The teachings and outcomes of Islam regarding the treatment of women stand in marked contrast to Christianity. Only the Bible provides consistent guidance that values women and truly protects them from misuse.

This year marks the fiftieth anniversary of a cinematic and cultural icon of the Islamic world. What the movies Ben Hur and The Ten Commandments are for Christians, The Message (1976) is for Muslims. Virtually unknown to Americans, the movie tells the story of the birth of Islam and is considered by many Muslims to be an indispensable reference for Islamic history; it is broadcast during special occasions.^[1] In a 1976 interview, director Moustapha Akkad stated his goal for the film: “Being Muslim myself who lived in the West, I felt that it’s my obligation, my duty, to tell the truth about Islam…” ^[2] Thus, the film seeks to be a modern interpretation of Islamic teachings applicable to everyday practice and perception.

But does The Message tell the truth? The film is three hours long, and it would take an extended review to cover the religious and historical claims comprehensively. This brief review will focus solely on the movie’s portrayal of the Islamic view of women. By examining a relevant passage from the Quran and considering statements and testimonials from the Islamic world, I will argue that the film’s depiction of this aspect of Islam is misleading. In a time when the world speaks endlessly of the peacefulness of Islam, it is important to expose teachings within the religion that promote violence. A review of biblical passages will provide a helpful contrast to the Quran and demonstrate the superiority of Christian teaching on the treatment of women.

What “The Message” Says About Women

In the key sequence, Muhammad’s neophytes are charged with rebellion and appear before the Christian king of Abyssinia. They plead their case by explaining Muhammad’s new teachings, which include worshipping only one god, speaking truth, loving their neighbors, and protecting women from misuse.^[3] The Muslim spokesman clarifies, “God made woman to be the proper companion of man. She is different but equal.”^[4] Upon hearing the word “equal,” a Meccan emissary jeers, “Equal? We buy them, feed them, clothe them, use them, and discard them. Women, equal to us?”^[5] The court erupts in laughter, but the Christian king does not laugh. After hearing their case, he issues his verdict: “What Christ says and what your Mohammad says are like two rays from the same lamp.”^[6]

Like a forerunner to today’s modern Islamic media, the film attempts to persuade audiences that Islam protects and values women and that it is comparable to Christianity. Since Muslims consider the Quran their preeminent sacred book, it is helpful to see if the Quran’s teachings align with the film’s depiction of Islamic teaching on this subject.

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