What is the difference between Islam and Judaism?
It depends on what you compare, because Islam and Judaism are very close cousins. Both teach strict belief in one God, follow a detailed religious law, and honor Abraham and Moses. The main differences are about Jesus, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which scriptures are followed, and some details of law and practice.
A shared family tree
Both faiths trace themselves back to Abraham: Jews through his son Isaac, and the Arabs, including Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, through his son Ishmael. Muslims are taught to believe in all of Abraham's line of prophets without distinction:
Moses is the prophet mentioned most often in the Quran, and the Torah is described as containing "guidance and light" (Quran 5:44). See Can I become Muslim if I'm Jewish?
Striking similarities
- Strict monotheism: the Jewish Shema ("the Lord is One") and the Muslim "There is no god but God" express the same core idea.
- Religious law: Jewish halakha and Islamic sharia both guide everyday life, from prayer to business.
- Food rules: both forbid pork and require animals to be slaughtered in a specific way.
- Other practices: male circumcision, modest dress, set daily prayers and no images in worship.
When the Prophet ﷺ came to Medina and saw the Jews fasting on Ashura for Moses' rescue, he said, "We have more claim over Moses than you," and fasted it too (Sahih al-Bukhari 2004). Later he planned to fast the 9th as well, to keep a distinct Muslim practice (Sahih Muslim 1134).
Key differences
- Jesus: Judaism does not accept Jesus as the Messiah. Islam honors him as the Messiah and a great prophet (though not divine).
- Muhammad ﷺ: Muslims believe he is the final prophet for all humanity. Judaism doesn't recognize him as a prophet.
- Scripture: Jews follow the Hebrew Bible and the rabbinic tradition (Talmud). Muslims follow the Quran and the Sunnah, while believing in the original Torah.
- Covenant and identity: Judaism is both a faith and a people, usually passed down by birth. Islam is open to anyone who says the shahada, and the Quran says "the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you" (Quran 49:13).
- Legal details: for example, the Jewish Sabbath (Saturday rest) versus the Muslim Friday prayer, and some food differences (camel meat is halal but not kosher).
Living side by side
Muslims and Jews lived as neighbors for centuries in places like Andalusia and Ottoman cities, sharing scholarship, medicine and philosophy. Respect, honesty and kindness are the Islamic standard. If you have Jewish family, you can join many family moments with care. See Can I celebrate Hanukkah with my Jewish family as a Muslim?
- Both faiths share strict monotheism, Abraham and Moses.
- Both have detailed religious law, food rules and daily prayer.
- They differ on Jesus, Muhammad ﷺ and which scriptures are followed.
- Islam is open to anyone, regardless of birth or background.
People also ask
What does the Quran say about Christians?
The Quran says Christians are nearest in affection to Muslims and praises their humility, while disagreeing with the Trinity and Jesus as God.
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Can a Muslim child have godparents? Not with baptism vows, but loving relatives can be mentors, and you can name a guardian in your will.
Read the full answer →What is the difference between Islam and Christianity?
The difference between Islam and Christianity is mainly about Jesus, the Trinity, the cross and original sin. Both share one God and prophets.
Read the full answer →Who are the People of the Book?
People of the Book (Ahl al-Kitab) is the Quran's name for Jews and Christians, who have a special status in Islam for food, marriage and dialogue.
Read the full answer →Is the Quran a copy of the Bible?
No, Muslims believe the Quran isn't a copy of the Bible. Both share stories from one divine source, but the Quran confirms, corrects and adds.
Read the full answer →