Introduction
In Islamic tradition, Jesus Christ, known in Arabic as ʿĪsā ʾl-Masīḥ (عيسى المسيح), occupies a profoundly revered position. This exploration seeks to capture his relevance, titles, miracles, and roles as highlighted in the Qurʾān and Islamic teachings. Examining the variant biblical and Qurʾānic portrayals provides a thorough understanding of his esteemed stature.
Meaning and Etymology
- ʿĪsā (عيسى): The Arabic form of Jesus is derived possibly from the Hebrew name Īshūʿ or Jesus.
- Al-Masīḥ (المسيح): Meaning “the Messiah,” identified also by al-Kamālān and Gabriel’s anointing.
Comprehensive Titles
- ʿĪsā ibn Maryam (عيسى بن مريم): “Jesus, the Son of Mary” signifies his divine birth by God’s decree.
- Kalimatu ʾllāh (كلمة الله): “The Word of God” stemming from the divine command “Be,” highlighting his miraculous conception.
- Qaulu ʾl-Ḥaqq (قول الحق): “The Word of Truth” associating him with divine veracity.
- Rūḥun min Allāh (روح من الله): “A Spirit from God,” indicating his holy nature.
- Rasūlu ʾllāh (رسول الله): “The Messenger of God,” similar to Muhammad.
- ʿAbdu ʾllāh (عبد الله): “The Servant of God,” emphasizing his devotion and submission.
Historical Narrative
Islamic texts recount his miraculous conception, his defense of his mother’s honor as an infant, his ability to perform miracles, and the various misunderstandings about his divine nature by some early Christians. This portrayal distances from mainstream Christianity, which views Jesus as divine.
Cultural and Theological Differences
Christian View:
- Divinity: Jesus is recognized as the Son of God and the second entity of the Holy Trinity.
- Crucifixion: Central to Christian faith, marking Jesus’s atonement for humanity’s sins.
Islamic View:
- Prophethood: Jesus is a revered prophet who performed miracles.
- Non-Crucifixion: Denied in the Qurʾān, suggesting his likeness was crucified instead.
Despite these significant theological differences, both traditions hold:
- The miraculous birth of Jesus from the Virgin Mary.
- The performance of extraordinary miracles.
Synonyms and Antonyms
- Synonyms: Al-Masīḥ, Kalimatu ʾllāh, Rūḥun min Allāh
- Antonyms: Sajastu (Falsehood, though not typically associated in texts)
Related Terms
- Al-Injīl (الإنجيل): The Gospel that Jesus preached.
- Yawm al-Qiyāmah (يوم القيامة): Day of Judgment when Jesus will return.
Quotations from Notable Writers
“For us, to speak about the message of Christ is to confront a man who was not understood and whose light was, again and again, extinguished by pretense. To say ‘Îsâ, son of Maryam, is to recognize that a vigilant awe and a sincere heart dwell within a multitude misunderstood but profoundly treasured.” — Ziauddin Sardar, Islamic Issues, Perspectives, and Dialogues
Inspirational Literature
Suggested Readings
- The Cross and the Crescent: Understanding the Muslim Heart and Mind by Colin Chapman.
- Islam and Christianity: Theological Themes in Comparative Perspective by John Renard.
- Jesus and Muhammad: Parallel Tracks, Parallel Lives by F.E. Peters.
Quizzes
Farewell Thought
“Illumine the shared visions we have, celebrate the dialogues that conquer divides. In each tradition, find the roots of mutual respect and spiritual wisdom.”
Warm regards, Layla Habib
Publish Date: October 04, 2023
