Life and Teachings of Jesus: An Islamic Perspective
- Tottenham Hale Mosque Admin
- 6 November 2024
- 14:57
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Introduction
The life of Jesus (Isa, عليه السلام) holds a significant place in Islamic teachings. Muslims believe in Jesus as a revered prophet, born of the Virgin Mary (Maryam), and a messenger of Allah. This article delves into the life and teachings of Jesus from an Islamic perspective, emphasising the profound respect and love Muslims have for him, his role as a prophet, and the lessons derived from his teachings.
The Birth of Jesus: A Miraculous Beginning
The Story of Maryam
In Islam, Maryam, the mother of Jesus, is considered one of the most virtuous women in history. The Quran narrates her story with immense respect, highlighting her piety, devotion, and purity. According to Surah Maryam (Chapter 19 of the Quran), Maryam was chosen above all women and given a special status by Allah:
"And ˹remember˺ when the angels said, “O Mary! Surely Allah has selected you, purified you, and chosen you over all women of the world."
Her miraculous pregnancy, without any human intervention, is a testimony of God's power and a miracle in itself.
The Virgin Birth
The Quran explicitly mentions the miraculous birth of Jesus in several verses. Surah Al-Imran describes the angel Gabriel (Jibril) appearing to Maryam, announcing that she would give birth to a noble son, Isa (Jesus).
" ˹Remember˺ when the angels proclaimed, “O Mary! Allah gives you good news of a Word1 from Him, his name will be the Messiah,2 Jesus, son of Mary; honoured in this world and the Hereafter, and he will be one of those nearest ˹to Allah˺. And he will speak to people in ˹his˺ infancy and adulthood and will be one of the righteous.”
When Maryam questioned how she could have a child without being touched by a man, the angel responded:
"Mary wondered, “My Lord! How can I have a child when no man has ever touched me?” An angel replied, “So will it be. Allah creates what He wills. When He decrees a matter, He simply tells it, ‘Be!’ And it is!"
Jesus as a Prophet in Islam
In Islam, Jesus is regarded as one of the greatest prophets, known as "Isa ibn Maryam" (Jesus, son of Mary). He is a messenger of Allah sent to guide the Children of Israel with a new scripture, the Injil (Gospel).
Miracles of Jesus
Muslims believe in the miracles performed by Jesus, as mentioned in the Quran. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and even brought the dead back to life—all by the permission of Allah. These miracles were signs to affirm his prophethood and convey Allah's message.
"And ˹make him˺ a messenger to the Children of Israel ˹to proclaim,˺ ‘I have come to you with a sign from your Lord: I will make for you a bird from clay, breathe into it, and it will become a ˹real˺ bird—by Allah’s Will. I will heal the blind and the leper and raise the dead to life—by Allah’s Will. And I will prophesize what you eat and tore in your houses. Surely in this is a sign for you if you ˹truly˺ believe."
The Quran also mentions Jesus speaking from the cradle, defending his mother's honor, and declaring himself as a servant of Allah:
"Jesus declared, “I am truly a servant of Allah. He has destined me to be given the Scripture and to be a prophet."
The Teachings of Jesus: Lessons for Humanity
Monotheism: The Core Message
Like all prophets in Islam, Jesus's primary message was Tawhid (the Oneness of God). He preached the worship of one God, Allah, and emphasized the importance of faith, prayer, and devotion.
"Those who say, “Allah is the Messiah, son of Mary,” have certainly fallen into disbelief. The Messiah ˹himself˺ said, “O Children of Israel! Worship Allah—my Lord and your Lord.” Whoever associates others with Allah ˹in worship˺ will surely be forbidden Paradise by Allah. Their home will be the Fire. And the wrongdoers will have no helpers."
Compassion and Mercy
Jesus's teachings in Islam are synonymous with mercy, compassion, and love for others. He urged people to be kind to the poor, the needy, and the oppressed. The Quran emphasizes Jesus's humility and gentleness, qualities that every Muslim is encouraged to embody. His life exemplified patience and forgiveness, even in the face of adversity.
Spiritual Purity and Asceticism
Jesus's life serves as a model of spiritual purity and asceticism. He lived a simple life, detached from worldly possessions, focusing on spiritual growth and closeness to Allah. Muslims view this aspect of his life as a reminder of the transient nature of the material world and the importance of preparing for the hereafter.
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keywords: Jesus, Islam, Christianity, Judaism, charity and God.
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