Top 10 Learning Moments
- The relationship between Muslims and Christians is increasingly important as our world becomes increasingly globalized.
- For Muslims, the Qur’an is not only a source of divine wisdom, but a source of beauty. — Gabriel Reynolds
- Though many aspects of the Qur’an and Islam are different from the Bible and Christianity, members of both religions worship God and both works feature similar characters and virtues.
- Christian-Muslim relations have had periods of violence, yet there are many common beliefs and topics for discussion. The positive aspects of this relationship and the hope they offer should not be overshadowed by historical periods of violence and misunderstanding.
- Generally, the Church can do better, the Church being everyone, to be aware of the struggles of Christians not only in the Islamic world but also in other areas of persecution. — Gabriel Reynolds
- A signal can be made that the diversity of religions is not a formula for conflict, but a formula for friendship. — Gabriel Reynolds
- The Qur’anic definition of Islam is having confidence in God and knowing that He wants the best for us, as well as wanting to do good while on Earth. This is a definition that can also fit other faiths, including Christianity.
- Having a fruitful dialogue with members of other faiths requires an abandonment of biases and preconceived notions, a humanization of the other individual as a person with different beliefs, a safe environment where fears and disagreements can be discussed and a collaboration through which mutual problems can be resolved.
- Christians make up a very small percentage of the population in Israel and Palestine. This presents challenges to them due to heir status as a minority group lacking political power.
- We are invited to be agents of change for ecumenism, understanding, reunification and greater interreligious dialogue. — Rev. John M. Paul, S.J.
Interested in learning more?
This series is hosted by ThinkND, the University of Notre Dame’s online learning community that connects you with videos, podcasts, articles, courses, and other resources to inspire minds and spark conversations on everything from faith and politics to science, technology, and your career.
Featured Speakers
Gabriel Said Reynolds, Jerome J. Crowley and Rosaleen G. Crowley Professor of Islamic Studies and Theology, University of Notre Dame; Author of Qur’an and the Bible and Allah: God in the Qur’an
John Shinkwin, Graduate Student in Theology, University of Notre Dame
Nayla Tabbara, President of Adyan Foundation for Diversity, Solidarity and Human Dignity
Reverend John M. Paul, S.J., Rector, Tantur Ecumenical Institute
Daniel Schwake, Executive Director, University of Notre Dame at Tantur
“For Muslims, the Qur’an is not only a source of divine wisdom, but a source of beauty.
– Gabriel Reynolds
Getting to Know the Qur’an and the Bible
In the opening video, Professor Reynolds offers an introduction to the Qur’an, the scripture of Islam, and the Qur’an’s interest in the characters and themes of the Bible.
Thinking Theologically about the Qur’an and the Bible
What is the vision of divine revelation in Islam and Christianity? In this video, Professor Reynolds explains why the Qur’an is better compared to Christ, who is the Word of God, than to the Bible.
Signs of Hope
The history of Muslim-Christian relationships is not only about conflict but also about coexistence. Discover how both Muslim and Christian figures, from the middle ages to the papacy of Francis, have worked to advance friendship between them.
