilege but for responsibility:
Their ‘chosen’ status was based on commitment to God’s covenant—not ethnicity or lineage.
Prophets of Israel
The Children of Israel were blessed with a long line of prophets, including Moses, Aaron, David, Solomon, Elijah, Elisha, Zechariah, John, and Jesus. These prophets did not bring different religions; they revived the same message given to Abraham: worship God alone, lead a righteous life, and prepare for the Hereafter.
The Torah: Scripture Given by God
The Quran confirms that God gave Moses the Torah—a law, a guidance, a light, and a scripture revealing truth. It provided commandments on worship, ethics, justice, charity, and social conduct. While the Torah was later mixed with human writings, its origin remains divine.
Judaism and the Religion of Abraham
According to the Quran, Abraham was neither Jewish nor Christian, yet Judaism traces its lineage to him. The true religion of Abraham is submission to God alone. The Children of Israel were instructed to uphold this monotheism. Thus, true Judaism is not separate from the universal submission taught by all prophets.
Righteous Jews in the Quran
The Quran honors Jews who believe in God, adhere to scripture, lead righteous lives, and respond to truth humbly. Anyone who believes in God, believes in the Hereafter, and leads a righteous life has nothing to fear. Righteousness is not tied to labels but to sincerity and deeds.
Warnings About Corruption
The Quran criticizes certain behaviors among some of the Children of Israel:
These warnings apply to all communities—not only Jews. Every community risks corruption when human authority is placed above God’s guidance.
Shared Foundations With Islam and Christianity
Jews, Christians, and submitters share the same God, prophets, moral law, and belief in the Hereafter. They originate from the same religion of Abraham. Divisions arose later through human institutions and interpretations.
A Quranic Vision of Unity
The Quran calls people of the scripture to a shared truth:
This is a call toward unity, not division.
Conclusion
In the Quran, Judaism is part of the religion of Abraham. Jews are honored when they uphold their covenant. Their prophets are revered, their scripture is acknowledged, and their righteous are promised reward. Judaism aligns with the universal submission God revealed to all prophets.
