Islamic opinion of Jewish people or Judaism

In Islam, the perspective on Jewish people and Judaism is multifaceted, rooted in religious, historical, and cultural contexts:

1. Religious Context: In Islamic theology, Jews are considered “People of the Book” (Ahl al-Kitab), a term used in the Quran to refer to those who received earlier revelations from God, particularly through the Torah. This designation conveys a certain respect, as it acknowledges a common monotheistic foundation and the shared heritage of Abrahamic faiths. Judaism, as the religion of the Jewish people, is recognized as one of the earlier monotheistic faiths from which Islam draws a spiritual lineage.
2. Quranic References: The Quran mentions several Jewish prophets, including Moses (Musa) and Aaron (Harun), with deep respect and honor. Moses, in particular, is one of the most frequently mentioned figures in the Quran. The Quranic narrative often recounts stories from the Hebrew Bible, though there may be variations in the details.
3. Historical Interactions: Historically, Islamic societies have varied in their treatment of Jews. There have been periods of coexistence and mutual cultural and intellectual flourishing, especially during the medieval Islamic Golden Age. However, there have also been instances of conflict and tension, influenced by political, social, and economic factors rather than purely religious ones.
4. Contemporary Views: In the modern context, views among Muslims about Judaism and Jewish people can vary widely. These views are often influenced by local and global political contexts, cultural backgrounds, and individual interpretations of religious texts. It’s important to recognize the diversity within the Muslim world in terms of attitudes towards Judaism and Jewish people.
5. Interfaith Dialogue and Relations: In recent years, there has been a growing movement within Islamic communities worldwide towards interfaith dialogue and understanding, including with Jewish communities. These efforts aim to build bridges, emphasize common values, and address misconceptions.

In summary, Islamic views of Judaism and Jewish people are complex and cannot be generalized easily. They are shaped by a blend of religious teachings, historical interactions, and contemporary contexts, reflecting a rich and diverse tapestry of relationships and beliefs.

“I’m the Elohim… we on a whole new regime”—JAY Z

El, or “Elohim” in Hebrew.

Etymology of allah in Arabic and history

Al-ilah: the god.

The etymology of “Allah” in Arabic and its historical context are fascinating and deeply rooted in the linguistic and religious traditions of the Middle East.

1. Linguistic Roots: The word “Allah” in Arabic is derived from the term “al-ilah,” which means “the god.” It is a combination of “al,” the definite article in Arabic meaning “the,” and “ilah,” which means “god” or “deity.” This contraction into a single word, “Allah,” signifies the concept of monotheism, the belief in one supreme God.
2. Pre-Islamic Use: Before the advent of Islam, the term “Allah” was already in use among Arab pagans, Jews, Christians, and other monotheistic and polytheistic religious groups in the Arabian Peninsula. In the pre-Islamic polytheistic context, “Allah” was sometimes used to refer to a creator god or a high god among a pantheon of deities.
3. Islamic Context: With the emergence of Islam in the 7th century, “Allah” took on a specific and profound significance as the one and only God, as preached by the Prophet Muhammad. This marked a significant shift from the polytheistic beliefs prevalent in the Arabian Peninsula to the strict monotheism of Islam. In the Quran, the holy book of Islam, Allah is described with numerous attributes emphasizing his singularity, omnipotence, and mercy.
4. Regional and Religious Variations: It’s important to note that the concept and name of “Allah” were not confined to the Arabian Peninsula. Variants of this name and similar concepts of a supreme deity can be found in other Semitic languages and traditions, such as “El” or “Elohim” in Hebrew.

The evolution of the term “Allah” from a general term for a deity to its specific Islamic meaning reflects the broader religious, cultural, and linguistic developments in the Middle East over centuries. It represents not just a linguistic shift but also a significant religious and cultural transformation.

Allah

Interesting … used by Arabic speakers, also Christian’s and Jews *before* Islam.

“Allah” is the Arabic word for “God” in Islam. It signifies the singular, supreme entity who is the creator and sustainer of the universe. This concept of Allah in Islam emphasizes absolute monotheism, underscoring the belief in one, indivisible God who is incomparable and without partners or equals. The term “Allah” has been used by Arabic speakers of various religious backgrounds, including Christians and Jews, predating Islam. In the Islamic context, Allah’s attributes and characteristics are deeply significant, reflecting qualities like mercy, justice, and omnipotence. The understanding of Allah is central to the Islamic faith, shaping its theology, practices, and worldview.