Ma`rifat Adyan

Abstract The similarity between monotheistic religions is among the issues with which Islamic narrations (Shi'ite and Sunnite) have dealt. In these narrations such topics as the similarity between religions concerning their having various sects and their accepting the belief of Return, are put forward. According to some scholars' views the authenticity of these narrations are unanimously agreed upon, and, in terms of sound argument, they are verified by the Quran verses. The Quran emphasizes that the nations are common in as far as divine prescription are concerned and divine prescriptions recur throughout history. Proposing the idea that the Quran has been distorted, some refer to these narrations and verses and argue that, due to the similarities between monotheistic religions and because the Holy Book has been distorted, then the Quran must have been distorted, too. In response, shi'ite scholars have made every effort to correct people's misinterpretation of these narrations. Although some of the responses to this misconception are strong this paper offers more comprehensive responses.