The Linguistic Roots of al-Masih
The Qur’an introduces Jesus with the honorific al-Masih—“the Messiah.” The Arabic term stems from the root masaha, “to anoint” or “to wipe.” Classical exegetes offered several complementary explanations:
- He was anointed with divine blessing and prophethood, chosen above his contemporaries.
- He healed by wiping over the sick—always “by Allah’s permission,” as the Qur’an repeatedly stresses (Qur’an 5:110).
- He was purified—wiped clean—of sin, exemplifying spiritual integrity.
This triple meaning already hints at the special place Isa holds in Islamic theology: uniquely favored, miraculously empowered, yet firmly within humanity.
Isa in the Qur’an: A Messenger Like No Other
Jesus is mentioned by name 25 times in the Qur’an—more than the Prophet Muhammad’s name appears in the sacred text. Key passages outline his story:
- The angelic announcement to Mary: “O Mary, Allah gives you glad tidings of a Word from Him—his name will be the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary” (Qur’an 3:45).
- The virgin birth: “She said, ‘How can I have a child when no man has touched me?’ … ‘Thus does Allah create what He wills’” (Qur’an 3:47).
- His prophetic mission: “[He will be] a messenger to the Children of Israel” (Qur’an 3:49).
- His elevated status: “His word that He conveyed to Mary and a spirit from Him” (Qur’an 4:171).
The Qur’an does not present Isa as a passive figure; he actively confronts disbelief, reminds his people of Mosaic law, and points them back to pure monotheism (tawḥīd).
Miracles by God’s Permission
Isa’s life is studded with miracles, but the Qur’an consistently attributes each wonder to divine leave, never independent divinity. In one sweeping verse Allah recounts:
“You healed the blind and the leper by My permission; you brought the dead to life by My permission” (Qur’an 5:110).
This formulation teaches two lessons still relevant to Muslims today:
- Empowerment can coexist with humility. Even when granted extraordinary ability, Isa never claimed personal deity.
- Service validates belief. His miracles addressed human suffering—vision restored, life returned—linking faith to tangible compassion.
What Islam Says About The Crucifixion
Where Islamic and many Christian narratives diverge sharply is the end of Isa’s earthly mission. The Qur’an states:
“They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him, but it was made to appear so to them… Allah raised him to Himself” (Qur’an 4:157–158).
Muslim exegetical works offer differing details—whether another was mistaken for Isa, or whether tribesmen saw a vision—but all agree on two core beliefs:
- Jesus was not killed; Allah saved him.
- He will return before the end of time, vindicating truth.
The Awaited Second Coming
Muslims anticipate Isa’s return as a climactic moment in world history. Multiple aḥādīth give vivid descriptions, including the Prophet Muhammad’s statement:
“By the One in Whose Hand is my soul, the son of Mary will soon descend among you as a just ruler…” (Sahih al-Bukhari, narrated by Abu Hurayrah, Hadith 3448).
In another narration the Prophet foretells that Isa will confront the false messiah (al-Masīḥ ad-Dajjāl) and establish global justice (Sahih Muslim, narrated by al-Nawwas ibn Samʿān, Hadith 2937). Sunni and Shi‘a scholarship, despite nuances on sequence, largely concur on these essentials:
- Descent near Damascus.
- Defeat of Dajjāl.
- Era of equity in which swords become plowshares and wealth no longer tempts hearts.
- Eventually, death and Muslim burial for Isa, affirming his humanity.
Such prophecies infuse contemporary Muslim life with ethical urgency: if history is ultimately steered by justice, our own conduct must lean the same way.
Daily Lessons From the Messiah of Islam
For many Muslims, Isa is not a remote eschatological figure but a living example woven into personal devotion:
- Pure reliance on Allah. Just as Isa spoke in the cradle—“Indeed, I am the servant of Allah” (Qur’an 19:30)—believers strive for unambiguous servitude.
- Care for the ill. Visiting hospitals or volunteering medical skills echoes his healing ministry.
- Simplicity. Prophetic narrations describe Isa wearing humble garments and traveling light, inspiring Muslims to avoid ostentation.
Households often read the relevant Qur’anic chapters together, sometimes using engaging resources from curated selections of kids’ Islamic books.
Preparing Ourselves: Spiritual Practice and Lifestyle Tips
If Isa’s return signals an era where justice replaces exploitation, how can families prepare today? Experienced community teachers highlight a few practical steps:
- Regular Prayer. The Prophet indicated Isa will pray behind an existing Muslim imam, highlighting collective worship. Dedicating a quiet corner with dignified prayer rugs cultivates focus.
- Study of Revelation. Reading translations with tafṣīr (exegesis) deepens comprehension. Keeping a personal or family copy from the range of Qur’ans supports this habit.
- Reviving Sunnah practices. Pleasant fragrance is part of prophetic etiquette; many follow it with subtle attar perfume, reinforcing mindfulness before prayer.
- Service Projects. Hosting a food-bank drive or visiting the elderly mirrors Isa’s compassion for marginalized people.
Inter-Faith Bridges: Common Ground Without Compromise
Muslim experience shows that authentic presentation of Isa often surprises non-Muslim friends. Sharing verses about his miraculous birth or merciful nature creates immediate resonance, while clarifying Islamic monotheism. Practical community initiatives might include:
- Joint charity events during winter holidays, explaining that charity is also Sunnah.
- Scripture circles comparing Gospel and Qur’anic narratives, conducted with mutual respect.
- Cultural open houses showcasing Middle-Eastern coffee hospitality—brewing cardamom-infused cups from the curated selection of Arabian tea and coffee.
Such encounters demonstrate that Muslims do not diminish Jesus; they dignify him within God-centered theology.
Watch: A Concise Visual Introduction
For readers who prefer a summarized visual explanation, the following video distills major points:
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Jesus considered divine in Islam? No. The Qur’an repeatedly affirms Allah’s uniqueness (Qur’an 112:1-4) and records Isa himself denying divinity (Qur’an 5:116).
- Why call him “Word” and “Spirit” from God? Scholars note these titles highlight his miraculous creation—born without a father—while maintaining his created nature.
- Will Muslims accept Jesus when he returns? Yes. Authentic Hadith indicate he will pray according to Islamic law, confirming previous revelation and uniting believers.
- What about those who already follow him now? The Qur’an promises considerate judgment for sincere Christians who preserved monotheism (Qur’an 3:113-115).
Living With Hope and Responsibility
In Islamic memory, Isa embodies hope: a child who spoke truth from the cradle, a healer who mended society’s fractures, an ascetic who prized spirit over wealth, and a future leader who will extinguish tyranny. Remembering him is therefore never a mere theological exercise—it is an invitation to:
- Strengthen our direct relationship with Allah.
- Serve creation with empathy.
- Stay vigilant against deception (Dajjāl) in whatever form it appears—be it ideological, economic, or digital.
May reflecting on the Messiah of Islam plant seeds of mercy in our homes, justice in our dealings, and unwavering hope in our hearts.
Key Takeaways
- “Messiah” in Islam combines blessing, healing, and purity.
- Isa’s miracles never compromise monotheism; they reinforce it.
- No crucifixion. Allah raised Isa, preserving him for his destined return.
- Second coming narratives motivate ethical living today.
- Practical devotion—from regular prayer to community service—embodies his legacy.
Final Thoughts
Whether you grew up hearing the nativity story, reciting Qur’anic verses about Maryam, or both, the figure of Isa bridges hearts. He stands as a testament that revelation calls humanity toward the same enduring values: worship of the One, stewardship of earth, and compassion for each other. By studying his Qur’anic portrait, preparing spiritually for his promised return, and emulating his mercy in daily actions, Muslims not only honor the Messiah of Islam—they nurture a life worthy of welcoming him when he comes.
