Page:The Mohammedan system of theology (IA mohammedansyste00neal).pdf/161

 over were selected from the nations of the earth, and kept distinct for many centuries, as depositaries of the sacred oracles and witnesses of the Unity. The same truth is firmly maintained by Christians, even by the strongest advocates of the Trinitarian hypothesis, who infringe not upon the Unity in the widest latitude and scope of interpretation. As to the Koran's sustaining any competition with the Scriptures, the idea is ridiculous: the greater part of the matter is borrowed from them either immediately or through corrupt channels, and what remains after this and other deductions, will scarcely entitle it to any notice. The boasted rhythm of the Koran is no novelty, but pervades the writings of the prophets, and is to be found in the works of Ephrem the Syrian, before alluded to, and to which Mohammed appears to have had access. The fresh light cast