The provided text explores the significance of Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity across Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. It highlights the Quranic mentions of Jesus’ birth and Mary, emphasizing their importance in Islam. The narrative details the historical events surrounding the Church, including its construction, destruction, and preservation through various empires. Furthermore, it addresses the modern-day conflicts and political tensions in the region, focusing on the shared sacredness of Bethlehem. The author appears to argue for mutual respect between the three religions, emphasizing their shared history. Ultimately, the text reflects on the unfortunate prevalence of hatred over love in the region.

A Study Guide: Afzal Rehan’s Perspective on Bethlehem, Christmas, and Interfaith Relations

I. Quiz

Answer the following questions in 2-3 sentences each, based on the provided text.

1. According to Afzal Rehan, what is unique about Jesus Christ’s birth in relation to other prophets?
2. What is the significance of Bethlehem (Baitul Laham) for Christians, Jews, and Muslims, according to the author?
3. Where is Bethlehem located?
4. According to the Quran, how was Mary chosen, blessed, and blessed with blessings?
5. Who is Syedna Dawood (David) and why is he important, especially to the Jewish people, according to the text?
6. What event in the Quran is said to make believers happy?
7. What is the meaning of “Baitul Laham” in both Arabic and Hebrew, and what is the significance of those meanings?
8. According to the author, what is the purpose of mentioning the oaths taken on the three olives?
9. What action did Israel take at the Church of the Nativity that elicited much world-wide concern?
10. Why does the author discuss the virtues of Maryam (Mary)?

II. Quiz Answer Key

1. Afzal Rehan states that Jesus Christ’s birth is described in detail not only in the Bible but also in the Quran Majeed, unlike the births of other prophets. This detailed account elevates Jesus’ status in the eyes of those who believe in both scriptures.
2. For Christians, Bethlehem is the birthplace of Jesus Christ and home to the Church of the Nativity. For Jews, it’s significant as the birthplace of Syedna Dawood (King David). The author suggests it should also be a sacred place for Muslims, though this is implicit rather than explicitly stated as a common belief.
3. Bethlehem (Baitul Laham) is located approximately 5 miles or 8 kilometers southeast of Jerusalem.
4. In the Quran, the angels told Mary that God had blessed her, chosen her as a star, and made her the world of faithfulness. God favored her over all the women of the world.
5. Syedna Dawood (King David) is the great personality who laid the foundation of a Sultanate by conquering the Ba Muthar Jewish tribes, and he is important because he founded the first Israeli state.
6. The Quran states believers will be happy when the Rumi Messiah will come.
7. In Arabic, Baitul Laham means “House of Meat,” while in Hebrew, it means “House of Bread.” These names reflect the area’s historical abundance of food, both from hunting and agriculture.
8. The oaths taken on the three olives are meant to suggest that Baitul Laham and Tur Sina should not be the sacred vows of only Christians or Jews but of Muslims also, who should keep their respect in their hearts for those places.
9. Israel surrounded and blockaded the Church of the Nativity where approximately 300 Palestinians took shelter. The Israelis believed they were also part of the group who had brought peace to the world.
10. The author discusses the virtues of Maryam to confirm her pure dignity. The author uses verse number 42 which states that Maryam had been blessed by God, was chosen by God, and that God blessed her with blessings on all the women of the worlds.

III. Essay Questions

Consider these questions for essay-format responses. Your answers should demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the text.

1. Analyze Afzal Rehan’s approach to interfaith dialogue as it relates to Christmas and the significance of Jesus Christ in Islam. How does the author use the Quran to build bridges between Islam and Christianity?
2. Discuss the historical and religious significance of Bethlehem, as presented by Afzal Rehan. How does the author balance the narratives of Christians, Jews, and Muslims concerning this holy city?
3. Critically evaluate Afzal Rehan’s interpretation of Quranic verses related to Mary (Maryam) and Jesus (Syedna Masih). What specific verses does the author use and how does the interpretation support the author’s overall argument?
4. Explore the author’s perspective on the relationship between love, hatred, and the shared sacred spaces of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. How does Afzal Rehan portray the challenges and possibilities for interfaith harmony?
5. Based on Afzal Rehan’s writing, what are the potential obstacles and opportunities for fostering greater understanding and respect among Muslims, Christians, and Jews regarding shared religious sites and figures?

IV. Glossary of Key Terms

• Afzal Rehan: The author of the source text, who presents a particular viewpoint on the topics discussed.
• Baitul Laham: The Arabic name for Bethlehem, meaning “House of Meat.”
• Church of the Nativity: A significant church in Bethlehem, traditionally believed to be built on the site of Jesus’ birth.
• Syedna Masih: Arabic term referring to Jesus Christ, used respectfully in the text.
• Syedna Dawood: Arabic term referring to King David, revered in both Judaism and Islam.
• Quran Majeed: The Holy Book of Islam.
• Ruhollah: A term used to refer to Jesus Christ.
• Kalma: A holy word or phrase that refers to Jesus Christ.
• Salaam Alaiya Yoma: Phrase in the Quran in reference to Jesus which means, “Salaam on the day you were born.”
• Tur Sina: The location where God spoke to Moses, and is also related to oaths in the Quran.
• Aale Imran: A verse that speaks of Mary and is used to establish her pure dignity.
• The Rumi Messiah: This makes believers happy, according to the Quran.
• Arz Muqaddas: Holy Land, during Iranian ruler Kisra’s attack.
• Halaka Halen Arje: Came to visit the holy place and planned to build a church.
• Constantine: Roman Emperor’s Church which was built in the shape of a sleigh.
• Justinian: Rumi Emperor who got constructed the Church of the Nativity.
• Bani Israel: The Sultanate of Israel.
• Sahib Jabur: Prophet Dawood.
• Saida Maryam: Mary, the mother of Jesus.
• Israeli Awaaz scandal: Event that preceded control going to the Palestinian Authority.
• West Bank: Part of Palestine.
• Ba Muthar Jewish tribes: Jewish tribes who were conquered.
• Taj Mahal: The church is marked by the three Alawadi and Olive Hills dates from the date of this Khita.
• Najashi: Shah of Islamic belief.
• Jaafar bin Abi Talib: Narrator of the Shah Najashi.
• Mabad King Dubbed City: Village of Prophet David.
• Mausoleum: Grave of Syeda Rachel.
• Betul Makad: Dream of Syedna Dawood.
• Takaal: Syedna Sulman got the title.
• Hujra in Haikal Mount: Mary’s place of residence.
• Aaron’s sister: Mary, according to the people.
• Jabar: Allah
• Kule Malama Iyas: What Mary said that she won’t say anything to anyone.
• Black tree: The tree that was close to Mary.

Bethlehem, Jesus, and Christmas: An Islamic Perspective

Okay, here’s a briefing document summarizing the main themes and ideas from the provided text:

Briefing Document: Analysis of “Pasted Text” on Baitul Laham (Bethlehem) and Christmas from an Islamic Perspective

Date: October 26, 2023

Subject: Understanding the Islamic perspective on Bethlehem, Christmas, and the significance of Jesus (Syedna Masih) and Maryam (Mary) within the Quran.

Executive Summary:

The article, written from a Pakistani Muslim perspective, aims to foster understanding and respect for Christian traditions, particularly Christmas, by highlighting the shared religious significance of Jesus Christ (Syedna Masih) and Bethlehem within Islam and Christianity. It emphasizes the detailed mentions of Jesus’ birth in the Quran, the sacredness of Bethlehem for Muslims, Christians, and Jews, and advocates for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence. It also touches upon historical events and political complexities surrounding Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity.

Main Themes and Ideas:

1. The Quranic Significance of Jesus (Syedna Masih) and His Birth:

• The author emphasizes that Jesus’ birth is detailed in the Quran, even more so than the births of some figures not questioned within Islam.
• Quote: “Jesus Christ has the honor among all the prophets that his birth has been described in detail not only in the four verses of the Bible but also in the Quran Majeed.”
• The Quranic verse “Salam Alaiya Yoma said, Salaam on the day you were born” is cited as proof of the blessed nature of Jesus’ birth.
• The author questions why celebrating Christmas is questioned when the Quran itself mentions Jesus’ birth.

1. Bethlehem (Baitul Laham) as a Sacred Site for Multiple Faiths:

• The article underscores that Bethlehem holds importance for Christians, Jews, and Muslims.
• Quote: “Baitullah is a beautiful town. It is a blessing for the Christians all over the world because Syedna Masih was born here… but at the same time it should also be noted that Betul Laham is also one of the most sacred places for the Jews…”
• It identifies Bethlehem as the birthplace of Prophet David (Syedna Dawood Nabi) and highlights the presence of his and Prophet Solomon’s (Syedna Sulman) mausoleums there, further solidifying its importance in Judaism.
• The text also refers to the burial site of Rachel (Syeda Rachel), the mother of Prophet Joseph (Syedna Yusuf), in Bethlehem.

1. Historical Context and Political Conflict:

• The article references the siege of the Church of the Nativity in 2002, where Palestinians sought refuge. It acknowledges the potential for violence and the need for a peaceful resolution involving Vatican City, Palestinians, and Israelis.
• It briefly recounts the historical events, including the Roman Emperor’s acceptance of the Byzantine Empire and the construction and reconstruction of the Church of the Nativity by various rulers, including Roman Emperor Constantine.
• The text mentions the Six-Day War and the subsequent shift of control of Bethlehem to Israel, and later to the Palestinian Authority.

1. Interpretation of Quranic Verses Related to Maryam (Mary) and Jesus:

• The article provides a detailed interpretation of Quranic verses (Surat Maryam) describing Mary’s experience giving birth to Jesus.
• It highlights Mary’s purity and the miraculous nature of Jesus’ birth as affirmed in the Quran. Verses describing Mary’s seclusion and the angel’s announcement of a “pure boy” (Ghulam Zakiya) are cited.
• It discusses the significance of the Quran’s confirmation of Mary’s pure dignity.
• Quote: “When the scholars of that era accused pure Maryam, then the Quran confirmed her pure dignity.”

1. Advocacy for Religious Tolerance and Understanding:

• The author implicitly argues for respecting Christmas and Christian beliefs based on the shared reverence for Jesus within Islam.
• It criticizes the opposition to Christmas among some Muslims as being unfounded and potentially harmful.
• It stresses that while historical conflicts and territorial disputes exist, Muslims should maintain respect for sacred sites like Bethlehem, emphasizing the common heritage and figures revered by all three Abrahamic religions.
• The article expresses hope for a future where Muslims do not forcefully occupy places of worship belonging to other faiths.

1. Linguistic and Historical Analysis of “Baitul Laham”:

• The article explains the meaning of “Baitul Laham” in both Arabic (“House of Meat”) and Hebrew (“House of Bread”), connecting it to the historical context of the region and its agricultural significance.
• It suggests that “Laham” in ancient Canaan meant “the one who nurtures or the one who gives food.”

Key Quotes:

• “Jesus Christ has the honor among all the prophets that his birth has been described in detail not only in the four verses of the Bible but also in the Quran Majeed.”
• “Baitullah is a beautiful town. It is a blessing for the Christians all over the world because Syedna Masih was born here… but at the same time it should also be noted that Betul Laham is also one of the most sacred places for the Jews…”
• “When the scholars of that era accused pure Maryam, then the Quran confirmed her pure dignity.”
• “Salam Aya Yoma Wadat Yoma Amu Yoya, Salam is upon me on the day I was born and the day I will die, the day I will be raised again, so on and so on, this is the prayer with the essence.”

Potential Discussion Points:

• The significance of interfaith dialogue and understanding in a world marked by religious conflict.
• The role of religious texts in fostering tolerance and respect for other faiths.
• The complex political and historical context surrounding Bethlehem and its impact on interfaith relations.
• The potential for shared religious heritage to serve as a bridge between different communities.
• The challenge of balancing religious beliefs with political realities.
• How the Quran is interpreted regarding Christmas.

Conclusion:

The article offers a valuable perspective on Bethlehem and Christmas from an Islamic viewpoint. By emphasizing the shared religious heritage and the Quranic accounts of Jesus and Mary, the author promotes a message of understanding, respect, and peaceful coexistence between Muslims and Christians. It highlights the need to recognize the sacredness of Bethlehem for all Abrahamic faiths and to strive for religious tolerance in a world often divided by conflict.

Bethlehem: Significance in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam

Here is an 8-question FAQ based on the provided text:

FAQ

• Why is Bethlehem significant to multiple religions?
• Bethlehem holds significance for Christians as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The Church of the Nativity marks the traditional site of his birth. It is also important to Jews as the birthplace of King David (Syedna Dawood Nabi), who established the foundation of the ancient Israelite kingdom. The text further suggests Bethlehem is important to Muslims because Jesus’s birth is mentioned in the Quran.
• How does the Quran describe the birth of Jesus (Syedna Masih)?
• The Quran, in Surat Maryam, recounts the story of Maryam (Mary) leaving her family and going to a distant place. It describes the appearance of a spirit in human form and the announcement that she will bear a “pure boy.” It speaks of the difficulties she faces and how a voice comforts her and provides sustenance. The Quran also confirms Jesus’s status as a prophet and a servant of Allah.
• What is the Church of the Nativity and what is its historical significance?
• The Church of the Nativity, located in Bethlehem, is considered one of Christianity’s holiest sites, built over the grotto where Jesus is believed to have been born. Its construction was initially commissioned by Roman Emperor Constantine in the 4th century AD. Although it was damaged and rebuilt over the centuries, the core structure largely remains from the time of Emperor Justinian in the 6th century AD.
• How has the Church of the Nativity been protected during times of conflict?
• The text mentions that the Church of the Nativity has been protected in various conflicts. In one instance, during an Iranian invasion in 614, the church was spared destruction. More recently, during the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Church offered sanctuary to Palestinians.
• What is the meaning of the name “Bethlehem”?
• The name “Bethlehem” has different meanings in different languages. In Arabic (Baitul Laham) it translates to “House of Meat,” while in Hebrew it translates to “House of Bread.” This is attributed to the abundance of resources in the area, supporting both hunting and agriculture in ancient times.
• What is the Quran’s perspective on the sanctity of Bethlehem and similar sites?
• The Quran recognizes the sacredness of Bethlehem (Baitul Laham) and other religious sites, such as Mount Sinai, for Christians and Jews. The text emphasizes the importance of Muslims respecting these sites and avoiding any intentions of forceful capture or conversion.
• How does the Quran describe Maryam, the mother of Jesus?
• The Quran confirms Maryam’s pure dignity and states that God has blessed her, chosen her as a star, has made you the world of faithfulness, and has blessed her with blessings on the women of all the worlds and has given her preference over the women of all the worlds.
• What is the importance of Syedna Dawood in Islam?
• Syedna Dawood, also known as King David, is revered in Islam as a virtuous and respected prophet who laid the foundation for the Israeli Sultanate. He is considered a prophet of the book and saw the dream of building the church in Baitul Makad.

The Birth of Jesus Christ in the Quran

The birth of Jesus Christ is a significant event, detailed in both the Bible and the Quran.

Key points regarding the birth of Jesus (Syedna Masih) as mentioned in the sources:

• The Quran describes the birth of Jesus Christ in detail, similar to the Bible.
• Quranic Verse: The Quran mentions, “And peace be upon him the day he was born…”.
• Mary’s Story in the Quran: Surah Maryam in the Quran narrates the story of Maryam (Mary). She leaves her people and distances herself.
• An angel appears to her in the form of a man.
• The angel announces the birth of a pure son.
• Maryam expresses disbelief, questioning how she can have a son when no man has touched her.
• The angel replies that it is easy for God and that this birth will be a sign and mercy.
• Maryam goes to a distant place and experiences pain near a palm tree.
• A voice comforts her, telling her not to be sad and that God has provided a stream. She is instructed to shake the palm tree for fresh dates.
• Maryam returns to her community with the child, facing accusations.
• The infant Jesus speaks and declares himself a servant of Allah, a prophet, and blessed.
• Birthplace: Syedna Masih was born in Baitul Laham.
• The Church of the Nativity marks the traditional site of his birth.
• The Quran confirms Maryam’s pure dignity. Verse 42 of Aale Imran states that Mary was blessed and chosen above all women.
• The Quran refers to Syedna as Messiah, Ruhollah, and Kalma Tullah.

Church of the Nativity: History and Significance

The Church of the Nativity holds significant religious and historical importance.

Here’s a breakdown of what the sources say about it:

• Location: The Church of the Nativity is located in Baitul Laham. Baitul Laham is situated approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) from Jerusalem.
• Religious Significance:
• The Church of the Nativity is considered the most sacred place for Christians because Syedna Masih (Jesus Christ) was born there.
• The church marks the traditional site of Jesus’ birth.
• Historical Significance:
• The Church of the Nativity is also one of the most sacred places for Jews.
• The church is built on a site where a tree was located, where Hail Mary reached and where Jesus Christ was born.
• Emperor Constantine’s Church: The Roman Emperor planned to build a church on the occasion of the birth of Syedna Masih. The church is built in the shape of a sleigh, with a cave and basement below it.
• Historical Events:
• In 529 AD, the Church of the Nativity was burned during a revolt by the Jews.
• Rumi Emperor Justin Tyene reconstructed it.
• In 614, the Iranian ruler Kisra attacked Arz Muqaddas, causing destruction, but the Church of Nativity remained safe.
• Later Modifications: While repairs were done later, the actual building is the same one that King Justin Tyne had built. In the era of Toman, two of the church’s three doors were closed, and the third was made very low to prevent entry by families or soldiers.
• Contemporary Status:
• Various Christian organizations of the world now manage this sacred place.
• Control of the Church:
• It was under Jordan’s control until 1967.
• After the Six-Day War in 1967, it came under Israeli control.
• Later, control shifted to the Palestinian Authority.
• In 2002, around 300 Palestinians took shelter in the Church of the Nativity, which was then surrounded by Israel.

Baitul Laham: Religious and Historical Significance

Baitul Laham is a town of significant religious and historical importance to Christians and Jews.

Here’s what the sources say about Baitul Laham:

• Location: Baitul Laham is located approximately 5 miles (8 kilometers) from Jerusalem.
• General Information:
• It is considered a beautiful town.
• The town is situated in a hilly area about 2600 feet above sea level.
• Its population is around 40,000.
• The surrounding area is considered special.
• Religious Significance:
• For Christians: Baitul Laham is a blessing for Christians worldwide because Syedna Masih (Jesus Christ) was born there.
• For Jews: It is also one of the most sacred places for Jews.
• For Muslims: The Palestinian leader stated that Baitullah is a sacred place for Muslims as well as for Christians.
• Historical Significance:
• Syedna Dawood Nabi (King David), who founded the Israeli Sultanate, was from Baitul Laham, referred to by Jews as King David.
• It was initially known as Dawood Nabi’s village or city.
• Syedna Dawood spent his life in the valley near Judah.
• The tombs of Syedna Dawood and Syedna Sulman are located in Baitul Laham.
• Syedna (Prophet) Yakub buried his beloved wife, Syeda Rachel, there.
• Name Significance:
• Baitul Laham in Arabic means “House of Meat”.
• In Hebrew, it means “House of Bread”.
• In ancient Canaan, Laham meant “the one who nurtures” or “the one who gives food”.
• Church of the Nativity:
• The Church of the Nativity, which marks the traditional site of Jesus’ birth, is located in Baitul Laham.

Syedna Dawood: Religious and Historical Significance

Syedna Dawood (King David) is a significant figure with religious and historical importance.

Key points about Syedna Dawood from the sources:

• Religious Importance:
• He is considered a prophet in Islam.
• He is a very virtuous and respected prophet.
• Sahib was a prophet of the book.
• He saw the dream of building the church in Baitul Makad.
• Historical Significance:
• He laid the foundation of the Israeli Sultanate.
• His son, Syedna Suleiman, further expanded the kingdom.
• He laid the foundation of a great Sultanate by conquering the Ba Muthar Jewish tribes.
• He is the founder of the first Israeli state.
• He is referred to as King David by the Jews.
• Connection to Baitul Laham:
• Baitul Laham was initially known as Dawood Nabi’s village or city.
• He spent his life in the valley near Judah.
• His tomb is located in Baitul Laham.
• Mention in the Quran:
• The Quran states that God forced Dawood to live.
• The Quran mentions that God blessed the prophets on the eagles.
• Other Details:
• He is considered a great personality.
• He lived about a thousand years before the birth of Syedna Christ.

The Story of Maryam (Mary) in the Quran

The Quran contains a Surah titled Maryam which narrates the story of Mary, the mother of Jesus (Syedna Isa). Key aspects of Maryam’s story in the Quran, based on the sources, include:

• Announcement of Jesus’ Birth: The Quran recounts the annunciation where an angel appears to Maryam in the form of a man and proclaims that she will give birth to a pure son. Maryam expresses disbelief because no man has touched her. The angel responds that it is easy for God, and this birth will be a sign and mercy.
• Departure and Isolation: Maryam leaves her people and distances herself, going to a remote place. While in this distant place, she experiences pain near a palm tree.
• Divine Comfort and Provision: A voice comforts her and tells her not to be sad, as God has provided a stream. She is instructed to shake the palm tree to receive fresh dates.
• Return and Accusations: Maryam returns to her community with the child, facing accusations. The community questions how she could have a child.
• The Infant Jesus Speaks: The infant Jesus speaks and declares himself a servant of Allah, a prophet, and blessed. He states that he has been given the book and ordered to perform prayer and charity.
• Confirmation of Maryam’s Dignity: The Quran confirms Maryam’s pure dignity. Aale Imran, verse 42, states that Mary was blessed and chosen above all women.
• Reverence for Maryam: According to the Quran, Syedna is the Messiah, Ruhollah, and Kalma Tullah. The scholars of that era confirmed her pure dignity.
• Quranic Verse: The Quran mentions, “And peace be upon him the day he was born…”.
• Significance of Baitul Laham: In verse, it has been stated that Murad Baitul is important from a distant place, but Maryam’s departure from her calf was a simple task, so she left her Hujra in Haikal Mount and went towards this direction and reached here there was a grave on which later the Church of Nativity was built.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

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