Were all religions directed towards Islam as their completion?

The Holy Qur’an sees itself as the fulfilment and guardian of earlier revelations. Whether every single religion in the world pointed towards it, however, can only be settled by a very broad and thorough study of all religions.

The question is bigger than it first appears. It covers the entire religious history of mankind. Anyone who claims that every religion led towards Islam cannot look only at the religions of the Middle East. He must also study the religions of Asia and the Far East, of Africa, of the North and many others. That would require many books and careful research.

What the Holy Qur’an says about itself, on the other hand, is clear. It claims to fulfil and to preserve what was in the earlier scriptures. It speaks of a covenant by which the followers of earlier prophets are to accept and support a coming messenger who confirms their teaching.

The Holy Qur’an also teaches that God sent messengers to every people. If all revelation comes from the same source, it is natural that it should move towards a common goal. Muslims see this goal in the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), whom the Holy Qur’an calls the Seal of the Prophets.

How this idea shows itself in each individual religion is a matter for patient study, not for a quick answer. It is honest to say both things. The direction is clear in the Holy Qur’an. The details have to be examined within each religion itself.