March 2009

1. DEAR ABE: What parts of the "theory of evolution" are Muslims supposed to accept and believe? –OMAR, CANADA

DEAR OMAR: The Quran clearly states that God created everything and is in full control of all things [1].  God confirms therein that our spiritual forms existed before Earth was created [2].  God does not outline how the physical forms of organisms were created. Most branches of science attempt to study God’s creation in some way, although God is rarely acknowledged.  The study of evolution is no exception.  Most of the current understanding of evolutionary history does not clearly contradict what God has revealed in the Quran.  God does specifically describe a creation process for humans, but this takes place prior to Satan’s rebellion, before life appeared on Earth [3].  The main contradiction is not acknowledging God’s role in the process.

Relevant Quran Verse: [1] 2:29, 4:126, 39:62;  [2]  2:30-37, 6:38, 22:18, 33:72, 38:69-85; [3] 15:28, 32:7.

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2. DEAR ABE: How did Islam begin? – MUHAMMAD, PARIS

DEAR MUHAMMAD: Islam is an Arabic word which means Submission in the English language. Thus, Islam is a descriptive word. All messengers of God preached the same religion, Submission to God (Islam in Arabic) [1].  The specific rituals we practice to help us in our submission are what God revealed to Abraham [2].


Relevant Quran Verses: [1] 2:253 , 3:19; [2] 2:127-133.

3. DEAR ABE:   How is the Holy Spirit interpreted in the Quran?   – ROLAND, EAST ASIA

DEAR ROLAND: The Holy Spirit in the Quran refers to the angel Gabriel [1].  The Holy Spirit (Gabriel) is often mentioned separately from other angels. We are told he delivered the knowledge of the Quran to Muhammad, and supported Jesus when he was a messenger on Earth [2].

Relevant Quran Verses: [1] 2:97-98, 16:101-102, 26:192-193; [2] 2:87, 2:253, 5:110.

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