Anti-Semitism and Islam

Anti-Semitism is an attitude, not entertained by Islam. Quran shows a great reverence for Israelites (descendants of Jacob (PBUH)). Muhammad (PBUH) was himself a Semitic. Abraham (PBUH), Patriarch of Jews, is also great grandfather of Muhammad (PBUH). Abraham (PBUH) is the person, whom Quran admires (probably) the most among humans. In Quran, God praises Abraham (PBUH) in these words:
“Abraham was indeed a model, devoutly obedient to God, (and) true in Faith, and he joined not gods with God. He showed his gratitude for the favours of God, who chose him, and guided him to a Straight Way. And We gave him Good in this world, and he will be, in the Hereafter, in the ranks of the Righteous.” (16:120-122)
“And remember that Abraham was tried by his Lord with certain commands, which he fulfilled. He said: "I will make you a religious leader to the Nations." (2:124)
Muhammad (PBUH) never claimed that he is a founder of a new religion; on the contrary he presented himself as a prophet who came to revive the religion of Abraham (PBUH). Quran asks Muhammad (PBUH) to follow the ways of Abraham (PBUH):
“So We have taught you (O Muhammad) the inspired (Message), "Follow the ways of Abraham the True in Faith, and he joined not gods with God.” (16:123)
Similarly God praised many Israelite prophets in Quran. Here are some examples:
Isaac & Jacob (PBUT)
“And We bestowed on him (Abraham) Isaac and, as an additional gift, (a grandson), Jacob, and We made righteous men of every one (of them). And We made them leaders, guiding (men) by Our Command, and We sent them inspiration to do good deeds, to establish regular prayers, and to practise regular charity; and they constantly served Us.” (21:72-73)
Joseph (PBUH)
“When Joseph attained His full manhood, We gave him power and knowledge: thus do We reward those who do right.” (12:22)
Moses & Aaron (PBUT)
“Again (of old) We bestowed Our favour on Moses and Aaron, And We delivered them and their people from (their) Great Calamity; And We helped them, so they overcame (their troubles); And We gave them the Book which helps to make things clear; And We guided them to the Straight Way. And We left (this blessing) for them among generations (to come) in later times: "Peace and salutation to Moses and Aaron!" Thus indeed do We reward those who do right. For they were two of our believing Servants.” (37:114-122)
David (PBUH)
“Have patience at what they (rejecters) say, and remember our servant David, the man of strength: for he ever turned (to God)……. We strengthened his kingdom, and gave him wisdom and sound judgment in speech and decision.” (38:17-20)
Solomon (PBUH)
“We gave (in the past) knowledge to David and Solomon: And they both said: "Praise be to God, Who has favoured us above many of his servants who believe!" (27:15)
John, The Baptist (PBUH)
“(We asked) "O John! take hold of the Book with might": and We gave him Wisdom even as a youth, And piety (for all creatures) as from Us, and purity: He was devout, And kind to his parents, and he was not overbearing or rebellious. So Peace on him the day he was born, the day that he dies, and the day that he will be raised up to life (again)! (19:12-15)
Jesus Christ (PBUH)
“Behold! the angels said: "O Mary! God gave you glad tidings of a Word from Him: his name will be Christ Jesus, the son of Mary, held in honour in this world and the Hereafter and of (the company of) those nearest to God.” (3:45)

Saturday May 20, 2006 - 10:52pm
http://blog.360.yahoo.com/blog-7RwkHRY8fqN59oD2VY9B?p=35