I came across a blatant misrepresentation of marriage by Dr. Zakir Naik. Dr. Naik argues that the Qur’an is superior to the Christian model of marriage because the Qur’an puts a limitation on the number of wives a man may have:
Dr. Naik’s misrepresentation of Scripture comes at 1:58-2:05 when he says the Christian Bible gives permission to marry as many wives as a man wishes. God instituted marriage with one man and one woman. Jesus affirmed that marriage is to be between one man and one woman (Matthew 19:1-12). In fact, Jesus’ teaching about marriage clearly demonstrates that Muhammad was guilty of violating the 7th Commandment, “You shall not commit adultery.”
Does Dr. Zakir Naik think that using falsehood is justifiable so long as it proves what he believes to be true:
- Dr. Naik believes Islam is true.
- Dr. Naik believes Christianity is false.
- Dr. Naik seems to believe that he can use whatever is necessary, including falsehood, to prove what he believes to be true.
The Ideal Wife in Islam and Christianity
According to the Encyclopaedia of the Qur’an, “The ideal wives are called qanitat, obedient and devoted, both to God and to their husbands” (Denis Gril, “Love and Affection”). According to Christian teaching wives are to be submissive to their husbands (Ephesians 5:22-24; 1 Peter 3:1-6). In fact, the ideal model for Christian husbands is is Jesus. Jesus was not married, but He serves as the perfect model because He sacrificially laid down His life for the church (Ephesians 5:25-28).
Related Posts:
Doctor Zakir Naik, is he reliable?
The Quranic corruption of God’s Law (Quran 33:37)
References for Islam and Marriage (Nikah)
C.E. Bosworth, “Zaynab bt. Djahsh“; Encyclopaedia of Islam, Second Edition.
Shahla Haeri, “Temporary marriage [Supplement 2017]”, in: Encyclopaedia of the Qurʾān, General Editor: Jane Dammen McAuliffe, Georgetown University, Washington DC.
Martin Lings, Muhammad, his life based on the earliest sources, London 1983.
Muhammad’s Wives, Wikipedia.
Nikah, Wikipedia.
Stowasser, Barbara Freyer, “Wives of the Prophet”, in: Encyclopaedia of the Qurʾān, General Editor: Jane Dammen McAuliffe, Georgetown University, Washington DC.
Zaynab bint Jahsh, Wikipedia.
