Last update:
24-Jul-2020

Objective Investigation of how people with serious illnesses or disabilities are treated in the texts of the New Testament and the Koran. Method The study was carried out using the method of content analysis in renditions of the text of the New Testament and in translations of the Koran into Modern Greek. Results and conclusions The analysis led to three conclusions. Firstly, the performance of various miracles related to the treatment of serious and incurable illnesses by Jesus and the apostles sends out positive messages, especially for people with special needs. Secondly, the text of the Koran displays a multitude of negative and degrading characterizations and views concerning people with special needs that conflict with the usual role of religions. Thirdly, the texts of the New Testament and the Koran diverge considerably with regard to their approach to disabled people, since the New Testament appears more sensitive and friendly towards them, whereas the Koran treats them quite disparagingly.

Key words: Disability, Illness, Koran, New Testament.