Prophet Isa, known as Jesus in Christianity, is a pivotal figure in Islam, revered as a messenger who delivered the Injeel to the Children of Israel. The Quran, which mentions him 25 times across various surahs, highlights his miraculous birth to Lady Maryam (Mary) without a father, his extraordinary miracles—such as healing the sick and raising the dead—and his unwavering commitment to monotheism.
Unlike Christian beliefs, Islam teaches that Isa was not the son of God but a prophet who brought the Injeel to guide the Children of Israel. Let’s learn more about his life, how many times he was mentioned in the Quran, his miracles and traits, some misconceptions about him… and more!
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Who Is Prophet Isa?
Prophet Isa, known as Jesus in Christianity, holds a significant position in Islam as one of the greatest prophets sent by Allah. The Quran refers to him as Isa ibn Maryam, emphasizing his miraculous birth without a father. His life is central to Islamic teachings, presenting him as a servant of Allah who performed miracles and preached the message of monotheism.
Isa’s birth is described as a miraculous event. The Quran narrates that Maryam was a pious woman chosen by Allah for this unique role. Without a human father, Isa was born through Allah’s command, a sign of His power and will. Throughout his life, Isa performed many miracles by Allah’s will. These included speaking as an infant, healing the sick, raising the dead, and creating a bird from clay.
How Many Times Is Isa Mentioned in the Quran?
The story and the lessons from the life of prophet Isa are spread across various surahs. These references emphasize his role as a prophet, his miraculous birth, the miracles he performed, and his eventual ascension to heaven. Key surahs that mention Isa include Surah Al-Imran, Surah Maryam, Surah An-Nisa, and Surah Al-Ma’idah:
1. Surah Al-Imran (3:45):
“When the angels said, ‘O Mary, indeed Allah gives you good tidings of a word from Him, whose name will be the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary—distinguished in this world and the Hereafter and those who are near [to Allah].”
2. Surah Maryam (19:34):
“That is Jesus, the son of Mary—the word of truth about which they are in dispute.”
3. Surah An-Nisa (4:157):
“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.”
4. Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:110):
“The Day when Allah will say, ‘O Jesus, Son of Mary, remember My favor upon you and upon your mother when I supported you with the Pure Spirit and you spoke to the people in the cradle and in maturity; and [remember] when I taught you writing and wisdom and the Torah and the Gospel, and when you designed from clay [what was] like the form of a bird, then you breathed into it, and it became a bird by permission of Allah.”
These examples illustrate the various ways in which Prophet Isa is referenced in the Quran, highlighting different aspects of his life and mission.
Miracles of Prophet Isa
The remarkable miracles granted to prophet Isa by Allah affirmed his prophethood and served as powerful signs to guide his people. Here are some of the most significant miracles attributed to him:
1. Miracle of the Virgin Birth
One of the most significant miracles associated with Prophet Isa is his miraculous birth. According to Islamic teachings, Prophet Isa was born to Maryam without a father. The Quran describes how the angel brought the message to Maryam that she would give birth to a son, even though she was a virgin. This miraculous birth signifies the power of Allah and serves as a sign to humanity of His ability to create life in any manner He wills.
2. Speaking in the Cradle
Another remarkable miracle is that Prophet Isa spoke as a newborn while still in the cradle. When Maryam was accused of wrongdoing for giving birth without being married, Prophet Isa, only a few days old, spoke in defense of his mother. He declared himself to be a servant of Allah, a prophet, and affirmed his mission of bringing guidance to the Children of Israel. This event demonstrated his prophethood and the divine nature of his mission.
3. Healing the Sick and the Blind
Prophet Isa is known for his ability to heal the sick and cure those suffering from various ailments, including blindness and leprosy. By the will of Allah, he was able to restore sight to the blind and heal those afflicted with diseases that were considered incurable. These miracles served as a testament to his prophethood and as a means to guide people towards faith in Allah.
4. Raising the Dead
Among the most extraordinary miracles performed by Prophet Isa is the resurrection of the dead. The Quran narrates that by the permission of Allah, Prophet Isa brought the dead back to life. This miracle was a powerful demonstration of Allah’s authority over life and death, and it reinforced Prophet Isa’s status as a messenger of Allah.
5. Creating a Bird from Clay
Another miraculous act attributed to Prophet Isa is his ability to create a living bird from clay. By the will of Allah, Prophet Isa molded a bird from clay, breathed into it, and it became a living creature. This miracle symbolized the creative power of Allah and served as a sign of Prophet Isa’s divine mission to bring the message of monotheism to his people.
Traits of Prophet Isa: Lessons to Learn from Him
Prophet Isa possessed several traits that are highlighted in the Quran and Hadith, offering a model for Muslims to follow. Let’s learn some together:
1. Humility
Despite being granted miracles, Prophet Isa remained humble, always attributing his powers to Allah. He consistently emphasized that his abilities were signs from Allah and not of his own doing. This humility is a powerful reminder for Muslims to recognize that all talents, abilities, and successes are gifts from Allah, and we should avoid arrogance.
The Quran reflects this humility in Isa’s words:
“Indeed, I am the servant of Allah. He has given me the Scripture and made me a prophet.” (Quran 19:30)
2. Righteousness
Prophet Isa’s life was marked by unwavering piety and devotion to Allah. He lived a life of righteousness, always calling people to worship Allah alone and to follow the straight path. His dedication to living a righteous life serves as an example for all Muslims to lead lives centered around faith and obedience to Allah.
The Quran speaks of Isa’s righteousness:
“And We made the son of Mary and his mother a sign, and We gave them refuge on high ground, a place of security and flowing water.” (Quran 23:50)
3. Patience in Adversity
Prophet Isa faced numerous challenges, including rejection by his people and attempts on his life. Despite these adversities, he remained patient, placing his trust in Allah’s plan and never losing faith. His patience under extreme circumstances teaches Muslims to trust in Allah and remain steadfast in the face of difficulties. The Quran highlights Isa’s patience:
“And We made the son of Mary and his mother a sign and gave them refuge on a high ground, a place of comfort, security, and flowing water.” (Quran 23:50)
4. Wisdom
Prophet Isa was blessed with profound wisdom, which he used to guide and teach his followers. His teachings were filled with insight and understanding, helping people to comprehend the deeper meanings of faith and life. His wisdom serves as a model for Muslims to seek knowledge and understanding in their lives.
The Quran mentions Isa’s wisdom:
“And He will teach him writing and wisdom and the Torah and the Gospel.” (Quran 3:48)
5. Justice
Prophet Isa was committed to justice and fairness, advocating for the rights of the oppressed and calling for equitable treatment of all people. His commitment to justice is a significant trait for Muslims to emulate, as Islam places a strong emphasis on standing up for justice and ensuring that everyone is treated fairly.
The Quran highlights Isa’s role as a just leader:
“And [mention] when Jesus, the son of Mary, said, ‘O children of Israel, indeed I am the messenger of Allah to you confirming what came before me of the Torah and bringing good tidings of a messenger to come after me, whose name is Ahmad.’ But when he came to them with clear evidences, they said, ‘This is obvious magic.'” (Quran 61:6)
Common Misconceptions About Prophet Isa in Islam
Several misunderstandings about prophet Isa often arise from differences between Islamic teachings and other religious traditions. Below are some common misconceptions about Prophet Isa in Islam and the correct Islamic perspective on each:
1. Prophet Isa Is the Son of God
A common misconception is that Islam teaches that Prophet Isa is the son of God. In Islam, Prophet Isa is regarded as a revered prophet and messenger of Allah, not as His son. The Quran explicitly rejects the concept of the Trinity and emphasizes the oneness of Allah, affirming that Isa was a human prophet created by Allah.
2. Prophet Isa Was Crucified
Another misconception is the belief that Prophet Isa was crucified. Islam teaches that Isa was not crucified but was raised up by Allah to heaven. According to the Quran, it appeared to the people that he was crucified, but in reality, Allah saved him from this fate. We, Muslims, believe that Isa will return in the future to restore justice before the Day of Judgment.
3. Prophet Isa Brought a New Religion
Some believe that Prophet Isa introduced a new religion distinct from previous prophets. In Islam, Prophet Isa is viewed as continuing the message of monotheism that was preached by earlier prophets, including Musa and Ibrahim. He did not bring a new religion but reaffirmed the same core teachings of worshiping one God and living righteously.
4. Prophet Isa Is Exclusive to Christianity
A misconception is that Prophet Isa is solely a figure in Christianity. In fact, Prophet Isa holds a significant place in Islam as well. He is mentioned frequently in the Quran, and Muslims are required to believe in him as one of the greatest prophets. His life and teachings are respected, and his role is integral to Islamic theology.
5. Prophet Isa Is the Final Messenger
Some mistakenly believe that Prophet Isa is the final messenger sent by Allah. However, Islam teaches that Prophet Muhammad is the final messenger and the seal of the prophets. While Isa is highly revered in our Deen, the prophet Muhammad brought the final and complete message of Islam to humanity.
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Conclusion
Prophet Isa’s life and teachings offer profound lessons that resonate deeply within the Islamic faith. His miraculous birth, the miracles he performed, and his unwavering devotion to Allah highlight his revered status as a prophet in Islam. By exploring his story through the Quran, we gain valuable insights into the nature of prophecy, the importance of humility, and the power of divine intervention. Understanding these aspects helps us appreciate the richness of Islamic teachings and the continuity of monotheistic messages throughout history.
At Riwaq Al Quran, we strive to bring these divine teachings closer to you, offering comprehensive courses that explore the profound wisdom of the Quran and the lives of its revered figures. By engaging with our resources, you can deepen your connection with the divine message, enhance your spiritual understanding, and embody the virtues exemplified by Prophet Isa.
