Prophets
Isa
ʿĪsā
Jesus, one of the five greatest prophets, born miraculously of the virgin Maryam. Given the Injil (Gospel), he performed miracles by Allah's leave and will return before the End of Times.
Who is Isa?
Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), is one of the greatest messengers of God and one of the five Ulul-Azm. In Islam he is deeply revered as a mighty prophet, the Messiah (al-Masih), born miraculously of a virgin mother, who performed great miracles by God's permission and was given the Gospel (Injil). Muslims believe in him as a prophet — not as God or the son of God.
The Miraculous Birth
The Quran honours Maryam as the greatest of women and describes how the angel announced to her a pure son, conceived without a father by God's command: "Indeed, the example of Isa with Allah is like that of Adam. He created him from dust, then said to him, Be, and he was" (3:59). As an infant, Isa spoke from the cradle to defend his mother's honour.
The Mission and Miracles of Isa
By God's permission, Isa healed the blind and the leper, gave life to the dead, and formed a bird from clay that came to life. He called the Children of Israel to the worship of the One God: "Indeed, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him" (3:51). He foretold the coming of the final Prophet, Ahmad (Muhammad ﷺ).
The Islamic View of His End
Islam teaches that Isa was not crucified or killed; rather, God raised him to Himself: "They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him, but it was made to appear so to them... rather, Allah raised him to Himself" (4:157-158). Muslims believe he will return before the Day of Judgement to establish justice.
Isa in the Quran
- "The Messiah, Isa son of Maryam, was but a messenger of Allah and His word..." (4:171)
- "And [I have come] confirming the Torah before me and to make lawful for you some of what was forbidden." (3:50)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Muslims believe Isa is God or the son of God?
No. Muslims honour Isa as a noble prophet and the Messiah, but believe firmly that he is not divine and not the son of God; worship belongs to God alone, who neither begets nor is begotten.
Will Isa return?
Yes. According to Islamic belief, Isa will descend again before the end of time, affirm the truth, and bring justice, before dying a natural death like other humans.
Etymology & origin
Isa (عيسى) is the Quranic name of the prophet known in English as Jesus. The Arabic form is treated as a proper name of non-Arabic origin (related to the Hebrew/Aramaic Yeshua). In the Quran he is honoured as al-Masih (the Messiah), Isa ibn Maryam (son of Mary), and a Word and a spirit from God.
References
- Quran:
- 3:45, 3:49, 3:51, 3:59, 4:157, 4:171, 19:30, 61:6
- Hadith:
- Bukhari 3435 (whoever testifies Isa is the servant and messenger of Allah enters Paradise); Muslim 155 (the descent of Isa son of Maryam); Bukhari 3442 (Isa described on the Night Journey); Muslim 2365 (every child is touched by Satan except Maryam and her son)
Related terms
Ibrahim
Abraham, one of the five greatest prophets and "Khalilullah" (Friend of Allah). Father of Ismail and Ishaq, he built the Kaaba and is the patriarch of monotheism.
Muhammad ﷺ
The final Prophet and Messenger of Allah, sent as a mercy to all worlds. He received the Quran, established Islam, and is the seal of the prophets — none comes after him.
Musa
Moses, one of the five greatest prophets and "Kalimullah" (the one who spoke with Allah). He confronted Pharaoh, led the Children of Israel from Egypt, and received the Torah.
Nuh
Noah, one of the five greatest prophets (Ulul-Azm). He called his people to monotheism for 950 years, built the Ark, and was saved with the believers from the Flood.
Yahya
John the Baptist, son of Zakariya, a prophet given wisdom in childhood. Described in the Quran as devout, pure, and dutiful to his parents; he confirmed Isa's prophethood.
Zakariya
Zechariah, an elderly prophet who guarded Maryam and prayed for a child despite his age. Allah granted him Yahya (John) as a miraculous answer to his supplication.