Introduction
Do Muslims believe in Jesus? The answer surprises many. While Islam and Christianity hold different theological views, Muslims deeply revere Jesus as one of the greatest prophets in history. Unfortunately, misinformation has led to confusion about Islam’s true perspective. This article explores what Muslims actually believe about Jesus, addressing questions around his life, mission, and significance—according to the Quran and Islamic teachings.
Who Is Jesus in Islam?
In Islam, Jesus is known as Isa (عيسى عليه السلام) and is honored as a mighty prophet and messenger of God. Muslims believe Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary (Maryam), performed miracles by God’s will, and delivered God’s message to the Children of Israel.
He holds a unique place among prophets because:
- He was born miraculously without a father.
- He was given the Gospel (Injeel).
- He is referred to as the Messiah (Al-Masih) in the Quran.
Unlike Christianity, Islam does not regard Jesus as the Son of God. This distinction is essential and defines much of the theological difference between the two religions.
What Do Muslims Believe About Jesus’ Birth?
Islam affirms the virgin birth of Jesus, considering it a divine miracle. According to the Quran (Surah Maryam), Mary was chosen and purified by God and conceived Jesus through the command of Allah, not through any human interaction.
This belief in the miraculous birth is a core part of Muslim faith. However, Muslims do not believe Jesus is the Son of God, but rather a creation of God, like Adam, who was also created without a father. You can also check the Understanding the Purpose of Life in Islam.
What Do Muslims Believe in Jesus?
Yes, absolutely. When people ask, “Do Muslims believe in Jesus Christ?”, the answer is yes—but not in the same theological way as Christians do.
Muslims believe:
- Jesus was a true prophet of God.
- He performed many miracles (healing the sick, raising the dead).
- He preached about worshiping one God (Tawhid).
- He was a servant and messenger, not divine himself.
Thus, Jesus Christ is respected and loved in Islam, but not worshipped.
Do Muslims Believe in Jesus as the Son of God?
No. This is where Islamic and Christian beliefs part ways clearly. When people ask, “Do Muslims believe in Jesus as the Son of God?”, the Islamic stance is firm: God has no children.
The Quran explicitly states in Surah Al-Ikhlas:
“He begets not, nor was He begotten.” (Quran 112:3)
Muslims believe attributing divine qualities or relationships to prophets is considered shirk (associating partners with God), which is strictly forbidden in Islam.
Do Muslims Believe in Jesus’ Resurrection?
This question often comes up: “Do Muslims believe in Jesus’ resurrection?” The answer requires understanding the Islamic narrative.
Muslims do not believe Jesus died on the cross.
According to the Quran:
- Jesus was not crucified.
- He was neither killed nor resurrected from death.
- Instead, God raised Jesus to the heavens alive.
So when people ask, “Do Muslims believe in the resurrection of Jesus?”, the belief is that he did not die in the first place, so the concept of resurrection after crucifixion does not apply in Islam. You can also check Heaven in Islam – Understanding Jannah & Its Eternal Rewards
Do Muslims Believe in God and Jesus?
Yes, but with clear theological distinctions. Islam teaches the belief in one God (Allah)—the same God of Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.
When people ask, “Do Muslims believe in God and Jesus?”, it’s important to clarify:
- Muslims worship only God (Allah).
- They honor Jesus as a prophet, not as divine.
- Worship is for God alone, and Jesus was His messenger.
Jesus’ Second Coming in Islam
An important belief in Islam is that Jesus will return before the Day of Judgment. This belief is based on both Quranic verses and Hadith (prophetic traditions).
Muslims believe that Jesus will:
- Return to defeat the false messiah (Dajjal).
- Re-establish justice and truth.
- Break the cross and correct false beliefs about him.
This shows the immense role Jesus plays even in Islamic eschatology.
What Do Muslims Believe in Jesus and Christianity?
Muslims respect Christians as People of the Book (Ahl al-Kitab) and believe that Jesus brought truth in his time. However, over time, Muslims believe the original message of Jesus was altered.
So when asking, “What do Muslims believe in Jesus?”, the answer includes:
- Belief in his prophetic mission.
- Rejection of his divinity.
- Belief in his miraculous life and second coming.
Similarities and Differences Between Muslim and Christian Beliefs About Jesus
Similarities:
- Virgin birth
- Performed miracles
- Called the Messiah
- Will return in the end times
Differences:
- Christians believe Jesus is the Son of God and part of the Trinity.
- Muslims see Jesus as a prophet and reject any divine status.
- Christians believe in Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection; Muslims do not.
FAQs
Is Mary (Maryam) respected in Islam?
Absolutely. Maryam is highly honored in Islam. She has an entire chapter named after her in the Quran and is considered one of the most virtuous and pure women in history.
What is the Islamic name for Jesus?
In Islam, Jesus is referred to as Isa (عيسى). He is mentioned in the Quran multiple times and is recognized as one of the five greatest prophets in Islam.
Do Muslims celebrate Christmas or Jesus’ birthday?
No, Muslims do not celebrate Christmas or Jesus’ birthday. While they respect Jesus, Islamic traditions do not include such holidays, as they are not part of Islamic teachings or practices.
Was Jesus a Muslim according to Islam?
According to Islamic belief, all prophets, including Jesus, submitted to the will of Allah, which makes them Muslims in the literal sense—those who submit to God’s will.
Conclusion
Do Muslims believe in Jesus? Yes—but in a way that aligns with Islamic theology. Jesus is deeply respected in Islam as a prophet, miracle worker, and the Messiah—not as the Son of God or a divine being. Understanding these views helps bridge gaps between faiths and promotes respectful dialogue. By recognizing both the shared and unique beliefs about Jesus, we can foster a deeper interfaith understanding.