Jesus, Son of Mary in Islam
Comprehensive Definition
Jesus, Son of Mary, or ‘Īsā ibn Maryam in Arabic, is a highly esteemed prophet in Islam, mentioned twenty-five times in the Qur’an. He is recognized as a righteous prophet, a messenger to the Israelites, a sign of God’s power, a Spirit from God, and the Messiah. Significantly, the Islamic doctrine denies the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, asserting instead that though he appeared to have been crucified, God raised him up unto Himself. Thus, Jesus did not die a mortal death but was saved by Allah.
Etymology and Linguistic Roots
The name ‘Īsā (Arabic: عيسى) differs from the Hebrew Yeshua or the Greek Iēsous (Ἰησοῦς) used in Christian texts. Ibn Maryam (ابن مريم) translates to “son of Mary”, emphasizing his miraculous virgin birth.
Historical and Cultural Context
In Islamic tradition, Jesus was born to Mary (Maryam) without an earthly father. His conception and birth, described in the Qur’an (3:45), occurred through a miraculous intervention by God. This belief aligns with the virgin birth acknowledged in Christian tradition but diverges significantly in other theological areas.
Key Dates:
- 610 C.E. - The commencement of Muhammad’s prophetic mission; the initial revelations of the Qur’an begin.
- 622 C.E. - The migration to Medina solidifies Islamic doctrines regarding previous prophets, including Jesus.
Comparative Analysis: Christianity vs. Islam
- Divinity: Christians see Jesus as the Son of God and part of the Holy Trinity, whereas Muslims regard him purely as a human prophet.
- Crucifixion: While Christians believe in Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, Islam asserts that Jesus was not crucified but taken to heaven by God.
- Messiahship: Both view Jesus as the Messiah, a savior and spiritual leader.
Synonyms and Related Terms
- Synonyms: ‘Īsā (عيسى)
- Antonyms: N/A (context-specific)
- Related Terms:
- Prophet (نبي): A messenger chosen by God.
- Messiah (المسيح): The anointed one, a term also used for Jesus.
- Maryam (مريم): Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus.
Translations of the Term “Jesus, Son of Mary”
- Arabic: ‘Īsā ibn Maryam (عيسى ابن مريم)
- Persian: عیسی پسر مریم (Īsā pisar-e Maryam)
- Turkish: Meryem oğlu İsa
- Urdu: عیسیٰ ابن مریم (Isa ibn-e-Maryam)
- Indonesian: Isa putra Maryam
- Bengali: ঈসা ইবনে মরিয়ম (Īsā ibnē Mariyam)
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “
And for their claiming, "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.” – Quran 4:157. - “Jesus in Islam holds a unique position as a prophet, for his miraculous works and profound purity, yet he remains a humble servant of Allah.” – Selina Jamil.
Exciting Facts
- Muslims await the second coming of Jesus where he will return to restore justice and defeat the false messiah, Al-Masih ad-Dajjal.
- The story of Jesus’ birth and his miraculous feats are extensively detailed in the Surah Maryam (Chapter Mary) in the Qur’an.
Suggested Literature and Further Study
- “
Jesus in the Quran” by Geoffrey Parrinder - “
The Muslim Jesus: Sayings and Stories in Islamic Literature” by Tarif Khalidi - “
Jesus and Muhammad: Parallel Tracks, Parallel Lives” by F.E. Peters
Farewell Thought
As we delve into religious discussions, it becomes evident that theological narratives, cultural heritage, and historical contexts enrich our understanding of revered figures like Jesus, Son of Mary. Reflecting on these narratives allows us to expand our horizons and appreciate the diversity within religious beliefs. Engage with reverence, seek knowledge, and inspire dialogue.
Best regards, Selina Jamil
Published on October 3, 2023
