Are Mormons considered Ahl-ul Kitab?

The term "Ahl-ul Kitab" refers to the "People of the Book," which traditionally includes Jews and Christians, as they are recognized for having received divine scriptures prior to the revelation of the Qur'an. The classification of other groups, such as Mormons, as Ahl-ul Kitab is a matter of scholarly debate.

In Islamic tradition, belief in previous scriptures is a key criterion for being considered Ahl-ul Kitab. The Qur'an states, Say (O Muslims): We believe in Allah and that which is revealed unto us and that which was revealed unto Abraham, and Ishmael, and Isaac, and Jacob, and the tribes, and that which Moses and Jesus received, and that which the prophets received from their Lord 2:136. This verse emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the scriptures revealed to the prophets.

Mormons, or members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, believe in the Book of Mormon alongside the Bible. However, the Book of Mormon is considered by Muslims to be a later revelation that does not fit within the traditional framework of previous scriptures recognized in Islam. Thus, while Mormons may view themselves as part of the broader Christian tradition, the Islamic perspective generally does not classify them as Ahl-ul Kitab due to the distinctiveness of their beliefs and scriptures.

In summary, while Mormons consider themselves part of the Christian faith and follow a scripture that they believe to be divinely inspired, Islamic scholars typically do not categorize them as Ahl-ul Kitab in the same way that Jews and Christians are recognized.