Amir Suhail Wani

In Islam, Jesus Christ (known as Isa in Arabic) is deeply revered and occupies an important position among the great prophets of God. His story is recounted in the Quran, and he is regarded not only as a prophet but also as a symbol of piety, wisdom, and righteousness. Unlike some other religious traditions, Islam acknowledges Jesus’ significant role in guiding humanity toward the worship of the one true God and emphasizes his high moral character, miracles, and message of compassion and justice.

The Quran recounts the life and teachings of Jesus in multiple chapters, offering detailed narratives that highlight his significance and respect in Islam. In several places, the Quran mentions Isa as one of the greatest of God’s prophets, who was sent to guide the Children of Israel. His birth, message, miracles, and ultimate fate are narrated with great respect.

The Quran affirms the miraculous nature of Jesus' birth.

In Surah Maryam (Chapter 19), the Quran recounts the story of Mary (Maryam), his mother, who was a pious and devout woman chosen by God. The miraculous conception of Jesus is described as a sign of God’s power.

The birth of Jesus is a significant moment in Islamic tradition, as it underscores the divine nature of God’s intervention in the world. Surah Maryam (19:20-22) speaks of Maryam’s astonishment when she receives the news of her miraculous conception, and in Surah Al-Imran (3:45), the angel informs Mary that she will give birth to a child who will be a sign for humanity.

Muslims believe that Jesus was a messenger of God, just like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Muhammad. He was sent to guide the Children of Israel, calling them to worship one God and follow the righteous path. In the Quran, God says to Jesus: "O Jesus, indeed I will take you and raise you to Myself and purify you from those who disbelieve..." (Surah Al-Imran 3:55). This verse signifies that Jesus was sent to confirm the teachings of the previous prophets and to guide people toward God.

The Quran recounts several miracles performed by Jesus, many of which emphasize God’s power and mercy. Jesus healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and even revived the dead—miracles that showcase his divine appointment as a prophet of God. These acts are reminders of God’s authority over life and death, and Jesus' miracles are meant to reinforce faith in the oneness of God. For example, in Surah Al-Imran (3:49), it is stated: "I have come to you with a sign from your Lord. I will make for you from clay [something] like the form of a bird; then I will breathe into it, and it will be a bird by the permission of Allah."

In Islam, Jesus holds a place of high respect, both because of his personal qualities and because of his role in fulfilling God’s divine plan for humanity. He is regarded as one of the Ulul Azm (the five most resolute prophets) along with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Muhammad. These five prophets are given special recognition due to their endurance, faith, and leadership in spreading the message of God despite great opposition and hardship.

Jesus’ rank is underscored by his frequent mention in the Quran, where his name is invoked with honor. He is referred to as the Messiah (al-Masih), a title that is a sign of his revered status and divine mission. The Quran uses titles like "servant of Allah" and "word of God" for Jesus, reflecting the importance of his mission in the eyes of Muslims.

In Islamic eschatology, Jesus is prophesied to return to Earth as part of the events that will precede the Day of Judgment. This belief is significant because it highlights Jesus' continuing importance in Islam beyond his earthly ministry. According to Hadith literature (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad), Jesus will descend from heaven and break the cross, symbolizing the end of false beliefs and the triumph of the true message of monotheism. He will establish justice, peace, and righteousness, and lead the Muslims in the final battle against evil forces. This belief in the Second Coming of Jesus is central to the Islamic understanding of the end times and reinforces his importance as a figure of guidance and divine intervention.

Muslims revere Jesus not only as a prophet but also as a model of virtue, compassion, and righteousness. The Quran and Hadith provide numerous teachings that emphasize qualities that Muslims strive to emulate, such as humility, piety, patience, and sincerity in worship. The teachings of Jesus, as conveyed through the Quran, underscore the central Islamic tenets of worshiping one God and living a life of compassion toward others. For example, Jesus’ message in the Quran emphasizes the importance of charity, kindness, and humility. He said, “Indeed, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him. This is the straight path.” (Quran 3:51). His emphasis on charity, helping the poor, and being a source of guidance for others aligns with the moral and ethical values that are central to Islam

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Jesus holds a place of great respect and honor in Islam. He is considered a noble and revered prophet who brought a message of monotheism, compassion, and righteousness to the people. The Quran recounts his birth, miracles, and teachings with respect, affirming his high status among God’s messengers. Muslims believe in his miraculous birth, his role in guiding people to the worship of the one true God, and his future return to restore justice. In Islamic tradition, Jesus remains an enduring symbol of piety and virtue, and his story continues to inspire Muslims around the world to follow his example of righteousness and devotion to God.