‘Īsā (peace be upon him), Jesus, is a mighty prophet and messenger of Allah, and the Messiah (al-Masīḥ). He was born miraculously to the pure and pious Maryam. In Islam he is deeply honoured as a prophet, but he is not divine; Muslims worship Allah alone.
The piety of Maryam
Maryam was chosen and purified by Allah above the women of her time. She devoted herself to worship and remembrance of Allah. The Qur'an honours her greatly:
"O Maryam, indeed Allah has chosen you and purified you and chosen you above the women of the worlds." (3:42)
The miraculous birth of ‘Īsā (as)
By Allah's command, Maryam gave birth to ‘Īsā (as) without a father, a special sign from Allah. This shows Allah's complete power:
"Indeed, the example of ‘Īsā to Allah is like that of Ādam. He created him from dust; then He said to him, 'Be,' and he was." (3:59)
Just as Ādam (as) had no parents, ‘Īsā (as) was created by Allah's word. A miraculous birth does not make him a god; it shows Allah can create however He wills.
Miracles by Allah's permission
- ‘Īsā (as) spoke as a baby in the cradle, defending his mother.
- By Allah's permission he healed the sick and gave life to the dead.
- Every miracle was by Allah's permission, never by his own power.
His call and honoured status
‘Īsā (as) called people to worship Allah alone:
"Indeed, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him. This is a straight path." (3:51)
Muslims believe ‘Īsā (as) was not crucified; rather, Allah raised him up to Himself. He remains a beloved prophet, honoured by all Muslims, who await his return by Allah's will.
Put these events in the Islamic account of ʿĪsā (as) in order:
- Maryam is chosen and purified by Allah
- ʿĪsā (as) is born miraculously, without a father
- ʿĪsā (as) speaks as a baby in the cradle, defending his mother
- ʿĪsā (as) calls his people to worship Allah alone
- Allah raises ʿĪsā (as) up to Himself