When it comes to religion, it’s always a divisive topic. It can affect our choices, our views and our outlook on life. But of all the world’s major religions one particular topic of debate is which religion was established first? Christianity or Islam? Throughout this article, you will learn more about the history behind these two religions and explore the arguments for and against either one establishing itself first.
Both Christianity and Islam are well established religions within the world today. Christianity is the world’s largest religion with an average of 2.3 billion followers worldwide and Islam the second largest with 1.8 billion followers. Christianity can be traced back to the death of Jesus Christ 2,000 years ago, while Islam is said to have been established around 610 C.E. by the Prophet Muhammad.
Given this timeline, it would appear that Christianity is the oldest religion, being established before Islam by several centuries. However, some argue that the earliest form of what we now call Christianity was not established until much later and that Judaism, the predecessor of both Christianity and Islam, was the original and oldest religion. This argument is mainly supported by the fact that many aspects of the three Abrahamic religions particularly their religions, values and philosophy – are very similar.
From this perspective, the answer to which religion established itself first is quite complicated. Most experts agree that Judaism is the oldest, followed by Christianity, which emerged from it, and then Islam, which emerged from Christianity. This means that Christianity is not necessarily the oldest religion, but it does mean that it has been in existence far longer than Islam, by several millennia.
There is also strong arguments that suggest other religions predate Christianity and Islam, such as Hinduism and Buddhism. However, these religions differ significantly in beliefs and values from Christianity and Islam, so they are not considered to be a part of the same group. Nevertheless, the fact that they were established before the two monotheistic religions is evidence of their antiquity.
When it comes down to it, the answer to which religion came first in the world depends on how one defines religion. Some may classify Judaism as the original religious practice, while others may see it as a philosophy or an ancient way of life. Still others may point to the various ancient religions that were practiced before the emergence of the three Abrahamic religions as the original belief system. Ultimately, it is impossible to determine which religion exactly established itself first, as each has its own unique and complex history.
History Behind Christianity
Christianity dates back to the time of Jesus Christ, who was born in Bethlehem around 4 BC. It is believed that Jesus was the son of God, who was sent to Earth to save humanity from sin. After his death, several of his disciples who had followed him spread Christianity around the world and it slowly gained popularity. By the 4th century, Christianity had grown to become the most prominent religion in the Roman Empire.
The development of Christianity was largely shaped by its core teachings, which are found in the Bible. Christianity is characterised by the belief in one God and the prayerful worship of Jesus Christ as the Messiah, who died on the cross in order to save humanity from sin. Christianity is also known for its emphasis on charity and helping the less fortunate, with its followers often demonstrating acts of selflessness and compassion.
Today, Christianity is still a major religion in many parts of the world and is the most widely practised faith in Europe and North America. Christianity has also had a significant impact on world culture, offering moral guidelines and spiritual values which have shaped societies throughout history.
History Behind Islam
Islam is considered to be the second largest and most widespread religion in the world. It is said to have been established around 610 C.E. by Muhammad, a man from Mecca who is considered to be God’s last prophet. Muhammad began preaching about the one true God and the religion of Islam which was revealed to him by the angel Jibril.
Islam is centred on the belief in the oneness of God, known to believers as Allah, and the teachings of Islam which are found in the Qur’an. The fundamentals of Islam include the Five Pillars of Faith – Shahadah (belief in one God), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity), Hajj (pilgrimage) and Sawm (fasting).
Islam has grown significantly since it was established, spreading to many parts of the world and gathering believers from many cultures and backgrounds. Today, it is the second biggest religion in the world with around 1.8 billion followers, around 24% of the world’s population.
The Argument For Christianity
Those who argue that Christianity is the oldest religion point to the fact that it has been in existence far longer than Islam, by several millennia. Christianity is believed to have been established around the time of Jesus’ death in the first century C.E., while Islam emerged in the early 7th century C.E. This suggests that Christianity is the older religion and was established first in the world.
Another argument for Christianity being the first religion is that its core teachings, found in the Bible, have spread and influenced societies around the world for centuries. Its followers have preached its message of faith, love and forgiveness and have practiced charitable acts which have made a significant impact in many people’s lives.
Additionally, Christianity is connected to Judaism, the predecessor of both Christianity and Islam. This means that, in some ways, Christianity is a continuation of the original religious practice and is connected to the roots of what is now recognised as a major world religion.
The Argument For Islam
Those who argue that Islam was the first established religion often point to the fact that Muhammad was the first prophet and he is said to have received his message directly from Allah, the one true God. This suggests that Islam is the true religion, according to its followers, and that it should be considered the oldest in the world.
In addition, Islam spread quickly after its emergence and has become the second largest religion in the world, with over a billion followers. This growth can be attributed to the fact that its followers are incredibly devoted to their beliefs and demonstrate faithfully to others the importance of worshipping Allah.
Islam is also closely intertwined with both Christianity and Judaism. In fact, the three Abrahamic religions share a common history and share many of the same values, beliefs and stories. This suggests that Islam is closely connected to the original religious practice and is an important part of the ongoing faith of millions of people around the world.
The Debate Between Both Religions
The debate between Christianity and Islam as to which is the oldest religion in the world will likely never be settled. Both religions have strong arguments that support their respective claims, but in the end it depends on how one defines religion and which version of its history one chooses to believe.
What is certain is that both religions have had a significant impact on the world. For centuries, their followers have demonstrated their faith in the form of prayer and charity and have spread their teachings to many parts of the world. Both religions have made a lasting mark on world culture, and it is certain that their influence will continue to be felt for many years to come.
Conclusion
The debate over which religion came first in the world is a complex one. While there is strong evidence to suggest that Christianity is the oldest major religion, it is impossible to know for sure. Ultimately, experts and historians must explore history, values and beliefs in order to find the answer.
