Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
1Assistant Professor, Department of Philosophy and Islamic Theology, Malayer University, Hamadan, Iran
2
2MA Graduate in Philosophy and Islamic Theology, Malayer University, Hamadan, Iran
10.22081/pwq.2026.73686.1264
Abstract
Theology (the conception of God), as the foundational pillar of the Abrahamic religions, plays a pivotal role in the formation of beliefs, values, and social interactions. This study undertakes an analytical-critical examination of the theology of Judaism and Islam from the perspective of the Qur'an, focusing on theological commonalities and divergences to elucidate and critique these concepts. The primary objectives include identifying theological beliefs in both religions, comparatively analyzing divine attributes, and assessing Qur'anic critiques of potential deviations. The research employs a qualitative descriptive-analytical method with a comparative approach, drawing upon data from sacred scriptures (the Torah and the Qur'an), religious traditions (the Talmud and ḥadīth), and authoritative commentaries (such as al-Mīzān). Analyses are conducted using hermeneutic methods and tabular comparisons to enhance clarity and validity. The findings indicate that while both religions emphasize Abrahamic monotheism, Jewish theology is often characterized by ethnocentric and anthropomorphic tendencies, whereas Islam focuses on absolute divine transcendence (tanzīh) and universalism. The Qur'anic critiques—including textual distortion (taḥrīf), attributing progeny to God, and divine miserliness—rectify these deviations and steer monotheism toward a more pristine conception. These differences are rooted in historical and cultural influences, such as the Babylonian exile in Judaism and the prophetic mission (biʿtha) in the pre-Islamic Arabian milieu of Islam. In conclusion, the study underscores the potential for interfaith dialogue and suggests that focusing on shared monotheistic principles and revising ethnocentric tendencies can foster theological convergence. This research may contribute to reducing religious misunderstandings and promoting peace in pluralistic societies. Limitations include the exclusive focus on classical texts, and future research is proposed to examine modern developments in Jewish theology.
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