Understanding Islam — Page 180
SLAVERY AND PRISONERS OF WAR 178 C OMPARISON WITH THE B IBLE It is worth noting here that the Bible has been used as supportive text in favour of slavery. During the civil war of the United States, some would quote the following passages to justify their support for slavery: Slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, in singleness of heart, as you obey Christ. 16 Tell slaves to be submissive to their masters and to give satisfaction in every respect; they are not to talk back. 17 When a slave-owner strikes a male or female slave with a rod and the slave dies immediately, the owner shall be punished. But if the slave survives a day or two, there is no punishment; for the slave is the owner’s property. 18 Here, the slaves are told to be so submissive to their masters as Christians obey God. This sharply contrasts with the following teaching of Prophet Muhammad sa :