Christian Ethics (book)

''Christian Ethics: A Historical and Systematic Analysis of Its Dominant Ideas'' (1967) is a scholarly work by Ismail al-Faruqi that offers a critical examination of Christian ethical thought from both historical and systematic perspectives. Written from a Muslim perspective, the book analyzes the development of key Christian moral doctrines, highlighting what al-Faruqi views as theological inconsistencies and external influences that diverge from Jesus' original teachings. Noted for its advocacy of a rational and coherent ethical framework, the book is regarded as a pioneering Muslim contribution to the critical study of Christian dogma and ethics. It has attracted reviews and critiques from both Muslim and Christian scholars, reflecting its significance in comparative religion and interfaith dialogue.

Background

Al-Faruqi, a prominent scholar in Islamic studies and comparative religion, developed ''Christian Ethics'' as part of his broader effort to engage critically with other faith traditions through a rational and systematic lens. The book was conceived during his tenure at McGill University, where he was influenced by leading figures such as Wilfred Cantwell Smith and Stanley Brice Frost. Al-Faruqi emphasized reason as the foundation for academic dialogue, asserting that ethical inquiry provided a neutral ground for evaluating religious doctrines. His objective was to deliver a comprehensive critique of Christian ethics, situating it within the wider discourse of religious and moral philosophy.

The work is recognized as a pioneering modern Muslim critique of Christianity, particularly its theological and ethical developments. Central to al-Faruqi's argument is the claim that Christianity diverged from the original teachings of Jesus by assimilating Hellenistic and other non-Semitic influences, which he regarded as distortions.

Contents

The book is divided into several chapters, each addressing different aspects of Christian ethics and its evolution through history.

The Jewish Background

This chapter sets the stage by exploring the Jewish context in which Jesus' teachings emerged. Al-Faruqi discusses Hebrew racialism, the political and social circumstances of Jesus' time, and the ethical norms prevalent among the Jewish people. He highlights how the Jewish emphasis on the sinfulness of man influenced Christian thought, particularly the concept of original sin, which he argues was developed in the exilic and post-exilic periods. Al-Faruqi criticizes these developments as part of his broader critique of "peccatism" and "saviourism."

The Ethical Teachings of Jesus

Al-Faruqi examines the ethical teachings of Jesus, focusing on how they diverged from Jewish norms. This chapter covers Jesus' approach to politics, social issues, family, personal conduct, and cosmic concerns. Al-Faruqi emphasizes Jesus' focus on the intention behind actions rather than merely following the law.

Christian Legalism and Ethical Breakthrough

This section contrasts the teachings of Jesus with later Christian legalism. Al-Faruqi critiques the development of Christian doctrine that, according to him, diverged significantly from Jesus' original message. He draws parallels between the ethics of Jesus and Sufi traditions, highlighting similarities and differences.

The Christianist Transvaluation

Al-Faruqi explores how Christian ethics were transformed and adapted through history, particularly during the Reformation and in modern Christianity. He discusses the changes in the understanding of sin, salvation, and the concept of the ''imago Dei'' (image of God). This chapter critiques the evolution of these ideas and their impact on Christian thought. He argues that the idea of original sin is in direct contradiction to Jesus' teachings, which emphasize that ethical worth is a function of the conscious self's will alone.

Sin and Salvation

This chapter delves into the concepts of peccatism (the idea of inherent human sinfulness) and saviorism (the belief in Jesus as the redeemer). Al-Faruqi contrasts these with Islamic views, arguing for a more rational and coherent approach to understanding sin and salvation. He critiques the Christian view of sin as a universal and necessary phenomenon, suggesting it was a later development that Jesus did not originally teach. Al-Faruqi called for a new Reformation to restore the pristine faith of Jesus, suggesting that Islam could be an ally in this process.

Meta-Religion and Logical Consistency

Al-Faruqi introduces the concept of meta-religion, a set of principles for evaluating religious systems. He emphasizes the importance of logical consistency and coherence in religious thought, critiquing Christian theological paradoxes and advocating for a rational approach to religious doctrine. This concept involves disengaging from one's own beliefs and traditions to fully understand the beliefs and religions of the subject being studied.

The Role of Epochè

Al-Faruqi employs the methodology of Epochè, or religio-cultural disengagement, which involves studying religious phenomena without preconceived notions. He examines the Jewish background of Jesus' teachings, contrasts them with Jewish law, and draws comparisons between Sufi and Christian ethics. The book critiques developments in Christian doctrine that, according to al-Faruqi, diverge from Jesus' original teachings. While he considers epochè a useful phenomenological tool for achieving impartiality, he regards it as a preliminary step rather than a final approach. He contends that scholars should ultimately evaluate religious traditions rather than remain in a state of neutrality. In this context, he advocates for applying value judgments in religious studies, drawing on a methodology similar to that of Ibn Hazm.

Table of Contents

Themes

The book contributes to interfaith dialogue by offering a critical examination of Christianity from a Muslim perspective. Central to its analysis are themes such as the interiorization of ethics, self-transformation, and the rational evaluation of religious doctrines. Al-Faruqi critiques the concepts of "peccatism"—the belief in inherent human sinfulness—and "saviorism"—the doctrine of Jesus as redeemer—contrasting these with Islamic notions of human nature and accountability.

A key aspect of his critique targets the reliance on paradox within Christian theology, which he argues undermines logical consistency and ethical coherence. He emphasizes the need for a rational framework in religious thought, advocating for doctrines that align with reason and moral clarity. Al-Faruqi also highlights Jesus’ assessment of Jewish law, suggesting that it functioned more as "a code of utility" than a true ethical system.

Furthermore, he argues that Christian theology has been shaped by Hellenistic and other non-Semitic influences, leading to distortions of Jesus' original teachings. Through these critiques, al-Faruqi positions Islam as a model of rational ethical monotheism, free from what he views as the theological contradictions present in Christianity.

Publication and reviews

''Christian Ethics: A Historical and Systematic Analysis of Its Dominant Ideas'' was published in 1967 by McGill University Press, supported by various academic and philanthropic institutions, including the Rockefeller Foundation. The book is regarded as a pioneering critique of Christianity and Christian ethics by a modern Muslim scholar. Recognized as a noteworthy contribution to the fields of comparative religion and ethics, it explores the intersections and divergences between Islamic and Christian moral philosophies.

Although some Christian theologians expressed reservations about al-Faruqi's conclusions, reviewers acknowledged his thorough engagement with both Christian and Islamic perspectives. Contemporary assessments noted that his scholarly approach and critical analysis merited serious attention within interfaith and academic discourse.

References

External links

''Christian Ethics: A Historical and Systematic Analysis of Its Dominant Ideas''
in PDF
Ismail Faruqi Online
Website on the life and works of Dr. Isma'il al Faruqi

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1967 non-fiction books
English-language non-fiction books
Books by Ismail al-Faruqi
Books critical of Christianity
Comparative religion
Religious perspectives on Jesus
Christology
Philosophy of religion
Interfaith dialogue
Criticism of Christianity
Books about Christian ethics