Why is there Distrust between Christians, Jews and Muslims?

[Woodrow]

Hi Grenville,

Excellent post. I may sound like I am discouraging people, but I personally feel a person should have the proper intent and purpose for doing so. My concept of that is much like what you wrote.

On occasion I have memories of my very early Catholic days when as Catholics we were forbidden to read any scripture except that approved by the church. Which at the time was only Catholic Bibles (preferably the Latin Vulgate), Catholic Missals and the Baltimore Catechism. Old thoughts die hard, now I do have a tendency to tell Muslims it is best to read just the Qur'an.

But, I agree, if the purpose is to understand and not to convert or be converted, it is very helpful to interfaith communication if we know what we are all talking about.

 

[Walter]

Hi Woodrow:

You are correct. The two principal reasons for reading the other’s scripture is to understand what the other person believes and more importantly, to help you to understand your own beliefs.

It is impossible for a Christian to fully understand the significance and meaning of some New Testament concepts without reading the Jewish Old Testament. Many concepts are simply stated in the New Testament but are explained in the Jewish scriptures.

Similarly, I believe it is impossible for Muslims to truly understand the significance and meaning of some concepts that are stated in the Koran unless they read the foundational Books. How can Muslims hope to understand the concept of, say, the Messiah unless they read the Old Testament? If they do not read it, then they will remain in the realm of speculation and continue an unnecessary debate in this realm until they choose to seek knowledge from where it may be found. However, as previously explained from personal experience, there will probably be an initial hesitancy which must be overcome – therefore I am sympathetic to the hesitant.

Regards,
Grenville