This week we pray about the Muslim concept of
TAQIYAH
The concept of Taqiyah allows Muslims to deceive non-Muslims. This word means to mislead, dissimulate or outwit. When a Muslim feels threatened because of his religious affiliation, he can hide the truth and deny anything that might incriminate him—even his faith!
Taqiyah is based on such quranic verses as the following: “Let not the believers take the disbelievers as supporters…except if you indeed fear a danger from them” (Quran 3:28, Noble Translation, p. 71).
Muslim commentators explain this verse as follows:
- “If you, Muslims, are under non-Muslim authority, and you fear for your safety, act as if you are loyal to those non-Muslims…while hiding inner hatred for them. God has forbidden believers to be friendly or on intimate terms with infidels—except when infidels are above you in authority.”
- “When a Muslim fears evil from non-Muslims, he may protect himself through outward show.”
- “Let us grin in some people’s faces while our hearts curse them.”
So Muslims can act like non-Muslims to protect themselves! For example, they can say they are Christians, while they are not!
PRAYER
Lord Christ, Light of the world, the way and the truth and the life, we worship and adore you. Our hearts groan for Muslims. They do not know you as the glorious Lord and loving Savior.
We are surprised that this teaching is part of their religion. We are tempted to condemn and despise them for holding onto a religious doctrine that sanctions deception. We repent and ask you to forgive us, Lord. Help us to have compassion toward Muslims and intercede for them.
Your Word says that you desire honesty, truth and integrity from the heart (Psalm 51:6). We pray for those who deceive others. Draw them to you. Show them your face. Cheer their hearts with your divine presence, and lead them by the hand to the cross. Shower your mercy upon them. Help them experience your grace.
When the time comes for believers from Islam to witness for you, fill them with courage they have never known before. In Christ’s name I pray.
PROMISE
If you live by what I say, you are truly my disciples. You will know the truth, and the truth
will set you free (John 8:31-32, GW).
2023 Praying for Muslims 