Title: Do the Jews and Christians Worship Allah? - Al-Hajj 22: 40 Question: Al-Hajj 22:40 says: "........For had it not been for Allah's repelling some men by means of others, cloisters and churches and oratories and mosques, wherein the name of Allah is oft mentioned, would assuredly have been pulled down. Verily Allah helpeth one who helpeth Him. Lo! Allah is Strong, Almighty." In the above verse, is the implication of the "places where name of Allah oft mentioned" is only mosque or other worshipping places too? Why other places of worship are also mentioned with mosques in which Allah's name is pronounced? Please help me understand. Regards, Mohd Answer: In the referred verse, each one of the mentioned places of worship is described as one in which is "Allah is remembered" or, in other words, "Allah is worshiped". The four places of worship mentioned in the verse are: hermitages, churches, synagogues and mosques. These places of worship are representative of religions, which are strictly monotheistic in nature. Thus, the Qur'an has mentioned that in each of these places of worship, Allah - the One God - is worshiped. The verse is related to the reason why God has allowed Jihad in religion: According to the referred verse, one of the basic reasons for the permission of Jihad is to save people from being persecuted in the name of religion. Had God not permitted His people to fight, the severe persecution of the Satanic forces would have deserted all places in which people worship God. I hope this helps. Regards, Moiz Amjad April 16, 2002