The Difference between a Prophet and a Messenger - By Abu Khadeejah-Abdul Waahid

Summary

The transcript discusses the distinction between prophets and messengers in Islamic tradition. It clarifies that while both are divinely appointed figures, the key difference is that messengers bring new revelations, while prophets continue the teachings of previous revelations. The speaker explains that messengers are tasked with delivering new messages from Allah, whereas prophets may only teach or act upon the revelations given to earlier messengers. This distinction is vital to understanding the roles and responsibilities of these figures in Islam.

Takeaways

• 😀 The term 'prophet' is often used as a general label for both prophets and messengers, though they have distinct roles.
• 😀 There are 124,000 prophets and 313 messengers according to Islamic tradition.
• 😀 Every messenger is considered a prophet, but not every prophet is a messenger.
• 😀 A messenger brings new revelation from Allah that was not previously known to the people.
• 😀 The key difference between a prophet and a messenger is that messengers bring new revelations, while prophets teach based on prior revelations.
• 😀 Prophets are tasked with spreading or explaining the revelations they receive, often acting as teachers of pre-existing messages.
• 😀 A prophet's role can include reiterating the teachings of previous prophets or reinforcing already established revelations.
• 😀 Messengers are given a new, specific mission, which includes delivering a fresh revelation or a new book.
• 😀 While messengers receive direct revelations from Allah, prophets may work from the teachings that have been previously revealed to them.
• 😀 The distinction between the two terms (prophet vs. messenger) is significant in understanding their roles in conveying Allah’s messages.

Q & A

What is the main difference between a prophet and a messenger in Islamic tradition?

The main difference is that a messenger brings a new revelation from Allah, while a prophet does not bring new revelation but teaches based on existing divine guidance.

Can you give an example of a messenger in Islamic tradition?

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is an example of a messenger, as he brought the Quran, a new revelation from Allah.

Is it true that all messengers are prophets but not all prophets are messengers?

Yes, that is correct. Every messenger is a prophet, but not every prophet is a messenger. Messengers bring new revelations, while prophets follow existing revelations.

What role does a prophet play in relation to previous revelations?

A prophet's role is to teach and guide people based on previous revelations, without bringing new ones. They reinforce the message of earlier messengers.

What is the significance of the revelation received by messengers?

The revelation received by messengers is new and directly given by Allah, marking them as individuals who bring divine guidance that has not been previously shared with humanity.

Why is Prophet Moses (Musa) considered a prophet but not a messenger in this context?

Prophet Musa is considered a prophet because he followed and taught the existing revelation. He did not bring new revelation; instead, he continued the message given to previous prophets.

What does it mean when the script says, 'a prophet may not bring new revelations but continues to teach from existing ones'?

This means that prophets do not receive new messages or scriptures from Allah. Instead, they uphold and pass on the divine guidance provided to previous messengers.

How does the distinction between a prophet and a messenger affect Islamic teachings?

This distinction helps clarify the different roles in conveying Allah's guidance. Messengers are seen as bringing new divine laws or scriptures, while prophets act as teachers, guiding people with the revelations already given.

What example is used to clarify the difference between a prophet and a messenger?

The example of Prophet Musa (Moses) is used to clarify the distinction. He is a prophet because he taught existing revelations, but he did not bring a new revelation himself.

Why is understanding the difference between a prophet and a messenger important in Islamic theology?

Understanding the difference helps clarify the varying responsibilities and roles of these individuals in spreading divine guidance, and it helps prevent confusion regarding their roles in relation to the messages they delivered.