"That which We have revealed to thee of the Book is the Truth, -- confirming what was (revealed) before it: For God is assuredly -- with respect to his servants - well acquainted and fully observant." (Al-Fatir, 31)

"Nothing is said to thee that was not said to the apostles before thee." (Al-Fussilat, 43)

The idolaters were the first to be addressed by Islam and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). The People of the Book, that is, the Jews and Christians, encountered Islam later on. It is quite difficult to say within the framework of universal moral norms that were part of the cultural structure of that time if there was much that the teachings of Islam had in common with the idolaters.

Whereas, as Christianity and Judaism are religions based on divine revelation, they have many common values with Islam, regardless of how many changes or modifications they have undergone. Many times the Quran has addressed them, pointing out their common denominators and minimum-shared values, inviting the People of the Book to think one more time.

Taking place in the early years of the call to Islam, the dialogue between Jafer-i Tayyar and the Abyssinian king, Najashee, who was highly respected by the Muslims and received praise and commendation from the Prophet, is a very important indication and proof of the common shared values. After being personally informed about Islam by the Muslims, Najashee pointed to a line he had drawn with his cane and said, "The difference between us is no more than this." He showed great interest and consideration to these people who were seeking political asylum.

While there was such common ground with the People of the Book, there was not even a set of shared values regarding the universal right to life with the idolaters. It is known that there was even serious resistance regarding the banning of killing and burying female children alive.