Jesus in Islam
Jesus, son of Mary — a beloved prophet of God
Many people are surprised to learn that Muslims love Jesus. Believing in him is part of a Muslim’s faith. Here is what the Qur’an says about him, briefly and in its own words.
His mother Mary
Mary (Maryam) is the only woman named in the Qur’an, and a whole chapter carries her name. “O Mary, God has chosen you and purified you, and chosen you above the women of the worlds” (3:42).
A miraculous birth
Muslims believe Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary without a father, by the command of God: “He says to it ‘Be’, and it is” (3:47). As a newborn he spoke from the cradle to defend his mother’s honour (19:29–33).
The Messiah
The Qur’an calls him al-Masīḥ — the Messiah — and “a word from God” and “a spirit from Him” (4:171). He is honoured in this world and the next (3:45).
His miracles
By God’s permission he healed the blind and the leper and brought the dead back to life (3:49, 5:110). Muslims believe in these miracles.
A servant and messenger of God
Jesus called people to worship the One God: “God is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him” (19:36). Muslims believe he was a human prophet, not God or the son of God (5:75). His first words were: “I am the servant of God” (19:30).
Raised to God, and his return
The Qur’an teaches that Jesus was not killed or crucified, but that God raised him up to Himself (4:157–158). Muslims believe he will return before the end of time.
One message
Jesus taught: “Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God is one Lord” (Mark 12:29). Islam brings the same message to all people. Becoming Muslim does not mean leaving Jesus — it means following the same One God he worshipped.