Monotheism—the belief in the existence of one, singular, and absolute God—stands at the very heart of both Islam and Judaism. As two of the world’s oldest and most influential monotheistic traditions, these faiths share not only historical roots but also striking theological similarities in their understanding of God, divine law, prophecy, and ethical responsibility. While differences in doctrine, practice, and interpretation certainly exist, Islamic monotheism does not differ greatly from Jewish monotheism in its core principles. Instead, the two traditions represent closely related expressions of a shared Abrahamic vision of God’s oneness and sovereignty.
This article explores the theological foundations of Islamic and Jewish monotheism, examining their shared origins, conceptions of God, scriptural teachings, prophetic traditions, legal frameworks, and ethical worldviews. Through this comparison, it becomes evident that Islam and Judaism are deeply aligned in their monotheistic essence, differing more in historical development than in fundamental belief.
Shared Abrahamic Origins
The common ground between Islamic and Jewish monotheism begins with their shared lineage tracing back to the patriarch Abraham (Ibrahim in Islam). In both traditions, Abraham is revered as a model monotheist who rejected idolatry and devoted himself entirely to the worship of the one true God.
In Judaism, Abraham is the father of the Israelite people and the recipient of God’s covenant, establishing a special relationship between God and the descendants of Isaac and Jacob. In Islam, Abraham holds an equally exalted status as a prophet and a “hanif,” meaning a pure monotheist who submitted wholly to God before the formal establishment of later religious laws. Muslims regard Abraham as a spiritual ancestor through his son Ishmael, while still honoring Isaac as a prophet of God.
This shared Abrahamic foundation underscores a central point: both religions understand monotheism not as a philosophical abstraction but as a lived commitment rooted in history, obedience, and covenantal responsibility. The God of Islam and Judaism is the same God who revealed Himself to Abraham.
The Absolute Oneness of God
At the theological core of both Islam and Judaism lies the uncompromising affirmation of God’s absolute oneness. In Islam, this belief is encapsulated in the doctrine of Tawhid, which asserts that God (Allah) is one, indivisible, eternal, and unique in His essence, attributes, and actions. Tawhid rejects any form of association (shirk) with God, whether through idols, intermediaries, or divine partners.
Similarly, Jewish monotheism is famously expressed in the Shema, a central declaration of faith found in the Torah: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is One” (Deuteronomy 6:4). This statement affirms that God is singular and exclusive, deserving of complete devotion and worship.
Both traditions emphasize that God is incomparable and transcendent, beyond human form or limitation. Anthropomorphic descriptions found in scripture are interpreted metaphorically in classical Jewish and Islamic theology, ensuring that God remains wholly distinct from creation. Thus, neither religion permits the incarnation of God in human form, nor do they accept the division of divine unity.
God as Creator, Sustainer, and Sovereign
Islamic and Jewish monotheism both portray God as the sole creator and sustainer of the universe. God is not only responsible for the initial act of creation but also continuously involved in maintaining cosmic order and guiding human history.
In Islam, God is described as Rabb al-‘Alamin (Lord of all worlds), emphasizing His authority over every aspect of existence. Likewise, in Judaism, God is understood as the ruler of heaven and earth, whose will governs both natural phenomena and moral law.
Both traditions reject the idea that creation is independent of God or governed by autonomous forces. Instead, all events unfold according to divine wisdom and purpose. Human beings are granted free will, but their actions remain within the broader framework of God’s knowledge and sovereignty.
Revelation and Divine Law
Another significant similarity between Islamic and Jewish monotheism lies in the central role of divine revelation and law. In both religions, God communicates His will to humanity through prophets and sacred texts, providing guidance for belief, worship, and daily conduct.
Judaism is founded upon the Torah, which contains God’s revealed law given to Moses at Mount Sinai. This law governs not only religious rituals but also ethical behavior, social justice, and communal life. Observance of the commandments (mitzvot) is seen as a direct expression of faith in the one God.
Similarly, Islam is based on the Qur’an, which Muslims believe to be the final and complete revelation of God, conveyed to the Prophet Muhammad. Islamic law (Sharia) encompasses moral, legal, and spiritual dimensions, guiding Muslims in their relationship with God and with one another.
In both traditions, obedience to divine law is not merely legalistic but deeply spiritual. Following God’s commandments is an act of worship and a manifestation of monotheistic faith.
Prophethood and Moral Guidance
Prophets play a crucial role in both Islam and Judaism as chosen individuals who convey God’s message and exemplify righteous living. Many prophets are shared between the two traditions, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and David.
Moses, in particular, occupies a central position in both faiths. In Judaism, he is the greatest prophet and lawgiver, through whom God revealed the Torah. In Islam, Moses (Musa) is one of the most frequently mentioned prophets in the Qur’an, revered for his leadership, perseverance, and devotion to monotheism.
Both religions view prophets as human beings—not divine figures—who serve as moral exemplars and messengers of God’s will. This shared understanding reinforces the strict monotheism of Islam and Judaism, ensuring that worship is directed solely toward God.
Ethical Monotheism
Islamic and Jewish monotheism are not limited to theological assertions; they are deeply ethical in nature. Both traditions teach that belief in one God entails moral responsibility, justice, compassion, and accountability.
In Judaism, the concept of ethical monotheism emphasizes that God’s oneness is reflected in ethical behavior, particularly in justice, charity, and concern for the vulnerable. The Hebrew prophets consistently linked faith in God with social responsibility and moral integrity.
Islam similarly teaches that faith (iman) must be accompanied by righteous action (amal salih). Acts of charity (zakat), honesty, kindness, and fairness are considered essential expressions of belief in God. The Qur’an repeatedly connects worship of God with ethical conduct, stressing that true piety manifests in both devotion and morality.
In both religions, humans are accountable to God for their actions, and life is viewed as a test of faith and character. This moral accountability further underscores the shared monotheistic worldview.
Differences Without Fundamental Contradiction
While Islam and Judaism share profound similarities in monotheistic belief, differences do exist. These include variations in ritual practices, legal interpretations, and theological emphasis. Islam views Muhammad as the final prophet, while Judaism does not accept his prophethood. Additionally, the scope and structure of Islamic law differ from Jewish halakha in application and development.
However, these differences do not negate the essential unity of their monotheism. Both religions reject polytheism, incarnation, and the division of divine authority. Both affirm one eternal, all-powerful, and merciful God who demands exclusive worship and ethical living.
Conclusion
Islamic monotheism does not differ greatly from Jewish monotheism when examined at its core. Both traditions emerge from a shared Abrahamic heritage and affirm the absolute oneness, transcendence, and sovereignty of God. They emphasize revelation, divine law, prophetic guidance, and ethical responsibility as essential components of faith.
While historical developments and theological distinctions have shaped each religion’s unique identity, their foundational understanding of monotheism remains remarkably aligned. Recognizing these similarities not only deepens theological understanding but also fosters greater interfaith respect and dialogue. Ultimately, Islamic and Jewish monotheism stand as closely related expressions of humanity’s enduring commitment to the worship of the one true God.
(With Qur’anic and Biblical Citations)
Monotheism—the belief in one, unique, and absolute God—forms the theological core of both Islam and Judaism. As members of the Abrahamic family of religions, Islam and Judaism share a profound commitment to the unity, transcendence, and sovereignty of God. Although differences exist in ritual practice, legal interpretation, and historical development, Islamic monotheism does not differ greatly from Jewish monotheism in its essential beliefs. Both traditions uphold a vision of God who is singular, incomparable, and morally authoritative, and both link belief in God’s oneness to obedience, ethical conduct, and divine law.
This article examines the shared foundations of Islamic and Jewish monotheism through their common Abrahamic origins, their understanding of God’s unity, revelation, prophecy, law, and ethics, and their mutual rejection of polytheism and divine incarnation. Qur’anic and Biblical citations demonstrate the close theological alignment between the two faiths.
Shared Abrahamic Origins
The roots of both Islamic and Jewish monotheism lie in the figure of Abraham, who is portrayed in both scriptures as a pioneer of pure monotheistic belief. In the Hebrew Bible, Abraham is called by God to abandon idolatry and enter into a covenant based on exclusive devotion to the one true God:
“I am the LORD who brought you out from Ur of the Chaldeans, to give you this land to possess” (Genesis 15:7).
In Islamic scripture, Abraham (Ibrahim) is similarly depicted as a model monotheist who rejected idol worship and devoted himself entirely to God:
“Indeed, Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but he was one inclining toward truth, a Muslim [submitting to God], and he was not of the polytheists” (Qur’an 3:67).
Both traditions emphasize Abraham’s unwavering commitment to God’s oneness and view him as a spiritual ancestor. Judaism traces its lineage through Isaac and Jacob, while Islam traces spiritual descent through Ishmael. Despite this difference, both agree that Abraham’s legacy is fundamentally monotheistic and submission-based, establishing a shared theological foundation.
The Absolute Oneness of God
At the heart of Islamic theology is the doctrine of Tawhid, the absolute oneness of God. The Qur’an articulates this principle with clarity and emphasis:
“Say, He is Allah, One. Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent” (Qur’an 112:1–4).
This passage categorically denies any division, partnership, or anthropomorphic conception of God. Associating others with God (shirk) is considered the gravest sin in Islam (Qur’an 4:48).
Jewish monotheism expresses an almost identical conception of divine unity, most famously in the Shema, which is central to Jewish belief and daily worship:
“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One” (Deuteronomy 6:4).
This declaration affirms not only numerical oneness but exclusivity—God alone is worthy of worship. Like Islam, Judaism firmly rejects the idea of God having partners, equals, or physical form:
“To whom then will you liken God? Or what likeness compare with Him?” (Isaiah 40:18).
Thus, both traditions insist on a strict, uncompromising monotheism that defines God as singular, transcendent, and incomparable.
God as Transcendent and Incomparable
Islamic and Jewish theology both emphasize God’s transcendence and absolute distinction from creation. While scripture sometimes uses descriptive language, classical interpretations in both traditions reject literal anthropomorphism.
The Qur’an states:
“There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing” (Qur’an 42:11).
Similarly, the Hebrew Bible affirms God’s incomparability:
“God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent” (Numbers 23:19).
Both religions assert that God cannot be confined by physical form, space, or human limitation. This theological stance safeguards divine unity and reinforces the idea that God exists beyond the material world while remaining fully aware of it.
God as Creator, Sustainer, and Sovereign
In both Islam and Judaism, God is understood as the sole creator and continuous sustainer of the universe. Creation is not an autonomous process but an act of divine will and wisdom.
The Qur’an declares:
“Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is, over all things, Disposer of affairs” (Qur’an 39:62).
The Hebrew Bible echoes this belief:
“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1).
Beyond creation, God maintains authority over history and human destiny. Both traditions affirm divine sovereignty while acknowledging human moral responsibility. God’s control over nature and history does not negate free will but situates it within a divinely ordered universe.
Revelation and Divine Law
A central feature of both Islamic and Jewish monotheism is the belief that God reveals His will through scripture and law. In Judaism, the Torah represents divine instruction revealed to Moses:
“And the LORD commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the LORD our God, for our good always” (Deuteronomy 6:24).
The commandments (mitzvot) regulate religious rituals, ethical behavior, and social justice, forming a comprehensive way of life rooted in obedience to God.
Islam holds a parallel view of revelation through the Qur’an, which Muslims believe to be the literal word of God revealed to the Prophet Muhammad:
“This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of God” (Qur’an 2:2).
Islamic law (Sharia) similarly governs worship, morality, and social relations. In both faiths, divine law is not arbitrary but reflects God’s wisdom and mercy, guiding humanity toward righteousness.
Prophethood and Moral Leadership
Prophets serve as intermediaries of divine revelation and moral exemplars in both Islam and Judaism. Many prophetic figures are shared between the two traditions, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, and Solomon.
Moses occupies a uniquely central role. In Judaism, he is the greatest prophet:
“Never again did there arise in Israel a prophet like Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face” (Deuteronomy 34:10).
In Islam, Moses (Musa) is also one of the most prominent prophets, frequently mentioned in the Qur’an:
“And We certainly sent Moses with Our signs and a clear authority” (Qur’an 11:96).
Both traditions stress that prophets are human beings chosen by God, not divine beings themselves. This reinforces strict monotheism by preventing the elevation of any human figure to divine status.
Ethical Monotheism and Moral Accountability
Islamic and Jewish monotheism are inherently ethical, linking belief in one God with justice, compassion, and moral responsibility. In Judaism, the prophets repeatedly emphasize that devotion to God must be reflected in ethical behavior:
“What does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8).
Similarly, the Qur’an connects true faith with righteous conduct:
“Indeed, those who believe and do righteous deeds—the Most Merciful will appoint for them affection” (Qur’an 19:96).
Charity, honesty, care for the poor, and social justice are central obligations in both religions. Human beings are accountable to God for their actions, and both traditions affirm a final judgment:
“For God will bring every deed into judgment” (Ecclesiastes 12:14).
“So whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it” (Qur’an 99:7).
Differences Without Fundamental Contradiction
Despite their similarities, Islam and Judaism differ in certain theological and historical aspects. Islam recognizes Muhammad as the final prophet (Qur’an 33:40), while Judaism does not. The scope and application of Islamic Sharia and Jewish Halakha also differ in structure and interpretation.
However, these differences do not undermine their shared monotheistic core. Both traditions reject polytheism, incarnation, and divine plurality, and both affirm exclusive devotion to one eternal God.
Conclusion
Islamic monotheism does not differ greatly from Jewish monotheism when examined through scripture and theology. Both faiths arise from a shared Abrahamic heritage and affirm the absolute oneness, transcendence, and sovereignty of God. Through revelation, law, prophecy, and ethical responsibility, Islam and Judaism articulate closely aligned visions of monotheistic belief.
The Qur’an and the Hebrew Bible consistently affirm that God is one, incomparable, and morally authoritative. Recognizing these shared foundations not only deepens theological understanding but also encourages meaningful interfaith dialogue and mutual respect between Muslims and Jews. Ultimately, Islamic and Jewish monotheism represent parallel expressions of humanity’s enduring commitment to worshipping and obeying the one true God.
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