Topic

Interfaith

Living alongside Christians, Jews and people of other faiths. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.

Do Muslims believe in Elijah?

Yes, Muslims believe in Elijah, called Ilyas in the Quran: a messenger who warned his people against Baal. What Islam says about him and Elisha.

Islam sees the Baha'i faith as a separate religion, since Baha'u'llah claimed prophethood after Muhammad, the seal of the prophets (Quran 33:40).

Yes, Muslims can go to many Christian Union events at university, such as talks and socials, but should not join in prayers or worship.

Most Muslims see Paul the Apostle as shaping Christian beliefs that differ from Jesus' message. He isn't in the Quran; a fair, respectful view.

Teach kids to respect non-Muslim relatives by your own example: Islam commands kindness to family. Simple ways to explain differences without blame.

Muslims are encouraged to share their faith (dawah) kindly, but never to force anyone. What the Quran says and what dawah looks like in practice.

Islam does not accept Wicca, since it involves worshipping deities besides Allah and practising magic, which the Prophet called a destructive sin.

Yes, Muslims can play sports with non-Muslims. Joining a club or pickup game is allowed; just keep your prayers, modest kit and halal limits.

It depends: technically kafir means a non-Muslim, but the Quran calls Christians People of the Book, and the word is not meant as an insult.

Yes, you can study other religions in RE class as a Muslim. Describing a belief in an exam isn't believing it; just don't join worship.

You can keep an old rosary as a stored family keepsake after becoming Muslim, but don't wear it or pray with it. Use a misbaha or fingers for dhikr.

No, Muslims don't wear a cross as jewelry or a religious sign. Plus signs and the Red Cross differ, and scholars differ on flags and crests.