🍂 Jesus and the Islamic Way of Life: A Reflection by Emmanuel Adebayor
Former Real Madrid footballer Emmanuel Adebayor shares his thoughts on why he believes Muslims align closely with the teachings and practices of Jesus (peace be upon him). He outlines several reasons supporting the view that Muslims may be following the true path of Jesus more closely than many realize.
1. Worship of One God:
Jesus emphasized the worship of a single, all-powerful God, as stated in scriptures like Deuteronomy 6:4 and Mark 12:29. This same belief in the oneness of God is central in Islam, as seen in Qur’an 4:171.
2. Avoiding Pork:
The Bible in Leviticus 11:7 prohibits eating pork—a guideline Jesus adhered to. Muslims, too, strictly avoid pork in obedience to Qur’an 6:145.
3. Greeting with Peace:
In John 20:21, Jesus greeted his followers with “Peace be with you.” Muslims traditionally greet each other with the Arabic equivalent: Assalaamu Alaikum.
4. Saying “If God wills”:
Jesus expressed submission to God’s will in Luke 22:42. Muslims say Insha’Allah (God willing) before undertaking any action, reflecting a shared mindset (Qur’an 18:23-24).
5. Prostration in Prayer:
Jesus is described in Matthew 26:39 as praying with his face to the ground. Muslims mirror this form of prayer daily, as supported by Qur’an 3:43.
6. Respecting Divine Law and Prophets:
In Matthew 5:17, Jesus upholds the importance of divine law and acknowledges all prophets. Muslims also accept and respect all prophets without distinction (Qur’an 2:285, 3:84).
7. Modesty in Dress:
Mary, the mother of Jesus, dressed modestly and wore a head covering, as shown in various biblical verses. Muslim women follow a similar dress code, guided by Qur’an 33:59.
8. Fasting as a Spiritual Practice:
Jesus and earlier prophets fasted extensively (e.g., Matthew 4:1, Exodus 34:28). Muslims fast for a full month during Ramadan and may extend it by six more days (Qur’an 2:183).
9. Entering with Peace:
Jesus taught his followers to say “peace to this house” when entering someone’s home (Luke 10:5). Muslims say Bismillah and greet with Assalaamu Alaikum, as encouraged in Qur’an 24:61.
10. Circumcision:
Circumcision was part of Jesus’ tradition (Luke 2:21) and was considered a divine covenant from the time of Abraham (Genesis 17:13). Muslim men continue this practice, based on prophetic guidance (Qur’an 16:123).
11. Language of Worship:
Jesus spoke Aramaic and used the word “Elah” for God, which sounds almost identical to “Allah” in Arabic. Both terms refer to the same Almighty God. This linguistic link shows the continuity of belief across time and language.
🍂 Final Reflection:
Considering these points, it’s clear why many Muslims view themselves as sincere followers of Jesus’ teachings. Through faith, practice, and tradition, they maintain a lifestyle that mirrors many aspects of his life. As Emmanuel Adebayor concludes, he sees himself as a true follower of Jesus (peace be upon him) through Islam.
