Exploring the Distinctions: The Quran and Torah, and the Prophethood of Muhammad in Deuteronomy 18

This image is a painting-style depiction of Moses holding the two tablets of the Ten Commandments. The background suggests a mountaintop, likely Mount Sinai, with a dramatic sky, symbolizing the biblical moment when Moses received the commandments from God. The tablets are inscribed with Hebrew text, representing the commandments given in the Book of Exodus. Moses is traditionally shown with a long beard, robes, and a solemn expression, as seen here.

Certain Christians and Jews reject the claim that Muhammad's prophethood is predicted in Deuteronomy 18, verse 18. They argue that since Islam shares similarities with Judaism, some believe that the Quran is merely a copy of the Torah. What is the explanation for this argument?

The argument that the Quran is merely a copy of the Torah is a common misconception that overlooks the fundamental differences between Islam and Judaism. While it is true that Islam shares some similarities with Judaism, such as monotheism and certain moral teachings, the two religions have distinct beliefs, practices, and scriptures.

The Quran is considered by Muslims to be the final and complete revelation from God, while the Torah is one of the holy books of Judaism. Muslims believe that the Quran is the literal word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel, while the Torah is believed by Jews to contain the divine teachings given to Moses on Mount Sinai.

Furthermore, the Quran contains numerous teachings, stories, and laws that are not found in the Torah, and vice versa. While there may be some overlap in certain narratives or moral teachings, the overall messages and themes of the Quran and the Torah are distinct.

Regarding the claim that Muhammad's prophethood is predicted in Deuteronomy 18, verse 18, Muslims believe that this verse refers to the coming of a prophet like Moses, who is understood to be the Prophet Muhammad. This interpretation is based on the similarities between Moses and Muhammad in terms of receiving a divine revelation, leading their communities, and establishing laws and guidance for their followers.

In conclusion, while there may be some similarities between Islam and Judaism, it is inaccurate to claim that the Quran is merely a copy of the Torah. Both religions have unique scriptures, beliefs, and practices that distinguish them from each other.

According to the Quran in Surah 7, verse 157, it is stated:

Those who follow the messenger, the Prophet who can neither read nor write, whom they will find described in the Torah and the Gospel (which are) with them. He will enjoin on them that which is right and forbid them that which is wrong. He will make lawful for them all good things and prohibit for them only the foul; and he will relieve them of their burden and the fetters that they used to wear. Then those who believe in him, and honour him, and help him, and follow the light which is sent down with him: they are the successful.

The Miraculous Preservation of Pharaoh’s Body: The Connection to Muhammad as the Prophet Like Moses

Surah 10, verse 92, reads:


Today We will preserve your body (O Pharaoh), so that you become a sign for those after you. But most people are heedless of Our signs.

Some scholars contend that the discovery of Ramses' body in modern times is viewed as a miraculous event in the Quran, specifically in Surah 10, verse 92. It resembles Moses' parting of the Red Sea. As a result, they argue that Muhammad is the prophet mentioned in Deuteronomy 18, verse 18, similar to Moses. How do they express their argument?

The scholars who make this argument typically point to several key points to support their claim:

1. Discovery of Ramses' body: They argue that the discovery of Pharaoh Ramses II's body in modern times is a significant event that aligns with the story of Pharaoh's body being preserved as a sign in Surah 10, verse 92 of the Quran. This miraculous preservation of Pharaoh's body is seen as a fulfillment of that prophecy.

2. Resemblance to Moses' parting of the Red Sea: The scholars suggest that the discovery of Ramses' body can be seen as a parallel to the miracle of Moses parting the Red Sea, as both events involve extraordinary occurrences related to Pharaoh and Moses. This parallel further strengthens the connection between the two stories.

3. Muhammad as the prophet like Moses: In Deuteronomy 18, verse 18, the Bible mentions the coming of a prophet like Moses, whom God will raise up among the brethren of Israelites. Some scholars argue that Muhammad fits the description of this prophet due to similarities in their roles, teachings, and experiences with prophethood.

By combining these points, scholars argue that the discovery of Ramses' body, the resemblance to Moses' story, and the identification of Muhammad as the prophet like Moses provide evidence for the divine inspiration of the Quran and Muhammad's status as a prophet in the line of Moses.

This image is a black and white reproduction of the painting “Moses with the Ten Commandments” by Rembrandt, created in 1659. It shows Moses raising the stone tablets above his head in a dramatic pose, capturing the moment when he is about to break the tablets after witnessing the Israelites worshiping the golden calf (Exodus 32). The Hebrew inscriptions on the tablets represent part of the Ten Commandments.

Reverence and Legacy: The Prophethood of Musa (Moses) in Islam

Musa (Moses), revered as a prominent prophet and messenger of God in Islam, holds a central place in religious narratives. Here are some significant aspects of his prophethood:

1. Miracles: Musa performed remarkable miracles during his prophetic mission. His most famous feat was dividing the Red Sea, accomplished with a miraculous staff provided by God¹. This event allowed the Israelites to escape Pharaoh's pursuit.

2. Personal Communication with God: Musa is reported to have directly spoken to God, earning him the title “Kalīm Allāh” (Speaker of God).

3. Parallel with Muhammad: Musa's life parallels that of Prophet Muhammad. Both faced persecution and led their people to safety. The exodus of the Israelites from Egypt mirrors the migration of early Muslims from Mecca to Medina, both unfolding amidst adversity.

4. Revelations: Musa received divine revelations, including the Ten Commandments, which form part of the Torah and are central to Judaism and Christianity.

5. Meeting with Muhammad: According to Islamic tradition, Musa met Muhammad during the Night Journey (Isrā’ Miʿrāj) in the heavens. During this encounter, Musa advised Muhammad to seek a reduction in the number of daily prayers, ultimately leading to the establishment of the five obligatory prayers.

In summary, Musa's prophethood is highly revered in Islam, and his story serves as a spiritual parallel to that of Prophet Muhammad. His legacy continues to inspire believers across generations.