The Life of Isa (Jesus) According to the Quran
Introduction
In Islam, Isa (Jesus) is regarded as one of the greatest prophets and messengers of Allah. His life and teachings hold significant importance in Islamic theology. The Quran, considered by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), provides a detailed account of Isa’s life, his mission, and his role in the divine plan. This account contrasts with Christian traditions, offering unique insights into his prophetic role and significance.
Birth and Early Life
1. Miraculous Birth:
- Surah Maryam (19:16-21): “And mention in the Book, Maryam, when she withdrew from her family to a place toward the east. And she took in seclusion from them a screen. Then We sent to her Our Spirit [Gabriel], and he represented himself to her as a well-proportioned man. She said, ‘Indeed, I seek refuge in the Most Merciful from you, if you should be fearing of Allah.’ He said, ‘I am only the messenger of your Lord to give you [news of] a pure boy.’ She said, ‘How can I have a boy while no man has touched me and I have not been unchaste?’ He said, ‘Thus it will be; your Lord says, ‘It is easy for Me, and [We wish] to appoint him as a sign to the people and a mercy from Us. And it is a matter already decreed.'”
- This verse details the announcement of Isa’s miraculous birth to Maryam (Mary) by the angel Gabriel, emphasizing the divine nature of his conception and birth.
2. Early Miracles:
- Surah Al-Imran (3:49): “And [make him] a messenger to the Children of Israel, [who will say], ‘Indeed, I have come to you with a sign from your Lord in that I design for you from clay [what is] like the form of a bird, then I breathe into it, and it becomes a bird by permission of Allah. And I heal the blind and the leper, and I give life to the dead – by permission of Allah. And I inform you of what you eat and what you store in your houses. Indeed in that is a sign for you if you are believers.'”
- This verse highlights the miracles performed by Isa, including healing the blind and the leper, raising the dead, and providing knowledge of unseen matters.
Prophethood and Mission
1. Message and Teachings:
- Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:110): “The Day when Allah will raise up those who have believed among you and those who have been given knowledge, [saying], ‘This is a Day of Resurrection and Eternal Life for the believers who have learned the knowledge and acted upon it.'”
- Isa’s mission was to confirm the teachings of the Torah and to deliver the Injil (Gospel), guiding people toward monotheism, righteousness, and adherence to God’s commandments.
2. Disciples and Opposition:
- Surah Al-Saff (61:14): “O you who have believed, be supporters of Allah, as when Jesus, the son of Mary, said to the disciples, ‘Who are my supporters for [the cause of] Allah?’ The disciples said, ‘We are supporters of Allah. We have believed in Allah and testify that we are Muslims [submitting to Him].'”
- Isa had disciples who supported him, but he also faced opposition from some Jewish leaders who rejected his message and plotted against him.
Crucifixion and Ascension
1. Crucifixion:
- Surah An-Nisa (4:157-158): “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. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain. Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise.”
- This passage denies the crucifixion of Isa and asserts that he was raised up to Allah, challenging Christian beliefs about Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.
2. Ascension and Second Coming:
- Surah Az-Zukhruf (43:61): “And indeed, he [Jesus] shall be a sign for [the coming of] the Hour, so be not in doubt of it and follow Me. This is a straight path.”
- Isa’s return is a significant aspect of Islamic eschatology. His second coming is anticipated to restore justice and defeat the false messiah (Dajjal) before the Day of Judgment.
Key Themes and Lessons
1. Divine Guidance and Miracles:
- Isa’s life is marked by miracles that demonstrate his prophetic status and the divine power of Allah. These miracles serve as signs to affirm his prophethood and divine support.
2. Monotheism and Righteousness:
- Isa’s teachings emphasize the oneness of God and the importance of ethical living. His message aligns with the core Islamic principle of Tawhid (the oneness of God).
3. Rejection of Divinity:
- Islam rejects the divinity of Isa, emphasizing his role as a prophet and servant of Allah rather than the son of God. This distinction is crucial in Islamic belief and highlights the concept of God’s absolute oneness.
4. Eschatological Role:
- Isa’s return is a central element of Islamic eschatology, reflecting the belief in the final judgment and the ultimate triumph of justice. His second coming is awaited as a time of renewal and rectification.
Conclusion
The life of Isa (Jesus) as described in the Quran provides a unique perspective within Islamic theology, differing from Christian narratives in several key aspects. His miraculous birth, prophetic mission, denial of crucifixion, and anticipated second coming are integral to Islamic faith and eschatology. Understanding these Quranic teachings helps Muslims honor Isa as a revered prophet and sign of Allah’s power, while also clarifying the differences between Islamic and Christian views on his life and role.
