Difference between Islam and Christianity
In the past 2000 years, two major world religions have emerged from the sandy peninsula we now call the Middle East: Islam and Christianity. While these two religions vary in history, belief, and practice, they also have many similarities.
History
Islam: in 610CE, God gave his first declared revelation to the Prophet Muhammad at a cave in Hira. The first year of the Islamic calendar begins in 622CE, when the Prophet Muhammad and his followers moved to Medina.
Christianity: Jesus Christ was born in 1CE in Bethlehem. When he was thirty, he began to preach the word of God. In 33CE, Jesus was crucified in Jerusalem; Christians believe he was resurrected three days later and eventually ascended into heaven.
Beliefs
Islam: is centered on the belief that there is no god but God, and Mohammad is his prophet. They belief that their holy book, the Quran, is a direct transcription of the word of God. Islam means a submission to the will of God.
Christianity: believe that God sent his only son, Jesus, to save them from sin. Those who believe in the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit will have eternal life.
Practices
Islam: there are five pillars that create the core Islamic practices. Shahadah is the recitation of their fundamental belief. Salah is the ritual prayer that must be said five times a day. Zakat is the giving of charity to the poor. Sawm is fasting during the month of Ramadan. Hajj is a once in a lifetime pilgrimage all Muslims make to Mecca.
Christianity: asks its followers to attend church every Sunday. They should confess their sins and partake in communion. Penance for sins can include alms-giving or good works.
Common aspects of Islam and Christianity
Began in the Middle East and consider Jerusalem to be a holy city.
Are monotheistic – believing in a single supreme being.
Have been successful proselytizers, spreading far beyond the Middle East to become world religions.
Have a holy book in which they believe the word of God is written.
Espouse daily, weekly, and yearly rituals and ask their followers to adhere to a specific moral code. Have had internal division, leading to different branches or sects.