What does the Quran believe about Jesus? This question is often asked by those seeking to understand the Islamic perspective on the life and significance of Jesus Christ. The Quran, the holy book of Islam, offers insights into the beliefs about Jesus that are distinct from those found in Christian teachings. This article explores the Islamic perspective on Jesus, highlighting key points from the Quran and the Hadith, the teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad.
The Quran refers to Jesus as ‘Isa, meaning “the Messiah” in Arabic. It acknowledges Jesus as a highly revered and significant prophet in Islam. The Quran states that Jesus was born to Mary (Maryam) as a miraculous birth, without a father (Quran 19:20-21). This belief is in line with Christian teachings, which also emphasize the virgin birth of Jesus. However, the Quranic narrative differs in its interpretation of the miraculous nature of Jesus’ birth.
In the Quran, Jesus is described as a prophet sent to guide the Children of Israel with clear signs (Quran 5:46). The Quran mentions several miracles attributed to Jesus, such as speaking from the cradle (Quran 19:21), healing the blind and lepers (Quran 5:35), and raising the dead (Quran 5:110). These miracles are seen as evidence of Jesus’ prophethood and his divine mission. However, the Quran emphasizes that Jesus was not divine, nor was he the Son of God (Quran 5:72). This belief is a cornerstone of Islamic teachings and distinguishes Islam from Christian doctrines.
One of the most debated aspects of Jesus’ life in Islam is his crucifixion and resurrection. The Quran explicitly states that Jesus was not crucified and did not die on the cross (Quran 4:157-158). Instead, it narrates that Jesus was raised up to heaven by God (Quran 5:75). This belief is based on the Quranic interpretation of the biblical accounts and reflects the Islamic emphasis on the importance of faith and belief in Jesus as a prophet.
While the Quran acknowledges Jesus as a significant prophet, it also highlights the importance of the message he brought. Jesus is portrayed as a messenger of mercy and compassion, teaching the message of monotheism and promoting justice and peace (Quran 19:21). The Quran encourages Muslims to follow Jesus’ teachings, particularly those that emphasize love, forgiveness, and the worship of one God.
In conclusion, the Quran believes in Jesus as a highly revered prophet, born of a miraculous birth, and sent to guide the Children of Israel with clear signs. The Quranic narrative emphasizes Jesus’ prophethood, his miracles, and his message of monotheism. However, it differs from Christian teachings in its interpretation of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, as well as its rejection of the divinity of Jesus. Understanding the Islamic perspective on Jesus can help foster interfaith dialogue and promote a deeper appreciation of the diverse interpretations of this revered figure in different religious traditions.
