Do Muslims Believe in Jesus Christ? A Friendly Guide

Ever wondered if Muslims believe in Jesus Christ? The answer is a heartfelt yes! In Islam, Jesus, known as "Isa" in Arabic, is cherished as one of God’s greatest prophets. But Muslims see him differently than Christians do—not as divine or the Son of God, but as a human messenger with an incredible mission. Let’s explore what Islam teaches about Jesus, his role, and how these beliefs compare to Christianity. This guide is crafted for curious folks in the USA looking to understand Jesus in Islam.

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Who is Jesus in Islam?

In Islam, Jesus, or "Isa ibn Maryam" (Jesus, son of Mary), is a beloved prophet sent by God to guide the Children of Israel. He brought a scripture called the Injīl, which Muslims believe was the original Gospel. The Qur’an describes Jesus as human, not divine, but truly special—born miraculously to the Virgin Mary, a woman so honored that an entire chapter, Surah Maryam, is named after her (Qur’an 19). Muslims say “peace be upon him” after mentioning Jesus, a respectful nod they give to all prophets, including Muhammad.

Jesus is called al-Masīḥ (the Messiah) in Islam, but this title means a prophet chosen by God, not a divine savior. He’s also known as a messenger, prophet, and servant of God, with a big role that includes returning in the future.

What Do Muslims Believe About Jesus?

The Qur’an and stories from the Prophet Muhammad (called hadiths) share some amazing things about Jesus. Here are the key beliefs about Jesus in Islam, with details and their Qur’anic references:

• Virgin Birth

  • Details: Jesus was born to Mary without a father, a miracle from God. He spoke as a baby to defend his mother’s honor—pretty amazing!
  • Qur’anic Reference: Surah 19:16-34

• Miracles

  • Details: With God’s permission, Jesus healed the blind and lepers, raised the dead, and shaped birds from clay that flew away.
  • Qur’anic Reference: Surah 3:49

• Ascension

  • Details: Muslims believe Jesus wasn’t crucified. God raised him to heaven, and someone else was made to look like him.
  • Qur’anic Reference: Surah 4:157-158

• Prophethood

  • Details: Jesus taught people to worship God alone and is seen as a Muslim (one who submits to God). He also hinted at Muhammad’s coming.
  • Qur’anic Reference: Surah 61:6

The Qur’an puts it beautifully: “The Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, was a messenger of Allah, His Word through Mary, and a spirit from Him” (Surah 4:171). He’s extraordinary, but human.

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How Does This Compare to Christianity?

Muslims and Christians both admire Jesus, but their beliefs split on some key points:

• Is Jesus Divine? Christians see Jesus as the Son of God and part of the Trinity. Muslims believe in one God (tawḥīd) and view Jesus as a human prophet. The Qur’an says, “Those who say, ‘Allah is the Messiah’ have disbelieved” (Surah 5:72).
• Crucifixion Story Christians believe Jesus died on the cross and rose again, central to their faith. Muslims say God saved Jesus from the cross, raising him to heaven instead (Surah 4:157).
• Salvation In Christianity, Jesus saves humanity from sin. In Islam, salvation comes from faith and good deeds, with Jesus as a teacher, not a savior.

These differences show unique paths, but the shared love for Jesus can open doors to great conversations, especially in diverse places like the USA.

Jesus’ Big Return in Islam

Here’s something exciting: Muslims believe Jesus will return before the Day of Judgment. Islamic tradition says he’ll appear at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, defeat the Antichrist (al-Masih ad-Dajjal), and bring justice. He’ll break the cross, reject false beliefs, and live by Islamic teachings before passing away naturally and being buried in Medina (Jesus in Islam). Some see this as a literal event, others as a symbol of renewed faith (Who is Jesus for Muslims?).

This idea of Jesus’ return feels a bit like the Christian second coming, creating a shared sense of hope, even if the details vary.

Wrapping It Up

So, do Muslims believe in Jesus Christ? You bet! They see him as a prophet who worked miracles, was born to the Virgin Mary, and will return to bring peace. Unlike Christians, Muslims don’t believe Jesus is divine or was crucified, but their respect for him is profound. Grounded in the Qur’an, these beliefs highlight both differences and shared admiration with Christianity. For Americans curious about faith, understanding Jesus in Islam is a bridge to connection and respect across traditions.