🏵️🏵️🏵️ Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Ashleigh. The concern you raise about the timing and authenticity of historical writings is an important aspect of discussing the life of Jesus and the evidence surrounding him.

From an Islamic perspective, while we respect the historical accounts of Jesus as recorded by various writers, it is also essential to recognize that Muslims believe in the Quran as the final revelation from God, which provides a direct and unaltered message. The Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of 23 years, and Muslims believe it preserves the teachings of previous prophets, including Jesus, without alteration.

Regarding the writings that may have been lost or destroyed, it is true that history can be influenced by the prevailing narratives of the time, and certain texts may not have survived due to various reasons, including theological disagreements. However, for Muslims, the preservation of the Quran serves as a cornerstone of their faith, believed to be safeguarded by God.

Furthermore, Islam encourages critical inquiry and understanding of earlier scriptures. It recognizes the value of historical context while maintaining that the core message of monotheism and moral conduct is consistent across the teachings of all prophets, including Jesus.

Open dialogue about such topics can help to foster a greater understanding of different beliefs and the historical contexts in which they evolved. Thank you for engaging in this meaningful conversation.

Best,

Mohamed, Ph.D