word in this extract is true. The doctrine opposed in this verse was never held by
Christians at all. Certain heretics, followers of Marcion1, said that there
were three Godsthe God of Justice, the God of Mercy, the God of Evil. Perhaps Muhammad
had heard of this most blasphemous doctrine and here rejects it in God's name.
132. M. It is to Christians that this verse refers, for in the same Surah we
read:
"Surely now are they Infidels who say, 'God is the Messiah, Son of Mary': for the
Messiah said, 'O children of Israel! worship God, my Lord and your Lord'. . ." (v.
76). "The Messiah, Son of Mary, is but an Apostle; other Apostles have flourished
before Him; and His mother was a just person: they both ate food. . ." (v. 79).
"Say thou; 'O people of the Book! outstep not bounds of truth in your religion'. .
." (v. 81). "And when God shall say: 'O Jesus, Son of Mary! hast thou said unto
mankind, 'Take Me and My mother as two Gods, beside God?' He shall say: 'Glory be unto
Thee! it is not for Me to say that which I know to be not the truth . . . . I spake not
unto them aught but that which Thou didst bid MeWorship God, My Lord and your Lord'. .
." (vv. 116, 117).
C. The Qur'an here denounces the idea of a