Are Muslims encouraged to read the Bible and/or the Torah? Why or why not?

Muslims are generally encouraged to respect and acknowledge the previous scriptures, such as the Torah and the Bible, recognizing them as part of the divine revelation. The Qur'an emphasizes the importance of belief in all prophets and their messages, stating: 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. We make no distinction between any of them, and unto Him we have surrendered. 2:136. This verse highlights the Islamic belief in the continuity of God's message through various prophets, which includes the teachings of Moses and Jesus.

Furthermore, the Qur'an acknowledges the significance of the Torah, asserting: Lo! We did reveal the Torah, wherein is guidance and a light, by which the prophets who surrendered (unto Allah) judged the Jews, and the rabbis and the priests (judged) by such of Allah's Scripture as they were bidden to observe, and thereunto were they witnesses. So fear not mankind, but fear Me. And My revelations for a little gain. Whoso judgeth not by that which Allah hath revealed: such are disbelievers. 5:44. This verse illustrates that the Torah was a source of guidance and light, and it calls attention to the responsibility of the followers to judge by what Allah has revealed.

Moreover, it is noted in the Qur'an that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is mentioned in the Torah and the Gospel: Those who follow the messenger, the Prophet who can neither read nor write, whom they will find described in the Torah and the Gospel (which are) with them. He will enjoin on them that which is right and forbid them that which is wrong. He will make lawful for them all good things and prohibit for them only the foul; and he will relieve them of their burden and the fetters that they used to wear. Then those who believe in him, and honour him, and help him, and follow the light which is sent down with him: they are the successful. 7:157. This verse indicates that the scriptures preceding the Qur'an contain references to Muhammad ﷺ and provide a foundation for his mission.

In terms of practical engagement with these texts, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ instructed Muslims regarding the People of the Book, stating: The people of the Book used to read the Torah in Hebrew and then explain it in Arabic to the Muslims. Allah's Apostle said (to the Muslims), 'Do not believe the people of the Book, nor disbelieve them, but say, 'We believe in Allah and whatever is revealed to us, and whatever is revealed to you.' Sahih al-Bukhari 92:460. This guidance suggests a balanced approach: Muslims should not uncritically accept or reject the teachings of the People of the Book, but rather maintain their own faith while recognizing the shared elements of divine revelation.

Thus, while Muslims are encouraged to respect and understand the teachings of the Torah and the Bible, they are also reminded to remain firm in their faith and beliefs as outlined in the Qur'an.