Theology
Both Christianity and Islam believe in the same God, and share certain elements of theology—they accept the prophets of Judaism and Christianity, including Abraham, Moses and Jesus, refer to Heaven, angels, devils and the day of judgement. Both traditions value the power of prayer to God and purification through ritual and generosity to others. Where they are in disagreement, is on the divinity of Jesus Christ—for Christians He is the son of God, while in Islam He is a messenger of God.
Rituals
While there are many rituals that Christians and Muslims may share, such as fasting and pilgrimage, there are some that are exclusive to each religion. For example, Baptism, Confirmation and Communion, which is celebrated by Christians, and circumcision which is commonly practiced in Muslim societies. In addition, a number of dietary restrictions are practiced by both faiths—Muslims abstain from pork and alcohol, and some Christians keep kosher food laws.
Morality
Both Christianity and Islam encourage the adherence to moral codes of conduct in life. Christians seek to adhere to the teachings of the Bible, while Muslims adhere to the Quran, the Hadith and the Sunnah. In both cases, adherents are asked to be charitable, humble, honest and trustworthy. Both faiths also generally condemn divorce, and although Christian marriages are gender-equal, Muslim marriages are not.
Scripture
Christianity and Islam both consider their scriptures to be divinely inspired. For Christians, this includes the Old and New Testaments, while Muslims consider the Quran to be the direct word of God ( Allah ). In addition, Islam also has the Hadith and the Sunnah, records of the teachings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad. Christians also have additional canonical scriptures and reference works, such as the Apocrypha.
Salvation
Both Christianity and Islam see salvation, or “heaven” as a reward for living an upright and good life according to the teachings of the faith. In the Christian tradition, salvation is obtained through belief in the teachings of Jesus, and following his example. In the Islamic tradition, salvation is attained through the practice of good deeds, or ‘ijtihad’. In both cases, those who have not lead upright lives are condemned to “hell”.
Symbolism
Christianity and Islam also share certain symbols. The crescent moon and star, commonly associated with Islam, is believed to have been used before its adoption as the symbol of the Ottoman Empire. Similarly, the cross is used by both Christians and Muslims as a sign of piety and of hope. The religious symbols of both religions are often seen in multicultural cities, such as Jerusalem and Istanbul, as a sign of respect between faiths.
Interpretation of the Divine
The major difference between Christianity and Islam is the way each religion interprets the divine. For Christians, the divinity of God is a mystery that is revealed in scripture and the sacraments. On the other hand, for Muslims, the concept of divine revelation is one of absolute knowledge that is known through study, submission and experience. Although each religion has its own way of interpreting God, they both affirm a belief in a higher power.
Views on Jesus
Christians and Muslims have very different views when it comes to Jesus. For Christians, Jesus is the Son of God and Savior of the world. For Muslims, Jesus is a prophet and messenger of Allah. Muslims do not accept the idea that Jesus was crucified, believing that he was taken into heaven before this event occurred. Similarly, Muslims do not believe in the concept of the Trinitarian God, believing instead that Allah is one.
Social Outlook
Both faiths have a universal outlook, encouraging believers to help those in need. In Christianity, this is done through charity work and acts of service. In Islam, it is done through a practice known as zakat, which is essentially charity given to those in need. Additionally, both faiths encourage the practice of sincere repentance and forgiveness when dealing with others.
Gender Roles
Christians and Muslims both view gender roles differently. In Christianity, men and women are considered equal in the eyes of God, while in Islam, women are expected to fulfill certain roles in the community while men can undertake more active roles in society. Although both faiths do not accept gender discrimination, there is a greater emphasis in Islam on men being the head of the family and the guardians of women.
Freedom of Religion
Both Christianity and Islam agree on the importance of freedom of religion and individual liberty. Both religions have the principle that all people have the right to choose their own faith. Christianity and Islam both recognise the autonomy of individuals in their spiritual pursuits, and both have a long history of religious tolerance and mutual respect.
