Introduction: The Universal Messenger
In Islam, Jesus, known in Arabic as ʿIsa ibn Maryam (“Jesus, son of Mary”), is regarded as one of the greatest prophets and messengers of God (Allah). Muslims view Jesus with profound reverence and love, and belief in him is an essential, foundational pillar of Islamic faith. God honored him with the title of Messiah (Al-Masih) and chose him to guide the Children of Israel with a divine scripture known as the Injil (Gospel). Islam teaches that Jesus was born miraculously to the Virgin Mary, and that his life was filled with profound guidance, compassion, spiritual power, and remarkable signs granted by God.
1. Defining the Prophetic Role
The Islamic view of Jesus is defined by a strict adherence to pure monotheism (Tawhid), which clarifies his exalted status without crossing the line into divinity.
A Messenger of God, Not Divine
Islam teaches unequivocally that Jesus was a noble human being, a servant, and a messenger of the One God. He was not God, nor the son of God. Rather, he humbly submitted to his Creator and called others to do the same. Like all prophets before him, including Noah, Abraham, and Moses, Jesus taught monotheism. He preached that people should worship God alone and live righteously.
A Word and Spirit From God
The Qur’an refers to Jesus as a Word from God (Kalimatullah) and a Spirit from Him (Ruhum-minhu). God created Jesus by His command, the word “Be!” (Kun), and granted him spiritual purity and honor. These titles reflect his honor, his miraculous origin, and a special spiritual connection through God’s creative command; they do not indicate divinity.
2. The Miracles of Birth and Mission
Jesus’ entire life, from his conception to his disappearance, is marked by divine signs intended to prove the truth of his message to the Children of Israel.
Miraculous Birth
The Qur’an affirms the virgin birth of Jesus. God created him by His direct command, similar to how He created Adam (peace be upon him) without a father or mother. Mary was chosen above all women, honored with purity, faith, and devotion. Angel Gabriel was sent to give her the glad tidings of a pure son who would be a sign to humanity.
Miracles by God’s Permission
Jesus performed several stunning miracles, all explicitly done by God’s permission, as signs of his prophethood:
- Infant Speech: He spoke as an infant in the cradle, defending his mother’s honor and proclaiming his mission.
- Healing: With God’s permission, he healed the sick, cured lepers, and restored sight to the blind.
- Life-Giving Acts: He revived the dead and shaped a bird from clay and breathed into it so it became a living bird, again, by God’s permission.
3. The Core Message and the Return
Jesus came to revive the true spirit of faith among the Children of Israel. He urged them to return to God with sincerity, mercy, humility, and obedience. His teachings emphasized love, charity, reflection, and inner purification. He confirmed the teachings of earlier prophets and brought ease to some laws which his people had made difficult for themselves.
Not Crucified in Islam
Islam teaches that Jesus was not crucified nor killed. It only appeared so to the people. God saved him and raised him up bodily to heaven. This belief preserves the sanctity and ultimate success of a great Messenger.
Jesus and His Return
Islamic tradition teaches that Jesus remains alive and will return before the Day of Judgment. His return is one of the major signs of the End Times. He will descend to Earth to restore justice, defeat the false messiah (the Dajjal), and unite people under the belief in the One God. After fulfilling his mission, he will live on earth and eventually pass away naturally.
4. Why Muslims Love Jesus
Muslims love Jesus as a noble prophet who embodied devotion, compassion, humility, and spiritual leadership. His life is a model of sincerity, sacrifice, and faith. The Qur’an presents him as a sign of God’s mercy and power, a guide for his people, and a reminder of the truth of the continuous chain of prophethood. Belief in him is not an optional extra, but an integral part of what it means to be a Muslim.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jesus in Islam
1. Do Muslims believe in Jesus?
Yes. Belief in Jesus (ʿIsa) is a core part of the Islamic faith. A Muslim cannot be considered a believer unless he or she believes in Jesus as a prophet and messenger of God. Muslims love, honor, and respect him, and regard him as one of the greatest prophets sent to guide humanity.
2. Do Muslims believe that Jesus is the Son of God?
No. Islam teaches that God is One and has no partners, children, or equals. Jesus is viewed as a noble human being, created by God, and chosen to convey His message. Referring to him as “son of God” is understood in Islam as contrary to the belief in the absolute Oneness of God.
3. Do Muslims believe Jesus was crucified?
Islam teaches that Jesus was not crucified or killed. Instead, it appeared so to the people. God protected and raised him up, and Muslims believe that Jesus remains alive and will return before the Day of Judgment. His return will restore justice and truth.
4. Do Muslims believe Jesus performed miracles?
Yes. The Qur’an mentions several miracles of Jesus, including healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind, curing lepers, raising the dead, and speaking as a baby in his cradle. However, Muslims believe these miracles were performed by the permission and power of God, not by Jesus independently.
5. If Muslims don’t believe Jesus is God, why do they still honor him?
Muslims honor Jesus because he is a highly respected prophet who lived a life of devotion, purity, and compassion. He taught people to worship one God, live righteously, and show mercy to others. Loving and believing in Jesus is considered an essential part of Islamic faith.
