Evaluating the theory of the adaptation of the symbol of the Antichrist to the Islamic Savior by analyzing the content of Islamic and Christian narratives
Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Postdoctoral Researcher in Quranic and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Theology, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
2 Professor of the Department of Quranic and Hadith Sciences, Faculty of Theology, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
The theory of the application of the symbol of the antichrist to the Islamic savior has been proposed with the aim of proving the fundamental conflict between the apocalyptic ideas of Islam and Christianity. Given the widespread impact of this theory in strengthening Islamophobia in Western societies, the need for its criticism and careful examination is felt more than ever.
In the present study, using the method of content analysis, some Islamic and Christian texts related to the subject of the savior and the apocalypse have been examined. The findings of the study show that, contrary to the claims of the proponents of this theory, there are fundamental differences between the Islamic savior (Imam Mahdi) and the biblical antichrist, and significant similarities are observed between the savior of Islam and Christ (PBUH), as well as the antichrist and the Antichrist.
Among the methodological flaws of this theory are the citation of weak narrations and the neglect of authentic narrations, selectivity in presenting evidence, superficial and superficial interpretation of verses and narrations, and the lack of citation of authentic Shiite sources. The set of these methodological flaws shows that the aforementioned theory is not based on scientific foundations and accurate research methods, and its results cannot be trusted.
Keywords