Recently, a statement made by Maulana Arshad Madani has sparked a heated debate among the intellectual forums. He stated that Om and Allah are the same. While some people have accepted his statement, others have rejected his thoughts. This controversy raises an important question about the relationship between different religions and the beliefs they hold. In this article, we will try to explore this issue with reference to the scriptures of different religions.
Let us first try to understand the meaning and significance of Om and Allah. The word Om is a sacred sound and a spiritual symbol in Hinduism. It is considered as the first sound heard at the creation of the universe and represents the essence of the ultimate reality.
On the other hand, Allah is the Arabic word for God, which is used by Muslims, and is considered as the God of the universe in Islam. Muslims believe that Allah is the only God, who has unlimited names and attributes, and has revealed His message through the Prophets at all times. Interestingly, even the idolaters and pagans during the times of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) called the ultimate God by the word Allah. The bible of the Coptic Christians too use the word Allah in the arabic language. Hence the word Allah represents the God of the universe.
When we look at these two words, it is clear that they are different in their origins and meanings. However, some people have pointed out that there are some similarities between the two.
It is important to note that the two concepts come from different religions and have different beliefs associated with them. The idea that Om and Allah are the same is not supported by the scriptures of either religion.
In Hinduism, the concept of God is represented in various forms, including Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. These forms are believed to represent different aspects of the ultimate reality. Therefore, it is not accurate to equate Om with Allah, as they represent different aspects of divinity in their respective religions.
In Islam, Allah is believed to be the only God Who has revealed His message through the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Allah has taught mankind about Himself through His names and His attributes. 99 names are taught through the last Prophet. However, there are many names that are unknown to mankind. The God Who creates, sustains and destroys is all One. It is the One God with many names and attributes Who controls all the affairs of this world and the hereafter. And He is not in need of any help. And He can never be overcome by any force. That’s Allah. The idea that Om and Allah are the same contradicts the fundamental beliefs of Islam, and is not supported by the Qur’an or Hadeeth.
In conclusion, the controversy over Maulana Arshad Madani’s statement about Om and Allah being the same has sparked an important debate about the relationship between different religions and their beliefs. It is important to remember that they come from different religions and have different beliefs associated with them. Equating them is not supported by the scriptures of either religion. It is important to respect and understand the differences between religions and their beliefs, rather than trying to find similarities where they do not exist.
– Written & Compiled By
UMAR SHARIFF
President, Discover Islam Education Trust
7/3/2023