Did you know that 63% of interfaith dialogue discussions involve questions about shared terms like Allah? The question “Is Allah mentioned in the Bible?” sparks curiosity among Muslims and Christians alike. While the Quran affirms Allah as the Creator of all revelation, the Bible’s linguistic and theological connections to Islam are often misunderstood. Let’s explore seven surprising facts that bridge these sacred texts, grounded in Quranic guidance and scholarly insights about “Is Allah mentioned in the Bible“.
1. The Arabic Bible Explicitly Uses “Allah” for God
Arabic-speaking Christians have referred to God as Allah for centuries. Modern Arabic Bibles translate terms like Elohim (Hebrew) and Theos (Greek) as Allah, emphasizing a shared Semitic linguistic root. The Quran acknowledges earlier scriptures, stating:
“He has sent down upon you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming what was before it” (Quran 3:3–4).
This linguistic overlap highlights the universality of Allah’s message across revelations.
Practical Steps for Understanding
- Study comparative religious texts to recognize shared terminology.
- Engage with Arabic Bible editions to see how Allah is contextualized.
2. “Elah” in Aramaic Mirrors “Allah”
Jesus (Isa AS) spoke Aramaic, a language closely related to Arabic. In the Aramaic New Testament, the word for God is Elah, which shares etymological roots with Allah. The Quran reinforces this connection, describing Isa AS as a prophet who called people to worship Allah alone:
“He [Jesus] was not but a servant upon whom We bestowed favor” (Quran 43:59).
Misconception Alert
Some claim Allah is a “different God” than the Biblical God. Scholars like Ibn Taymiyyah clarify that Allah is the same Creator worshipped by all prophets, but human interpretations diverged over time.
3. The Bible’s “Lord of Hosts” Reflects Allah’s Sovereignty
The Old Testament frequently uses Yahweh Sabaoth (“Lord of Hosts”), emphasizing God’s authority over all creation—a concept aligned with Islamic teachings about Allah’s dominion (Rububiyyah). The Quran states:
“To Him belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth” (Quran 2:107).
4. Jesus’s Teachings on God Align with Tawhid
While the Bible’s Trinity contrasts with Islamic monotheism (Tawhid), Jesus’s emphasis on worshipping “the Father” (John 4:23) mirrors the Quranic command to worship Allah alone. Surah Al-Ikhlas underscores Allah’s oneness:
“Say: He is Allah, the One” (Quran 112:1).
Practical Steps for Dialogue
- Focus on common ground: reverence for God’s oneness.
- Avoid debates on theological differences; prioritize mutual respect.
5. Psalms and Quranic Descriptions of Allah Share Themes
David (Dawud AS) praises God in Psalms for His mercy and justice—qualities the Quran attributes to Allah:
“And your Lord is the Forgiving, Full of Mercy” (Quran 18:58).
These parallels reveal a unified divine ethos across scriptures.
6. The Term “Allah” Predates Islam
Historical records show “Allah” was used by pre-Islamic Arab monotheists (Hanifs). The Quran purified this term from polytheistic associations, affirming Allah as the only true God.
7. Modern Interfaith Efforts Highlight Shared Language
Pope Francis and Islamic scholars have used “Allah” in interfaith contexts to foster unity. The Quran encourages such dialogue:
“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction” (Quran 16:125).
Debunking Myths About Allah in the Bible
- Myth: “Allah is a moon god.”
Fact: This claim, rooted in colonial-era polemics, is rejected by historians and Islamic scholars. - Myth: “The Bible’s God is warlike; Allah is merciful.”
Fact: Both texts describe God as both just and compassionate, depending on context.
Final Thoughts
The question “Is Allah mentioned in the Bible?” opens doors to meaningful interfaith exploration. By examining linguistic ties, Quranic guidance, and shared prophetic heritage, Muslims can articulate their faith confidently while fostering respect for other Abrahamic traditions.
