Abstract:
This comparative study explores the humanistic values shared by the Quran and Bible, two sacred scriptures that have shaped the moral and ethical fabric of human societies. Through a nuanced analysis of key passages and themes, this research highlights the convergence of humanistic values such as compassion, justice, mercy, and dignity in both scriptures. By examining the Quranic concepts of ‘rahma’ (mercy) and ‘adl’ (justice), alongside Biblical teachings on agape (unconditional love) and ‘mishpat’ (justice), this study demonstrates the shared emphasis on promoting human well-being, dignity, and flourishing. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the common humanistic values that underlie these two major world religions, fostering greater interfaith dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation.
The term “humanism” has been loosely applied in modern and post-modern contexts, diluting its specificity and objectivity. This broad usage has led to a loss of positivity in recent discussions. Originally, the term “humanism” or “humanist” emerged in 15th-century Italy to describe the academic exchange of art and literature between teachers and students. Interestingly, ancient Greeks and Romans, as well as early modern Europeans, employed the concept of humanism to distinguish themselves from the rising scientific and empirical processes. Contrary to popular assumptions, the early history of humanism did not involve detaching from religion or divine influence. In ancient Rome and medieval Europe, humanism had little to do with avoiding religious influence or modernizing with scientific knowledge. In Islam, humanism is defined within limits, focusing on recognizing human rights, effort, kindness, generosity, productivity, and contributing to society. This approach avoids the boundless and meaningless definitions that have become prevalent.
Exploring Humanism: From Secular Roots to Biblical and Quranic Perspectives
“Man is the measure of all things,” proclaimed Protagoras, the Greek philosopher of the 5th century BCE, in a now-infamous statement. This sentiment is often viewed as invaluable, as it underscores humanism’s central idea: enabling individuals to act according to their understanding while discovering themselves in the process. Humanism attributes responsibility to individuals for their actions and decisions, both positive and negative. To establish a practical definition for academic purposes, one might consider humanism as an intellectual and academic pursuit centred on the humanities. These disciplines explore human nature in its fullness, encompassing both rational and non-rational aspects, such as literature, history, fine arts, philosophy, and theology.
A humanist is typically someone who seeks to answer eternal questions like “Who am I?” and “What am I?” Often, humanists eschew identification with any religion, political ideology, or expression of support for specific doctrines. However, humanism is a fluid concept, varying widely among individuals. As Fowler notes, humanism emphasizes individuality through traits like ability, dignity, and free will, yet it can also justify divergent ideologies and practices depending on interpretation. (Fowler, pp. 5–8)
Modern humanism diverges significantly from its historical roots, which acknowledged a divine connection. Today, humanism centres on humanity as the ultimate arbiter of thought and action. Modern definitions frame it as the active expression of human qualitative reasoning and decision-making. (Coates, p.5) While humanism is broad, encompassing anyone concerned with humanity’s welfare and capable of decision-making, it remains contentious. Many avoid the label “humanist” due to its association with conflicting ideologies. Fowler advocates for a working definition of humanism, stressing its alignment with secularism rather than religiosity. (Fowler, p.9). Secular humanism evolves dynamically, adapting to time, place, and need. (Makdisi, pp. 348–354)
The roots of secularism, according to some philosophers, lie in the divide between Jews and Gentiles. Early Jews, believing themselves chosen by a monotheistic God, viewed others as lower in status. Gentiles, seen as outside God’s favour, were deemed secular. This separation, despite efforts by figures like Jesus to unify believers, and later the oppressive practices of the Catholic Church, spurred intellectuals from the High Middle Ages to the Industrial Era to distance themselves from religious institutions. (Pecora, pp. 2–3).
Al-Faruqi, an Islaimic humanist scholar, highlights humanity’s remarkable ability to discern good and bad as integral to human understanding. Rejecting emotivism, which reduces morality to mere emotional response, he advocates Islamic humanism—a universal approach transcending tribal, ethnic, and religious boundaries. Unlike Judaism, which focuses on a “chosen” tribe, and Christianity, which emphasizes human fallibility, Islamic humanism champions inclusivity and individual agency. It acknowledges human free will in ethical decision-making, emphasizing responsibility for intentions, actions, and consequences. This approach recognizes human limitations while attributing achievements to divine blessings, thereby balancing human potential with accountability.
Islamic humanism aligns with secular humanism in recognizing human dignity but remains distinct in its grounding in divine guidance. It emphasizes human rights, effort, and kindness within defined boundaries, ensuring a responsible and meaningful understanding of human values. This balanced perspective offers a nuanced approach, avoiding extremes and anchoring humanism in a framework of ethical and spiritual integrity.
Humanistic Vision in the Quran: A Discernible Framework
The Quran, revered by Muslims worldwide as the divine word of God, serves not merely as a spiritual beacon but also as a treasure trove of ethical and humanistic values. While often viewed through theological lenses, a deeper dive reveals a tapestry richly embroidered with themes of human dignity, justice, compassion, forgiveness, and the pursuit of a harmonious society. This essay seeks to illuminate the discernible humanistic vision within the Quran through its teachings and overarching principles.
1. The Inherent Dignity of Humanity
The Quran repeatedly affirms the intrinsic worth of every human being, portraying humanity as the crown jewel of creation. It declares, “Indeed, We have honoured the children of Adam” (17:70). This verse underscores the universal dignity endowed upon all people, cutting across barriers of race, gender, and social status. Further, the Quran highlights the human capacity for reason and moral responsibility: “He taught Adam the names—all of them” (2:31), symbolizing humanity’s divine gift of intellect and a heart attuned to moral truths.
This profound notion of human dignity lays the cornerstone for societies that uphold the sanctity of life and embrace the unique role of humans as stewards on Earth (2:30). Such a vision resonates like a clarion call for equality, urging humanity to rise above petty divisions and embrace the shared essence of their being.
2. Justice as a Cornerstone of Society
Justice in the Quran is depicted as both a divine command and a societal necessity, forming the bedrock upon which civilizations thrive. It proclaims, “Indeed, God commands you to uphold justice and to treat others with kindness” (16:90). The Quran’s vision of justice transcends legal fairness, stretching its arms toward social equity and compassion. It warns against bias and favouritism: “O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for God, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives” (4:135).
This unwavering call for justice aligns with humanistic ideals, advocating for the protection of the underdog and equitable resource distribution. For instance, the prohibition of exploitation through usury (2:275) reflects a commitment to fairness and societal well-being, ensuring that the scales of justice are never tipped against the vulnerable.
3. Compassion and Mercy
Compassion emerges as a golden thread running through the Quranic narrative. Almost every chapter begins with the invocation, “In the name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful.” This divine attribute becomes a mirror for humanity, urging individuals to emulate God’s mercy. The Quran advises, “And be kind as God has been kind to you” (28:77).
The text places immense emphasis on caring for society’s most vulnerable—orphans, widows, and the poor. It exhorts believers to feed the hungry and support the needy: “And they give food, in spite of love for it, to the needy, the orphan, and the captive” (76:8). These teachings paint a vivid picture of a compassionate society, where empathy and solidarity act as the glue that binds communities together.
4. Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Forgiveness in the Quran is portrayed as a balm for wounded hearts and a pathway to healing fractured relationships. It states, “Let them pardon and overlook. Would you not love for God to forgive you?” (24:22). This exhortation reflects an acute understanding of the human yearning for reconciliation and peace.
Moreover, the Quran highlights the transformative power of responding to hostility with kindness: “Repel evil with what is better, and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity will become as though he was a devoted friend” (41:34). This approach echoes the age-old wisdom that kindness can break down walls of animosity and foster bonds of friendship. Forgiveness, thus, emerges as the bridge over troubled waters, aligning seamlessly with humanistic ideals.
5. The Pursuit of a Harmonious Society
The Quranic vision for society brims with ideals of mutual cooperation, compassion, and peace. It urges collective efforts toward righteousness: “Co-operate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and aggression” (5:2). The blueprint for an ideal society is further illustrated through prohibitions against harmful behaviours like backbiting and slander (49:12) and calls for unity: “And hold firmly to the rope of God all together and do not become divided” (3:103).
The eschatological imagery of paradise as a realm of eternal peace and abundance (47:15) inspires believers to sow the seeds of harmony in this world. Directives like “Make peace between your brothers” (49:10) further solidify the Quran’s commitment to building bridges over the chasms of discord and nurturing a society rooted in solidarity.
6. Challenges and Contextual Interpretations
While the Quran contains timeless humanistic themes, some verses reflect the historical and cultural milieu of seventh-century Arabia. For instance, discussions on gender roles or specific legal punishments may appear discordant with modern humanistic values. However, many Islamic scholars advocate for contextual interpretation, emphasizing the Quran’s overarching principles of justice, compassion, and dignity.
Through this lens, seemingly restrictive passages are reinterpreted in light of the broader Quranic ethos, which places fairness and mercy on a pedestal. This approach allows the Quran’s humanistic vision to transcend historical boundaries, aligning with contemporary ethical frameworks.
Thus we see that the Quran offers a discernible humanistic vision through its emphasis on dignity, justice, compassion, forgiveness, and harmony. Though deeply rooted in theology, these principles speak a universal language, inspiring efforts to create a just and compassionate world. By interpreting the Quran with a focus on its ethical dimensions, both believers and non-believers can uncover its enduring call for human well-being and solidarity. This vision, like a beacon on a stormy sea, guides humanity toward a world where justice flows like a river and compassion binds communities as an unbreakable thread.
American Humanist Association has correctly identified the following major tenets of Humanism in Islam:
— Singularity of Humanity. The first is the oneness of humanity. “Islam does not segregate between humans as per their origins, rather Islam regards all of them the same and from the same origin…. the fact that we all were created from the same thing makes us the same no matter wherever in this world we belong.”
— Human Dignity. The second is the dignity of human beings. “Islam wants the humans to be dignified, which can only be possible when they fulfil their duties and achieve whatever is their right…. to live with dignity is another humanist aspect of Islam where Islam wants its followers to live in harmony with each other whilst fulfilling their rights and duties.”
— Justice. The third is the establishment and practicing of justice. “…it is clear that establishment of justice is not the duty of government only, rather, it is the duty of every person that whenever and wherever they see injustice they should stand for it… when every human works towards establishment of justice, the ultimate result is the world becoming a better place for living.”
“Islam is a great proponent of humanism…. Primarily Islam wants the humans to establish justice and live with dignity and equality with each other to make the world a better place.” (Source)
Biblical Humanism: A Vision for Compassion and Justice
The Bible, revered as a sacred text in Christianity and Judaism, is often seen as a beacon of divine wisdom, a repository of commandments, moral guidance, and spiritual inspiration. Yet, beneath its theological layers lies a treasure trove of humanistic values, offering profound insights into human dignity, justice, compassion, and the collective pursuit of a flourishing life. This essay delves into the discernible humanistic vision in the Bible, illuminating its key narratives, ethical teachings, and overarching principles.
1. Human Dignity as Imago Dei
The concept of humanity created in the image of God (Imago Dei) is foundational to the Bible’s view of human worth. Genesis 1:27 states, “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” This verse serves as a moral cornerstone, underscoring the inherent dignity and value of every human being, irrespective of status, ethnicity, or gender.
Such a notion resonates with humanistic ideals, upholding the truth that every soul carries the spark of the divine. It establishes a theological basis for equality and respect, reminding societies to treat every individual as a precious gem in the crown of creation and to uphold the sanctity of human life.
2. Justice and Social Responsibility
The Bible’s emphasis on justice reflects its concern for societal well-being. The Hebrew prophets—Isaiah, Amos, and Micah—raise their voices like a trumpet blast, vehemently advocating for justice and condemning exploitation. Micah 6:8 encapsulates this ethos: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
This call to fairness resonates with the humanistic pursuit of equitable societies. Biblical laws in the Pentateuch often protect the marginalized—the widow, the orphan, and the stranger. Leviticus 19:34 commands, “The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” These directives lay the groundwork for a moral architecture rooted in empathy and inclusion, pillars of a humanistic worldview. They remind us that justice is the scaffolding upon which a compassionate society is built.
3. Compassion and Love
The New Testament expands the Bible’s humanistic vision through its teachings on compassion and love. Jesus’s ministry exemplifies a radical, boundary-breaking commitment to these virtues. The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) transcends ethnic and religious divides, urging people to bridge the chasm of prejudice and aid those in need.
Jesus’s greatest commandments, as outlined in Matthew 22:37-39, are “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” and “Love your neighbour as yourself.” This second commandment is a golden thread woven through the fabric of human relationships, inspiring collective efforts to alleviate suffering and promote well-being. In loving one’s neighbour, the Bible paints a portrait of humanity as a single body, where every limb thrives when cared for.
4. Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Forgiveness, a central theme in the Bible, highlights the transformative potential of human relationships. The story of Joseph forgiving his brothers (Genesis 45) illustrates the restorative balm of reconciliation. Similarly, Jesus’s teachings on forgiveness, such as in Matthew 18:21-22, challenge individuals to transcend resentment and strive for harmonious coexistence.
These narratives reveal that forgiveness is not mere sentiment but a bridge that mends the fractures of the human heart. They align with humanistic efforts to resolve conflicts and foster communities grounded in trust and mutual respect. In a world rife with grudges and grievances, forgiveness is the oil that soothes the machinery of society.
5. The Vision of a Flourishing Life
The Bible’s eschatological visions depict a world where justice, peace, and abundance prevail. Isaiah 2:4 envisions a time when nations “will beat their swords into plough-shares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.” This vivid imagery of tools of destruction transformed into instruments of cultivation inspires hope for a harmonious world.
In the New Testament, Jesus’s proclamation of the Kingdom of God represents an ideal society characterized by love, justice, and inclusion. While theological in nature, this vision provides a blueprint for humanity’s highest aspirations, encouraging efforts to build equitable and compassionate communities. It is a horizon that beckons humanity to journey toward collective flourishing.
6. Challenges and Contextual Interpretations
While the Bible contains humanistic themes, it also includes passages that reflect the patriarchal and hierarchical norms of its time. Reconciling these elements requires a contextual interpretation that distinguishes timeless principles from culturally contingent practices.
Many contemporary theologians and scholars adopt hermeneutics that sift through the sands of time to unearth gems of eternal wisdom. By prioritizing the Bible’s overarching themes of love, justice, and human dignity, they uncover a humanistic vision that transcends historical limitations and resonates with modern ethical sensibilities.
The Bible’s humanistic vision shines through its emphasis on human dignity, justice, compassion, forgiveness, and the pursuit of a flourishing life. Rooted in theological beliefs, these themes offer universal truths that echo across the corridors of time. By interpreting the Bible through a lens that highlights its ethical and humanitarian dimensions, believers and non-believers alike can find common ground on the fertile plain of shared humanity. Its enduring call for human well-being and solidarity serves as a guiding star for all who seek a just and compassionate world.
Biblical and Quranic Perspectives on Cooperative Action
In a quest to promote unity and righteousness, this examination delves into the significance of cooperative action among coreligionists from both Biblical and Quranic perspectives. Through a comparative analysis, we uncover the importance of collaborative efforts towards righteousness, highlighting the convergence of conviction between Christianity and Islam.
By bridging the gap between these two faith traditions, we reveal shared values and common goals. This comparative study demonstrates that cooperative action for righteousness is a fundamental aspect of both Biblical and Quranic teachings. Faith in action becomes a powerful catalyst for unity, as believers from diverse backgrounds come together to promote righteousness.
This dual-scriptural examination sheds light on the scriptural synergies that exist between the Bible and Quran. United for righteousness, believers can work together to create a more just and compassionate world. By unpacking cooperative action for righteousness in Biblical and Quranic contexts, we gain a deeper understanding of the importance of unity and collective action in promoting a more righteous society.
The Bible strongly emphasizes the value of unity and collaboration among believers in promoting righteousness and spreading God’s message. It calls for unity in purpose, urging believers to work together harmoniously toward a shared goal (1 Corinthians 1:10, Philippians 2:2). This shared responsibility extends to collective efforts in promoting justice, mercy, and humility as fundamental virtues (Micah 6:8, Matthew 25:31-46). Believers are encouraged to support one another in their spiritual journey through mutual encouragement, guidance, and constructive correction (Hebrews 3:13, 1 Thessalonians 5:11). Furthermore, the practice of corporate worship holds special significance, as it fosters a sense of community, enabling believers to gather, praise God, learn from His Word, and strengthen one another in faith (Psalm 95:6, Acts 2:42-47).
The Quran similarly underscores the importance of community and collective action among believers. The concept of Ummah highlights a unified community working together to uphold righteousness and justice (Quran 3:110, 9:71). Believers are encouraged to cooperate in promoting piety and righteous deeds (Quran 5:2, 9:71) and are advised to offer mutual counsel and support to one another in this pursuit (Quran 65:2, 103:1-3). The Quran also stresses collective accountability, reminding believers that their actions as a community will be judged on the Day of Judgment, reinforcing the significance of united efforts toward righteousness (Quran 5:105, 49:10).
Shared Values
Both the Bible and Quran converge on key principles that emphasize the importance of cooperative action in fostering righteousness:
• Promoting Righteousness: Both scriptures urge believers to actively work for justice, goodness, and ethical living in society.
• Unity and Cooperation: They stress the necessity of believers supporting and working together toward common spiritual and moral goals.
• Accountability: A shared belief in collective responsibility and accountability underscores the importance of righteous actions both individually and as a community.
• Mercy and Compassion: Both texts highlight the virtues of mercy, compassion, and kindness, advocating for a culture of generosity and mutual care.
Through these shared values, the Biblical and Quranic perspectives underscore the profound significance of cooperative action among believers, emphasizing the transformative impact of unity, mutual support, and collective accountability in building a just and compassionate society.
John Polkinghorne, a great English theoretical physicist and theologian, has argued sharply the significance of seeking common grounds: “It is essential that Christians and other religious people should seek what common ground they find with all other people of good will in trying to articulate an ethical basis for caring for our world. Perhaps that common ground can be found in the acknowledgement of a respect for all humanity and for life and for the world that gave us birth. We need a sharp concept of the common good, wide enough to embrace the natural world and future generations.” (Polkinghorne, pp. 124-125)
Bibliography
Coates, W. H., White, H. V., & Schapiro, J. S., The Emergence of Liberal Humanism: An Intellectual History of Western Europe, New York: McGraw-Hill, 1966
Fowler, Jeaneane D, Humanism: Beliefs and Practices, Sussex: Sussex Academic Press, 1999
Makdisi, George, The Rise of Humanism in Classical Islam and the Christian West: With Special Reference to Scholasticism, London: Edinburgh University Press., 1990
Pecora, V. P, Secularization and Cultural Criticism: Religion, Nation Modernity, Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2006
Polkinghorne, John, Beyond Science: the wider human context. Cambridge, New York: Cambridge University Press, 1998
V.A. Mohamad Ashrof is an independent Indian scholar specializing in Islamic humanism. With a deep commitment to advancing Quranic hermeneutics that prioritize human well-being, peace, and progress, his work aims to foster a just society, encourage critical thinking, and promote inclusive discourse and peaceful coexistence. He is dedicated to creating pathways for meaningful social change and intellectual growth through his scholarship. He can be reached at [email protected]
