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Sunday, December 11, 2011

OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST SAID

OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST SAID

Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ said
Matthew 11:28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy burdened, and I will give you rest. (click on picture)

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Rerum Orientalium

Rerum Orientalium

Encyclical of Pope Pius XI promulgated on September 8, 1928

To Our Venerable Brethren the Patriarchs, Primates, Archbishops, Bishops, and other Local Ordinaries in Peace and Communion with the Apostolic See.

Health and Apostolic Benediction.

In order to promote the study of Oriental sciences and a more thorough knowledge of them among the faithful, and still more among priests, our Predecessors, during the past centuries, have applied themselves with an ardor of which no one can be ignorant who has even rapidly glanced at the annals of the Catholic Church. They well knew that the cause of many evils in the past, and especially of the deplorable dissension which has detached from the root of unity many churches once so flourishing, has resulted principally and almost fatally from mutual ignorance and contempt, and from the prejudices which followed on a long division among souls. They knew also that no remedy can be supplied until those impediments are removed. Hence, to touch but briefly on a few of the historical documents which, beginning from the time when the bonds of unity began to be relaxed, bear witness to the care and solicitude of the Roman Pontiffs in this respect, every one knows with what benevolence and veneration Adrian I received the two apostles of the Slavs, Cyril and Methodius, and how singularly he honored them; with what diligence he supported the Eighth Ecumenical Council, the fourth of Constantinople, to which he sent his legates, shortly after such a great portion of the flock of the Lord had been lamentably snatched away from the Roman Pontiff, the divinely-constituted Shepherd. Such sacred assemblies, convoked for the purpose of discussing Oriental affairs, were held one after another, as when at Bari, at the grave of St. Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, Anselm, Doctor of Aosta and Archbishop of Canterbury, moved the minds and hearts of all by his learning and the wonderful sanctity of his life; or again as at Lyons, to which those two luminaries of the Church, the angelic Doctor St. Thomas, and the seraphic St. Bonaventure, were summoned by Gregory X, and how the one died on the journey and the other in the midst of the great labors of the Council; or as at Ferrara and Florence, when the palm must certainly be awarded to those ornaments of the Christian East, soon to become Cardinals of the Roman Church, Bessarion of Nice, and Isidore of Kieff; and when the truth of Catholic dogma, logically and methodically stated, and made to shine forth anew by the charity of Christ, seemed to pave the way for the reconciliation of Oriental Christians with the Supreme Pastor.

2. The few facts We have cited manifest the paternal affection and devotion of the Apostolic See towards Oriental nations, but, because more remarkable they also occur more rarely. Innumerable other acts concerning the Orient, Venerable Brethren, bear testimony to the benefits which the Roman Church wished to confer on the East. It was to this end especially that she sent her religious to spend their lives in the service of Oriental nations. Sustained by the authority of the Apostolic See, these heroic men, recruited chiefly from the religious families of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Dominic, went forth to found houses and to create new provinces of their Order, not only in Palestine and Armenia, where they cultivated anew with great effort theology and other sciences that contributed to the profane and the religious civilization not only of those countries but also of other regions, but in other countries also where the Orientals subjected to the domination of the Turk or of the Tartar, and forcibly separated from Roman Unity, were deprived of access to every form of education, especially religious education.

3. These remarkable benefits and aims of the Apostolic See seemed to carry weight with the doctors of the University of Paris who, since the thirteenth century, following the wishes and aspirations of the Holy See, founded, as history teaches us, and incorporated with their University, an Oriental college, with which our predecessor John XX, a few years later, kept in touch through Hugo Bishop of Paris.[1] Equally remarkable also, as the documents of that time testify, were the efforts of Humbert de Romans, a very learned religious and Master General of the Order of Preachers. In his book "Of what it befits to treat in the coming Council of Lyons," he recommended point by point what was necessary in order to win the souls of the Orientals:[2] a knowledge of the Greek language, because the diversity of nations is joined in the unity of faith by means of various languages; an abundance of Greek books and a sufficient number of translations of the works of the West into the languages of the East. He also exhorted the Friars Preachers assembled in General Chapter at Milan to hold in high esteem the languages of the East, and to study them earnestly so as to be ready to go forth to those nations if it were God's Will.

4. Thus also in the Franciscan family, Roger Bacon, that scholar so dear to Our Predecessor, Clement IV, not only wrote learnedly on the Chaldean, Arab and Greek languages,[3] but also facilitated their study for others.

Following the above examples, Raymond Lulli, a man of singular learning and piety, urged with all the impetuosity of his nature, and obtained from Our Predecessors, Celestine V and Boniface VIII, favors which at the time were most unusual: that a Cardinal should be placed at the head of Oriental affairs and studies, and that Apostolic expeditions be sent to the Tartar, the Saracen, and other infidels, as well as to bring the "schismatics" once more into the unity of the Church.

5. But We specially wish to emphasize how, through the initiative of the same Raymond Lulli, a decree was formulated in the General Council of Vienne and promulgated by Our Predecessor Clement V, in which We seem to see foreshadowed Our own Oriental Institute. With the approbation of this sacred Council, We provide for the erection of schools for the study of the above-mentioned languages wherever the Roman Curia shall happen to reside, as also in Paris, Oxford, Bologna and Salamanca, and for the appointment of two Catholic professors with sufficient knowledge for each of the languages- Hebrew, Greek, Arabic, and Chaldaic-who shall direct those schools, and shall translate into Latin books written in the above languages, shall teach them to others, and shall pass on their knowledge through instruction; so that the young men by this means may with God's help produce the fruits hoped for by propagating the Faith among infidel nations.[4]

6. But since, among Oriental nations, on account of the confusion of the times, nearly all the possibilities of scientific study were destroyed and it was impossible to cultivate higher studies among students well qualified for them, you know, Venerable Brethren, that Our Predecessors also were careful that not only in the chief Universities of that age there should be Oriental centers of learning, but also in a special manner that seminaries should be opened in the heart of this mother city of Rome, easily accessible to students of those nations, whence after a careful education they should go forth prepared to fight the good fight. On that account monasteries and colleges were opened in Rome for the Greeks and the Ruthenians, and also houses were given to the Maronites and Armenians. We may see what gain for souls was achieved when we consider the liturgical and other works which the Sacred Congregation of Propaganda caused to be published in various Oriental languages, and the precious Oriental codices which the Vatican library diligently gathered together and religiously preserved.

7. Nor is this by any means all. As Our Predecessors realized that a more complete knowledge of things Oriental among Occidentals was of great importance to foster charity and mutual esteem, they strove with all their might to attain this end. Thus Gregory XVI, who, raised to the Supreme Pontificate in the very year he was about to begin his mission as legate at the court of Alexander I, studied Russian affairs with the greatest diligence; thus Pius IX, who before and after the Vatican Council earnestly recommended the publication of works on Oriental rites and traditions; thus Leo XIII, who showed so great a love and pastoral solicitude not only for the Copts and the Slavs, but for all the Orientals. Besides the new religious Congregation of the Augustinians of the Assumption, he encouraged also other Religious Orders to acquire or increase their knowledge of Eastern matters. He caused to be erected new colleges for the Orientals, in the Orient, as well as here in Rome. He praised most highly the University of the Society of Jesus at Beirut, which is even today in a most flourishing state and very dear to Us. Again Pius X also, who, having founded the Pontifical Biblical Institute, kindled in the souls of many a new ardor for Oriental studies, and thereby reaped a rich harvest.

8. Our immediate Predecessor, Benedict XV, diligently emulating this paternal providence towards the Oriental nations, as a sacred inheritance accepted by Pius X, constituted a Congregation for the affairs of the Oriental Church, and decided to found in this City, the Head of Christendom, a "special center for higher Oriental studies," endowed with "all the scientific apparatus which modern erudition requires, and staffed with zealous teachers, thoroughly trained in all branches of study concerning the Orient,"[5] and empowered with the faculty of giving "the degree of Doctor in ecclesiastical sciences related to the Christian nations of the East."[6] This Institute was open not only to the Orientals (among whom are included those also who are separated from Catholic Unity), but also to the Latin priests who wished to become proficient in these branches, or who wished to minister to the Orientals. The greatest praise is to be given to these men, who worked diligently during a period of four years to initiate the first students of the Institute in Oriental sciences.

9. There was, however, this difficulty to a fitting development of the Institute, that, though near the Vatican, it was far from the center of the city. Therefore We, wishing to carry into effect what Benedict XV had in mind, had decreed, at the beginning of Our Pontificate, the transfer of the Oriental Institute to the Pontifical Biblical Institute, as being closely related to it in studies and purposes, the Institutes remaining distinct from one another. We intended to give the Oriental Institute an abode of its own as soon as possible. Moreover, with the intention of there never being a lack of men fitted to teach Oriental subjects, and thinking that We should reach this end more easily by confiding so important a charge to one religious family, by Our Letter of September 14, 1922,[7] We commanded the General of the Society of Jesus that, by his love towards the Holy See and his Vicar, and the obedience he owed to him, he should, in spite of all difficulties, under take the entire administration of the Institute, observing the following conditions: that the supreme direction of the Institute being reserved to Us and to Our successors, the General of the Society of Jesus should find men capable of filling the difficult offices of President and lecturers of the Institute; that henceforth, either directly or through the President, he should propose for Our approval and that of Our successors those whom he considered competent to lecture on the various subjects of the Institute; and that he should suggest all that might seem to conduce to the security and prosperity of the Institute.

10. Now, at the close of the sixth year since We, with the special guidance of God, made this decision, We may thank God most gratefully that an abundant harvest has resulted from Our labors. Although the number of students-as the nature of the Institute itself requires-has not been, nor ever will be, very great, still it has been sufficient to enable Us to rejoice when We realize that already an important group of men, rapidly increasing in numbers, will soon leave the shelter of this abode of learning, so formed in piety and learning that we have every hope that they may, in the field which lies open before them, be of great assistance to the Oriental Churches.

11. And now, while praising with all Our hearts the local Ordinaries and Heads of Religious Orders, who, making Our wishes their own, have sent to Rome, from divers nations and countries, their priests to be formed in Oriental sciences, We at the same time exhort all Religious Heads of groups scattered far and wide upon the earth, that, following such an example, they neglect not to send to this Our Oriental Institute those students whom they may consider suitable and who may feel an attraction for such studies. Let us recall to your memories, Venerable Brethren, what we recently declared in Our Encyclical Mortalium animos. Who is there who does not know how often a kind of unity among Christians, completely foreign to the mind of Christ the Founder of the Church, is contemplated; and who has not heard of those most important discussions, carried on especially in the greater part of Europe and of America on the most important subject of the Orientals, whether united to the Roman Church or separated from her? But, though the students from Our seminaries, having acquired, as they should, a knowledge of Protestant errors and fallacies of later date, are able to recognize and promptly to refute them, they are not, however, trained, at least generally speaking, in that particular branch of learning which would enable them to pass a sure judgment on matters pertaining to Oriental sciences and customs, and to the liturgy which is to be preserved with all reverence within the Catholic unity. For this a very special and accurate study is required.

12. Therefore, since We cannot in any way neglect all that could help to bring about that most desirable reunion of such a remarkable portion of the flock of Jesus Christ to His true Church, or to show the greatest charity towards those who, in their different rites, closely adhere with their minds and their hearts to the Roman Church and the Vicar of Christ, we earnestly exhort you, Venerable Brethren, that each one choose among his priests at least one who, being well trained in these branches of learning, shall be able to instruct seminarists in them when opportunities arise. We are not ignorant of the fact that it belongs in a peculiar manner to Catholic Universities to institute a special faculty of Oriental sciences. With Our initiative and Our help, We are glad that this work has already begun in Paris, Louvain, Lille. Of late, also, in several other seats of theological learning, chairs of Oriental sciences have been founded at the expense of the civil government, with the consent of and by the encouragement of the local Ordinaries. Nevertheless, it ought not to be too difficult to find a Professor in each of the theological seminaries who, together with history, liturgy, or canon law, will be able to teach the elements of Oriental sciences. And when the minds and hearts of the students shall thus be turned towards Eastern teaching and rites, no small gain should result. Not only will the Orientals thus derive benefit, but also the students themselves will have a better knowledge of Catholic theology and Latin discipline, and will conceive a greater love for the true Spouse of Christ, whose beauty, on account of the variety of rites, will shine forth the more.

13. Having considered all the advantages to Christianity that would follow from such training of young men, We have considered it part of Our duty to spare no labors, not only to ensure the life of the Institute which from the outset We confirmed, but also to facilitate its success by new developments. Hence, as soon as it was possible to Us, We wished to assign to it an abode of its own, spending for the purchase and establishing of the house of St. Anthony, near St. Mary Major on the Esquiline, the funds bequeathed to Us by the liberality of a benevolent prelate as also those offered Us by a devout citizen of the United States; We hope and pray that their reward in Heaven may be exceeding great. Nor should We pass over in silence the fact that funds reached Us from Spain, sufficient to furnish and to endow a larger and more beautiful library. May these examples of liberality encourage others, for, after an experience of many years as Librarian of the Ambrosian and the Vatican Library, We realize how important it is to furnish this library with all necessary material, so that not only the Doctors, but also the students, should be enabled to acquire knowledge concerning the Orient from sources often hidden or unknown, but yet extremely rich, and to turn them to public service. Undeterred by difficulties (though We foresee these will be numerous and great), We shall strive, as far as in Us lies, to procure all things that appertain to the countries of the Orient, to their customs, to their languages and to their rites; and We shall be very grateful to any who, through filial love for the Vicar of Christ, shall help Us to attain this end, whether by giving funds, or books, or codices, or paintings, or anything of the kind relating to the Christian East.

14. And thus We hope that the Oriental nations, seeing with their own eyes the monuments of the piety, the learning, and the arts of their ancestors, shall be taught how true, eternal orthodoxy was held in honor in the Roman Church and with what sacredness it is preserved, defended and propagated. May We not hope, that moved by such strong arguments (especially if over the mutual intercourse between scholars Christian charity shall preside) the greater number of Orientals, striving to regain their ancient glories, and putting aside prejudice, will desire to return to that Christian unity maintained by a full profession of faith, such as befits the true followers of Christ, united in One flock under One Shepherd?

15. While We hope and pray to God that this most happy day may finally dawn upon the Christian world, it will perhaps be useful, Venerable Brethren, to indicate briefly how Our Oriental Institute, uniting with us to carry out Our desires, shall work to attain this end. The Professors are engaged in two different sorts of studies, of which some are contained, as it were, within the walls of the Institute, while others have a wider sphere, by means of the publication of documents relating to the Christian East, whether unedited, or forgotten in the days in which we live.

16. As to the education of the students, besides the dogmatic theology of the dissidents, the explanation of the Oriental Fathers, and of all that appertains to Oriental studies, whether of history, liturgy, archaeology, or other sacred branches of learning, and the languages of various nations, we recall with special gratification how We have been enabled to add to the Byzantine Institutions a chair of Islamic Institutions, a thing hitherto unheard of in Roman centers of learning. By a special favor of Divine Providence, We have been able to place at the head of this Department a man who, born a Turk, and after many years of study, having by God's help professed the Catholic religion and been ordained to the priesthood, seemed capable of teaching those among his compatriots who were to be destined to the sacred ministry how to present, as well to scholars as to the ignorant, the cause of the One Individual God, and of the Gospel law.

17. Nor are the publications of the Oriental Institute for the propagation of the Catholic religion and the achievement of true union among Christians of less importance. The greater number of these volumes, called Orientalia Christiana, were written during the past few years by Professors of the Institute; the rest, under its auspices, by other experts on Oriental questions. These either deal with both the ancient and modern conditions of the Eastern nations generally unknown to Westerners, or else cast a new light upon the religious history of the East by means of documents hitherto unknown; or describe the relations of Oriental monks, and even Patriarchs, with this Apostolic See, and the solicitude of the Roman Pontiffs in defending their rights and property; or compare the theology of the dissidents regarding the sacraments or even the nature of the Church herself with the Catholic Truth; or again make a study of ancient codices. In a word, there is nothing which relates to sacred sciences, or has any connection with Oriental civilization (as for instance the remains of Greek culture in Southern Italy) which does not appeal to the diligence of these scholars.

18. Who then, considering the great extent of these labors, undertaken chiefly for the benefit of Orientals, does not trust Jesus Christ the most merciful Redeemer of men, taking pity upon the sad fate of so many, long astray from the right road, will complete what We have begun, and guide His flock into the One Fold, ruled over by the One Shepherd? A special reason for this hope is that among those nations a very great part of Revelation has been religiously preserved, sincere service is rendered to Christ Our Lord, great piety and love are shown towards His sinless Mother, and devout use made of the Sacraments. Therefore, since God in His mercy has willed that men, and especially priests, should as His instruments co-operate in the work of Redemption, what is there left to Us, Venerable Brethren, but once more to supplicate, yea to compel you not only to agree in mind and in heart with Our designs, but also to labor that the longed-for day may soon dawn, when We shall all welcome back, not only a few, but the vast majority of the Greeks, of the Slavs, of the Roumanians, and of the Eastern nations, hitherto separated, to their former communion with the Roman Church. And as we meditate upon what We have already begun to do, and what We hope to bring to perfection, so as to hasten this joyful day, it seems to Us that We may compare Ourselves to the Father of the family whom Christ Our Lord describes as calling the guests invited to His supper "that they should come, for now all things are ready" (Luke xiv, 17). Applying these words to Our own case, We earnestly entreat you, Venerable Brethren, that you add your efforts to ours, for this most important end of promoting Oriental studies. So that, after the removal of all obstacles, under the auspices of the Immaculate Virgin Mother of God, and of the Holy Fathers and Doctors of East and West, We may receive into the House of the Father those brethren and sons of Ours, so long separated from Us, but once more united in bonds of a charity based upon the solid foundation of truth and the full profession of the Christian religion.

And in order that these Our desires and enterprises may be most happily realized, as an earnest of heavenly gifts and as a token of Our paternal affection, We most lovingly impart the apostolic benediction to you, Venerable Brethren, and to all the flock committed to your care.

Given in Rome, at St. Peter's, on the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, September 8, 1928, in the seventh year of Our Pontificate.


ENDNOTES

  • 1. Denifle-Chatelain, Chartul, Univ. Paris, t. II, n. 857.
  • 2. Mansi, t. xxiv, ed. 128.
  • 3. Opus maius, pars tertia.
  • 4. Denifle-Chatelain, Chartul, Univ. Paris, t. ii. n. 695.
  • 5. Benedict XV, Motu proprio Orientis catholici, Oct. 15, 1917. Acta Ap. Sedis IX (1917), n. 11, pp. 531-533.
  • 6. Benedict XV, Litterae Apostolicae Quod Nobis, Sept. 25, 1920 (Acta Apost. Sedis XII (1920), n. 11, pp. 440-441.
  • 7. Letter Decessor Noster (Acta Apost. Sed. XIV (1922), n. 15, pp. 545-546.
  • Saturday, June 12, 2010

    The Eucharist


    +


    In the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.


    Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God Almighty, with and by the prayer and company of all your elect angels and saints, especially St. Michael and St. Gabriel and St. Enoch in the flesh and St. Elijah in the flesh, Your holy prophets yet to return, and blessed Joseph and the blessed virgin Mary, for and with us unceasingly:


    Greet one another with a kiss of love, peace be to all who are in Christ Jesus, Only Begotten Son of God by the Holy Spirit, Lamb of God, Our Only Lord and Saviour, Living and Reigning with God Our Father in the unity and power and bond of love of the Holy Spirit our Paraclete unto the endless ages of ages to come.


    Our Father Who are in heaven,
    hallowed be your name,
    your kingdom come,
    your will be done
    on earth as it is in heaven.
    Your Holy Spirit come upon us and cleanse us,
    Give us today our Supersubstantial bread,
    and forgive us our debt,
    as we also forgive our debtors,
    and do not lead us into temptation,
    but deliver us from the evil one and all it’s minions visible and invisible;
    for yours is the power and the glory unto the endless ages of ages to come.

    (2) First, concerning the cup:


    We give you thanks, our Father,

    for the holy vine of David your servant, which you have made known to us through Jesus, your servant;

    to you be the glory unto the endless ages of ages to come.


    (3) And concerning the broken bread:


    We give you thanks, our Father,

    for the life and knowledge

    which you have made known to us through Jesus; your servant;

    to you be the glory unto the endless ages of ages to come.


    Just as this broken bread was scattered

    upon the mountains and then was

    gathered together and became one,

    so may your church be gathered together

    from the ends of the earth into your kingdom;

    for yours is the glory and the power unto the endless ages of ages to come.


    LORD JESUS CHRIST OUR ONLY SAVIOUR, AFTER THE EATING OF SUPPER, YOU TOOK BREAD AND HAVING GIVEN THANKS YOU BROKE IT AND SAID, TAKE EAT, THIS IS MY, THE BODY, THAT WHICH IS BROKEN, ON BEHALF OF YOU; THIS DO IN THIS MY ANAMNESIN IN LIKE MANNER YOU ALSO TOOK THE CUP AFTER THE EATING OF SUPPER SAYING DRINK FROM IT ALL OF YOU, THIS THE CUP THE NEW COVENANT IS IN THIS MY BLOOD WHICH IS BEING SHED FOR MANY FOR THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS, THIS DO AS OFTEN AS YOU DRINK IN THIS MY ANAMNESIN

    COME HOLY SPIRIT SANCTIFIER BLESS THESE GIFTS MAKE HIS REAL PRESENCE TRULY MANIFEST AGAIN IN THE BREAD, THE WINE AND THE WATER WHOM WE RECEIVE IN FAITH


    [Here receive communion and say:]

    THE BODY OF CHRIST THE BLOOD OF CHRIST


    We give you thanks, Holy Father,

    for your holy name which you

    have caused to dwell in our hearts,

    and for the knowledge and faith and immortality

    which you have made known to us

    through Jesus your servant;

    to you be the glory unto the endless ages of ages to come.


    You, almighty Master, created all things for your

    name's sake,

    and gave food and drink to men, Adam and Eve, to enjoy,

    that they might give you thanks

    but to us, from the first Adam to the last Saint, you have graciously given

    spiritual food and drink,

    and eternal life through your servant Christ Jesus Our Only Lord and Saviour.


    Above all we give thanks because you are mighty

    to you be the glory unto the endless ages of ages to come.


    Remember your church Lord,

    to deliver it from all evil

    and to make it perfect in your love

    and gather it, the one that has been sanctified,

    from the four winds into your kingdom,

    which you have prepared for it

    for yours is the power and the glory unto the endless ages of ages to come.

    May grace come, and may this age pass away.

    Hosanna to the God of David.

    If anyone is holy, let him come;

    anyone is not, let him repent. Maranatha!


    We give You thanks, Father, for the fragrant ointment Your Holy Spirit our Paraclete which You have made known to us through Jesus Your servant; to you be the glory unto the endless ages of ages to come. Amen.

    +



    Saturday, December 5, 2009

    God is the source of true faith and beliefs







    'Isa al-Maseeh (PBUH),

    Jesus Christ, the word by whom all has been created by God.

    From the Holy Qur'an Surah and verse.

    036.081 "Is not He Who created the heavens and the earth able to create the like thereof?" - Yea, indeed! for He is the Creator Supreme, of skill and knowledge (infinite)!
    (See also:
    016.040 For to anything which We have willed, We but say the word, "Be", and it is.)


    007.054 Your Guardian-Lord is God, Who created the heavens and the earth in six days, then He established Himself on the Throne (of authority): He draweth the night as a veil o'er the day, each seeking the other in rapid succession: He created the sun, the moon, and the stars, (all) governed by laws under His command. Is it not His to create and to govern? Blessed be God, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds!


    This proclaims the pre-existence of the word of God

    056.077 That this is indeed a Qur'an Most Honourable,
    056.078 In Book well-guarded,
    056.079 Which none shall touch but those who are clean:
    056.080 A Revelation from the Lord of the Worlds.

    085.021 Nay, this is a Glorious Qur'an,
    085.022 (Inscribed) in a Tablet Preserved



    043.003 We have made it a Qur'an in Arabic, that ye may be able to understand (and learn wisdom).
    043.004 And verily, it is in the Mother of the Book, in Our Presence, high (in dignity), full of wisdom.
    (The above here from the Holy Qur'an 043.003 and 043.004, is the Holy Spirit as wisdom of God , refered to as her in Christendom and is the Holy Spirit by whom the word of God was made incarnate by Mary whom she gave birth to, Jesus Christ, without human begetting and without God begetting as humans do. See next verse, below.)

    019.035 It is not befitting to (the majesty of) God that He should beget a son. Glory be to Him! when He determines a matter, He only says to it, "Be", and it is.

    See:
    Luke:1:
    26... the angel Gabriel was sent from God into a city of Galilee, called Nazareth,
    27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David: and the virgin's name was Mary.
    28 And the angel being come in, said unto her: Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.
    29 Who having heard, was troubled at his saying and thought with herself what manner of salutation this should be.
    30 And the angel said to her: Fear not, Mary, for thou hast found grace with God.
    31 Behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb and shalt bring forth a son: and thou shalt call his name Jesus.
    Gabriel is relaying to Mary what God's command is. Gabriel is not commanding it. God is commanding it to be.

    cf. John 1:1-5

    ¶ In (the) beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and God was the word.
    2 The same was in (the) beginning with God.
    3 All things through him came to be, and without him came to be not one thing. Which came into being 4 in him was life, and the life was the light of men;
    5 ¶ And the light in the darkness shines and the darkness did not grasp it.

    'Isa al-Maseeh, Jesus Christ, the word by whom all has been created by God, is by the teaching of God in the Injil (the Gospel) and the Qur'an, the all holy (always sinless - pure [Mary is also sinless by both the Injil and Qur'an]) servant of God to whom God reveals all things and who is the prophet of God which Moses foretold would come (Dt:18:15:15 ¶ The Lord thy God will raise up to thee a PROPHET of thy nation and of thy brethren like unto me: him thou shalt hear.)

    019.030 He said: "I am indeed a servant of God: He hath given me revelation and made me a prophet;
    019.031 "And He hath made me blessed wheresoever I be, and hath enjoined on me Prayer and Charity as long as I live;
    019.032 "(He) hath made me kind to my mother, and not overbearing or miserable;
    019.033 "So peace is on me the day I was born, the day that I die, and the day that I shall be raised up to life (again)"!
    019.034 Such (was) Jesus the son of Mary: (it is) a statement of truth, about which they (vainly) dispute.
    019.035 It is not befitting to (the majesty of) God that He should beget a son. Glory be to Him! when He determines a matter, He only says to it, "Be", and it is.

    Incarnation and death and resurrection of 'Isa al-Maseeh,
    Jesus Christ, the word by whom all has been created by God. (verse 019.033 from above quoted passage 019.030 to 019.035)


    019.033 "So peace is on me the day I was born, the day that I die, and the day that I shall be raised up to life (again)"!

    Holy Qur'an

    Surah 19 - Maryam MARY

    019.001 Kaf, Ha, Ya, 'Ain, Sad.

    019.002 (This is) a recital of the Mercy of thy Lord to His servant Zakariya.

    019.003 Behold! he cried to his Lord in secret,

    019.004 Praying: "O my Lord! infirm indeed are my bones, and the hair of my head doth glisten with grey: but never am I unblest, O my Lord, in my prayer to Thee!

    019.005 "Now I fear (what) my relatives (and colleagues) (will do) after me: but my wife is barren: so give me an heir as from Thyself,-

    019.006 "(One that) will (truly) represent me, and represent the posterity of Jacob; and make him, O my Lord! one with whom Thou art well-pleased!"

    019.007 (His prayer was answered): "O Zakariya! We give thee good news of a son: His name shall be Yahya: on none by that name have We conferred distinction before."

    019.008 He said: "O my Lord! How shall I have a son, when my wife is barren and I have grown quite decrepit from old age?"

    019.009 He said: "So (it will be) thy Lord saith, 'that is easy for Me: I did indeed create thee before, when thou hadst been nothing!'"

    019.010 (Zakariya) said: "O my Lord! give me a Sign." "Thy Sign," was the answer, "Shall be that thou shalt speak to no man for three nights, although thou art not dumb."

    019.011 So Zakariya came out to his people from his chamber: He told them by signs to celebrate God's praises in the morning and in the evening.

    019.012 (To his son came the command): "O Yahya! take hold of the Book with might": and We gave him Wisdom even as a youth,

    019.013 And pity (for all creatures) as from Us, and purity: He was devout,

    019.014 And kind to his parents, and he was not overbearing or rebellious.

    019.015 So Peace on him the day he was born, the day that he dies, and the day that he will be raised up to life (again)!

    019.016 Relate in the Book (the story of) Mary, when she withdrew from her family to a place in the East.

    019.017 She placed a screen (to screen herself) from them; then We sent to her our angel, and he appeared before her as a man in all respects.

    019.018 She said: "I seek refuge from thee to (God) Most Gracious: (come not near) if thou dost fear God."

    019.019 He said: "Nay, I am only a messenger from thy Lord, (to announce) to thee the gift of a holy son.

    019.020 She said: "How shall I have a son, seeing that no man has touched me, and I am not unchaste?"

    019.021 He said: "So (it will be): Thy Lord saith, 'that is easy for Me: and (We wish) to appoint him as a Sign unto men and a Mercy from Us':It is a matter (so) decreed."

    019.022 So she conceived him, and she retired with him to a remote place.

    019.023 And the pains of childbirth drove her to the trunk of a palm-tree: She cried (in her anguish): "Ah! would that I had died before this! would that I had been a thing forgotten and out of sight!"

    019.024 But (a voice) cried to her from beneath the (palm-tree): "Grieve not! for thy Lord hath provided a rivulet beneath thee;

    019.025 "And shake towards thyself the trunk of the palm-tree: It will let fall fresh ripe dates upon thee.

    019.026 "So eat and drink and cool (thine) eye. And if thou dost see any man, say, 'I have vowed a fast to (God) Most Gracious, and this day will I enter into not talk with any human being'"

    019.027 At length she brought the (babe) to her people, carrying him (in her arms). They said: "O Mary! truly an amazing thing hast thou brought!

    019.028 "O sister of Aaron! Thy father was not a man of evil, nor thy mother a woman unchaste!"

    019.029 But she pointed to the babe. They said: "How can we talk to one who is a child in the cradle?"

    019.030 He said: "I am indeed a servant of God: He hath given me revelation and made me a prophet;

    019.031 "And He hath made me blessed wheresoever I be, and hath enjoined on me Prayer and Charity as long as I live;

    019.032 "(He) hath made me kind to my mother, and not overbearing or miserable;

    019.033 "So peace is on me the day I was born, the day that I die, and the day that I shall be raised up to life (again)"!

    019.034 Such (was) Jesus the son of Mary: (it is) a statement of truth, about which they (vainly) dispute.

    019.035 It is not befitting to (the majesty of) God that He should beget a son. Glory be to Him! when He determines a matter, He only says to it, "Be", and it is.

    019.036 Verily God is my Lord and your Lord: Him therefore serve ye: this is a Way that is straight.

    019.037 But the sects differ among themselves: and woe to the unbelievers because of the (coming) Judgment of a Momentous Day!

    019.038 How plainly will they see and hear, the Day that they will appear before Us! but the unjust today are in error manifest!

    019.039 But warn them of the Day of Distress, when the matter will be determined: for (behold,) they are negligent and they do not believe!

    019.040 It is We Who will inherit the earth, and all beings thereon: to Us will they all be returned.

    019.041 (Also) mention in the Book (the story of) Abraham: He was a man of Truth, a prophet.

    019.042 Behold, he said to his father: "O my father! why worship that which heareth not and seeth not, and can profit thee nothing?

    019.043 "O my father! to me hath come knowledge which hath not reached thee: so follow me: I will guide thee to a way that is even and straight.

    019.044 "O my father! serve not Satan: for Satan is a rebel against (God) Most Gracious.

    019.045 "O my father! I fear lest a Penalty afflict thee from (God) Most Gracious, so that thou become to Satan a friend."

    019.046 (The father) replied: "Dost thou hate my gods, O Abraham? If thou forbear not, I will indeed stone thee: Now get away from me for a good long while!"

    019.047 Abraham said: "Peace be on thee: I will pray to my Lord for thy forgiveness: for He is to me Most Gracious.

    019.048 "And I will turn away from you (all) and from those whom ye invoke besides God: I will call on my Lord: perhaps, by my prayer to my Lord, I shall be not unblest."

    019.049 When he had turned away from them and from those whom they worshipped besides God, We bestowed on him Isaac and Jacob, and each one of them We made a prophet.

    019.050 And We bestowed of Our Mercy on them, and We granted them lofty honour on the tongue of truth.

    019.051 Also mention in the Book (the story of) Moses: for he was specially chosen, and he was an apostle (and) a prophet.

    019.052 And we called him from the right side of Mount (Sinai), and made him draw near to Us, for mystic (converse).

    019.053 And, out of Our Mercy, We gave him his brother Aaron, (also) a prophet.

    019.054 Also mention in the Book (the story of) Isma'il: He was (strictly) true to what he promised, and he was an apostle (and) a prophet.

    019.055 He used to enjoin on his people Prayer and Charity, and he was most acceptable in the sight of his Lord.

    019.056 Also mention in the Book the case of Idris: He was a man of truth (and sincerity), (and) a prophet:

    019.057 And We raised him to a lofty station.

    019.058 Those were some of the prophets on whom God did bestow His Grace,- of the posterity of Adam, and of those who We carried (in the Ark) with Noah, and of the posterity of Abraham and Israel of those whom We guided and chose. Whenever the Signs of (God) Most Gracious were rehearsed to them, they would fall down in prostrate adoration and in tears.

    019.059 But after them there followed a posterity who missed prayers and followed after lusts soon, then, will they face Destruction,-

    019.060 Except those who repent and believe, and work righteousness: for these will enter the Garden and will not be wronged in the least,-

    019.061 Gardens of Eternity, those which (God) Most Gracious has promised to His servants in the Unseen: for His promise must (necessarily) come to pass.

    019.062 They will not there hear any vain discourse, but only salutations of Peace: And they will have therein their sustenance, morning and evening.

    019.063 Such is the Garden which We give as an inheritance to those of Our servants who guard against Evil.

    019.064 (The angels say:) "We descend not but by command of thy Lord: to Him belongeth what is before us and what is behind us, and what is between: and thy Lord never doth forget,-

    019.065 "Lord of the heavens and of the earth, and of all that is between them; so worship Him, and be constant and patient in His worship: knowest thou of any who is worthy of the same Name as He?"

    019.066 Man says: "What! When I am dead, shall I then be raised up alive?"

    019.067 But does not man call to mind that We created him before out of nothing?

    019.068 So, by thy Lord, without doubt, We shall gather them together, and (also) the Evil Ones (with them); then shall We bring them forth on their knees round about Hell;

    019.069 Then shall We certainly drag out from every sect all those who were worst in obstinate rebellion against (God) Most Gracious.

    019.070 And certainly We know best those who are most worthy of being burned therein.

    019.071 Not one of you but will pass over it: this is, with thy Lord, a Decree which must be accomplished.

    019.072 But We shall save those who guarded against evil, and We shall leave the wrong-doers therein, (humbled) to their knees.

    019.073 When Our Clear Signs are rehearsed to them, the Unbelievers say to those who believe, "Which of the two sides is best in point of position? Which makes the best show in council?"

    019.074 But how many (countless) generations before them have we destroyed, who were even better in equipment and in glitter to the eye?

    019.075 Say: "If any men go astray, (God) Most Gracious extends (the rope) to them, until, when they see the warning of God (being fulfilled) - either in punishment or in (the approach of) the Hour,- they will at length realise who is worst in position, and (who) weaker in forces!

    019.076 "And God doth advance in guidance those who seek guidance: and the things that endure, Good Deeds, are best in the sight of thy Lord, as rewards, and best in respect of (their) eventual return."

    019.077 Hast thou then seen the (sort of) man who rejects Our Signs, yet says: "I shall certainly be given wealth and children?"

    019.078 Has he penetrated to the Unseen, or has he taken a contract with (God) Most Gracious?

    019.079 Nay! We shall record what he says, and We shall add and add to his punishment.

    019.080 To Us shall return all that he talks of and he shall appear before Us bare and alone.

    019.081 And they have taken (for worship) gods other than God, to give them power and glory!

    019.082 Instead, they shall reject their worship, and become adversaries against them.

    019.083 Seest thou not that We have set the Evil Ones on against the unbelievers, to incite them with fury?

    019.084 So make no haste against them, for We but count out to them a (limited) number (of days).

    019.085 The day We shall gather the righteous to (God) Most Gracious, like a band presented before a king for honours,

    019.086 And We shall drive the sinners to Hell, like thirsty cattle driven down to water,-

    019.087 None shall have the power of intercession, but such a one as has received permission (or promise) from (God) Most Gracious.

    019.088 They say: "(God) Most Gracious has begotten a son!"

    019.089 Indeed ye have put forth a thing most monstrous!

    019.090 As if the skies are ready to burst, the earth to split asunder, and the mountains to fall down in utter ruin.

    019.091 That they should invoke a son for (God) Most Gracious.

    019.092 For it is not consonant with the majesty of (God) Most Gracious that He should beget a son.

    019.093 Not one of the beings in the heavens and the earth but must come to (God) Most Gracious as a servant.

    019.094 He does take an account of them (all), and hath numbered them (all) exactly.

    019.095 And everyone of them will come to Him singly on the Day of Judgment.

    019.096 On those who believe and work deeds of righteousness, will (God) Most Gracious bestow love.

    019.097 So have We made the (Qur'an) easy in thine own tongue, that with it thou mayest give Glad Tidings to the righteous, and warnings to people given to contention.

    019.098 But how many (countless) generations before them have We destroyed? Canst thou find a single one of them (now) or hear (so much as) a whisper of them?