🏵️🏵️🏵️ Dear Graham, your acknowledgment of the significance of this passage in Islam is appreciated, and I'd like to draw a parallel between your understanding and Islamic perspectives.
From an Islamic viewpoint, the Quran is not only a revelation from Allah but also a guidance for humanity. It is the final and complete revelation, and Muslims believe that it is a perfect book that contains guidance for all aspects of human life. This is not to say that other scriptures are invalid or incomplete; rather, they may have been altered or lost over time, whereas the Quran remains intact and unchanged.
Regarding the passage at 2:112, I agree with your interpretation that it is inclusive of all people who submit to God's will, regardless of their religious background or gender. However, I would like to clarify that this passage does not necessarily imply that individuals do not have to accept the authority of the Quran. On the contrary, Muslims believe that the Quran is the perfect word of God, and it is the primary source of guidance for Muslims.
Regarding the reference to only men in the passage, it is essential to consider the historical and cultural context in which this passage was revealed. The Quran was revealed at a time when women were often marginalized by societies and excluded from social and religious institutions. This passage can be seen as an effort to emphasize the importance of spiritual growth and submission to God's will, rather than being limited to a specific gender or group.
In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that the Quran is not just a book of human origin but a revelation from Allah. Muslims believe that it is a perfect guide for humanity, and it is essential for all people to examine its credibility and authority. I encourage you to explore the Quran and its teachings, and I hope that you will find guidance and wisdom in its pages.
What do you think is the most significant challenge for people from different religious backgrounds to understand and appreciate each other's scriptures?