Bible and Koran

Paper #3: Bible and Koran   Goal – to identify one or more key differences between the Bible and the Koran, and to reflect on this.   Assignment – The first paper explored differences between the biblical and modern scientific accounts of creation. The second looked at controversial aspects of the Bible. This paper looks at the Bible and the Koran in relationship to each other. Begin the paper by discussing the basic beliefs of Islam. Then, choose at least one portion of the Bible and at least one portion of the Koran to focus on, comparing and contrasting them. What point is the biblical text making? What point is the Koran making? Answer one or more of the following questions: Which account do you find more compelling? Alternatively, do you find neither account compelling? Does this assignment change your perspective on Christianity? If so, how? Does this assignment change your perspective on Islam? If so, how? Do you think the two religions are compatible or incompatible?   Criterion – Your paper will be graded on its demonstration of your knowledge and your ability to argue a position.     How to cite the Koran:   “In the name of God, the Lord of Mercy, the Giver of Mercy! Praise belongs to God, Lord of the Worlds” (1:1-2 [Haleem]).     Three translations are available in this class. The one on the resource list is translated by Horn and Phenix. The one cited in the overhead transparencies is translated by Dawood. The one on the internet is translated by Haleem.     Works Cited   Excerpts from the Qur’an. Trans. by Cornelia B. Horn and Robert R. Phenix Jr. Based on the Arabic text printed in ‘Abdullah Yusuf ‘Ali, The Meaning of The Holy Qur’an (Beltsville, Maryland: Amana Publications, 10th edition 1999, reprinted 2001).   The Koran. Trans. by N. J. Dawood. London: Penguin, 2006.   The Qur’an. Trans. by M. A. Abdel Haleem. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2005.