Is Islam older than Christianity?

In conversations about religion, one question often sparks deep curiosity and debate: "Is Islam older than Christianity?"

At first glance, this may seem like a simple historical question about dates and founders. But beneath it lies a much deeper discussion—one about faith traditions, prophetic lineage, shared scriptures, and the way Muslims and Christians view their spiritual histories.

To fully understand whether Islam is older than Christianity, we need to explore:

The historical timeline of each religion

The concept of Islam as a continuation of earlier revelations

The Islamic view of previous prophets, including Jesus (Isa) and Moses (Musa)

Key differences in how age is defined in religious traditions

Let’s take a closer look at the facts, beliefs, and contexts behind this intriguing question.

The Historical Timeline: When Did Christianity and Islam Begin?

Christianity:

Founded around 1st century CE (Common Era)

Based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ

Jesus is believed by Christians to be the Son of God and Savior of humanity

The New Testament was written by his followers in the decades after his crucifixion and resurrection

Officially, Christianity began after the death and resurrection of Jesus, with the rise of his followers (Apostles) spreading his message. This places Christianity’s formal birth around 30–33 CE.

Islam:

Formally founded in the 7th century CE, in Mecca (now Saudi Arabia)

Based on the revelations received by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), starting in 610 CE

These revelations are compiled in the Quran, the holy book of Islam

According to most historians, Islam as an institutional religion began around 610 CE, when Muhammad received his first revelation from the angel Jibril (Gabriel). The Islamic calendar (Hijri) begins in 622 CE, marking the Prophet’s migration (Hijrah) from Mecca to Medina.

So, based on historical dates, Christianity predates Islam by around 600 years.

But Wait—Muslims See Islam as Older

Here’s where the conversation becomes more nuanced. While historians measure age by recorded events, Muslims see Islam not just as a 7th-century religion, but as the original and eternal faith of all prophets—going back to Adam (the first human).

The Islamic Perspective:

Islam means “submission to the will of God (Allah)”

Every prophet, from Adam to Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad, is considered a Muslim in the sense that they submitted to God

Therefore, Islam has existed since the beginning of humanity

“Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam.” – Quran 3:19

According to Islamic belief, Abraham (Ibrahim) was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but a Hanif (pure monotheist) who submitted to God—therefore, a Muslim in essence.

Comparing the Founders: Jesus and Muhammad

Jesus in Christianity:

Seen as the Son of God, part of the Holy Trinity

Central figure of Christian theology

His death and resurrection are core to salvation

Jesus in Islam:

Known as Isa (peace be upon him), a beloved prophet and messenger

Born miraculously to the Virgin Mary (Maryam)

Not crucified (according to Islamic belief); instead, he was raised to Heaven

Not divine, but a servant of God

Muslims love and revere Jesus deeply but do not worship him as God or son of God. He is one in a long line of prophets who preached Tawhid (oneness of God).

Abrahamic Roots: Shared Ancestors and Faith

Islam, Christianity, and Judaism are called the Abrahamic religions because they all trace their spiritual lineage to Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim).

In the Bible, Abraham is the ancestor of both Jews (through Isaac) and Arabs (through Ishmael)

In the Quran, Abraham is a central figure, known for his pure monotheism

Muslims believe that the Kaaba in Mecca was built by Abraham and his son Ishmael as a house of worship to one God

So, in this sense, Muslims believe that true monotheism (Islam) has existed since the time of Abraham—and even earlier, starting with Adam.

How Do Christians View the Timeline?

Christians generally recognize:

Judaism as the older faith, based on the Old Testament (Torah)

Christianity as the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy through the coming of Jesus

Islam as a later development, founded centuries after Jesus

While Christianity respects figures like Abraham and Moses, Christians do not consider Muhammad to be a prophet, nor the Quran to be divine revelation.