Quranic and Biblical Depictions of Sulayman Research Paper

Quranic and Biblical Depictions of Sulayman - Research Paper Example The author of the paper tells that when comparing the two texts, some key differences in the depiction of Sulayman/Solomon is revealed. Firstly, in the Holy Koran, the emphasis was laid on Sulayman's role as a Prophet, whereas in the Holy Bible he is portrayed as a King. And to go with the notion of a prophet, Sulaiman was endowed with supernatural powers such as the power to move wind. The following select quotations from Abdul Haleem's translation of the Holy Koran illustrates this point: â€Å"And (We made) the wind subservient to Sulaiman whereof the morning course was a months journey and the course a months journey." (54:12) "So We subjected the wind to his power, setting fair by his command whithersoever he intended" (38:36) "And unto Sulaiman, We subdued the wind in its raging. It flows by his order towards the land which We had blessed And of everything We are aware." (21:81)† Seen from an Islamic point of view, one need not see any contradiction in designations such as a Prophet or a King, for, in the Islamic tradition, most Prophets happen to be Kings and vice-versa, including Prophet Muhammad himself. Secondly, in the Holy Koran, Sulayman is said to have lived only 53 years; whereas The Bible suggests that he lived longer than that. Other minor differences in the two versions pertain to minor linguistic differences such as King David (the father of Solomon) being referred to as Prophet Daud in the Holy Koran. As for similarities, the historical/religious character in question is said to have gathered knowledge from his illustrious father.