Dr. Zakir Naik’s Challenge and ChDr. Zakir Naik’s Lecture on Religious Sectarianism in Pakistan: Challenges and Responses
Dr. Zakir Naik’s challenge to Christians regarding the worship of Jesus from the Bible in Pakistan, and his responses to the objections of Christian scholars.
Dr. Zakir Naik, a world-renowned Islamic scholar, is known for his clear and bold approach to interfaith dialogue. In his recent lectures, he presented a challenge to Christian religious leaders and individuals in Pakistan regarding the deity of Jesus in the Bible. This challenge of theirs, which questions the basis of Christian beliefs, is part of the promotion of dialogue and religious harmony.
Dr Zakir Naik’s Challenge: Deification of Jesus in the Bible
Dr. Naik said that if a Christian scholar presents the words of Jesus in the Bible that he said “worship me” or “make me your god”, he will accept Christianity. This challenge has invited many Christian scholars and religious figures to ponder the questions. Various Bible verses such as **Matthew 28:19** and **John 10:30** are often cited by Christians, but according to Dr. Naik, nowhere in these verses does Jesus (peace be upon him) explicitly express his worship. Did not order.
Objections of Christian Scholars and Their Answers
Before Dr. Naik, a Pakistani Christian scholar raised the question that why there is religious sectarianism among Muslims and why they are aligned against each other? Dr. Naik answered this question in the light of the Quran and said that in the Quran, Allah Almighty has given a message of unity to humanity. According to him, sectarianism is not in the teachings of Muslims but is the result of personal interests of individuals. Quran says:
“And hold fast to the word of God, and do not differ” (Surah Al-Imran: 103)
(Translation: “Hold fast to the rope of Allah and do not divide.”)
Similarly, another Christian youth asked Dr. Naik why Muslim youths harass Christian children. Dr. Naik emphasized on moral principles and said that followers of any religion should not harass others. Islam is a religion of peace and tolerance, and according to the teachings of the Prophet, Muslims should treat non-Muslims with justice and kindness.
Islamic Position: Hazrat Isa (AS) and Quranic Teachings
The Holy Quran rejects the deity of Jesus and presents him as the Prophet and Messenger of Allah.
** “There is no Messiah Ibn Maryam but a Messenger” (Surat al-Ma’idah: 75)**
(Translation: “Messiah ibn Maryam was only the Messenger of Allah.”)
In Islam, Jesus is recognized as a great prophet, and his miracles and greatness are mentioned in the Qur’an, but his worship and divinity are not taught.
The Importance of Interfaith Dialogue
These kinds of challenges promote interfaith dialogue by Dr. Zakir Naik. The purpose of their challenge is to improve dialogue between Christians and Muslims and illuminate religious realities. These questions lead to deep reflection on the beliefs of both religions and help individuals better understand their religious beliefs.
Conclusion: The need for unity and tolerance
The solution to problems such as religious sectarianism and immoral behavior lies in the teachings of tolerance and love in Islam and other religions. Dr. Zakir Naik’s dialogue style and his challenges provide an opportunity for followers of both religions to come together and understand each other better.