Who Is Prophet Isa (Jesus) in Islam? A Heart-to-Heart About Our Beloved Prophet

FIRST HOOK

Hello, friends! Let's discuss Prophet Isa (Jesus, peace be upon him), who is truly remarkable. If you’ve ever wondered, "What do Muslims believe about Jesus?"  You have come to the right place! I grew up loving and respecting Prophet Isa (AS) in the same way that I love and respect Prophet Muhammad (SCW), Moses, and Abraham. I am a Muslim. But I also know there’s a lot of confusion out there.  Therefore, let's cut through the jargon and talk straight.    

1.  "Why don't Muslims believe in Jesus?" 

Yes, without a doubt! The name Isa ibn Maryam, or Jesus, son of Mary, appears 25 times in the Quran. He’s one of Islam’s top five prophets, along with Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).  

 But the main difference is as follows: In Islam, Jesus is not the "Son of God" but rather a human prophet. We believe he was a miracle worker, a teacher of God’s love, and one of the most righteous souls to walk this earth, but still a servant of Allah.  

 Imagine how Christian's view Moses or Elijah as revered, but not divine.  Muslims see Jesus that way.)

  2.  The Virgin Birth: A Miracle That We Both Applaud.

Interesting fact: Muslims strongly believe in virgin birth! Even the Quran's entire Surah Maryam, which tells the story of Mary with such tenderness, is devoted to her. She said, "My Lord, how can I have a child when no one has touched me?" Allah declares. "Such is Allah; He creates what He wills," he declared.  When He makes a decision, all He says is, "Be," and it is."  (Quran 3:47) Mary, also known as Mary, is the only woman mentioned in the Quran, and she appears in the New Testament more times than any other person!    

   3.  Jesus’ Miracles: Power from God, Not Himself  

 Jesus performed mind-blowing miracles, but always by Allah’s permission, never his power.  We read in the Quran that he spoke when I was a baby (imagine changing your baby's diaper while he or she made theological arguments!)  

 Heal lepers and the blind. Resurrected the deceased, created a bird out of clay, and gave it life (Quran 3:49). 

Why is this important? Because in Islam, miracles, not divinity, are evidence of prophethood. Even the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) could not pull off miracles on his own; Allah always had a plan.

   4.  The Crucifixion: The Most Significant Distinction. 

This is where things get intense.  

  Christian belief: Jesus died on the cross for humanity’s sins.  

  Islam holds that Jesus never died on a cross.  The Quran says: > "They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; rather, [someone else] was made to resemble him."   (Quran 4:157)  

 What do Muslims believe happened?  

 - Allah saved Jesus and raised him to the heavens.  

 - Someone else (possibly Judas, or another lookalike) was crucified in his place.  

 Jesus is still alive, and he will appear again before the judgment day. (I know, if you've never heard it, this sounds crazy! But in Islam, Allah’s power transcends human logic.   He can accomplish anything.)

   5.  The most hopeful aspect of our faith is Jesus's return. 

This is where things get exciting. Muslims believe Jesus will come back not as a prophet, but as a righteous ruler who descends close to Damascus (wearing plain clothing, not glowing robes, and exuding a very humble air), breaks the cross, which signifies the end of his deification because he will demonstrate that he is not God, Defeat the Antichrist (Dajjal) in an epic battle, Executes justice under Islamic law,  Eventually passes away naturally, yes, even Jesus will taste death before Judgment Day.  

 Why is this important to Muslims? Because it symbolizes hope.  In a world full of chaos, knowing that the Messiah himself will return to establish peace?   That’s powerful.  

     6.  However, how about salvation? Did Jesus Die for Our Sins? 

 No, and this is the primary distinction.  Christianity: Sin is wiped out by the death of Jesus. In Islam, each soul is accountable for its actions. "No one who bears burdens will bear another's," Allah declares. Quran 53:38)  

 This suggests that we deny the idea of "original sin." Rather than a sacrificial death, forgiveness comes through repentance and Allah's mercy.  (This does not imply that Muslims do not cherish Jesus!  We just have a different understanding of his role.)     

7.  Common Ground: What We Can All Acknowledge 

Despite differences, there’s so much beauty in shared beliefs:  

Jesus was miraculously born.  He did incredible feats of magic.  He preached love, mercy, and devotion to God. He’s coming back one day.  Isn't that amazing? Last but not least, let's keep things lighthearted. Some of this might feel different to you if you're a Christian. That's okay! The objective is not to debate, but rather to improve mutual comprehension. After the day, Muslims hold Jesus in high regard.  We simply do not worship him because we hold the belief that Allah alone is worthy of worship. How do you feel about this? Did anything of this surprise you? Let's have a conversation in the comments with consideration and curiosity!

 P.S.  Want more interfaith gems?  Next, I'll talk about "What the Quran Says About Loving Your Neighbor." 

 If you found this helpful, share it with someone who’d find it interesting!  Knowledge is charity, or Sadaqah.