In the expansive tapestry of religious beliefs, Islam and Hinduism emerge as intricate systems, each having a different way of reaching God.
Only Allah
Muhammad was born around 570 A.D. into the influential Quraish tribe, the most powerful in Mecca. The Quraish owed their prominence to successful trade, as Mecca served as a pivotal point where various trade routes converged. This strategic location allowed them to dominate commerce along the west coast of Arabia, north to Syria, and south to Yemen. Eventually, Muhammad was exiled from Mecca and he fled to Medina where he continued to preach his teachings. A few years later, he besieged Mecca which surrendered to him after which he proceeded to destroy the idols and practices of the other tribes and taught that there existed only one god. Due to this, at the core of Islam lies an unwavering belief that there is only Allah. The Islamic concept of God, encapsulated by the term "Tawheed," consists of three pivotal components shaping the faith and practices of millions of Muslims worldwide:
1. Tawheed ar Rububiyyah: This principle acknowledges Allah as the sole creator, sustainer, and controller of the universe, reinforcing the foundational monotheistic stance of Islam.
2. Tawheed ul Asmaa: This component emphasizes the uniqueness and perfection of Allah's names and attributes, underscoring that nothing in creation is comparable to Him.
3. Tawheed al Uloohiyyah: It is the exclusive right of Allah to be worshiped, directing all acts of devotion solely to Him.
The Quran, Islam's holy book, resonates with these thoughts. Signifying that there exists only Allah and only he is to be worshiped.
Hinduism: A Multifaceted Tapestry of Divinity
In stark contrast, Hinduism embraces a diverse and pluralistic approach to the divine. Rooted in the ancient Upanishads, Hinduism recognizes the existence of multiple gods and goddesses, considering them symbolic representations of natural energies and cosmic principles.
The pursuit of spiritual realization in Hinduism encompasses various paths, often referred to as the "six paths to God." Each path offers a distinct approach catering to individuals with different temperaments and inclinations:
1. Karma Yoga : Advocates selfless action and performing duties without attachment to outcomes.
2. Bhakti Yoga : Emphasizes love, devotion, and surrender to a personal deity through worship and rituals.
3. Jnana Yoga : Focuses on studying scriptures and philosophical texts to attain self-realization.
4. Raja Yoga : Involves meditation and contemplation to achieve spiritual realization.
5. Hatha Yoga:Concentrates on physical postures and breath control for spiritual growth.
6. Dhyana Yoga: Involves intense concentration and mental discipline through meditation.
Divergent Views on the Divine
Theological disparities between Islam and Hinduism extend beyond their perspectives on the divine, encompassing their attitudes towards other faiths. While Islam staunchly asserts the supremacy of Allah and a clear monotheistic stance, Hinduism's pluralistic approach allows for a multitude of paths to spiritual enlightenment.
Contemporary challenges arise with the emergence of extremist ideologies within certain Islamic groups, such as ISIS, claiming to act in the name of Allah. These organizations deviate from the principles of peace, tolerance, and coexistence advocated by Islam, presenting a complex scenario in the modern world.
Shirk and the Hatred for Idol worshippers
Shirk, an Arabic term meaning "making a partner [of someone]," refers to idolatry, polytheism, and associating other deities with God in Islam. The Qurʾān, the holy scripture of Islam, emphasizes in numerous verses that God does not share His divine powers with any partner (sharīk). It explicitly warns those who believe their idols can intercede for them that, on the Day of Judgment, they and their idols will be destined for hellfire.
During the time of the Prophet, the majority of mushrikūn (polytheists) were individuals who had not embraced Islam. Therefore, the Qurʾān's words were directed not towards Muslims to strengthen their faith but rather to non-Muslim Arabs. In Islam, it is also emphasized that those who die as polytheists have no chance of salvation.
Islam, as reflected in the Quran (3:56), states that those who reject faith will face severe consequences both in this world and the Hereafter, without any assistance. On the other hand, Hinduism, as articulated in the Bhagavad Gita (18:63), reveals profound knowledge and encourages reflection before making personal choices.
While there are notable differences between Hindus and Muslims, the general attitude toward encountering someone of a different faith varies. Hindus tend to approach it with curiosity, thinking, "So that is how they worship their God. Okay." In contrast, Muslims may view those of different faiths as misguided (kuffars), and feel compelled to convert them to gain entry to Jannat (Paradise).
Hinduism, being much older than Islam and other contemporary world religions, encompasses a perspective that acknowledges the diversity of paths to expressing the singular truth. This is exemplified by a Vedic verse stating, "The Truth is one, but there are more than one way to express it," offering a broad and inclusive commentary on other religious beliefs.
Extremism: The Reality of Islam
The difference between religious beliefs and geopolitical landscapes has given rise to various extremist movements, such as ISIS, Al-Qaeda and countless more Islamic terror organizations which aim to advance their religious agendas. The emergence of organizations proclaiming to act in the name of Allah and a lack of condemnation from the Islamic societies goes to show hom little the difference between an extremist and a regular Muslim remains.
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