Who Do Muslims Think Jesus Was: A Comprehensive Islamic Perspective

I remember a conversation I had years ago with a Muslim friend, a conversation that truly opened my eyes. I'd asked him, almost casually, about his beliefs regarding Jesus, expecting a simple affirmation of his prophet status. What unfolded was a revelation, a nuanced and deeply respectful understanding that went far beyond my initial assumptions. It wasn't just about Jesus being a prophet; it was about his divine role, his miraculous birth, his significance in the grand tapestry of faith, and his anticipated return. This personal encounter sparked a deeper curiosity, a desire to truly understand the multifaceted Muslim perspective on Jesus, a figure revered by billions worldwide.

Who Do Muslims Think Jesus Was? A Foundational Understanding

At its core, Muslims think Jesus (known in Arabic as Isa) was one of the most important prophets of God, a messenger sent to guide humanity. However, this understanding is far richer and more complex than a simple acknowledgment of prophethood. Muslims believe Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary (Maryam), a miraculous event signifying God's power and a testament to Jesus's unique divine appointment. He is considered the Messiah, a title that carries immense weight and signifies his role in God's plan for salvation. While Muslims hold Jesus in the highest esteem, their beliefs differ significantly from Christian doctrines regarding his divinity and crucifixion.

The Miraculous Birth of Jesus: A Sign of Divine Power

The narrative of Jesus's birth in Islam is a cornerstone of their belief system. Muslims firmly believe that Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary through a divine act of God, without a human father. The Quran recounts this event in several chapters, emphasizing it as a clear sign of God's omnipotence. Mary, a woman of exceptional piety and purity, was chosen by God to bear His messenger. The angel Gabriel (Jibril) appeared to her, announcing that she would conceive a son, a pure child, by God's command. This immaculate conception is not seen as a biological anomaly but as a divine miracle, a demonstration of God's ability to bring things into existence by His will alone. This event underscores Jesus's special status from his very inception, marking him as a unique creation and a pure vessel for divine revelation.

The Quran states:

"And mention, [O Muhammad], in the Book [the story of] Mary, when she withdrew from her family to an eastern place. And she took, apart from them, a veil. Then We sent to her Our Angel, and he appeared to her as a well-proportioned human. She said, 'Indeed, I seek refuge in the Most Merciful from you, [if you are] God-fearing.' He said, 'I am only a messenger of your Lord to give you a gift of a pure son.'" (Quran 19:16-19)

This event is not merely a historical account for Muslims; it is a theological statement. It asserts God's absolute power over creation and highlights the spiritual purity of Jesus from birth. Unlike some interpretations that might see this as a precursor to divinity, Muslims view it as a testament to God's unique selection and empowerment of His prophet. The miraculous birth is a sign for humanity, a reminder of God's boundless ability to enact His will, and a testament to the special role Jesus was destined to play.

Jesus as the Messiah: A Prophet of Hope and Guidance

The title "Messiah" (Al-Masih) is of profound significance in Islam. Muslims believe Jesus was indeed the Messiah, foretold in previous scriptures and sent by God to guide the Children of Israel. This title, however, is understood within an Islamic theological framework. It signifies his role as a divinely appointed leader and messenger, one who brings divine guidance and spiritual healing. It does not imply divinity or sonship in the Christian sense, but rather a unique closeness to God and a special mission. The Messiah, in Islam, is a harbinger of God's message, a reformer, and a source of spiritual upliftment.

The Quran refers to Jesus as Al-Masih multiple times, affirming his exalted status. This designation highlights his unique position among prophets, bridging the gap between previous messengers and the final Prophet Muhammad. The Messiah's coming was a sign of God's mercy and a call for people to return to the path of monotheism and righteous living. Muslims see the prophecies surrounding the Messiah as fulfilled in Jesus, albeit with a different interpretation of his ultimate role and destiny compared to other religious traditions. The emphasis remains on his humanity, his submission to God, and his function as a divine instrument for human guidance.

The Prophets of God: Jesus's Place in the Islamic Lineage

Islam recognizes a long chain of prophets sent by God to humanity, each delivering a similar core message of monotheism (Tawhid) and submission to the One God. Jesus is an integral part of this lineage, esteemed alongside figures like Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Muhammad. Muslims believe that God revealed His message through various prophets to different communities at different times, with each revelation building upon the previous ones. Jesus is seen as a pivotal prophet in this chain, a direct successor to Moses and a precursor to Muhammad.

The Quran explicitly names many prophets, and the concept of prophethood is a fundamental article of faith in Islam. The belief in all prophets, without distinction, is a mandatory component of an individual's faith. This means that a Muslim is obligated to believe in Jesus as a prophet, just as they are obligated to believe in Muhammad as the final prophet. The shared belief in the divine origin of their messages and their common goal of guiding humanity towards God fosters a sense of unity and shared heritage among these revered figures.

This recognition of Jesus as a prophet does not diminish his unique status. His virgin birth, his miracles performed with God's permission, and his divine gospel (Injil) are all acknowledged and respected. However, the ultimate authority in Islam rests with the Quran, which Muslims believe to be the final and complete revelation of God's word, delivered to Prophet Muhammad. Therefore, while Jesus's teachings are revered, they are understood to be superseded by the final message of Islam, which Muslims believe preserves the original divine truth in its most complete form.

Jesus's Miracles: Signs of God's Power and Grace

Islam attributes numerous miracles to Jesus, all performed by the will and power of God. These miracles served as evidence of his prophethood and the truth of his message. They were not inherent powers possessed by Jesus himself, but rather divine interventions granted to him as signs for humanity. Among the most notable miracles mentioned in the Quran are:

• Speaking from the cradle: Even as an infant, Jesus spoke with clarity, defending his mother Mary from accusations. This demonstrated his extraordinary nature and divine protection from the outset.
• Giving life to the dead: With God's permission, Jesus was able to restore life to those who had passed away. This was a powerful testament to God's ultimate control over life and death, manifested through His chosen prophet.
• Healing the blind and the leper: Jesus could cure those afflicted with blindness and leprosy, ailments that were often considered incurable. These acts showcased God's mercy and Jesus's ability to channel divine healing.
• Creating birds from clay: Jesus fashioned the likeness of birds from clay and breathed into them, and they became living birds by God's permission. This was a remarkable demonstration of his role as a creator in a delegated sense, mirroring God's act of creation.

These miracles are not seen as acts of self-divinity but as clear manifestations of God's power working through His messenger. They were intended to strengthen the faith of his followers and to serve as proof of his divine mission. The Quran emphasizes that Jesus himself acknowledged that these acts were by God's leave. This distinction is crucial in maintaining the Islamic tenet of the absolute oneness of God (Tawhid), ensuring that no created being is attributed with divine attributes.

The purpose of these miracles in the Islamic narrative was to authenticate Jesus's prophethood and to draw people to the worship of the One God. They were signs of God's grace and power, delivered through a pure and chosen servant. When Muslims reflect on these miracles, they see them not as proof of Jesus's divinity, but as profound demonstrations of God's omnipotence and His love for humanity, expressed through His chosen messengers.

The Gospel (Injil): A Divine Revelation

Muslims believe that Jesus was given a divine scripture called the Injil (Gospel). They understand the Injil to be a divinely inspired book revealed by God to Jesus, containing guidance, wisdom, and a reaffirmation of the monotheistic message. However, Muslims believe that the original Injil, as revealed to Jesus, has been altered and corrupted over time by human hands. The Quran is considered the final and incorruptible revelation of God, preserving the pure monotheistic message that was intended in all previous scriptures, including the Injil.

When Muslims refer to the Injil, they are not referring to the New Testament as it exists today, which they believe contains additions and interpretations not part of the original divine revelation. They hold that the core teachings of Jesus, as conveyed in the original Injil, were about submission to the One God, righteous living, and the worship of Allah. The Quran is seen as the ultimate correction and completion of the divine message, providing clarity and finality to God's guidance for all of humanity.

The Quran itself testifies to the Injil as a divine book:

"And We sent in their footsteps Jesus, the son of Mary, confirming the Torah before him, and We gave him the Gospel, in which was guidance and light and confirming the Torah as guidance and instruction for the righteous." (Quran 5:46)

This verse highlights the Injil's status as a divine book and its role in guiding people. However, the Islamic belief in the preservation of the Quran means that Muslims rely on it as the definitive source of religious guidance. The teachings of Jesus, as understood through the Quran and the Sunnah (teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad), are deeply respected, but the Quran holds the ultimate authority as the final word of God.

The Crucifixion: A Matter of Divine Intervention

One of the most significant divergences between Islamic and Christian beliefs concerning Jesus is the crucifixion. Muslims do not believe that Jesus was crucified and killed. The Quran states that Jesus was not killed, nor was he crucified, but rather that it was made to appear to them so. This implies that someone else was made to resemble Jesus and was crucified in his place, while Jesus was raised to heaven by God.

The Quranic verse that addresses this is:

"And [for] their saying, 'Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, the messenger of Allah.' And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about [aiming at] him. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain. Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise." (Quran 4:157-158)

This belief has several theological implications. Firstly, it upholds the Islamic belief in the divine protection of God's prophets. God would not allow one of His most beloved messengers to be humiliated or killed in such a manner. Secondly, it reinforces the idea that God's plan is not subject to human machinations. The enemies of Jesus, in their attempt to eliminate him, ultimately failed. Thirdly, it leads to the belief that Jesus is alive in heaven and will return to Earth before the Day of Judgment.

This belief in Jesus being raised to heaven alive is a fundamental aspect of Islamic eschatology. It means that Jesus did not die a natural death on Earth but was divinely preserved and elevated. This event is not seen as a denial of death but as a testament to God's ultimate power and His special care for His prophets. The intricate details of who was made to resemble Jesus and the exact circumstances of his ascension are not elaborated upon in the Quran, as the emphasis is on the fact that Jesus was not killed or crucified and was raised by God.

The Role of Jesus in Islamic Eschatology: His Return to Earth

A crucial element of the Muslim understanding of Jesus is his anticipated return to Earth before the Day of Judgment. This belief is deeply ingrained in Islamic tradition and is supported by numerous Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad). Muslims believe that Jesus is alive in heaven and will descend to Earth to fulfill specific roles in the final days.

His return is not as a divine being or a co-ruler with God, but as a faithful follower of Prophet Muhammad and a just ruler. He will come to establish justice, defeat the Antichrist (Dajjal), break the cross, kill the swine, and abolish the Jizya (a historical tax paid by non-Muslims in some Islamic states, which will become irrelevant as Islam will be universally accepted). His presence will be a sign of the approaching end of the world and a time of great spiritual significance.

Jesus's Return: A Sign of the End Times

The return of Jesus is considered one of the major signs of the Hour (Day of Judgment) in Islam. Prophet Muhammad foretold various events that would precede the end of time, and Jesus's second coming is prominently featured among them. His descent is not seen as a part of his original mission but as a divine intervention to bring about a specific phase of history before the ultimate reckoning.

The belief is that Jesus will descend near a white minaret in Damascus, Syria, while Muslims are praying the Fajr (dawn) prayer. He will then join the Muslim community, and his presence will signify a period of peace and justice. He will lead the Muslims in prayer, demonstrating his adherence to the final Islamic revelation. This act signifies the unity of divine messages and the ultimate triumph of monotheism as preached by all prophets, culminating in the message of Islam.

The return of Jesus is a source of reassurance and a sign of God's ultimate victory over evil. It confirms the divine plan and the inevitable establishment of God's justice on Earth before the final judgment. His role is to reinforce the truth of Islam and to prepare the world for its final transition.

Jesus's Mission Upon Return: Justice and the Defeat of Evil

Upon his return, Jesus will undertake several significant actions that underscore his role as a righteous judge and a champion of truth. He will:

• Defeat the Antichrist (Dajjal): The Dajjal is a figure of immense evil who will appear before the Day of Judgment, deceiving many people. Jesus's return is prophesied to be the means by which the Dajjal is defeated and destroyed, thereby removing a major source of corruption and misguidance from the Earth.
• Break the cross: This signifies the refutation of the Christian doctrine of the crucifixion and the divinity of Jesus. By breaking the cross, Jesus will be asserting the truth of his monotheistic message and correcting theological deviations.
• Kill the swine: The prohibition of consuming pork is a clear injunction in Islamic law. Jesus's action will reinforce this law and highlight its divine origin.
• Abolish the Jizya: This refers to the historical practice of levying a tax on non-Muslims. The abolition of the Jizya is understood to mean that by the time of Jesus's return, Islam will be the prevailing belief system, and all people will either willingly embrace it or be subject to its laws without the need for such a tax.
• Establish justice: Jesus will rule the Earth according to Islamic law (Sharia), ensuring fairness, righteousness, and peace for all. His reign will be a testament to God's justice and mercy, a period of unparalleled tranquility and spiritual well-being.

His mission is not to bring a new religion but to implement and uphold the final divine law of Islam. This is a testament to the belief that Islam is the complete and final religion, and that all previous prophets ultimately preached the same core message of submission to God.

The Significance of Jesus in the Quran and Hadith

The Quran mentions Jesus by name 25 times, and he is also referred to by other titles. This frequent mention underscores his importance within the Islamic narrative. His story is interwoven with the broader themes of prophethood, divine revelation, and the struggle between good and evil. The Quranic accounts provide a framework for understanding Jesus's life, mission, and ultimate destiny from an Islamic perspective.

The Hadith literature further elaborates on the role of Jesus, particularly concerning his return and his position in the final days. These narrations offer detailed insights into the signs of the Hour and Jesus's specific responsibilities during that critical period. The consensus among Islamic scholars, based on both the Quran and reliable Hadith, is that Jesus is a revered prophet, the Messiah, born of a virgin, who was raised to heaven and will return to Earth before the Day of Judgment.

Jesus's Character and Teachings: A Model of Piety

Beyond his prophetic role and eschatological significance, Muslims also revere Jesus for his exemplary character and teachings. He is portrayed as a figure of immense compassion, humility, and devotion to God. His parables and admonishments, as understood through the Islamic lens, emphasize repentance, forgiveness, and the importance of living a life in accordance with God's will.

Muslims see Jesus's life as a powerful example of righteousness and submission to God. His unwavering commitment to his mission, despite facing persecution and disbelief, serves as an inspiration for believers. His emphasis on love, mercy, and justice resonates deeply within Islamic ethics, reinforcing the core values of the faith.

While the specifics of Jesus's original teachings may have been altered according to Islamic belief, the essence of his message—to worship one God and live a virtuous life—is seen as having been perfectly preserved and completed in the Quran. Therefore, Muslims honor Jesus not only as a prophet but also as a moral exemplar whose life continues to offer valuable lessons for humanity.

Addressing Misconceptions: Jesus in Islam vs. Christianity

It's crucial to address the common misconceptions that arise when comparing the Islamic and Christian views of Jesus. The primary differences lie in the doctrines of divinity, the crucifixion, and the concept of the Trinity.

The Divinity of Jesus: A Strict Monotheistic Stance

In Islam, the concept of the divinity of Jesus is fundamentally rejected. Muslims unequivocally believe in the absolute oneness of God (Allah), and associating any created being with divinity is considered the gravest sin (Shirk). Jesus, in Islam, is revered as a human prophet, a messenger of God, and the Messiah, but not as God Himself or the Son of God in a literal, divine sense.

The Quran is explicit in stating that Jesus was a servant of God and a messenger. The verse:

"The Messiah, Mary's son, was not but a messenger; [other] messengers have passed on before him. And his mother was a righteous woman. They both used to eat food. Look how We make the signs clear to them; then look how they are deluded away [from the truth]." (Quran 5:75)

This verse clearly defines Jesus as a messenger, emphasizing his humanity and shared need for sustenance, distinguishing him from the concept of an uncreated, divine being. The Islamic understanding is that God is unique, without partners, offspring, or equals. Any attribution of divinity to Jesus or any other prophet or creation is seen as a deviation from pure monotheism.

The Trinity: A Concept Unacknowledged in Islam

The Christian doctrine of the Trinity—God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—is not recognized in Islam. Muslims view this doctrine as a form of polytheism, as it attributes divinity to multiple persons within one Godhead. The Quran explicitly refutes the idea of God having a son, emphasizing His absolute singularity and transcendence.

The Quran states:

"They have certainly disbelieved who say, 'Allah is the third of three.' And there is no god except one God. And if they do not desist from what they are saying, there will surely afflict those among them who disbelieve a painful punishment." (Quran 5:73)

This clear denouncement of the Trinity highlights the stark theological difference. For Muslims, the concept of God having a son in a literal, divine sense is incompatible with the core principle of Tawhid. They believe that Jesus, as the son of Mary, was born through God's miraculous power, but this does not grant him divine status or make him a literal son of God.

The Crucifixion: A Theological Discrepancy

As mentioned earlier, the Islamic belief that Jesus was not crucified, but rather raised to heaven by God, is a fundamental point of divergence from Christianity. Christians believe that Jesus's crucifixion and resurrection are central to their faith, representing atonement for the sins of humanity. Muslims, however, interpret the events differently, seeing God's intervention as a preservation of His prophet and a refutation of His enemies' intentions.

The Islamic perspective on this matter emphasizes God's omnipotence and His role as the ultimate protector of His messengers. The event described in the Quran where it was made to appear as though Jesus was crucified is seen as a divine ruse, a demonstration of God's power to deceive those who sought to harm His prophet. This belief underscores the Islamic conviction that God's plan is supreme and that His prophets are divinely guided and protected.

The Quran and Jesus: A Testament to His Status

The Quran provides a detailed and respectful account of Jesus's life, mission, and character. While it does not present him as divine, it elevates him to an exceptionally high status among prophets. The book of the Quran is considered by Muslims to be the final and complete word of God, and its narratives about Jesus are viewed as the ultimate and most accurate depiction of his role in divine history.

Key Quranic Mentions and Titles of Jesus

Throughout the Quran, Jesus is referred to by several significant titles and descriptions, each highlighting a different aspect of his importance:

• Isa ibn Maryam (Jesus, son of Mary): This is the most common way Jesus is referred to, emphasizing his mother and his human lineage, while also acknowledging his unique birth.
• Al-Masih (The Messiah): As discussed, this title signifies his role as a divinely appointed leader and prophet.
• Abdullah (Servant of Allah): This title underscores his humanity and his complete submission to God, a central theme in Islam.
• Kalimatullah (Word of Allah): This title is often interpreted to mean that Jesus was brought into existence by God's command ("Be!"), signifying his miraculous creation and his role as a bearer of divine truth. It does not imply divinity.
• Ayah (Sign): Jesus is referred to as a sign for humanity, indicating the miraculous nature of his birth and his role in conveying God's message.
• Ruh minhu (A Spirit from Him): This phrase is sometimes used to describe Jesus, indicating his pure nature and his divinely inspired spirit. It is not an assertion of divinity but of spiritual purity and divine connection.

These titles, when understood within the broader context of Islamic theology, paint a picture of a highly esteemed prophet, a miracle-born individual, and a significant messenger of God, but always as a created being subject to God's will.

The Narrative of Jesus in Surah Maryam

Surah Maryam (Chapter 19) in the Quran is dedicated to the story of Mary and Jesus, providing one of the most comprehensive accounts of his birth and early life. This chapter meticulously details the divine intervention in Mary's conception, her withdrawal from her people, the angelic announcement, and the miraculous birth of Jesus. It highlights Jesus's ability to speak from the cradle, his defense of his mother, and his early proclamations of monotheism.

The narrative in Surah Maryam is not just a historical retelling; it serves as a theological lesson. It reaffirms God's power over nature, the purity of Mary, and the unique role of Jesus as a prophet. The chapter emphasizes Jesus's own words, asserting his servitude to God and his commitment to worshipping Him alone. This detailed account serves as a powerful testament to the Islamic perspective on Jesus, emphasizing his miraculous origins and his profound spiritual significance, all within the framework of absolute monotheism.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jesus in Islam

Q1: How do Muslims view Jesus's relationship with Prophet Muhammad?

Muslims view Jesus and Prophet Muhammad as two integral prophets in the same chain of divine guidance. Jesus is considered a highly revered prophet who preceded Muhammad, and Muhammad is believed to be the final prophet in this lineage. The Quran states that God sent messengers to different communities at different times, and their messages, while having specific contexts, all conveyed the fundamental principle of worshipping the One God (Allah). Jesus brought the Injil (Gospel) as a divine revelation to his people, and Muhammad brought the Quran, which Muslims believe to be the final, complete, and preserved revelation of God's word. Therefore, Muslims believe that Jesus's message was a precursor to Muhammad's, and that Muhammad's message, the Quran, contains the ultimate and perfected form of God's guidance for all of humanity. Jesus himself is believed to have prophesied the coming of Muhammad, referring to him as "Ahmad" in some interpretations of biblical texts that Muslims believe were not corrupted.

The relationship is one of succession and completion. Jesus paved the way for the final message, and Muhammad delivered it in its ultimate form. Muslims revere both prophets immensely, understanding their roles within God's grand plan. Jesus's return before the Day of Judgment further solidifies his connection to the final era of Islam, as he will then rule according to the laws of Prophet Muhammad, demonstrating the ultimate unity and continuity of divine revelation.

Q2: Why do Muslims believe Jesus was not crucified?

Muslims believe Jesus was not crucified based on clear verses in the Quran, particularly Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4), verses 157-158. These verses state, "And [for] their saying, 'Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, the messenger of Allah.' And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about [aiming at] him. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain. Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise."

This belief is rooted in several theological principles within Islam. Firstly, it upholds the divine protection of God's prophets. God would not allow a beloved messenger like Jesus to be subjected to such humiliation and death at the hands of his enemies. Secondly, it demonstrates God's omnipotence and His ability to alter the perception of events. The Quran suggests that someone else was made to look like Jesus and was crucified in his place, a divine act of deception that preserved Jesus. Thirdly, this belief aligns with the understanding that Jesus is alive in heaven and will return to Earth before the Day of Judgment, a significant eschatological event in Islam. If he had been killed and resurrected, his return would be understood differently. The Islamic perspective emphasizes that his departure from Earth was not through death but through a divine ascension.

Q3: How does the Islamic view of Jesus differ from the Christian view?

The primary differences between the Islamic and Christian views of Jesus are profound and touch upon fundamental theological doctrines. In Islam, Jesus (Isa) is revered as a human prophet, the Messiah, born of the Virgin Mary through a miraculous conception, and was raised to heaven alive by God. He is considered one of the most important prophets in Islam, second only to Prophet Muhammad, who is believed to be the final prophet. Muslims do not believe Jesus is divine, the Son of God in a literal sense, or part of a Trinity. His miracles were performed by the will of God, not by his own inherent power. He was not crucified, but rather preserved by God and will return to Earth before the Day of Judgment to establish justice according to Islamic law.

In contrast, Christians believe Jesus is the divine Son of God, the second person of the Trinity, and God incarnate. His crucifixion and subsequent resurrection are central to their faith, seen as the atonement for humanity's sins. Christians believe he died on the cross, was resurrected three days later, and ascended into heaven, where he intercedes for believers. The concept of Jesus as divine and the crucifixion as the means of salvation are core tenets of Christianity that are explicitly rejected in Islam.

Therefore, while both religions hold Jesus in high regard, the nature of his being, his role in salvation, and his ultimate fate are understood in fundamentally different ways, reflecting the distinct theological frameworks of Islam and Christianity.

Q4: What is the significance of Jesus being called the "Word of God" in Islam?

In Islam, the title "Word of God" (Kalimatullah) given to Jesus does not imply his divinity. Instead, it signifies the miraculous way in which he came into existence. The Quran states that God said "Be!" and Jesus was, through the virgin birth of Mary. This means that Jesus was brought into being by God's command, a testament to God's power and will. It highlights his unique creation and his role as a bearer of divine truth and message.

This concept is understood within the Islamic principle of God's absolute power and His ability to create through His word. When God says "Be," it happens. Jesus, being created directly by God's word, is thus associated with this divine command. It signifies his purity and his special status as a messenger who conveyed God's word to humanity. It is not an assertion that Jesus *is* God or a part of God, but rather that he is a manifestation of God's creative power and a vessel for His divine message. His existence is a sign of God's power and a testament to the truth he brought.

Q5: Will Jesus bring a new religion upon his return?

No, Muslims believe that Jesus will not bring a new religion upon his return. He will return as a follower and enforcer of the religion of Islam, which is believed to be the final and complete divine message. Prophet Muhammad is considered the final prophet, and the Quran is the final revelation. Therefore, when Jesus returns, he will rule and judge according to Islamic law (Sharia) as revealed to Prophet Muhammad. His role will be to confirm and uphold the truth of Islam, break the symbols of other faiths (like the cross, signifying the correction of theological errors), and establish justice and peace under the banner of Islam. His actions will be a testament to the universality and finality of Islam as God's chosen path for humanity.

Conclusion: A Deeply Respected Prophet

In conclusion, Muslims think Jesus was a vital and highly revered prophet of God, the Messiah, born of the Virgin Mary through a divine miracle. He performed miracles by God's permission, brought a divine gospel, and was not crucified but raised to heaven by God. His anticipated return before the Day of Judgment is a significant aspect of Islamic eschatology, where he will act as a just ruler and a champion of truth, implementing Islamic law and confirming the finality of Prophet Muhammad's message. While holding him in the highest esteem, Muslims firmly reject any notion of his divinity or his place in a Trinity, maintaining an unwavering commitment to the absolute oneness of God.

The Islamic perspective on Jesus is one of profound respect, deep admiration, and theological clarity. He is seen as a pivotal figure in the divine plan, a beacon of guidance, and a testament to God's power and mercy. Understanding who Muslims think Jesus was offers a valuable insight into the rich tapestry of Islamic faith and its interconnectedness with other Abrahamic traditions, while distinctly asserting its core monotheistic principles.