Religious Scriptures

Religious tradition is generally informed by scripture and these religious traditions are considered to be sacred, and central to their religious tradition. In Islam, the scripture is considered to be the word of god and therefore attributed to the divine, whereas the Buddhist scripture is the actual words of the Buddha, and attributed to its human authors. Even though both religions’ scriptures have been either attributed to the divine or human authors, both Islam and Buddhism have used their religious scriptures to influence and regulate the lives of the religious people who follow their beliefs and religious tradition.

Islamic scripture, more specifically the Qur’an, which is the most sacred text in Islam, is said to be revelations from God (Allah). They were received by the prophet Muhammad, who is the greatest and final prophet of Islam (LaGrone, 3). Fisher describes the life of Muhammad, where as a young child grew up amidst poverty and as was a person who was always sympathetic to the poor and underprivileged. He is also described as a thoughtful and trustworthy character, and although Muhammad is not to be worshiped by Muslims, his life story is considered as an important model (Fisher, 379)

Muhammad grew up in Arabia and knew other monotheistic communities, namely, Jews and Christians he rejected the idol worship of the majority of Arabs (LaGrone, 3). Muhammad was known for making spiritual retreats, spending much time in solidarity and reflection, which provided him the opportunity for contemplation away from the world (Fisher, 380). It was during one of those spiritual retreats during Ramadan, when he was forty years old that he began having revelations, and it was the angel Gabriel who came to him ...

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...e in them and are directions for practice what they are teaching in order to reach enlightenment. Buddhism has throughout its history adapted well in new surroundings and this has allowed this religion to flourish. As with Islam, this religion is practiced today all across the globe. There are daily rituals that all Muslims must follow according to the five pillars of the faith. The Quran in its original language has not changed since the scripture was originally written and it is just as important and valuable to those who follow this religion today as when it was first created. Both Islam and Buddhism are very involved religions. Their followers have a strong belief in the teachings, and stories provided in the scriptures. They are dedicated and committed to the words in the scriptures, and this can be seen in both through the daily practice of the religions.