What do Islamists believe about Jesus? This is a question that often arises among those seeking to understand the faith of Islam. Jesus, known as ‘Isa in Arabic, holds a significant place in Islamic teachings, although his role and significance differ from that in Christianity.
In Islam, Jesus is considered to be a revered prophet, one of many sent by Allah (God) to guide humanity. The Quran, the holy book of Islam, mentions Jesus in several verses, emphasizing his prophethood and his miraculous birth to Mary (Maryam in Arabic). However, Muslims believe that Jesus was not divine or the son of God, as Christians do, but rather a human being chosen by Allah for a special mission.
One of the key beliefs about Jesus in Islam is that he was born to Mary without a father. The Quran states, “Behold! The angels said: ‘O Mary! Allah giveth thee glad tidings of a word from Him: His name will be Christ Jesus, the son of Mary, held in honor in this world and the Hereafter, and of (the company of) those nearest to Allah!” (Quran 3:45). This verse highlights Jesus’ honor and his position as a prophet among the closest to Allah.
However, Muslims reject the Christian belief in the divinity of Jesus. In Islam, Jesus is seen as a messenger of Allah, sent to confirm the previous scriptures and to bring a new revelation. The Quran emphasizes that Jesus performed miracles, such as speaking from the cradle and raising the dead, but these miracles were performed by the will of Allah and not by Jesus himself. Muslims believe that Jesus did not die on the cross but was raised up to heaven by Allah, and that he will return on the Day of Judgment to restore justice and defeat the Antichrist (known as Al-Masih ad-Dajjal in Islam).
Another significant aspect of Jesus’ role in Islam is his teachings. Muslims hold the teachings of Jesus in high regard, considering them to be in line with Islamic principles. The Quran mentions Jesus’ teachings about loving one’s neighbor, seeking forgiveness, and adhering to the monotheistic belief in one God. However, Muslims emphasize that Jesus’ teachings were not meant to establish a new religion but to reinforce the message of monotheism and to guide people towards righteousness.
While Islam and Christianity have different beliefs about Jesus, there is a shared respect for his role as a revered prophet. Muslims believe that Jesus will return to Earth in the future, and many Muslims look forward to his second coming. This belief in the return of Jesus is a source of hope and inspiration for Muslims around the world.
In conclusion, Islam holds Jesus in high regard as a revered prophet, emphasizing his miraculous birth, his teachings, and his role as a messenger of Allah. While there are significant differences in the beliefs about Jesus between Islam and Christianity, both faiths recognize his importance and honor him as a significant figure in their religious traditions.
