The Personality of Jesus Christ in Islam

Introduction

The personality of Prophet Isa [Jesus Christ] represents a unique bridge between Islam and Christianity. Revered as a Prophet, Messenger, and Messiah in the Qur’an, Jesus holds a position of profound spiritual significance for Muslims. This paper based on an analytical approach endeavor to outline the essential traits of Jesus Christ’s personality as portrayed in the Qur’an, emphasizing his unique attributes, miraculous life, and teachings. In exploring the personality of Jesus Christ in Islam, this study contributes to enriching interfaith discourse, inviting mutual respect and understanding through the shared acknowledgment of his moral and spiritual excellence.

Jesus Christ in the Qur’an

The Qur’an presents a comprehensive and respectful account of Prophet Isa ibn Maryam [Jesus Christ] portraying him as a significant and divinely appointed figure in Islamic theology. His portrayal emphasizes his humanity, prophethood, miraculous life, and profound moral character. Below is an examination of the Qur’anic depiction of Jesus through his names, titles, attributes, and familial and prophetic roles.

His Names and Titles

The Qur’an refers to Jesus by various names and honorific titles that underline his esteemed status. These titles collectively highlight Jesus’ connection to divine will while affirming his status as a human prophet rather than a divine being:

1. ʿĪsā (Jesus): The Arabic name for Jesus is used consistently throughout the Qur’an, highlighting his historical presence. This name is mentioned 25 times in eleven different Chapters [Surahs] of the Qur’an[1].
2. Ibn Maryam (Son of Maryam): Prophet Isa is referred to as “Ibn Maryam” 50 times in 23 verses of the Qur’an[2]. Prophet Isa was referred to as “Son of Maryam” to emphasize the fact that he was born without a father[3]. Besides, this title highlights his human lineage and his mother’s elevated status.
3. Al-Masīḥ (The Messiah): Prophet Isa was referred to as “Al-Masīḥ”[4] [anointed; wiped clean] 11 times in 9 verses of the Qur’an because he was anointed with holy olive oil, with which the Prophets were anointed or because Gabriel wiped him with his wings at his birth so that it could be a protection from Satan[5]. Although the Qur’an does not elaborate on the specifics of messiahship, this title denotes his spiritual significance and leadership.
4. Kalimatullah (Word of God): Jesus is described as a word from Allah (Qur’an 3:45), emphasizing his miraculous creation through the divine command “Be!”
5. Rūhullah (Spirit from God): His creation is further described as being supported by a spirit from God (Qur’an 4:171), signifying his divinely inspired mission.

His Attributes and Characteristics

The Qur’an presents Prophet ʿĪsā ibn Maryam (Jesus Christ) as an exceptional and divinely chosen figure endowed with remarkable attributes and characteristics. His life embodies a unique combination of human virtues, spiritual elevation, and divine miracles, making him a central figure in Islamic tradition.

1. Servant of Allah: Jesus is described as a devoted servant of Allah who was entrusted with the mission of guiding humanity toward monotheism. The Qur’an states, “He said, ‘Indeed I am a servant of Allah! He has given me the Book and made me a prophet.” (Qur’an 19:30) This highlights his role as a prophet who conveyed Allah’s message with clarity and sincerity.
2. Messenger of Allah: The Qur’an portrays Jesus as a divine Prophet and Messenger (Qur’an 2: 253) sent specifically to the Children of Israel [Bani Israel] to guide them back to the true path of worshiping Allah alone (Qur’an 5: 72). He called them to righteousness and adherence to the teachings of Allah: “And [he will be] an apostle to the Children of Israel, [and he will declare,] “I have certainly brought you a sign from your Lord.” (Qur’an 3: 49)
3. Born of a Virgin Mother: Jesus’ miraculous birth to the Virgin Mary (Maryam) is a central aspect of his identity. The Qur’an narrates the story of Mary’s purity and Allah’s intervention in granting her a child without human intervention (Qur’an 19:16-21). His birth underscores Allah’s power and the special status of both Jesus and his mother.
4. A Spirit from Allah: The Qur’an refers to Jesus as “a spirit from Him” (Qur’an 4:171), signifying his close relationship with Allah and his elevated spiritual status. This phrase reflects the divine breath involved in his creation, which is also linked to Allah’s creation of Adam.
5. A Word from Allah: Jesus is described as a “word from Allah” (Qur’an 3:45), symbolizing his miraculous creation through Allah’s command, “Be” (Kun). This emphasizes the divine origin of his existence, bypassing natural processes while affirming his humanity.
6. Performer of Miracles by Allah’s Permission: Jesus is described as performing numerous miracles by Allah’s will. These include creating a bird from clay, healing the blind and the leper, raising the dead, and bringing down a heavenly feast (Qur’an 3:49, 5:110). These acts demonstrate his role as a sign of Allah’s omnipotence and reinforce his prophetic mission.
7. Proclaimer of Monotheism: A defining characteristic of Jesus is his unwavering emphasis on the worship of Allah alone. The Qur’an repeatedly records his rejection of divinity or association with Allah. He proclaims, “Indeed, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him. That is the straight path” (Qur’an 19:36). This affirms his role as a proponent of monotheism (Tawḥīd).
8. Humility and Patience: Throughout his life, Jesus is depicted as a figure of profound humility and patience, enduring rejection and hostility from his people. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained steadfast in his mission, embodying qualities of forbearance and reliance on Allah.
9. Advocate of Compassion and Justice: The Qur’anic depiction of Jesus reflects his commitment to compassion and justice. He advocated for moral reform, denounced hypocrisy, and called people to ethical and just living. His character serves as a model of empathy and fairness in his interactions with others.
10. A Sign and Mercy to the Worlds: Jesus is portrayed as a “sign” of Allah’s power and a “mercy to humanity”. His miraculous birth, life, and mission serve as a testament to Allah’s ability to guide and inspire humanity. The Qur’an refers to him as a “mercy” not only for his immediate followers but also as a source of guidance and spiritual upliftment for all who reflect on his life (Qur’an 19:21).

His Miraculous Birth and Family

The Qur’an devotes significant attention to the miraculous nature of Jesus’ birth and his mother; Maryam (Mary). Interestingly, a chapter (i.e., Surah Maryam) of the Qur’an is named Lady Maryam. In the Qur’anic narratives, Mary is described as a chosen, pure woman, elevated above all other women (Qur’an 3:42), and narrates the moment when an angel brings Lady Maryam glad tidings of a son conceived miraculously[6], emphasizing that no man touched her, and the birth was through divine decree (Qur’an 19:16-22).

According to exegetes of the Qur’an, God provided summer fruits for Maryam during winters and winter fruits during summers[7]. In addition, both the Sunni and Shiite hadiths mentioned Lady Maryam as one of the four superior women of Heaven along with Fatima al-Zahra, Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, and Asiyah[8].

Jesus was born without a father, and his birth is likened to that of Adam, created by Allah’s word “Be!” (Qur’an 3:59). This parallel underscores Allah’s omnipotence in creation.  As an infant, Jesus miraculously spoke to defend his mother’s honor, declaring his servitude to Allah, affirming his prophethood, and stating his mission to bring blessings wherever he goes (Qur’an 19:29-33).

His Prophethood and Mission

In the Qur’anic narrative, Jesus is unequivocally described as one of the most distinguished prophets, sent to guide the Children of Israel back to the path of monotheism (Qur’an 3:48-49). His mission was to affirm the Torah and to provide guidance through revelations and teachings brought by Allah. Key aspects of his prophethood include:

1. Revelation of the Injīl (Gospel): Jesus received the Gospel, a divine scripture containing guidance and light, confirming previous scriptures while offering new teachings to correct deviations (Qur’an 5:46).
2. Performance of Miracles: The Qur’an attributes several extraordinary miracles to Jesus Christ, performed by the permission of Allah, showcasing his role as a prophet and a sign of divine power. Jesus’ life in the Qur’an is marked by miraculous events, which serve as evidence of his prophethood and a means to guide people to faith in Allah. These miracles include:
3. Creation of a Bird from Clay: Jesus fashioned a bird from clay, and then breathed life into it with Allah’s permission (Qur’an 3:49). This act symbolizes divine creativity and affirms that all creation ultimately belongs to Allah.
4. Healing the Blind and the Leper: Jesus cured the blind and healed lepers, demonstrating his ability to restore health as a sign of divine intervention (Qur’an 3:49).
5. Raising the Dead: By Allah’s leave, Jesus restored life to the dead[9], underscoring Allah’s ultimate power over life and death (Qur’an 3:49).
6. Foretelling Unseen Knowledge: Jesus could tell people what they ate and what they stored in their homes (Qur’an 3:49). This knowledge further authenticated his prophethood.
7. Provision of a Heavenly Feast: The Qur’an narrates the story of Jesus’ disciples requesting a heavenly feast as a sign. Jesus prayed to Allah, who sent the feast as an example for all humanity (Qur’an 5:112-115).

In addition, the Qur’an presents his teachings as deeply rooted in the principles of monotheism and ethics, calling humanity to worship Allah and uphold righteousness:

1. Monotheism and Worship of Allah: Jesus consistently calls for worshiping Allah alone, repudiating any suggestion of his own divinity. He states, “Indeed, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him. That is the straight path” (Qur’an 19:36). His message reflects the essence of Tawḥīd and the rejection of associating partners with Allah.
2. Righteous Living and Ethical Teachings: Jesus’ moral guidance included urging believers to show compassion, humility, and justice. The Qur’an underscores his efforts to reform his community by guiding them toward righteous living and away from misguided traditions.
3. Confirmation of Previous Scriptures: Jesus confirmed the validity of the Torah while introducing amendments to correct distortions over time (Qur’an 5:46). Jesus commanded his followers to believe in the law of the Torah and the Injil[10].
4. Advocacy of Social Reform: Jesus sought to alleviate social inequities and oppression, embodying mercy and selflessness in his mission. His actions and teachings demonstrate his commitment to uplifting the downtrodden and rectifying societal injustices.

Conclusion

The Islamic portrayal of Jesus Christ highlights his profound spiritual significance as a prophet and servant of Allah, emphasizing his humanity, miraculous abilities, and unwavering commitment to monotheism. Jesus Christ is revered as an exemplary model of piety, humility, and devotion to Allah. His life and teachings emphasize submission to divine will, compassion for humanity, and moral uprightness, reflecting core principles of Islamic ethical thought. The Qur’an portrays Jesus as a paragon of servitude to Allah, calling believers to emulate his qualities of mercy, patience, and selflessness. His miracles, performed by Allah’s permission, inspire faith and trust in divine power, while his unwavering commitment to truth exemplifies the virtues of sincerity and sacrifice. Through his example, Muslims are reminded to live in harmony with divine guidance, striving for spiritual elevation and ethical integrity in all aspects of life. This understanding of his personality offers profound lessons for interfaith dialogue and underscores the shared heritage of faith communities.

References:

[1] . Qur’an 2: 87, 136, 253; Qur’an 3: 45, 52, 55, 59, 84; Qur’an 4: 157, 163, 171; Qur’an 5: 46, 78, 110, 112, 114, 116; Qur’an 6: 85; Qur’an 19: 34; Qur’an 33:  7; Qur’an 42: 13; Qur’an 43: 63; Qur’an 57: 27; Qur’an 61: 6, 14.

[2] . Qur’an 2: 87, 253; Qur’an 3: 45; Qur’an 4: 157, 171 etc.

[3] . Ṭabāṭabāī, Muhammad Husayn, Tafsir Al-Mizan: An Exegesis of the Holy Quran, vol. 6, p. 16.

[4] . Qur’an 3: 45; Qur’an 4: 157, 171, 172; Qur’an 5: 17, 82 etc.

[5] . Ṭabāṭabāī, Muhammad Husayn, Tafsir Al-Mizan: An Exegesis of the Holy Quran, vol. 6, p. 14

[6] . Khalidi, Tarif, The Muslim Jesus: Sayings and Stories in Islamic Literature, p. 51.

[7] . Ibn Kathīr, al-Dimashqī, Ismāʿīl ibn ʿUmar, Al-Bidāya wa l-nihāya, vol. 2, p. 58.

[8] . Ibn ʿAbd al-Barr, Yūsuf ibn ʿAbd Allāh, Al-Istīʿāb fī maʿrifat al-aṣḥāb, vol. 4, p. 1823; Majlisī, Muḥammad Bāqir, Biḥār al-Anwār, vol. 8, p. 178.

[9] . Faqih Imani, An Enlightening Commentary into the Light of the Holy Qur’an, vol. 3 p. 181.

[10] . Qaim, Mahdi Muntazir, Jesus Through the Qur’an and Shi’ite Narrations, pp. 36-37.