OCCASION OF REVELATION (VERSE NO. 79 AND 80)

      As for the cause of these two verses, it is narrated that some of the Muslims said to the Messenger of God (AS) that we salute and greet you as we salute an ordinary man! Then give us leave to bow or to prostrate before you for salutations, to exhibit a mark of deference to your superiority.

      The prophet said: ``It is unlawful to prostrate to any one other than Allah. It is enough to salute your prophet as you greet others, but recognize his rights, and follow him.''

COMMENTS

      The verses reject and amend the dogma of making a deity and Lord of man, as the Christians have done; saying that Jesus was the son of God or the God Himself. As a matter of fact, Jesus was no more than a man chosen by God as a prophet, and strengthened by the Holy Spirit (GABRIEL), the arch angel, who brought the revelation to him.

      It is neither natural nor reasonable that God's Messenger should preach against God; saying worship me and not Him. Jesus was sent to preach the true God, and the true Mosaic Law and hence the verse:

      ``It is not possible that a man to whom is given the Book, (BIBLE and GOSPEL) and wisdom, and prophethood, to say to the people; worship me instead of God; on contrary he would say to them be you Godly, and viruous for having been taught the book and studying the Scriptures.''

      The prophets also never called the people to worship the angels or any other being, except God the Cherisher and Lord of the universe.

      It also rejects the faith of the Pagan Arabs who claimed to be the followers of ABRAHAM, but believed the angels to be the daughters of God! Just like the Jews who called Ezra as the son of God, or that sect of Christianity who consider Jesus Christ as the son of God.

      The verse ends in saying: ``How could it be possible for a prophet of God, to call people to believe in God and in the Day of Judgement, Then he changes his mind and say to them: `Be you worshipper of me!'?''

      The verse also implies that the prophets are innocent and free of guilt.