What Does Islam Say About Jesus?

What Does Islam Say About Jesus?

Introduction

Jesus, known as ʿĪsā ibn Maryam (Jesus, son of Mary) in Arabic, is one of the most honored and beloved figures in Islam. While Christians and Muslims hold different beliefs about him, both faiths deeply respect his role in human history. In Islam, Jesus is not just a historical figure but a mighty prophet, a servant of God, and a sign of God’s mercy to mankind. 

1. His Birth: A Miracle from God

The Qur’an affirms that Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary (Maryam) through a miraculous birth without a father. This event is described in detail in Surah Maryam (Chapter 19).

“She said, ‘How can I have a boy while no man has touched me?’ [The angel] said, ‘Thus [it will be]; Allah creates what He wills. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it, "Be," and it is.’”
(Qur’an 3:47)

His miraculous birth is a sign of God’s power, just as Adam was created without a father or mother.

2. His Status in Islam

In Islam, Jesus is:

• A Prophet and Messenger of God – Sent to guide the Children of Israel back to the worship of the One True God.

• A Word from God – Because he was created by God’s command “Be!” (Kun).

• A Spirit from God – Meaning his creation was through a special act of God’s will.

• One of the Five Great Prophets – Alongside Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).

The Qur’an emphasizes:

“The Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, was but a messenger of Allah and His word which He directed to Mary, and a soul from Him.”
(Qur’an 4:171)

3. His Message

Jesus preached monotheism (Tawḥīd), calling people to worship God alone.

“Indeed, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him. That is the straight path.”
(Qur’an 3:51)

His teachings confirmed the Torah and introduced the Gospel (Injīl), guiding people with wisdom, compassion, and miracles granted by God.

4. His Miracles

The Qur’an mentions several miracles performed by Jesus, all by God’s permission:

• Speaking from the cradle to defend his mother (Qur’an 19:29-33)

• Healing the blind and lepers

• Bringing the dead back to life

• Creating a bird from clay and breathing life into it

• Knowing what people ate and stored in their homes

These miracles were signs of his prophethood, not evidence of divinity.

5. Was He Crucified?

Islam rejects the belief that Jesus was crucified or killed. Instead, God saved him from his enemies:

“They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him—but it was made to appear so to them... rather, Allah raised him up to Himself.”
(Qur’an 4:157-158)

Muslims believe Jesus was taken up alive and will return before the Day of Judgment.

6. His Return

One of the core Islamic beliefs about Jesus is his second coming. Near the end of time, he will:

• Return to restore justice

• Defeat the false messiah (al-Masīḥ ad-Dajjāl)

• Rule with fairness according to God’s law

• Unite people in the worship of the One God

7. Key Differences Between Islam and Christianity Regarding Jesus

Conclusion

In Islam, Jesus is a noble prophet, a miracle of God’s creation, and a sign of His power and mercy. He is loved, respected, and honored, but not worshiped. His life and message, as described in the Qur’an, focus on guiding people to the worship of the One True God. Muslims await his return as a bringer of justice and truth, and as a servant of Allah.