JEDDAH, 25 April 2003 — The Bible categorically states that Jesus (peace be upon him) is only a prophet, says a former Christian who has studied the Bible through the correspondence course of Britain’s Ambassador College.
“The belief in the trinity — Father, Son and Holy Spirit — came into existence three centuries after Jesus, during the time of Roman Emperor Constantine,” E.C. Mohammed, formerly known as E.C. Simon Master, told Arab News.
“You will not find the word “trinity” in the Bible,” he said. The Bible prohibits idol worship, Mohammed said, adding that the belief in one God is the essence of the Christian holy book.
Mohammed is a native of Kodungallur in the south Indian state of Kerala. He embraced Islam on Aug. 18, 2000, after studying the religion for 30 years.
“I had got some very good Muslim family friends. I was impressed by their exemplary character and lifestyle, and this encouraged me to study Islam,” he said. He said he started reading the English translation of the Holy Qur’an by Abdullah Yousuf Ali several years ago.
“Many Christians misunderstand the Qur’an. But they should understand that the Qur’an has only good things to say about Jesus and Mary,” he said.
The Bible predicts the advent of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), he pointed out. “So the Christians have to learn more about Prophet Muhammad as well as Islam,” he said.
He called on Christians to play a leading role in the ongoing efforts to solve the Arab-Israeli conflict, which is threatening world peace.
“The United States has launched a worldwide campaign to fight terrorism. But if Washington takes the initiative to solve the Palestine issue, it can solve the problem of terrorism without spending a penny and without spilling the blood of innocent people.”
Mohammed said a sincere effort to solve the Middle Eastern conflict would help the US restore its credibility and establish good relations with the Islamic world. “It will be a great service to humanity,” he added. He said branding Muslims as terrorists was unfair and untrue. “Islam and the Qur’an stand for love, mercy and justice.”
He urged Muslims to establish good relations with members of other communities, especially their neighbors. “This will really change their attitude toward Islam and Muslims,” he added.
He also advised Muslims to study the Qur’an, hold on to Islamic values and ethics and set a good example to others.
Mohammed, who performed Haj this year, said the annual pilgrimage was an unforgettable experience. “I felt I was doing something immensely valuable. It was the biggest achievement in my life,” he added.
“I experienced Islamic brotherhood and solidarity during this spiritual journey,” he said.
“Haj has strengthened my faith. I am now fully convinced that what I embraced is the truth,” he concluded.
