Reading the Gospel

Q 2: Is it permissible for Muslims to read the Injil (Gospel) to know how far it is distorted?

A: It is not permissible for a believer to read the Tawrah (Torah) and Injil, for their texts have been distorted and changed, and Allah (Glorified be He) has spared Muslims any need for them by revealing the Noble Qur'an, which has been preserved from any change or distortion. Moreover, the Shari`ah (Divine Law) sent down to our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has abrogated all previous Shari`ahs. Indeed, it is the most perfect, the greatest, and the most useful to the servants of Allah. Allah (Exalted be He) states: This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islâm as your religion. (Part No. 3; Page No. 123) Allah (Glorified be He) addressed His Prophet (peace be upon him) stating: Then We have put you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم) on a (plain) way of (Our) commandment [like the one which We commanded Our Messengers before you (i.e. legal ways and laws of the Islâmic Monotheism)]. So follow you that (Islâmic Monotheism and its laws), and follow not the desires of those who know not. It was authentically reported from the Prophet (peace be upon him) that he saw `Umar ibn Al-Khattab holding some pages of the Tawrah. He, thus, became angry and said: Are you doubtful regarding it (Islam), O Ibn Al-Khattab? By Him in Whose Hand is my soul, I have brought it to you plain and pure... By Him in Whose Hand is my soul, if Musa (Moses) were alive, he could not but follow me. (Related by Imam Ahmad in his Musnad [Hadith compilation])We thus advise you to recite the Qur'an frequently, dedicate attention to it, and act according to its teachings. It will definitely remove the need for you to read the earlier Divine Books.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.