Religion and Theology

The world is characterized by a unique diversity as far as religion is concerned. At the same time, there are various similarities that exist in different religions. This paper brings out the similarities between Judaism, Islam and Christianity.

Similarities exist despite the diversity
These religions co-exist in different countries of the world. For example in Ethiopia, Christianity, Islam and Judaism are practiced. Most Americans practice Christianity and Judaism than Islam. However, the United Kingdom has more Christians and Muslims than Jews (American Jewish Committee, 2005 Global Oneness, 2010).

Moses is one of the historical figures, well known and respected for rescuing the Israelites from bondage. Noah rescued the obedient from the floods, and the event is well recognized by the three religions. Abraham is known because of the faith and obedience he exercised in choosing to sacrifice his son so as to obey God (Gill, 2009).

All the three religions believe in only one God. The Christians and Jews call him Yahweh and Jehovah. However, Judaism does not believe in the existence of three Gods in one (The Holy Trinity) like the Christians do. The Muslims also believe in one God, who they call Allah (Gill, 2009 Hakim  Wenner, 2009 Bates, 2002).
 
All the three religious groups advocated for virtues in human living. Judaism believes that goodness and obedience are values which God rewards. Christians cherish what the bible states love should be the greatest commandment just as Christ loved the world (John 316). Alms giving or the Zakat for the Muslims is a command from Allah (Library Think quest, 2010 Hakim  Wenner, 2009 Bates, 2002).

It is a characteristic of all religions to have a covenant between the people and their most supreme being. For Christians, the death of Christ on the cross was a new covenant between God and men, as he became a mediator between them. The Jews state that there has always been a relationship between them and God. For the Muslims, constant study of the Koran shows total agreement between them and Allah (Library Think quest, 2010 Hakim  Wenner, 2009 Bates, 2002).

The initial words of Shema, Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one   (Deut 6 4), show the Jews perception of God. The Christians believe in only one God, Jehovah and the Muslims in Allah. Additionally, God is regarded as an all powerful God in the three religions. According to the Jews and Christians, God is the one behind the formation and governance of the universe. God operates from the veil of laws and causes, which best reveals his strength and power. The Jews and Christians believe that the purpose of the Messiah is to draw people to God. For the Muslims, Allah established a relationship with men through Muhammad (Bamberger, 2010 Religious facts, 2010 Religious Facts, 2009)

There are several similar texts shared by the three religions especially in the biblical Old Testament. Genesis 28 (Koran 2 36) is shared by the three religions. It contains the creation story of man in the Garden of Eden. In both Judaism and Christianity, the text states that man was created. The creation story is present, though details about the situation of the man are not discussed in the Koran. All the religions believe that creation took six days (Catchpole, 2010).

In regard to prayers, a traditional prayer book is used by the Jews, known as Siddur. Mainly, the Catholics use the rosary, while the Protestants prayers involve intercession and praise. The Muslim prayers are referred to as Salat, which involves praying five times each day. More importantly, the Christians follow the Ten Commandments which were given to Moses by Jehovah on Mt. Sinai. Six hundred and thirteen commandments (Mitzvoth) are followed by the Jews. The Islams must practice the Jihad and pay taxes to Imam as part of their commandments. Additionally fasting strengthens the spiritual well being of the people according to the Christians and the Jews. According to the Muslims, fasting is referred to as Siyam. It is conducted in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan (Simon, 2010 Christian Advice, 2010).

In regard to morality and ethics, murder just like other vices is prohibited by the three religions. The Muslims state that it is one of the shameful deeds that the Koran prohibits. As one of the other similarities, all devoted Muslims must attend the Friday midday prayers, which are the most important. Similarly, the Sabbath day should be honored by both the Jews and the Christians. The Islam religion advocates for hard work, so that the people might not covet their neighbors property which is prohibited by Judaism and Christianity (All Experts, 2008 Harkness, 2010 Islam.Org, 2009).

Conclusion
 Though there is a unique diversity in religion, similarities exist in the Judaism, Islam and Christianity. As long religious practices bring fulfillment to the participants, they should be practiced.