Prophet Isa (Jesus) in Islamic Tradition: A Comprehensive View

Prophet Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), holds a profoundly revered status in Islam as one of the mightiest messengers of Allah. Islamic tradition, rooted in the Quran and authentic Hadith, affirms his miraculous birth, his prophethood, his ascension to heaven, and his pivotal return to earth before the Day of Judgment.

INTRODUCTION

The Quran states, addressing Prophet Isa (Jesus) and his mother Maryam (Mary): "O Maryam, indeed Allah gives you good tidings of a word from Him, whose name will be Messiah, Isa, the son of Maryam – distinguished in this world and the Hereafter and among those brought near [to Allah]." (Quran Al Imran 3:45). This profound verse encapsulates the immense reverence and unique status of Prophet Isa in Islam. He is not merely a historical figure but a central prophet, a sign of Allah’s power, and a pivotal figure in Islamic eschatology. Understanding Prophet Isa's role, as illuminated by Islamic scholars, is crucial for Muslims, fostering respect for all prophets and deepening one's faith in Allah's divine plan. This article will delve into the Quranic foundations of his story, the elucidations from the Hadith and Sunnah, diverse scholarly perspectives, and practical guidance for Muslims regarding this noble prophet.

QURANIC FOUNDATION

The Quran presents a detailed and unique narrative of Prophet Isa, emphasizing his extraordinary birth, his prophethood, his miracles, and his ultimate destiny. His story begins with his mother, Maryam, who is highly honored in Islam, with an entire chapter (Surah Maryam) named after her. The Quran describes her miraculous conception of Isa, without a father, as a sign from Allah:

"She said, 'My Lord, how can I have a child when no man has touched me?' [The angel] said, 'Thus [it will be]; Allah creates what He wills. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it, 'Be,' and it is.'" (Quran Al Imran 3:47).

This miraculous birth is affirmed unequivocally in the Quran, positioning Isa as a unique creation, akin to Adam, who was created without either a father or a mother: "Indeed, the example of Isa to Allah is like that of Adam. He created him from dust; then He said to him, 'Be,' and he was." (Quran Al Imran 3:59).

The Quran consistently identifies Isa as a prophet and messenger of Allah, entrusted with divine revelation (Injil, the Gospel) to guide the Children of Israel. He is referred to as "Rūḥullāh" (Spirit of Allah) and "Kalimatullāh" (Word of Allah), signifying his creation through Allah’s command and the divine essence of his message:

"O People of the Scripture, do not exceed limits in your religion nor say about Allah except the truth. The Messiah, Isa, the son of Maryam, was only a messenger of Allah and His word which He directed to Maryam and a soul [created at a command] from Him." (Quran An-Nisa 4:171).

This verse is crucial as it clarifies Isa's status, firmly establishing him as a human prophet and messenger, not a divine being or part of a trinity. The Quran highlights his numerous miracles, granted by Allah, such as healing the blind and lepers, and even raising the dead, all by Allah's permission:

"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 [that which 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 bring the dead to life 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.'" (Quran Al Imran 3:49).

A cornerstone of the Islamic belief regarding Isa is the denial of his crucifixion. The Quran asserts that he was not crucified but was raised to Allah:

"And [for] their saying, 'Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Isa, the son of Maryam, 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 Allah is ever Exalted in Might and Wise." (Quran An-Nisa 4:157-158).

This belief in his ascension and the denial of his death on the cross is a fundamental distinction between the Islamic and Christian narratives concerning Isa. The Quran further indicates his return before the Day of Judgment: "And indeed, he (Isa) will be a sign for the Hour, so do not be in doubt about it and follow Me. This is a straight path." (Quran Az-Zukhruf 43:61). This verse, interpreted by scholars, points to his second coming as a major sign of the Last Day.

HADITH AND SUNNAH

The Hadith and Sunnah, the sayings and practices of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), further elaborate on the life and future role of Prophet Isa, complementing the Quranic narrative and providing essential details. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) held Isa in immense regard, often mentioning him in discussions about the signs of the Last Day.

One of the most significant aspects of Isa's role in the Sunnah is his prophesied return to Earth before the Day of Judgment. Numerous authentic Hadith describe this event in detail. For instance, Abu Huraira reported that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:

"By Him in Whose Hand is my soul, the son of Maryam (Jesus) will shortly descend amongst you as a just ruler. He will break the cross, kill the swine, and abolish the Jizyah (tax on non-Muslims who are protected by the Islamic state). Then there will be abundance of wealth and nobody will accept charitable gifts." (Sahih Bukhari 3448, Sahih Muslim 155).

This Hadith highlights several key actions Isa will undertake upon his return:
1. Breaking the cross: Symbolizing the end of the glorification of the cross and the correction of the belief in his divinity.
2. Killing the swine: Indicating the abolition of practices deemed unlawful in Islam.
3. Abolishing the Jizyah: This is understood by scholars to mean that during Isa's time, there will be such an abundance of wealth and justice that people will either embrace Islam or there will be no need for this tax due to the widespread prosperity and adherence to truth.
4. Establishing justice and abundance: His rule will be characterized by unparalleled justice and prosperity, leading to a golden age of peace.

Another crucial aspect of Isa's return is his role in confronting the Dajjal (Antichrist). The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

"The Dajjal will come forth… Then Isa, son of Maryam, will descend at the white minaret on the eastern side of Damascus, wearing two garments lightly dyed with saffron and placing his hands on the wings of two angels. When he lowers his head, drops will fall from it, and when he raises it, drops like pearls will scatter from it. Every disbeliever who smells his breath will die, and his breath will reach as far as his sight reaches. He will then search for the Dajjal until he catches him at the gate of Lud, and kills him." (Sahih Muslim 2937a).

This Hadith provides a vivid description of Isa's descent and his direct confrontation with the Dajjal, a major antagonist in Islamic eschatology. His killing of the Dajjal signifies the triumph of truth and justice over falsehood and oppression.

The Hadith also clarifies that Isa, upon his return, will rule according to the Sharia of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), not a new law. He will be a follower of the final prophet, demonstrating the unity of divine messages and the supremacy of Islam as the final revelation. He will pray behind a Muslim Imam, further solidifying his role within the Muslim Ummah. After a period of just rule, Isa will eventually die and be buried, as narrated in some traditions, likely near Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) in Madinah.

SCHOLARLY PERSPECTIVES

Islamic scholars, both classical and contemporary, have extensively discussed Prophet Isa, building upon the Quran and Sunnah to provide a comprehensive understanding of his figure. There is a strong consensus (ijma') among Sunni scholars on several key aspects:

1. Miraculous Birth and Prophethood: Scholars unanimously affirm Isa's miraculous birth without a father and his status as a prophet and messenger of Allah. Imam Al-Tabari, in his monumental tafsir, emphasizes that Isa's unique creation is a sign of Allah's omnipotence, not an indication of divinity. Similarly, Imam Ibn Kathir, in his tafsir, reiterates that Isa was a noble servant of Allah, chosen to deliver a divine message, just like other prophets.
2. Denial of Crucifixion and Ascension: The belief that Isa was not crucified but was raised by Allah to the heavens is a core tenet supported by the vast majority of scholars. They interpret Quran 4:157-158 as a definitive statement, with various theories proposed regarding who was crucified in his place, but the essential point remains that Isa himself was not killed. Shaykh Yusuf al-Qaradawi, a contemporary scholar, consistently emphasizes this point, arguing that it preserves the dignity and mission of a prophet from such an ignominious end.
3. Second Coming: The return of Isa before the Day of Judgment is also a matter of strong consensus. Scholars like Imam An-Nawawi, in his commentary on Sahih Muslim, meticulously explain the Hadith pertaining to Isa's return, his actions against the Dajjal, and his role in establishing justice. Modern scholars like Dr. Zakir Naik often highlight the scientific and historical consistency of the Quranic narrative, arguing against claims of Isa's death or divinity.
4. His Status as a Muslim: Scholars affirm that Isa, like all prophets, was a Muslim in the broader sense of "one who submits to Allah." Upon his return, he will embody the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and lead the Muslim community. This demonstrates the continuity of divine messages and the ultimate truth of Islam. Different schools of thought within Sunni Islam (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, Hanbali) share these fundamental beliefs regarding Isa, with minor variations often pertaining to jurisprudential details rather than core creedal points.

PRACTICAL GUIDANCE

Understanding Prophet Isa's story and status in Islam offers profound practical guidance for Muslims, strengthening their faith and fostering a deeper appreciation for the unity of divine messages.

1. Reinforce Tawhid (Monotheism): Isa's narrative firmly establishes him as a revered prophet and servant of Allah, not a divine entity. This reinforces the core Islamic principle of Tawhid, the absolute oneness of Allah, and warns against shirk (associating partners with Allah). Muslims should consistently affirm: "There is no deity except Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger," and recognize all prophets, including Isa, as His chosen servants.
2. Respect All Prophets: Belief in all prophets sent by Allah, without distinction, is a pillar of faith in Islam. Isa's story encourages Muslims to hold all prophets, from Adam to Muhammad (ﷺ), in high esteem and to reject any form of disrespect or denigration towards them. Engaging in dialogue with people of other faiths should be done with respect for their prophets while clarifying Islamic beliefs.
3. Prepare for the Last Day: The detailed accounts of Isa's return serve as a powerful reminder of the impending Day of Judgment and the importance of living a righteous life. Muslims should be aware of the major signs of the Hour, including the Dajjal and Isa's return, and strive to strengthen their faith and good deeds. This includes seeking knowledge about these events and preparing spiritually for them.
4. Correct Misconceptions: Many misconceptions exist about Isa in different religious traditions. Muslims are guided to present the Islamic perspective with clarity, wisdom, and respect, using the Quran and authentic Sunnah as primary sources. This involves explaining his miraculous birth, his prophethood, the denial of his crucifixion, and his return, without engaging in polemics or judgmental language.
5. Emulate Righteousness: Prophet Isa was known for his piety, asceticism, and compassion. Muslims can draw inspiration from his character, striving to embody virtues such as humility, forgiveness, and dedication to Allah's path. His teachings, as preserved in the Quran, emphasize devotion to Allah and good conduct towards humanity.

It is crucial to avoid common mistakes such as deifying Isa or, conversely, disrespecting his high status as a prophet. Both extremes contradict Islamic teachings. Muslims should maintain the balanced, moderate view prescribed by Islam: Isa is a mighty prophet of Allah, a human being, and a sign for humanity.

CONCLUSION

Prophet Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam, stands as a figure of immense significance and reverence within Islamic tradition. His miraculous birth, his powerful message as a prophet of Allah, his numerous miracles, his ascension to heaven, and his prophesied return before the Day of Judgment are all cornerstones of Islamic belief, firmly established in the Quran and the authentic Sunnah. Islamic scholars, through centuries of diligent study and interpretation, have consistently upheld these tenets, ensuring a clear and unified understanding of his noble status. By embracing the Islamic perspective on Prophet Isa, Muslims not only fulfill a fundamental aspect of their faith but also gain deeper insights into the unity of prophethood and the grand divine plan. May Allah guide us to truly understand and appreciate the wisdom embedded in the stories of His prophets, and inspire us to follow their righteous paths.

"Our Lord, make us submissive to You and from our descendants a nation submissive to You. And show us our rites and accept our repentance. Indeed, You are the Accepting of repentance, the Merciful." (Quran Al-Baqarah 2:128)