Religion and Theology

Like every religion the foundation of Islam rests upon the five pillars that constitute the fundamental basis of cardiac faith of any person who claims of being a Muslim. These pillars not only mould the faith of a Muslim but also play a pivotal role in enhancing the belief system of Muslims as they believe that the adherence of these doctrines of the religion will help them in earning the pleasure of God and will help them ultimately in getting a place in heaven on the Day of Resurrection. Lets have a look at these pillars of faith. (Ellwood, McGraw 2009)

First and the most important pillar of Islam is the belief in the Oneness of God or the pillar of Tauheed as it is known in Islamic theology. The cardiac belief that is a salient feature of this pillar is periodically reminded at various times in the sanctimonious literature of Muslims which deals that there is no Creator or Sustainer than Almighty God who is the sole controller of all the worlds present. Moreover this pillar also strongly accentuates on the fact that Muhammad is the last messenger of God and therefore it is a general belief that those specific sects of Muslims who do not adhere to this belief are considered discarded from the influence of the religion.

Second most important pillar of the religion is that of Prayer or what is known as Salat. Offered five times a day at different intervals, the pillar of prayer is the most essential component of the religion. The significance of the pillar can be justified from the fact that the offering of prayer cannot be left in anyway whether one is ill or even paralyzed. Prayer can only be offered after performing ablution which is a pre-requisite, moreover it is always considered meritorious for males especially to offer their prayers in congregation in mosque whereas females are supposed to offer prayers in their homes.

Following prayer in terms of significance is the pillar of fasting or Saum as it is known in Arabic. Offered in the Islamic month of Ramadan, it is during this time that Muslims have to remain deprived of food and water supplies for the entire day and are only allowed to resume these activities after noon call of prayers. Fasting is significant in the way as it helps Muslims all over the world to put their tolerance and resistance at test by remaining steadfast to God by abstaining themselves from doing anything and speaking any wrong. It is worth mentioning here that fasting unlike prayer can be left in cases of travelling and disease sufferings whereas prayers are mandatory in every case.
Zakat is the next pillar of Islam which has been rewarded the status of a fundamental pillar in the religion due to its economic significance in Islam. Through the implementation of this pillar homogeneous distribution of wealth and affluence is highlighted so that it cannot get concentrated into a few hands. In addition to this it also stresses on the fact that the poor people of the society must not be neglected and that they must be provided economic benefits though the pillar of Zakat provided by the people to the state. This pillar also like fasting is subjected to various flexibilities people who do not posses enough financial capacity are immune from the adherence of this pillar. (Salamone 2004)

Last of the major pillar of Islam is that of Hajj pilgrimage. This pillar is considered as the toughest in the way that it allows a faithful follower to leave his family and sideline his financial activities to travel to the city of Mecca and Madina to offer the major components of this pillar. Hajj can only be performed in the specific time of Islamic calendar of Zil Hajj and like Zakat and Fasting it provides people the convenience of preventing the offering of pilgrimage only until they do not possess the economic capability to do so but once financial stability is achieved the performance of this pillar becomes mandatory.

The paper would talk about the way a convert, Paul, universalized Christ in spite of facing some confrontations from the side of Jews. Paul, who as a Roman citizen, used to follow Law of Moses and a persecutor of the new Christian sect. later when he travelled to Damascus from Jerusalem for anti-Christ efforts, Jesus the Christ appeared in front of him and asked why he persecuted him. Paul saw himself as an apostle to the Gentiles (non-Jews) and used to pray in the name of Jesus, and also had privileges and duties of being Gods people (File attached, pg)

Paul used to represent Judaism before but later he became the distorter of Jesus and antagonist of the Judaism. His former religion was not properly understood by him and could not recognize the worth of it. Paul found some faults and flaws in Jews and Judaism due to the ignorance of the expectations that Judaism had in the work of coalition between them (Nanos, 24).

Paul did realize the confrontations that might have come when universalizing the Christ therefore, he started universalizing Christ in a sensible way by keeping both sides in harmony. There is no doubt that Paul was initially a Jew, nevertheless, he found it better to separate the worship practices of both Christ and Judaism. For the worship of Jesus Christ, house-churches were laid outside Jewish community. Paul smoothly integrated few teaching of Torah (Jewish Torah) into the practices considered by Christians as Holy which calmed down the Jews who used to confront to Christianity. Moreover, Paul taught law-free Christianity, which later was known as Paulinism. He let off those who were not the followers of 613 commandments that were given by the Old Testament.

Therefore, Paul catered to both  former Jews and Gentiles  due to which he was able to universalize Christ, and guided the path for Christianity to be one of the most popular religions.

Among the Chinese, particularly those who practice Taoism, their faith can be summed up in a symbol that is rather uniquitous to all  the yin and the yang.  This symbol is represented in a disk with two separate colors, black and white with a dot of a different color found on the opposite sides.  This symbolizes the two opposing poles that are prevalent in every aspect of life  light and dark, strong and weak, male and female, sun and moon and so on (Asia for Educators).  What this emphasizes is that there will always be two opposites one will have and encounter in daily life and in nature.

Furthermore, the two sides appear to be equally balanced.  What this means is that neither is superior over the other, thereby creating a balance and that too much of one can be unhealthy (Ellwood and McGraw 190-191).  Nothing is absolute as shown by the two small dots that appear on the opposite sides of the poles. 

In the purview of religion, there is no such thing as good and evil in the sense that there is no external influence that make an individual commit good or evil deeds.  It is within.  Among those who are good, they are prone to error as well such as indulging in vices and those who are considered bad like criminals still possess some good within them.  It can be further inferred that positive and negative traits are something the Chinese recognize and they never attempt to eliminate one, especially the evil.  Instead, what they simply do it curb it to maintain balance.  When one does too much good, it can be assumed they are allowed to commit errors for maintaining an upright personality is difficult and one would eventually falter in the long run.

All in all, yin and yang emphasizes the need for balance of the two opposites.  It is unrealistic to keep one extreme while eliminating the other.  To do so would create an imbalance or loss of harmony in the universe.  The Chinese accept this because they saw them as natures essentials for they complement each other and do not try to dominate one another.  Nature provides the model to follow in showing how the two opposites are balanced and it is the challenge of people to emulate it.

For the last century, evolutionary anthropologist held that a primitives mind equipment is diverse from that of a civilized man. Since then, different arguments concerning the view that the civilized mind is logical, scientific, and abstract, while feral mind is prelogical, superstitious, and concrete. We must not take this seriously.

The primitive minds lack of knowledge in their worldview does not prove that they are intellectually incapable in reasoning and in perception of things. In some Ethnograpic instance, Furer-Haimendorf (1962) described a Konyak Naga man is not a primitive who lives in the mortal fear of unknown-when an eatrhquake struck its village, in fact, their worldview is simple, Konyak Nagas ideas on nature are derived from logical deduction. Another is Mawries (1981) self interpretation of Khasi religion. A Khasi family having problems financially believes that such events have a cause-displeasing the spirits.
 
Studies of different tribal groups like the Tharu (Srivastava 1958) and the Khasa (Majumdar 1962), two central Himalayan tribes in North India are good eample of Hinduised tribes. Practicing the beliefs of Hindus concepts of Karma, and observing Hindu rituals, they have adopted the local beliefs of Hindus. Hindu gods and deities are worshipped.

Though there are different principles, there are also similar  and common facts about tribal religions. It is common in almost all tribal traditions to worship nature. Such celestial bodies like the earth, the lakes, oceans, mountain, some kinds of animals are being praised and glorified.Christians  have embraced monotheistic religion (cited in Mao, Tribal Philosophy Concepts, Issues and Methods It had a great impact in the tribal religion). The tribals gave a model of westernization and in some cases, festivals were reinterpreted in term of Christianized myths. Some previously separated tribal groups accepted marital relations acrosstribal boundaries.

Indeed, there are many beliefs and views that exist which describe the roots of tribal religion. Cultural contact seemed to be a factor in creating these religions. Some of the non-tribal groups were affected by tribal customs and practices. Understanding ones religion is important in studying a particular tribal life and society. The function of religion in tribal society is refelected in their common goals and objectives.

Many religions have place that are considered by adherents to be specially holy or sacred, places where they feel closer to God.. In Hinduism the river Ganges at Benares , one of seven holy cities where early Hindu scholars established their schools is such a site attracting many thousand of visitors each year. 

In Buddhism one of the most important sites is the place where Buddha is said to have received enlightenment. This was under a bodhi tree in the 7th century B.C.E. according to the web page Bohd Gaya, India.

There are Jain temples in many parts of the world, although the majority  are in India. One was constructed in Mumbai in 1904. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful because Jains consider this is what their idols deserve.

The Golden temple in Amaritser The building is decorated with words from the Sikh holy book s described on the Sacred Destinations web page. . As with all these holy places visitors are welcome but are expected to respect the beliefs of worshippers and so certain restrictions apply in order to avoid giving offence. In this case these include such things as leaving shoes behind and covering the head.

In Taoism certain high places are considered to be sacred. This is because they are suitable places for contemplation and because of the caves present.  Also reaching them is a challenge, often involving rock climbing, to worshippers are more inspired. They are also where certain mushrooms grow which are believed to have holy properties according to the web page Chinese Taoism.

Confucianism has no specifically holy places because it is more of a philosophy than a religion as such as can be seen on the Asian ArtMail web page .

All of these religions or philosophies still have adherents to whom their beliefs are very important. As fellow human beings this is to be respected, even if one does not share such beliefs or even thinks they are rather odd.

Hebrews
As the title signifies, this book or epistle was originally addressed to Jewish Christians.  In the early days following conversion through the preaching of some of Jesus original disciples, they became exemplary Christians and had helped supply the needs of other Christians.  They had taken cheerfully the loss of their own possessions as they were persecuted for Christs name.

However, at the time this letter was written their original teachers and leaders had died ( HYPERLINK javascript Hebrews 137). Now they were on the verge of slipping back from a confession of Christ into the Judaism out of which they had been converted ( HYPERLINK javascript Hebrews 1313-14). The writer of Hebrews encourages the readers to remain true to Christ even at the price of having to shed their own blood ( HYPERLINK javascript Hebrews 123-4).

What is true from the writings is that the writer was outstandingly knowledgeable of the Christian faith. It would be almost safe to surmise the writer had to have been a leader in the early Christian church.  It is not known to date who the writer of the Hebrew epistle was but is generally suspected by scholars that it could have been Apostle Paul.  Though the writings are similar in style to how Paul wrote it can not be conclusively confirmed to be true.

From the epistle the Christians must as a matter of principle and survival of faith, draw near to God, hold unswervingly to the hope they profess, for He who promised is faithful, consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds and not give up meeting together.

In deed the writer encourages the recipients in their struggle of unbelief that they keep their confidence of faith in addition to persevering in the face of persecution for the rewards are great.  This addresses to a great part the challenges that were affecting the Hebrew  Jerusalem church.  The attitude of perseverance is the main vein that runs through out the epistle.  The writer emphasizes that this can only be gotten by faith

James
Though not confirmed, it is extensively considered that the writer of this epistle was Jesus half-brother.  A critical look at the epistle one is able to see the thrust of his words.  In the epistle, James addresses to the core of Christian faith.  He focuses believers on the qualities of heart and life that he points should be the focus of a Christians devotion.  In this he seeks to make Christianity a joy despite the call to suffer for and with Christ.  A strong characteristic that is greatly emphasized is that of perseverance.  This he surmises is only achievable through asking God and in believing unwaveringly.   

Aware of the struggle the baptized were going through in reconciling and understanding the concept of temptation, he points out to them that this does not come from God but is rather a result of individual human beings sinful nature.  Instead, his advice for them is to put what they learn into practice as a way of showing their growth and maturity in their Christian faith.

Peter addresses the various churches scattered throughout Asia Minor (present-day Turkey). But like James, Peters purpose in writing was to strengthen Christians so they could stand firm against the terrible persecutions by the Roman Empire. He begins by pointing out the wonders of the salvation that his readers possess. Then he gives certain commands that when obeyed will help a person to realize the wonders of this salvation.

2 Peter was Peters last message before his martyrdom. This Epistle is a continuation of the theme of 1 Peter. The sufferings that his readers had just begun to endure when that Epistle was written have continued unabated, and Peters purpose in writing this second Epistle is to encourage his readers to endure steadfastly to the end.

John
During his later years, the apostle John settled at Ephesus among Christians who had found Christ through Pauls ministry. While he was there, a certain false teaching became popular which declared that God did not become truly incarnate in Jesus Christ and that a life of actual holiness was not essential to the Christian life.

The first Epistle of John was written to counteract this heresy. However, it is more than a mere refutation it is one of the most beautiful and inspiring documents of the New Testament.
In John 2, it is not exactly clear who the letter was intended for.  However, it is intended for a special lady and her family (Verse 1), and the main thrust of the epistle is on loving each other.  Additionally, he emphasizes on the love of God while taking time to warn about false prophets.

The principal characters of this Epistle (John 3) are Gaius and Diotrephes. As church leaders went from town to town establishing new congregations, they depended on the hospitality of fellow believers. Gaius was one who welcomed them into his home. John wrote this Epistle to thank Gaius for his hospitality and faithfulness and to encourage him in the faith.  Additionally, he takes the opportunity to scold Diotrephes ho he feels was not helpful.

Jude
Among biblical scholars it is believed that Jude was another one of Jesus brothers who was converted after His earthly ministry. He calls himself the brother of James (verse 1), and in verse 17 he indicates that he was not himself an official apostle.  In this epistle, he writes to warn Christians about false teachers.  Additionally, in his writings, Jude is looking to cheer them up.

Revelation
Among bible scholars, it is accepted that John was the author of this book.  At the time of writing it, the Roman rulers are punishing him by making him live alone in an island.  The thrust of the book of Revelation is a dream that John was given by Jesus concerning the future.  In the book, John recognizes the challenges of being a Christian.  In the writings he encourages them to trust God since He can take care of everything on earth. In the dream, john is shown that Jesus is our judge, who will punish the evil in addition to taking Christians to heaven.  The bottom line it Jesus is more powerful that men.

The writings in the Bible, particularly the Old Testament, contain a set of text that is called wisdom literature.  No one knows precisely when they first appeared or who in particular wrote them.  But if there is one thing (biblical) scholars agree to, it is the belief that God is the source of wisdom and these can be found in the passages of the Bible as Christians from all walks of life regard it as the word of God compiled in a book.  When there was no Bible yet, people depended on three authorities for guidance the priests, the sages or scholars and the prophets.  The relationship between the three though did not sometimes mesh very well, especially how the prophets feel about the other two since they regard themselves as the true spokespersons of God while the other two interpret Gods words handed down to them (Harris, 244). Nevertheless, they are regarded still as contributors to the early development of the Bible through their works.

These works are expressed in various ways such as stories found in most books of the Bible, which also includes that in the New Testament, as well as riddles, proverbs and verses such as psalms.  There were scriptures meant to be studied and interpreted by scholars and priests while there are others that were immediately accessible to the public as they were easy to understand since the language was something they were able to comprehend such as psalms and proverbs.

As far as Christians, and to an extent Jews, are concerned, the Scriptures do not only tell the history of their faith, it also serves as a source of enlightenment and guidance to lifes many nuances whether they be good or bad.  It teaches one how to have the proper attitude which is pleasing to God as part of the profession of their faith. Professing ones faith is not merely limited to strictly worshipping God, following prescribed rituals and reading the Bible alone, it is about establishing a meaningful relationship with Him by not only reflecting on His words in the Bible, but living them.  By living them and experiencing it, one would then understand why the Bible is (probably) the simplest source of wisdom.

The psalms in the Bible is essentially a collection of religious or devotional songs or poems attributed to (King) David though scholars have learned this is not entirely true and only half of them are attributed to him while the rest are credited to groups of temple singers such as Sons of Korah and Sons of Asaph.

The psalms are grouped according to the purpose or message it evokes.  One category is psalms that praise God, another one for thanksgiving and the third contains lamentations, usually invoked during times of adversity.  The first group is for the purpose of praising God.  Hebrews believed that God always wants to be given attention and needs to be pleased and that the Israelites ought to be grateful to Him since He has intervened for them several times when they needed it the most, whether it is personal or societal. Thus, He deserves to be recognized for it conversely, the Israelites should acknowledge the things God has given to them in the form of thanksgiving as well (Harris, 239-241). 

But there is also a group of psalms made that serve to complain to God for any calamity or misfortune that would befall anyone. While this serves as a grievance to God, the ones reciting it implore for succor or help from God, which implies that they need Him which is exactly what God wants as He wants all His children to turn to Him always (Harris, 241-242).

In conclusion, psalms, though not containing any historical value still serve a prpose in the Bible.  It actually does give one a clue on the history of early worshippers on how they worship God and the psalms serve that purpose.  The psalms are also the source of wisdom and enlightenment set into song or poetry which could be considered appealing to simple folks as in the ancient times, not everyone was as gifted as a high priest, a sage and prophet who were authorized to provide moral guidance to the people and were Gods intermediaries. What makes psalms special is that it can be directly absorbed by anyone without going through those authorities and can also be a source of personal meditation which is a way for an individual to establish a meaningful relationship with God.

According to the church the term person refers to an individual intellectual substance that can exist in itself. In theology intelligence and individual wholeness is emphasized as part of what makes an individual. Also a person is deemed as an individual who has responsibilities and rights. On the other hand, to the church nature may refer to the created world. It includes the created things in the environment, the things that we see when we look around (Catholicreference.net, 2010)
The trees, the animals, the lakes and the like are all part of nature. Nature could also refer to the basic form of a person. What is commonly referred to as human nature means those things that happen as a result of being a human being or rather more specifically a person. This definition of nature implies that there are those attributes that a person or a human being may possess owing to the very fact they are a person.

When it comes to the issue of the relationship between the two, nature and person, one realizes that this wholly depends on the approach that one takes. One could view a person as part of nature. The only different thing is that people are intellectually endowed and therefore have responsibility and authority over all other nature.

In this essay however I take the approach of person as understood by the church to be an intellectual being with responsibilities, and the definition of nature as that which is present in a person as an integral part of the way a person or human beings were created.

Nature tells us what to expect of a person. For example one may say that it is in a peoples nature to eat, drink and socialize among many other things. This then means that the engagement of a human being in such activities makes them a complete person so to speak. If a person does not do these things, then that person may not be seen as a whole person because it is in the human nature to engage in such activities.

Though this is true, the Catholic Church agrees that the explanation of some activities by people as a result of human nature can be disadvantageous owing to the fact that this view may be used as an excuse to go against the ideals of the church.

When it comes to the roles played by the person and nature, Christianity believes that the two have roles that are separate yet intertwined. The person has intellect which makes him superior to all other forms of nature. The intellect which is still a part of nature of the person makes a person able to control what he does in reference to the human nature.

Take for instance in the case of sleeping which is a  natural thing for a person to do, the intellect that a person possess will make the person able to make an intelligent decision not to sleep by the road side but rather in a bed in the comfort and safety of a shelter. Nature on the other hand is responsible for the urges that a human being has. It is the natures responsibility to make a person hungry or sleepy among others.

The modern definition of the person and nature presents the two as in a manner to suggest that a person has very little that they can do to control actions that are only in their nature. The following are some consequences in the fields of anthropology, marriage and morality that this modern understanding may result to if upheld.

Anthropology primarily deals with the study of human beings. It encompasses such details as their behavior and culture. If the understanding of the person and nature is upheld then anthropologists would have to study people as those who are helpless to their natural tendencies so to speak.
The issue of culture then would not play an important role as culture is maintained by intellectual decisions. In fact if a person is deemed to be at the mercy of their natural urges then their standing as those responsible for all the other creation will be challenged.

In the sphere of marriage, the vows on fidelity and the responsibilities ascribed to the husband and wife persons would be meaningless. In the church for instance, the only place that is seen to be right for sexual engagement is within the boundaries of marriage. Although intercourse is a natural phenomenon in people, the understanding that a person is helpless to urges would then be the excuse given for infidelity. Responsibility would then be relegated to the back as urges caused by the human nature take center stage.

On the question of morality, all morals would go down the drain and any questions arising over the same brushed aside by the simple fact that the activity in question occurred as a result of nature. The principles that govern a person would be abandoned and in my view this would lead to nothing short of an animalistic society. When people believe that they can act in a certain way as a result of nature then they imply that they choose to withdraw from engaging their human intellect in responding to natural urges.

In conclusion, although there are activities that are driven by natural urges this should not be mistaken as rendering a person helpless in the face of an urge. It is true that the presence of these urges make us people but it is also true that the other thing that distinguishes us from all other creation is the fact that we have intellect and so can be able to respond to our natural human urges appropriately. This will in turn help us to maintain our nature as persons and nothing less than that.

This paper seeks to explain ultimate sacred reality, specifically its characterization, the reasons for it, as well as how it addresses the problem of evil and the idea of religious diversity. This paper also presents a description of a sacred reality firmly based on logic and opposed to traditional religion.

Sacred reality is traditionally regarded by the majority of people as a reality where God exists and imposes his will on all his creation. Almost everyone in this world has been born and raised in a home and society of traditional theism. Religion and religious tradition have undeniably shaped the lives of generations of people from the oldest religion, namely Hinduism, to among the youngest, such as Islam. Nevertheless, religion has failed to give definite answers to the most basic questions about truth and reality as well as the problem of evil. Sacred reality is definitely not based on any religious doctrine that presupposes the existence of a human-like God nor is it based on the idea of a constant struggle between good and evil. It is rather about the existence of a Being who encompasses everything and everyone without any regard for its goodness or evil.

Being instead of God
Traditional religion almost always believes in a human-like God who, by such description, falls short of so many things. The very fact that God is portrayed as a human being, or even an animal or plant, limits God and his power. Why Because it is simply impossible to believe in an omnipotent, omniscient and omnipresent God who would after all just look like you and me. If God should be all-powerful, then it must logically defy any limiting description and hence God must remain, at least to some degree, mentally inconceivable. Ultimate sacred reality is therefore one where an indescribable Being encompasses all reality.

Neither Good nor Evil
Now, on the subject of good and evil, traditional religion believes that good is rewarded and evil punished. Nevertheless, several religions teach forgiveness even before punishment, and which therefore cancels the punishment. Consequently, the sacred reality imposed by religion on people is that of injustice on earth and where real justice is only possible in a faraway place after death. This notion therefore opposes the idea of an all-powerful God who is supposed to command good and banish evil. True sacred reality is therefore one where the Being who encompasses all of it has no judgment of good and evil. Everything is neither good nor evil but just another aspect of this Being one can roughly call God.

On Religious Diversity
The question then arises on what really is the reason behind religious diversity and how ultimate sacred reality can explain it. The explanation is twofold. First of all, ultimate sacred reality presupposes a Being that encompasses all  both the things one would basically label as good and even those traditionally considered evil. This implies that this being does not take sides and therefore does not impose judgment. This Being therefore is just, kind, generous and forgiving  and at the same time evil and inhuman. This Being is neither only Good nor only Evil but rather One, Whole and Perfect. The second part of the explanation is therefore hinged upon the premise that basically around 84 of all human beings (Major Religions. 2007)  may fail to see this idea of a One, Whole and Perfect Being. Most people see either only the Good or only the Evil aspect of this Being. For those who have seen only the Good, they have built religions of a good God. For those who have seen only the Evil, they have built religions of a just God who delivers endless punishment. And for each learned person who sees another singular aspect of God, his salvation or saving grace for example, another religion is born. Religious diversity therefore is nothing but a result of an incomplete view of the total, complete Being that is God.

Conclusion
Ultimate sacred reality is one where God is a Being which defies any singular characteristic normally attributed to humans and things and anything that can be conceived by the mind. The Being is therefore indescribable and unnamed and the only thing that can be deduced from its supposed existence is the idea that it is the sum total of all things. This Being also disregards Good and Evil. Moreover, it remains One, Whole and Perfect, and where one fails to see this completeness, he clings to a particular aspect of God, which is usually supported by one of the many traditional religions.

The general idea and concept of Hell mainly encompasses a despicable place with flames where wicked and evil souls spend the rest of eternity in torment.  These views of the ever damned place are most likely derived from religious beliefs and old-school dogma from early teachings.  Conversely, the term Hell employing an idiomatic approach is commonly used as an expression for circumstances in which terrible pain, agony, or other horrid and vicious possible consequences may take place.  Therefore, the experiences of suffering, anguish, pain, and plague are often interchanged with the term hell.  The human integrations for the term thereby eliminate any universal or objective definition andor description of hell.  The book, Four Views on Hell highlights several interpretations of hell from the scholarly views of William Crockett, John Walvoord, Zachary Hayes, and Clark Pinnock. 

II. Brief Summary
The truth of the existence of Hell in most religious beliefs and practices is adhered to by most conformists however, most religions refuse to probe on how the process of eternal punishment is actually done. The book Four Views on Hell tackles the topic from several points of view apart from the scriptural accounts.  The author and contributors of the book primarily raise a controversial question to a delicate subject  How is hell to be understood  The book is written in such a manner which really prompts this big question and, this question in turn, branches out to spring up several other questions as well. 

The book initially emphasizes on how religious teachings avoid talking of matters that involve hell instead, preachers and interpreters only give unclear thoughts of how hell promises to make afterlife a punishment for those who opt to go astray.  Most individuals are disturbed by this concept since the thought of eternal torment does not connote very positive prospects.  Thus, the book in itself is an informative source of the several concepts governing hell. 
     
The book details four different perspectives of hell from four professors who are brave enough to tackle a subject in contrast to the typical perceptions discussed in religious doctrines.  It highlights how hell is perceived dependent on an individuals personally upheld beliefs.  The four perspectives that are presented reflect the personal views of the people behind the book are delivered in an informative and scholarly manner. 
   
The books title may stimulate satanic or demonic implications to most conservative Christians but the underlying motive of the book is still directed towards an analysis on the grounds of eternal punishment.  The theological approach of the book expounds on the traditional perspectives of hell while the perspectives explained are backed by the opinion of several theologians that tend to disagree with what the scriptures say.  It tells of how the concept of eternal punishment is explained throughout the bible with the etymology of the word hell. 
     
The book discusses the Old Testament and New Testament doctrines of hell throughout its four chapters in concise and thorough arguments.  In spite of the four separate views of the author and contributors, the book interactively discusses the issues of contradicting beliefs on hell with every contributor sharing reaction toward one anothers opinion.  Four Views on Hell gives the theological argument of hell using the biblical passages, both in the Old and the New Testaments, including the four canonical gospels that contain the words of Jesus Christ himself.  In all the perspectives presented, the Bible is authoritatively consulted and conformed to.   Overall, the book solely argues whether hell is eternal, metaphoric, conditional or purgatorial.  The book in itself ironically presents a topic that is usually avoided or characterized by impropriety. 

III. Critical interaction with authors work
In a strict sense, the book lives up to what it attempts to convey and the biggest contributor to this is the collaborative structure of the publication.  Crockett, Walvoord, Hayes, and Pinnock eliminate the typical narrow perspectives of hell in their respective arguments.  One of the important premises of theology is the biblical canon of hell and theologians for a long period of time have been studying its principles.  It is apparent that the writers attempted to connect the authenticity of the bibles content within the contrasting views of Christian sects and secular non-Christians as well.  It is quite plausible to imagine how a Muslim can be saved from damnation without the acceptance of Christs suffering and death.
   
It is quite lucid that human opinion is divided, but the books literal and metaphorical agonies of hell can scare an individual in any given day.  Though contextually similar to the literal perspective, Crocketts metaphorical aspect concurs to the explanation that the Bible should not be taken literally  nevertheless, the effects of a wicked life are as horrible as the literal interpretations of a place where fire and demons abound.  In contrast to the books metaphorical explanation, the prevalent and general argument that is only limited to literal and non-literal is more plausible to some individuals, and people still prefer alternatives rather than the scriptures provided.   The Literal or Orthodox view further argues that hell is a place of punishment that lasts forever meaning whoever is sent to hell will face a life of eternal and endless suffering.  Hell is further described in detail as a place that is very dark, and where the castigation is done on the physical, mental and emotional levels.  On the contrary, the Metaphorical view avers that suffering in hell is more symbolic and emotional rather than physical where the torment will also be everlasting but not physically agonizing.  In any case, the current progress of mindless conformity in the world can truthfully testify to the literal and metaphorical elucidations of the book.  Though easy to grasp, the literal and metaphorical view poses a challenge on the evangelical end.  This is because the literal and metaphorical views both imply Gods mutual resentment over evil-doers.  As such, the metaphorical and literal view has the probability of impeding the value of Christs suffering and death, thereby causing difficulty of preaching the gospel to a world gradually being secluded from Gods grace. 
     
The Roman Catholic Church meanwhile offers a rather less terrifying account of hell in the belief of purgatory, where souls who led wicked lives are cleansed in preparation to their entrance to Gods grace.  The concept of purgatory offers a ray of hope for those who feel are not upright enough to go to Heaven, but not that sinful to go to Hell.  Hayes here presents God as a forgiving God due to purgatorys offers for the redemption of the wicked souls.  However, the purgatorial approach may counter other biblical teachings such as God being just, who gives to the unrighteous the proper punishment in the afterlife.  In addition, purgatory, though considered by Hayes as a form of punishment, completely counters biblical doctrines of hell, particularly on the eternal implication of such punishment. 
     
Much can also be said about Pinnocks conditional view wherein hell and eternal punishment does not last for eternity and that eternal life is only for the righteous and noble. This perspective may agree with the description of God as a forgiving and merciful God, but the thought once again eliminates the preconceived notion of Gods justice, and His firm aversion toward the sinful and the impious.  Furthermore, Gods merciful nature is negated if the conditional view will be put into consideration.

In addition to these ideas, it is significant to point out the assertion that hell is necessary because not everyone will repent.  It is part of Cathecism or Catholic teachings that hell will be a place for those who are aware of evil and its works but will still take the wicked path.  In other words, since the teachings have been handed down to the Christians, it is not really certain who will actually follow the teachings since some will not be as keen on abiding by the Christian teachings.  Each person is given their entire life on Earth as an opportunity to repent and accept God hence, if they do not take advantage of this chance to make amends for their evil deeds, then it will definitely be in hell that the individual will go to.  This justifies the existence of Hell for the purpose of separating those who are diligent and adhere to the laws as against those who choose not to go along the path of righteousness.       
Four Views on Hell blatantly attempts to give four clear and concise definitions of hell with respect to the Bible that should govern the abilities of the human mind.  This literary piece begets a perception of hell that has been the center of debate among Christians and non-Christians.  Hell for most people revolves around damnation in an unimaginable place.  It is sometimes deemed as an experience that tends to bring human life in fear, disgust, and terror.  Regardless if the interpretations may vary, the thought of hell nonetheless concerns punishments for evil deeds committed.  It is also interesting to note that there punishment in hell is not homogenous but that in actuality there are degrees of punishment in hell, just as there are degrees of reward in heaven.  As such, this connotes that come Judgment Day, each mans deeds will be assessed according to the degree of his good deeds and offenses, and not be dumped together in either Heaven or Hell with all the other souls.     
     
In a similar note, Keith Wright tackles hell in a different perspective in The Hell Jesus Never Intended.  Though Wright explains how hell is feared by most Christians, it is only limited to the Christian point-of-view.  Wright only insinuates two sentiments about hell, contradictory to Four Views on Hell which has four separate and interactive interpretations. 
     
Wrights book gives an implication of how God punishes the wicked as stated in the scriptural doctrines of hell.  God in the Bible is described by numerous qualities that complement Him as The Omniscient being, and this is a point of concern since the torments of hell is a premise in the bible.  Wright religiously conforms to the Bibles descriptions of hell which is characterized by a lifetime of flames and demons, as opposed to what Hayes and Pinnock suggest. 

IV. Conclusion
Crockett and the scholars who contributed in the Four Views on Hell theoretically gave out their personal interpretations on the subject.  .The well-explained insights successfully convey the message to individuals from all walks of life, which is the point of this publication to begin with. 
The book gives more of enlightenment in the form of knowledge rather than strike terror andor fear on the readers, which is the usual reaction of most people.  A first glance at the book can somehow make a person -- particularly of conservative Christian practices -- see the book as blasphemic, but a closer look may strengthen ones faith as he or she may ask how God accepts the souls of the departed.  Human beings are prone to temptation, and subsequently to sin, but God is always ready to accept the repenting, Therefore, Four Views on Hell makes one think that humanity still has hope despite the sinful life.  Though it is really never explained how the depraved and corrupted will be made to pay for their transgressions. 

Isaiah is one of the most significant prophets in the Old Testament. He is the one that foretold the coming of the messiah, who is Jesus Christ. He is also one of the advisors of a number of kings in Jerusalem when it was under pressure from the political threats of its neighboring counties such as Egypt and Assyria. In the Old Testament, the book of Isaiah speaks of justice from the Israelites betrayal against Yahweh. Its beginning chapters tell a prophecy of chaos, war, and an impending collapse of the state of Israel. However, the following chapters of the book show Gods mercy and promise of love.

Isaiah has been subject to many biblical scholars because of the way the book in the Old Testament was written. The textual issues concerning Isaiah have brought the concept of three different Isaiahs, known as Isaiah of Jerusalem, the 2nd Isaiah, and the 3rd Isaiah. Thus, this paper discusses the view of biblical scholars as to why there are three identities to Isaiah in the Old Testament.

Isaiah of Jerusalem
The book entitled, Understanding the Bible written by Stephen Harris provides a comprehensive explanation, based on the view of biblical scholars, as to the textual issues regarding Isaiahs roles in the Old Testament. The book of Isaiah is a collection of Hebrew prophecy which traces its roots to the mid-eight to the fifth centuries BCE. The book is actually a work of at least three prophets addressing three different crises in the history of Israel (201). The first 39 chapters of the book speak of the oldest prophecies made by Isaiah of Jerusalem, to whom the book was named. He served as the counselor to three Judean kings Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. The prophecies in this section speak of wrongdoings in Judea and Jerusalem, judgment against foreign nations, restoration, and denunciations of Judah and Jerusalem (202). This section was more about loyalty to Yahweh and the practice of social justice (203).

The Second and Third Isaiah
Evidence supporting the premise that there was more than one Isaiah in the book on the Old Testament is that the name Isaiah was never mentioned in the chapters following chapter 39. This second main division consists of chapters 40 to 45 where the Assyrian threat is also no longer mentioned. This time, an anonymous prophet addresses the Judean captives in Babylon and declaring Cyrus of Persia as Yahwehs messiah, who will free Israel from Babylonian exile.

The third Isaiah referred to by biblical scholars is found in chapters 56-66. It consists of a number of prophetic oracles to a ravaged colony of exiles that resettled in Judah, which was already in Persian rule at that time (201).

Isaiahs Prophecy of the Messiah
The book of Isaiah is a very popular book in the Old Testament because of the prophecy of the Messiah, a descendant of David who will save the entire people of Israel from foreign rule. This was fulfilled by Jesus in the New Testament. Biblical scholars believed that the people of Israel perceived that this was with reference to Hezekiah, who was Ahaz s wife, that her child would become the heir to the throne. This was the occasion for Isaiahs poem in chapter 9, verse 7 (203). Because of the high influence of Isaiah to the people to Israel, future generations after the Davidic throne still looked up to this particular prophecy, which they referred to as Jesus of Nazareth (204).

They are said to have the same religious heritage with very few common elements and roots (Los Angeles Chinese Center for Learning, par 2). They are among the main religions in the world with huge following. Are their any similarities and differences among the three religions One similarity is that all the three religions are monotheistic but the difference comes in on how they view God. The Judaism God is a one being who can never be divided into parts and for them dividing God is an act of paganism. For Muslims, their God is regarded as invisible and immaterial. This God must be held with a lot of awe where by He must be really feared by the faithful. Another characteristic of the Muslim God is that he is omnipotent. Islam rules out the idea of God having a son and for them the idea goes against the divine nature of God and this is like giving God human qualities which according to them, He is not. For Christians, they believe in the holy trinity of God the father, the son and the Holy Spirit. They also believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God and that He is a revelation of God through the human flesh (All about Religion, par. 2).

The three religions also regard God as the author of everything in the world and everything originates from Him. They also believe that God is very caring and He always looks after the well being of the people. He is also just, merciful and gracious. He has given guidelines to His people on how to lead righteous lives that may please Him (Los Angeles Chinese Center for Learning, par 2).
I do not think all the three religions worship the same God even through they are monotheistic. This is because the Judaism God is one and they do not believe that He can be divided into parts. In other words, they do not believe in the holy trinity and the same applies to Islam. For Muslims, they do not believe God can have a son. All these go against the Christian belief in the holy trinity of God the father, the son and the Holy Spirit. For me, these are very different concepts about God and thus may not refer to the same God.

The other similarity is that the three religions have their own holy books that have some similarities but also differences. Torah is Judaisms holy book and this one is regarded the original book that contained the Old Testament. Torah is very important when it comes to Judaism worship because it is believed that it received its definite form from the Old Testament. It also contains the Ten Commandments which are very crucial in Judaism for they regard them as foundation or basis of human beings behavior (All about Religion, par. 4). For Muslims, the Quran is the last book from God and thus it is the best. First it was the Ten Commandments which were given to Prophet Moses. It was followed by the golden rule that was given to Prophet Jesus. Muslims regard the Torah, Davids psalms, the book that contains the New Testament and the Quran as the holy book but the Quran is the best. For Christians, the bible which contains both the old and the new testaments is the holy book. They believe that God reveals himself and his thoughts through the bible. The bible is also very important to them because it outlines the beginning and the end of all things including the way one can achieve salvation, and also sins consequences (All about Religion, par 4-5).

The three religions also emphasis on regular prayers and the difference comes in on how they conduct the prayers. For Judaism, there is so much recitation involved and they also have prayer book called Sidder (Religious Facts, par 1). For Muslims, they are supposed to pray 5 times a day (Diversity Planner, par 4). The Christians meet every Sunday to pray and worship (Woodruff, par 1).Those religions emphasize that people should show concern to others and respect other peoples dignity (Los Angeles Chinese Center for Learning, par. 7).

Another similarity is that, they all have holy places of worship but also different. For Muslims, the mosque is a very holy place where one is required to remove shoes and carry out a washing ritual before stepping into the mosque to pray (Diversity Planner, par. 1). In Judaism, synagogues and temples are regarded as holy. The male faithful must cover their heads either with a dress or kipa. They are also required to bow at some point during prayers (Religious Facts, par. 5). For Christians they have various churches where they do their worshipping every Sunday with worship practices varying (Woodruff, par. 1).

In conclusion, the three religions seem to have similarities in regards to the worship of one God but the difference comes in on how they view Him. The same applies to their beliefs about the prophets and the holy books, their places of worship and prayers. They all have prophets, holy books, places of worship and regular prayers but very different or are practiced differently.

The process of worship and development of rituals remains to be an important factor shaping the development of religious beliefs. Here, it focuses on establishing meaning of faith through various symbolisms and application of tenets of a particular religion. Given the diversity of these methods, it then creates a sense of identity among believers as they find common grounds wherein they can share their ideals and principles altogether. Such dynamics then reinforces the process of religion and promotes its transcendence through the constant shaping of new customs and beliefs.

Analyzing my own sense of what worship means, it corresponds to ones ability to exercise the appreciation of belief towards oneself or to a group of people. This constant interaction with this spiritual aspect of mine shapes my ability to perceive and develop new means to identify myself and also hone my values and principles in life. At the same time, it also infuses common perspectives concerning how I relate to my environment and promote better means for both adaptability and growth. In essence, my idea concerning worship seeks to supplement and apply my faith to my interpersonal realm and to others as well.

Applying this in terms of ritual actions, I see the value of using this as supplemental tools towards reaching out and developing my faith. These actions serve to complement my aspect of worship because of its capacity to allow interaction with reality and ascertain value towards specific objects, persons, or even emotional experiences. Seeing this, collaborating both worship and rituals altogether can indeed shape new levels of appreciation as it generates better means for expanding and widening my view not only with my religious beliefs but of my faith.

In relation to the customs and practices of the Islamic tradition, the way they see worship also corresponds to the manner of actively surrendering oneself to the will of Allah. Here, they see their purpose through a holistic manner of mind and body in constant interaction and collaboration towards good. Here, Islam Religion points out that worship has a unique role in Islam, and through worship, a person is regarded as a true Muslim who accords his entire life to the Will of God (p.1).  Due to this, the idea of Muslim worship then seeks to strike the balance between its customary traditions with that of personal feelings and values towards another.

Similarly, this can be seen with the sacrament of Holy Eucharist within the Catholic customs and rituals. Here, it tries to specify the value of collaboration among believers who receive communion and commemorate the actions of Jesus Christ (Religious Facts, p. 1). With the usage of different rituals such as reading of gospels, transubstantiation of bread and wine, and the actual partaking (communion), it supplements the totality of Catholic view concerning the practice of faith - one that is communal and equally shared by all members. This then justifies one aspect in the promotion of faith.

Lastly, for the part of Judaism, their capacity to exercise prayers throughout the day showcases their ability to utilize a personalized view and experience of worship. Here, their rituals remain to be facilitative of tradition but the aspect of application still remains on the part of the doer. By effectively catering to these ideas accordingly, it helps generate an appreciation of faith and exercise of reverence and sanctity towards what they do. All these in turn seek to justify how they value meaning towards their religious services may it be Shacharit (morning prayer), Mincha (afternoon prayer), and Maariv (evening prayer) (Religion Facts, p.1). Such directions then show how they value their prayers as part of the Judaist custom and adherence to specific principles.

Background of religion
Religion is a form of organization that is formed as a result of shared beliefs. Islam and Christianity are the two worlds biggest religions that people share their beliefs in. The two religions are at least found in 80 percent of the countries in the world. They have a history that explains the birth of religion, their past and their current existence and differences. The Christian religion has had many divisions based on beliefs and perspectives of the real faith. The result was the growth of many denominations that were liberal and conservative, The Catholics and Anglicans have been deemed as conservatives and the protestant churches have been categorized as the liberals. Islam likewise has had its fair share of problems and it also split into two major groups the Sunni and the Shiite sects, with the Sunni being the bigger and more established of the two, while the Shea Islam has fewer followers around the world.

History of the two religions
History of the two religions is the beginning of the comparison. The analysis of the similarities in these tow religions spring up from their history. The basis of their faith and the activities that led to their divisions is the basis of the similarity and differences of these two religions. Islam means Submission to God where as Christian comes from Christ. It is derived in the faith we believe in. Both religions have a naming that is derived from the prophet in whom they believed in.

Islam
The history of Islam suggests that the faith of Islam is based on the belief that Prophet Muhammad and all the prophets who came to this world preached the same message of believing in one God Allah. All the prophets were also blessed with a power of divine will or truth. The Arabs believe that HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)the message of Islam was first received by the Holy Prophet Mohammed more than 1400 HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)years ago. It is believed that HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)Angel Gabriel is the one who delivered this special message and was thus preservedHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)in the Holy Quran. The origin of the word Islam means PEACE. The Muslims believe that they are supposed to surrender to the HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)Will of God. This is typical of Christianity where the followers of the religions are supposed to surrender the pleasure HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)of HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)the world for HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)God. Both religions believe HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)that the creator of the world HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)is the One and the only one worthy of worship. Muslims believe HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)that Muhammad HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)is His last Prophet, HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)Messenger and Servant CITATION Raj10 l 2057 (Rajab, 2010).   

They differ with Christians on this aspect since the Christians believe the Jesus Christ was his son and one would not reach the father without going through the son. The Muslims follow the beliefs as laid down by Muslim faith. HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)Muslim faithful have five main duties to perform, namely bearing witness to the existence of Unity of God and Mohammed HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)as his Prophet, observing the prayers as taught in the teachings, payment of Zakat, faithful observing the fasts during Ramadan and performing the pilgrimage to Mecca once in a lifetime. The Islam religion believes that all Human beings are HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)born pure. The teachings in the Holy Quran tell us that God gave human beings a choice between good and evil and to seek Gods pleasure through faith, prayer and charity. In Islam it is believed that God created mankind in His own image and by trying to emulate the qualities and Holy status of God on a human level, mankind is able to attain the right to be near God. Islams main teachings are to worship God and to treat allHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)Gods creation with kindness and compassion CITATION Sal09 l 2057 (Salman, 2009).

Muslim teachings encourage their faithful to lead a life full of Kindness, chastity, honesty, mercy, courage, patience and politeness. This is the message that is contained in the Holy Book the Quran. The Hadith and Sunnahs narrate the life and practices of the Holy Prophet Muhammad. These teachings help in the spiritual development of all Muslims. Anyone who seeks spiritual nourishment and needs to get near the Lord needs to seek God through worship and dedication to the principles of the Muslim religion. By following the teachings and observing the required codes of the religion one would be able to establish a relationship with the Almighty Lord in his life(Christopher, 2010).
In these Muslim Teachings we see that the religion has a way which it is related to the Christian religion. The Christian denomination we will be discussing in particular is the United Methodist Church.

The Church
The United Methodist ChurchHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0) is greatly the works and efforts of a movement that was began by John and Charles Wesley within the Anglican Church. This largely explains why the churchs theological orientation is mostly Wesleyan. It embeds both liturgical and evangelical elements.    The church membership is one of the largest in the United States after the Southern Baptist Convention and it is ranked as the third Largest Christian denomination. It boasts of membership of about 12 million members worldwide with 8 million from the United States and Canada. It is also enlisted as a member of the World council of churches and world Methodist council CITATION Chr10 l 2057 (Christopher, 2010).

The HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)Methodist Church began HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)as a movement within the Church of England by a small       
Group of students from Oxford University Campus the leaders were John Wesley, Charles Wesley and George Whitefield. They laid emphasis on the study of the Bible and scrutinised scriptures and also living a Holy life. The title Methodists came from the mocking from their friends who were fascinated by the Methodical study of scriptures and Bible study, and their lifestyle.  Later on they began teaching members of the Church of England in societies. For those who wanted to live sacred lives. The Wesley Brothers spread the Gospel in different states.

The movement won more followers among the Anglicans and they came up with the conviction of being saved by the Grace of God and through the faith. This came to be known as the doctrine of the church as well as of the scriptures. These were the foundations of the doctrines of the church, salvation was by faith and this became the main topic. These laid foundation to Christian faith and an understanding that by nature all people are dead in sin and they are saved by faith. These became the doctrine which they preached and this doctrine supported their growth into a church. These were the origin of the Methodist church. All the followers of the preachings and doctrines preached by the Young preachers formed the Methodist church. I t was first set up in Baltimore, Maryland(Mary, 2010).
 
This church was formed by two churches that had distinguished histories and had developed influential ministries in various parts of the world.  The new denomination   started as a movement in the 1739. It originated from the teachings of John Wesley in England. They never intended to form a new church but they formed societies called united societies. Through these small united groups they would restore people in the Anglican denomination. Methodism grew and spread and this came to be a fully fledged church. They however underwent divisions in the American history and later on the divided factions of the Methodist church came together to form a united church. In 1939, the three factions which are the American Methodism Protestant Church, the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the Methodist Episcopal Church, South agreed to reunite under the name The Methodist Church. This brought together a total of 7.7 million member church that gradually grew on its own. It later on came to combine with another Evangelical United Brethren Church(Mary, 2010).

The move by the bishops of the two churches to combine their churches into one led to the formation of the second largest Protestant denomination in America, The United Methodist Church.  The background features and worshiping in these two institutions or organizations was significantly had similarities and some peculiar differences. The two religions have had a stormy past and it took them time to grow. In the establishments and growth they have similar characteristics. Both of them command a great number of followers. They command a huge number of followers because of their teachings and concentration in the content of the holy book. For the Muslim they are taught according to the teachings in the Quran where as the Methodists rely on the Biblical scriptures. This makes the doctrines be strong and more viable to the respective gatherings(Mary, 2010).

Comparison and contrast of the two religions
The HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)United Methodist Church lays emphasis onHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0) personal holiness. It is wholly evangelical and uses outreach to spread the Gospel.   The main objective of HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)United Methodist Church wasHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0) to create disciples for Christ through outreach, evangelism, and through seeking holiness through the process of sanctification and baptism. The followers are taught like the Disciples of Christ and they undergo a process of learning salvation through which they are deemed fit to be accepted in sanctity.   By Worshiping in trinity, United Methodists seeks to bring followers near God by following the footsteps of Christ and his teachings. They seek to honour God In all their activities and investments. All this is laid in faith to God and in belief of the power of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is represented in the church logo by a Flame, and HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)is manifested in believers through spiritual gifts and their daily lives CITATION Chr10 l 2057 (Christopher, 2010).

The Holy Ghost flame is symbolic it has two parts and it represents the predecessors denomination.The flame is HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)united at the base to symbolizing the 1968 merger of the two denominations. The Church being the product of the Holy CatholicHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)universal Church it uses and recognizes theHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)ecumenical creeds, the Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed. These are prayers frequently used in HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)services of worship in the Catholic Universal Church.   The United Methodist church has a Book of Discipline. This contains the Doctrines and laws of the United Methodist Church. The doctrines and beliefs of the United Church believe in the concept of the visible and invisible Church. In the Invisible church is the existence of all who believe in the doctrines of the church although they may not be observers of all the rules of the church. All Christians must worship and attend all sacraments as administered in the church. The difference with the visible and invisible side we find that the invisible is the normal church attendance but one does not participate in keeping the Laws and doctrines of the Church. They can as well be referred to as unworthy members in the visible church CITATION Chr10 l 2057 (Christopher, 2010).
 
A summary of 
The HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0) basic beliefs of the United Methodist Church include -Trinity God.  Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Belief in the Scripture. The Scripture writings in the Old and NewHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0) testaments are the true and inspired word of God.  Understanding of the Human beings and their purpose of being created the reason why God created us in his own image, the belief of the church is that all humans are sinners. Committing of Sin separates us from God and corrupts human nature such that we cannot heal or save ourselves. The Church believes in Salvation through Jesus. Gods redeeming love is believed to be the only remedy to save sinners from eternal suffering. Through Jesus incarnation andHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)His atoning death, His resurrection is represented through the presence through history, and his promised return CITATION Chr10 l 2057 (Christopher, 2010).

HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)Sacraments the United Methodist Church recognizes only two sacraments Holy Baptism and Holy Communion. The other rites such as Confirmation, Ordination, Holy Matrimony, Funerals, and Anointing of the Sick are offered but they are not considered to be the holy sacraments. The church believes that Holy Baptism is not only a sign of profession and HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)mark of difference whereby Christians are distinguished from others that are not baptized but it is also a sign of  or the new birth .It believes that Baptism is a sacrament in which God initiates a covenant with individuals, The United Methodist Church Baptizes byHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0) sprinkling, pouring, or immersion and recognizes Trinitarian formula.  The United Methodist Church also HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0) the real presence of Christ in Holy Communion, the Bread is an effectual sign of His body crucified on the cross and the Cup is an effectual sign of His humanity (Christopher, 2010). 
 
HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0) Islam Religion is by the HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)declaration of faith which states, HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)I bear witness there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and I bear witness, HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)is His final messenger. 
The Muslim community welcomes individuals. To become a Muslim one must be ready to adhere with the Eight Schools of Islamic Legal Thought. Islam as a religion is the worlds second largest religion. In Islam the most important factor in Islam is the faith. For a Muslim an individuals faith is the important(Mary, 2010). The believer or Follower is called a Mumin. A Muslim Observes a Muslim observes Sunnah (practices and actions of Mohammed), the HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)cohesive community of Muslims who accept the Sunnah as defined within one of the traditional Maliki, Hanafi, Shafi or Hanbali madhabs are the classical Sunni Muslims. Muslims believeHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)only one God (Allah). The Quran HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)describes many Biblical prophets and messengers asHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)Adam, Noah, and MosesHYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)Jesus.HYPERLINK javascriptvoid(0)the differences in the two religions, the two also share some common factors i.e. Monotheism (belief in one God.), belief in Prophets, belief in Judgment Day, in their Holy Books and in the Will of man to change and conform to Gods ways through faith, belief and repentance, in Angel (i.e. Angel Gabriel), in life after death, in HeavenParadise and the eternity of God(Rajab, 2010).

Conclusion
The features and characteristics in the Muslim religion are very similar. In Islam we realise it was also introduced by many prophets and the one messiah was long waited. The background of both religions is filled with problems where they are similar. As there was a split. The major difference is in the doctrine preached by the different religion. Where Muslims believe in one prophet who died and the United Methodist Church believes in the resurrection of Jesus Christ.The two religions   have many similarities and still have many differences. It is likely we cannot exhaust the similarities and the differences.

Prophet Mohammed Ibn Abdallah was the founder of Islamic religion whose life is outlined in the Quran. This is also the main source of knowledge for those who believe in Islam.  The believers of Islamic faith are known as Muslims.  The Quran is therefore the holy book of Muslims.  Mohammed is believed to be the last Prophet and that he was a messenger of God. During his life time he worked as a merchant and a Shepherd. Jesus on the other hand did not introduce the Christian religion but is said to have been foretold by the Old Testament. In the Old Testament, John is the one who started preparing the way for the messiah, and so he preached the word of God (Amstrong. 2002).   

Later on it was revealed that the Messiah was Jesus.  Jesus is said to be one of the components of the holy trinity God, God the son and the Holy Spirit. Jesus is the second trinity and so he is God the Son.  The people who believe in Jesus and his religion are known as Christians.  Jesus just like Mohammed is also believed to be the messenger of God and referred to as Jesus Christ.  Christians also believe that Jesus is incarnate.  The Muslims believe that Jesus is one of the Messiah but Mohammed is the last one, however, Christians do not believe in Mohammed (Sochottroff. 2002).

Mohammed was born in the year 570 in Mecca. He was born of Aminah and Abdullah.  He lost his parents when he was at a very tender age and so he was brought up by his uncle Abu Talib. He was from the Quraish tribe of the Banu Hashim Clan. Mohammad married at the Age of 25 to a wealthy and noble widow who was 40 years of age 15 years his senior.  Mohammed had the habit of retreating in the mountains for meditation. One day Angel Gabriel appeared to him during his meditation and revealed to him that he was the chosen one.  Three years after the Angels visit, Mohammed gained courage and started preaching Allah and that all should total surrender to him. Jesus on the other hand is said to have lived between the years 5BCE  30CE.  He was born of Mary and Joseph.  Unlike Mohammed, Jesus grew up with his parents.  But just like Mohammed, little is known of his life except that his parents lived a humble life (Amstrong. 2002).   

Christians believe that Jesus was born of his virgin mother Mary.  Contrary to Islam religion where the Angel Gabriel appeared to Mohammed, in Christianity, the Angle Gabriel is said to have appeared to Mary mother of Jesus and told her not to worry since she was pregnant with the son of God, despite the fact that at the time she had not consummated her relationship with Joseph her fianc. Therefore, Christians regard Mary as a holy mother since she was conceived by the Holy Spirit.  Jesus birth was received with hostility by King Herold, who had heard that the King of the Jews was born, and so he sent out his subjects to kill all the male children who were two years and below.  His family was compelled to flee from Bethlehem to Egypt (Sochottroff. 2002). 

Christians believe that the family was protected by God and so Jesus got to live until he was of age. Mohammed on the other hand was met with hostility particularly from his tribes men who were the custodian of the Kaaba (shrine of idols).  By this time he was in his 40s. Mohammed therefore fled to Medina to seek protection.  The Islam religion refers to Mohammeds fleeing for safety as Hijra which is very significant in the Islamic calendar.  His presence in Medina was very fruitful as he is said to have united the tribes who were in conflict and above all his number of followers grew.  As a result they unanimously conquered Mecca (Amstrong. 2002).

Mohammed died a few months after his pilgrimage.  He died from illness.  By the time of his death, he had united most of the Arabian Peninsula and also Islam religion had spread widely.  The Islamic faith is outlined in the Quran, commonly referred to as the word of God. Mohammed lived a virtuous life which made him earn the title the faithful one.  After his death the Islam lived according to his life and traditions which they refer to as sira and sunnah.  The literature that was written by those who knew him is referred to as Hadtih (Masqsood. 1995).  Jesus on the contrary died a very painful death as he was crucified to death by Pontius Pilate who accused Jesus of Blasphemy. For Christians, this death signifies forgiveness of the original sin.  Christians believe that the first man and woman ate the forbidden fruit and that this original sin was transferred to man.  The work of Jesus on earth was to take away this sin from man.  And so in order to do this he had to die for their sins (Amstrong. 2002). 

Jesus is also said to have lived a virtuous life.  His life is narrated in the Holy Bible, a book which outlines the history of Christianity as well as a guideline of how they should live.  In the Bible Jesus is described to have had a lot of wisdom and to have spoken in parables for purposes of effective communication (Dowley. 2006). 

Mohammeds name is mentioned in Quran only four times since he is referred to as the Prophet, he is also referred to as the messenger of Allah, the bearer of good tidings and other titles that indicate that he is indeed admirable.  The Quran also distinguishes Mohammed to have excelled above other prophets, while the Surah describes him as the Seal of the Prophets (Amstrong. 2002).

At the age of 12, Mohammed accompanied his uncle to a caravan trade journey to Syria where they met a Christian monk named Bahira who foretold Mohammed as the last prophet of God. Not much is said about Mohammeds youthful life, however, his uprightness was so distinct and it drew Khadija to him.  However, when Khadija died after 25 years of their blissful marriage, Mohammed is said to have married 13 wives by the time of his death.  Khadija bore Mohammed four daughters and two sons. Similarly at the age of 12, Jesus is said to have walked away from the parents and went to preach to adults. The parents panicked but after a long search they found him.  On cautioning him he asked them if they did not know he was supposed to be serving his father (Masqsood. 1995).

The Quran preaches that Islam is the total submission to Allah and thus urges Muslims to submit to Allah and respect Prophet Mohammed.  In the Quran Man is responsible for preserving creatures.  Muslims also believe in life after death and that there will come the Day of Judgment whereby those who did not live by the doctrine of the Quran will be sent to hell by Allah while the good will live eternally in heaven.  The Muslims are required by the word of Allah to believe in him, reject sin, and ask for forgiveness of sin, fast during Ramadan, and pray without seizing.  Christians believe that fasting and praying to God expedites Gods response to their needs.  They also believe in life after death and the judgment day, and that sinners will go to hell while good Christians will enjoy eternal life in heaven (Dowley. 2006).

Historians say that Mohammed experienced opponent of Islam religion when he attacked adoration of idols, polytheism most favorable religion of his forefathers at the time.  Mohammed was offered wealth and beautiful girls in exchange of his faith but he denied.  He was therefore mistreated alongside his followers some of whom lost their lives as a result.  There are no records where Jesus reckoned with idol worshipers, however, in the Old Testament, one of his ancestors Moses who was entrusted with the 10 commandments that Christians subscribe to is said to have been angered by idol worshipers.  The idol worshipers were destroyed by God.

Jesus private life is not effectively documented.  There are no authentic documents on Jesus private life, however, if he would have married, it would have been one wife since he preached monogamy.  However, Mohammed is said to have married a total of 13 wives during his life time on basis of giving favors or attaining favors.  Quite a number of his wives were widows, and so they needed a shoulder to lean on.  As a result Christians are monogamists while Muslims are Polygamists (Masqsood. 1995).

Today there have been controversies on both the Islamic religion and the Christian religion.  For Muslims, there have emerged various schools of thought that have resulted to two branches of Muslims the Shia and the Sunni.  Both Shia and Sunni believe in Mohammeds preaching and the Quran, however the Shia have expounded on Mohammeds traditions (Masqsood. 1995). The Sharia Law has particularly been the centre of controversy on the issue of taking away someones life as a punishment for sin as well as the holy war. Christians have equally had their share of conflict and as a result there has emerged so many denominations with diverse traditions.  But most importantly, they all subscribe to the teaching of the Holy Bible. The major controversy amongst the Christian is the belief in the Holy Eucharist and the presence of Christ in the Holy Eucharist as well as the vow of celibacy amongst the Roman Catholic among others (Amstrong. 2002).

JudaismChristianityIslamCountries of originThey are canonites from the land of Cannon. They believe they came from Israel.Come from many countries and many origins. Middle East and North Africa.Historical figures and eventsMoses, Saul, David and Solomon.  Freeing of the Israelites and Moses bringing them to the promised land. Moses and Miriam both died before reaching it. Jesus is the son of God and he arose from death to ascend to heaven after dying for his people. Moses brought the Israelites out of Canaan and parted the oceans, taking them to the promised land. God gave the 10 commandments to Moses who brought them down from the Mount. There were five prophets and they were Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad. These men brought the people the word of God. Central beliefsMan was created in the image of God and this does not mean that we look like God but are expected to be like God. There is one God who is the holy trinity or the Father, the Son, and the holy ghost. Jesus was the son of God and died for our sins. Adam and Eve made the faithful mistake that brought us all out of Eden. If you are sinful you will go to Hell and if you are faithful you will go to heaven. God created man from a clot of blood. Humans are the greatest creatures on earth.

God created man with free will to obey and serve him They believe in the 5 pillars of faith which are the confession of faith, ritual prayer, alms tax, fasting during Ramadon and pilgrimage to Mecca. There are also 8 ritual beliefs which include that God exists, he is a single entity, he created everything, he is neither male or female, he is omnipresent, he is just and merciful and he is holy and perfect.Nature of GodEach man has his own relationship with God. God is the power of all of the Universe and according to which religion you have, he is frightening or he is supportive but either way he is almighty. God wants you to submit to his will. He is the one true God and expects faithfulness. TextsTorah, Talmud and the MidrashThe Bible. There are two texts, one is the Koran and the other is the Hadith. Ritual and practiceThey have many rituals which include birth and naming ceremonies, circumcision, redemption of the first born, coming of age, and Jewish marriage traditions. Christening, and baptizing are important if you are going to heaven. Christmas is the celebration of Jesus birthday.

Church on Sunday and sometimes on Wed. Easter is the celebration of the rising of Jesus and his ascension to heaven.Prayer begins every morning at sunrise and every evening at sundown. They have fasting for a week at Ramadan and the pilgrimage to Mecca every year and take those who would have trouble getting there themselves. Ethics and moralityThey believe in the Yetzer too and the Yezer ra. The Yetzer too is the impulse to satisfy ones desires and the ra is the drive so do good things like having a family and supporting them. Man is prone to sin which is proven by Adam and Eve. We have all sinned and we must prey and ask for forgiveness for those sins if we are to sit in heaven with Jesus. We were created in the image of God and when we are born we are essentially good  but have the predisposition to sin. They believe they were born of Mohammed and created in the image of God. Man is meant to obey and though man may sin, he must ask God for forgiveness.