Epigraph:

Say, ‘O People of the Book! come to a word equal between us and you — that we worship none but Allah, and that we associate no partner with Him, and that some of us take not others for Lords beside Allah.’ But if they turn away, then say, ‘Bear witness that we have submitted to God.’ (Al Quran 3:64)

Surely, the Believers, and the Jews, and the Christians and the Sabians — whichever party from among these truly believes in Allah and the Last Day and does good deeds — shall have their reward with their Lord, and no fear shall come upon them, nor shall they grieve. (Al Quran 2:62)

Surely, those who have believed, and the Jews, and the Sabians, and the Christians — whoso believes in Allah and the Last Day and does good deeds, on them shall come no fear, nor shall they grieve. (Al Quran 5:69)

Presented by Zia H Shah with the help of ChatGPT

Organized religion has been a defining force in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam for millennia. As the three major Abrahamic faiths – religions tracing lineage to Abraham – they share common roots yet developed distinct institutions and histories. Each has built formal structures of authority, from ancient councils of sages to powerful clergy hierarchies, which have at times been sources of profound social good and, at others, of controversy. This journalistic overview examines how these faiths, through their organized religious institutions, have navigated historical and contemporary challenges. We explore systemic problems – such as corruption, authoritarianism, resistance to reform, gender inequality, and sectarian strife – alongside the benefits these religions have provided, including community cohesion, charitable works, moral guidance, and spiritual support. By treating Judaism, Christianity, and Islam even-handedly, we can identify both parallels and key differences in how organized religion functions across these traditions.

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Organized Religion in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam: Download