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MembersIshmael – Progenitor of jihadism?

To understand the Arab peoples and their nature more deeply, we must look back into biblical history and explore the human nature of their progenitor.

Islamic Jihad terrorists. Photo: Alaa Badarneh/EPA-EFE
Islamic Jihad terrorists. Photo: Alaa Badarneh/EPA-EFE

In Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions, Ishmael is regarded as the ancestor of the Arab peoples. This connection is rooted in biblical texts, historical traditions, and religious writings that present Ishmael as a pivotal figure. Islamic tradition attributes to him a significant role in the history of the Kaaba in Mecca. The Koran and Islamic teachings assert that Ishmael, together with Abraham, built the Kaaba. The Arabs, particularly the Quraysh tribe—from whose lineage the Prophet Mohammed descends—are seen as direct descendants of Ishmael. This makes Ishmael a key figure in the self-understanding and historiography of the Arab world. In the Bible—God’s Word and foundation—Ishmael’s characteristics are described, offering deep insight into his personality and his descendants. Who is Ishmael? And who are the Arab enemies surrounding us?

The Book of Genesis recounts the story of Abraham and Sarah, who were childless. Sarah offered her husband Abraham her maid, Hagar, to bear a child on her behalf. Hagar gave birth to Ishmael. Later, when God’s promise to Abraham was fulfilled, Sarah bore...

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About the author

Patrick Callahan

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One response to “Ishmael – Progenitor of jihadism?”

  1. Lois Heal Bright says:

    What caught my attention in the article is the reference to God’s Angel who spoke to Hagar and made provision for Hagar, and for Ishmael. (Gen. 16 and 21)

    God also speaks of His Angel in Exodus 23:20-23, saying, “if you indeed obey His voice and do all that I speak, then I will be an enemy to your enemies and an adversary to your adversaries. For My Angel will go before you..”

    In God’s immeasurable love for us, God sent to earth the One in whom is His name, as 2 Cor. 5:19 reveals, “God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself..” And Ephesians 6:10-17, reveals God’s continued provision for our victory over evil.

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