In Parts 1 and 2, we addressed the fundamental question of the spirit in Islam, exploring how Muslim scholars have grappled with interpreting the identity and role of the spirit as mentioned in the Qur’an. With each verse analyzed, the inconsistencies grow, leaving questions about the true nature of Allah’s spirit. In Part 3, we will examine additional verses that reference the spirit, further highlighting the ambiguities within the Qur’an and how these verses contradict Islamic claims of clarity.
In Qur’an 12:87 we read: “O my sons, go and inquire of Joseph and his brother and do not give up hope from the spirit of Allah. Surely no one will give up hope from the spirit of Allah except the infidel people.” According to the story in the Qur’an, Jacob knows his son Joseph is still alive, even though that contradicts all previous teaching in Qur’an chapter 12 regarding the story of Joseph. Jacob encourages his sons to go back to Egypt and to inquire about Joseph and his brother. Yet, the Qur’an never explicitly names Joseph’s brother, even though many Muslim scholars identify him as Benjamin.
The key part of this verse is Jacob’s instruction to his sons: “Do not give up hope from the spirit of Allah.” What does Jacob mean by this? Is he talking about angel Gabreel? &nb ...
