Who is Jesus According to Islam? A Comprehensive Look for the American Reader
For many Americans, Jesus is a central figure in their faith, understood as the Son of God and the second person of the Trinity. However, in Islam, Jesus holds a deeply revered, yet distinct, position. Understanding who Jesus is in Islam requires setting aside some preconceived notions and exploring the Islamic perspective, which is rooted in the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
Jesus: A Cherished Prophet, Not Divine
In Islam, Jesus, known as Isa ibn Maryam (Jesus son of Mary), is considered one of the most important prophets of God (Allah). Muslims believe that God sent prophets throughout history to guide humanity, and Jesus was a pivotal figure in this lineage. However, a fundamental distinction between the Islamic and Christian understanding of Jesus lies in his divinity. Islam strictly adheres to the concept of Tawhid, the absolute oneness of God. Therefore, Muslims do not believe Jesus is divine, nor do they believe he is the Son of God in a literal or biological sense.
Key Beliefs About Jesus in Islam:
- A Prophet of God: Muslims believe Jesus was a human being chosen by God to deliver His message. He is considered the sixth major prophet, following Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Muhammad, among others.
- Born of a Virgin: Islam affirms the miraculous virgin birth of Jesus to Mary (Maryam), who is also highly respected in Islam. The Quran details this event in chapters like Surah Al 'Imran.
- Performed Miracles: Muslims believe Jesus was empowered by God to perform miracles, such as healing the sick and raising the dead, as signs of his prophethood.
- Delivered the Gospel (Injil): It is believed that Jesus received a holy book from God called the Injil (Gospel), which contained divine guidance. However, Muslims believe this scripture was later altered or lost, and the Quran is considered the final and complete revelation from God.
- Not Crucified: A significant point of divergence is the Islamic belief that Jesus was not crucified. The Quran states in Surah An-Nisa (4:157-158): "And [for] their saying, 'Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, the messenger of Allah.' And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain. Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise." Muslims believe God raised Jesus to heaven and that someone else was made to resemble him and was crucified in his place.
- Will Return: Islamic tradition holds that Jesus will return to Earth before the Day of Judgment. His return is seen as a sign of the end times, and he will play a role in defeating the Antichrist (Dajjal) and establishing justice.
The Quran's Portrayal of Jesus
The Quran mentions Jesus more than any other prophet besides Muhammad. His name, "Isa," appears frequently, and his mother, Mary, is the only woman named in the Quran and has an entire chapter (Surah Maryam) dedicated to her and her son's miraculous birth.
"O Mary, indeed Allah has chosen you and purified you and chosen you above the women of the worlds." (Quran 3:42)
The Quran emphasizes Jesus' humility and his devotion to God. It clearly distinguishes him from God and refutes the notion of his divinity or his being the literal son of God, as these concepts are considered polytheistic (Shirk) in Islam, the gravest sin.
While Christians believe Jesus is the Son of God and part of the Trinity, Muslims view this as attributing divine qualities to a human being, which is incompatible with the core Islamic tenet of absolute monotheism.
What Islam Says About Jesus's Ministry:
According to Islamic teachings, Jesus's primary mission was to call people to worship the one true God, to follow His commandments, and to live righteous lives. He preached love, compassion, and justice. His followers were known as Al-Hawariyyun (the Apostles or Disciples), who believed in him and supported his mission.
The narrative of Jesus in the Quran aligns with the general theme of God's mercy and guidance to humanity through His chosen messengers. However, the interpretation of his role and his relationship with God differs significantly from Christian theology.
FAQ: Understanding the Islamic View of Jesus
How do Muslims view Jesus's birth?
Muslims believe Jesus was born miraculously through the virgin Mary. This is a testament to God's power and is described in the Quran as a sign for humanity. However, this virgin birth does not imply Jesus is divine or the literal son of God; rather, it highlights God's ability to create as He wills.
Why do Muslims believe Jesus was not crucified?
The Quran states that Jesus was not crucified, but rather God raised him to Himself. Muslims believe that God intervened to save His prophet and that someone else was made to appear like Jesus and was crucified in his place. This is seen as a divine protection and a refutation of those who sought to harm him.
How is Jesus honored in Islam?
Jesus is highly honored and respected in Islam as a noble prophet of God, a messenger of truth, and a bearer of divine scripture. His mother, Mary, is also held in exceptionally high esteem. Muslims hold a deep affection and reverence for Jesus and his teachings, recognizing his significant role in God's plan for humanity.
