Understanding ‘Deen’

that after the death of Jesus (peace be upon him), his followers continued the efforts mentioned above and ultimately established a complete and comprehensive Islamic system. The verse from Chapter Al-Saff that is cited uses the term “( ” ظاهرين those who prevail, Quran, 61:14), which simply means “dominance” rather than establishing any full or complete system. According to the wording of the verse, this dominance was not of one religion over another but rather of the followers of Jesus over his enemies. In interpreting this verse, three opinions from ancient commentators are cited. The first suggests that dominance is achieved through proof and evidence. The second states that at the time of Jesus’ “ascension,” his twelve companions became divided; some believed he was God, others said he was the Son of God, and some insisted he was merely a servant and messenger of God. This led to disputes among them, resulting in conflicts where those who spoke the truth ultimately prevailed. The third opinion holds that the dominance mentioned in this verse refers to the one that occurred during the time of the final messenger. However, Allama Alusi has written regarding this that “ وهو خالف ”, الظاهر meaning this interpretation does not conform to the apparent meaning of the words. (Ruh al-Ma’ani, Vol. 14, p. 286) Personally, I tend to agree more with some later scholars