Muslims might argue that the prayer of Jesus on the cross, 'Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do,' is not part of the original text of the New Testament.

The prayer of Jesus on the cross, as recorded in Luke 23:34, is a significant aspect of His character and mission. Early church fathers, such as Ignatius and Irenaeus, affirm that this passage was recognized and preserved in the manuscripts they had access to. Ignatius highlights Jesus' example of patience and forgiveness, while Irenaeus emphasizes the compassion of Christ in praying for His enemies, showcasing the theological importance of this prayer. Additionally, other church fathers like Augustine and Chrysostom also reference this prayer, indicating its acceptance and significance in early Christian thought. The consistency of these references across different writings reinforces the claim that Luke 23:34 is indeed part of the original text.