Presenter: Aurangzeb Zafar

Presenter: Aurangzeb Zafar
JESUS in Islam Assalamu Alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa baraktuhu May peace and God’s mercy and blessings be upon all of you! Good evening and thanks for taking time to attend today’s seminar. My name is Aurangzeb and the topic of this seminar is “Jesus in Islam”. Jesus is no doubt the central figure in Christianity. But it may be interesting for you to note that Muslims too hold him in very high regards. Actually belief in Jesus is part of every Muslim’s belief and no Muslim is a Muslim unless he believes in Jesus. Muslims believe that Jesus was born of virgin mother, Mary, that He is the word of God, that He is the promised Christ, that he was supported by the Holy Spirit, that he performed many miracles including healing blinds and lepers and raising from the dead, that he was lifted to the heavens and that he will be sent back in the End Times. Sounds similar, right? Yes indeed there are many similarities between the Islamic and Christian belief about Jesus, but there are differences as well. Before starting the presentation I’d like to make a request to all of you, to please not be offended by something that you find different from your beliefs. My goal is to share with you how Jesus is viewed in Islam and not to offend anyone. So although there would be things in this presentation which you might find different from your beliefs, but I’d like to request you to focus more on the similarities and they are far more than there are differences. Presenter: Aurangzeb Zafar

Outline Brief Introduction of Islam Mother of Jesus - Mary
John the Baptist and his birth Virgin Birth of Jesus Jesus is not the son of God, or God, or third in the Trinity High status of Mary and Jesus among human beings Jesus – a prophet like Moses, Abraham, David, etc. (peace be upon them) Teachings of Jesus, and his disciples Jesus was not crucified Q&A That said, here is the outline for today’s presentation First I’d like to give you a very brief introduction of Islam. After it I’ll talk about the mother of Jesus, Marry, how her mother dedicated her to the service of God and how she was brought up. Then we’ll see how John the Baptist was born and what the Qur’an says about him. Next we’ll study the immaculate conception of Jesus and his virgin birth as described in the Qur’an and believed by Muslims. Then we’ll see that according to Islamic belief Jesus is not son of God or God or third entity in the Trinity. After that we will see how Jesus and Mary are given a very high status among the human beings, in Islam. Next, we’ll see that in Islam Jesus is a Prophet, like Moses, Abraham, David, and so on, who was sent to guide his people. We will study some of his teachings and read about his disciples. Finally we’ll see that according to Islamic belief Jesus was not crucified but God saved him and lifted him alive, and because he did not die he will be sent again near the End Times. If you think of any questions during the presentation please write them down on the cards that have been provided to you, I’ll try to answer them at the end of the presentation.

Some Terms/Keywords Allah = God in Arabic Muhammad Qur’an = Koran
Islam Isa = Jesus PBUH = peace be upon him We = Plural of respect in Arabic Children of Israel (or People of the Book) = Jews and Christians Here is the list of keywords or terms that I will be using in my presentation. Muslims believe in one Creator, who is called Allah in Arabic. Muhammad is the final prophet of God sent to the mankind. The Qur’an is the Divine book which Muslims believe to be the literal word of God. I’ll pronounce the word as Qur’an and not Koran. Similarly, I’ll say Islam and not Izlam. Jesus is Isa in Arabic. PBUH is the abbreviation of peace be upon him. “We” is the plural of respect in Arabic which is used as a pronoun for one God, in the Qur’an. And “Children of Israel” and “people of the book” refer to Jews and Christians, in the Qur’an.

1. Brief Introduction of Islam (1/5)
One Creator – Allah, God Unique attributes All-Knowing, All-Wise, All-Powerful, etc. Absolutely Perfect Free from any kind of flaw, weakness, imperfection, need and dependence Let’s start with the brief introduction of Islam. The concept of exactly one creator is central to Islam. That creator is called Allah in Arabic. Muslims believe that this universe and everything in it was created by God. He is the only creator and everything else is His creation. The creator, in Islam, is absolutely perfect and most exalted. He is eternal. He is not bound by time and space. He begets not, nor is He begotten. And there is nothing like Him. He has got all the good and unique attributes of infinite vastness and absolute perfection. For instance, He is All-knowing, All-powerful, All-Wise, All-Merciful and so on. Again, He is absolutely perfect and free from any kind of flaw, weakness, imperfection, need and dependence, no matter how minute it is. Image, courtesy:

Purposeful creation What is the purpose? Praise, glorification, reverence, and worship of God Complete obedience and submission to Him Human beings are unique Intellect/Wisdom Freedom to choose Muslims believe that just because God is perfect what He does is perfect too. So this creation is a purposeful creation and God did not create all this in vain. And the purpose of creation, in Islam, is praise, glorification, reverence and worship of God and His complete obedience and submission to Him. He created everything so that everything could praise, worship and obey Him. Everything in the universe does that but without knowing and without choice. Human beings are unique because they are given intellect and wisdom through which they can know the purpose of their creation and they are also given freedom to choose, using which they can either choose to do what is required of them or choose to not do so. Image, courtesy:

Life of this world – a TEST The result of the test? Paradise Hell What is required to pass? Know the Creator and purpose of creation Fulfill the purpose of creation Praise Him, Glorify Him, Worship Him, Obey Him in everything, Submit to Him And life of this world is a test for human beings, not a written test – but a comprehensive one. We are given life and sent in this world so that we could be tested as to who among us realize the purpose of their creation and then fulfill it out of their choice. Since, it is a test; it has got a result too. Those who pass the test, will be appreciated, acknowledged, honored and rewarded in a place called Heaven or Paradise. Those who fail the test will be punished in a place called Hell. Again, what is required to pass the test? First of all know who the Creator is, what His attributes are, why He created us. And then fulfill the purpose of creation which is to worship and obey Him. Image, courtesy:

Are we told about the test? Books of God Torah Psalms Gospel Qur’an (final revelation) Prophets Adam, Noah, Abraham, Lot, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Aaron, David, Solomon, John, Jesus and Muhammad (may peace be upon them all) After knowing that this life is a test, the next question that comes to mind is: “are we told about the test”. And the answer is Yes, everything in detail. God described everything in His own words. These were called Books of God or word of God. Among them are Torah, Psalms, Gospel and Quran. Muslims believe that the Quran is the final revelation and is the only Divine book that exists in its original form. Not only God described everything Himself but He also appointed human beings from among human beings who explained the word of God to mankind and also practically demonstrated what is required of them to pass the test of life. These instructors and role models, called messengers and prophets were sent to every nation. Among them were Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Ishmael, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, Aaron, David, Solomon, John, Jesus and Muhammad who is the final messenger. May peace be upon them all! Image, courtesy:

Belief One God, Angels, Books, Prophets, Divine Decree, Day of Resurrection Worship Prayer, Fasting, Pilgrimage Obedience Commandments (e.g. About Sanctity of Life, Respecting Parents, Justice, Charity, Being humble, Honest and Truthful, Prohibition of Premarital/Extramarital Relations) So three things are required to pass the test. First is the belief. Here are some core beliefs that every Muslim has to have. We have seen about the belief in the Creator, Books and Messengers, others are belief in Angels, Divine Decree, and the day of Resurrection. As for the worship, Muslims are taught different modes of worship. Among them are praying, fasting and making Pilgrimage to Makkah. As for the obedience, they are given excellent commandments. These commandments cover all aspects of our individual and collective lives and ensure a peaceful society based on justice, equality, fairness, goodness, piety and modesty. Image, courtesy:

2. Mother of Jesus – Mary Imran – a descendant of Jacob, grandson of Abraham Wife of Imran vows to dedicate her child 3:35. (Remember) when the wife of 'Imran said: “O my Lord! I have vowed to You what (the child that) is in my womb to be dedicated for Your services, so accept this, from me. Verily, You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knowing.” After the brief introduction of Islam, now let us see what the Qur’an tells Muslims about the mother of Jesus. The Qur’an says that Mary was the mother of Jesus. She was the daughter of Imran who was a descendant of Jacob, the grandson of Abraham. We are told that when the wife of Imran got pregnant she vowed to God that she would dedicate the child who is in her womb to the service of God. And she prayed that may God accept this from her. Here is the verse from the Quran. It is in chapter 3 and the verse number is 35. It says: (Remember) when the wife of 'Imran said: “O my Lord! I have vowed to You what (the child that) is in my womb to be dedicated for Your services, so accept this, from me. Indeed, You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knowing.”

2. Mother of Jesus – Mary She delivers a baby girl She names her Mary
She prays for Mary’s and her offspring’s protection from Satan 3:36. Then when she delivered her [child Mary], she said: “O my Lord! I have delivered a female child,” - and Allah knew better what she delivered, - “And the male is not like the female, and I have named her Maryam (Mary), and I seek refuge with You (Allah) for her and for her offspring from Satan, the outcast.” But when she delivered the child she found that it was a girl. We can tell that she is not very happy. She was expecting a boy because these were males that were usually dedicated for this purpose. Nonetheless, she names the daughter, Mary and prays that she and her offspring may be protected from Satan. Here is the verse. You can also find it in your handouts; I won’t be reading all the verses but what I am describing is from the Quran and the slides have the relevant verses which you can read later.

2. Mother of Jesus – Mary God accepts Mary
God arranges for Mary’s upbringing under the care of Zechariah God provides Mary with sustenance 3:37. So her Lord (Allah) accepted her with goodly acceptance. He made her grow in a good manner and put her under the care of Zachariah. Every time he entered chamber to (visit) her , he found her supplied with sustenance. He said: “O Mary! From where have you got this?” She said, “This is from Allah.” Verily, Allah provides sustenance to whom He wills, without limit.” Next we are told in Qur’an that God accepted Mary with a goodly acceptance, made her grow up in a good manner i.e. an excellent and a very fine child, and put her under the care of Zechariah. Zechariah was one of the priests of the temple and a prophet. Mary of course had to move to the temple as she was dedicated for God’s service and someone had to be her caretaker there. We are told in the Quran later that the people in the temple disputed as to who would become the caretaker of Mary and then they cast lots with their pens to decide the winner, who turned out to be Zechariah that is why Quran says that God put Mary under the care of Zechariah. Then we are told that whenever Zechariah entered her Chamber, her room where she used to worship God, he found sustenance with her, food and fruits of different kind. He was of course surprised to see food with her. Hmm… where does this little girl get all this yummy food from? When he couldn’t figure out who gives her food, one day he asked her O Mary, where did this come for you from? And she said, “this is from Allah, from God. Verily God provides sustenance to whomever He wills, without limit”.

3. Miraculous Birth of John the Baptist
Zechariah prays for the offspring Glad tidings of a righteous son, John A prophet and someone who would testify the Word of God. 3:38. At that time Zachariah invoked his Lord, saying: “O my Lord! Grant me from You, a good offspring. You are indeed the All-Hearer of invocation.” 3:39. Then the angels called him, while he was standing in prayer in the chamber, (saying): “Allah gives you glad tidings of Yahya (John), confirming the Word from Allah [i.e. Jesus], noble, keeping away from sexual relations with women, a Prophet, from among the righteous.” This made Zechariah pray to God for the offspring. Zechariah was in his old age and he did not have any children. After finding out that God provided food to Mary, his hope that God can still provide him with offspring got strengthened. So Zechariah prayed, O my Lord, grant me from you, a good offspring. You are indeed the All-Hearer of invocation and supplication. God heard his prayer. So he sent angels who called him while he was praying in the chamber. They told him that Allah gives him glad tidings of John, who will confirm the word of God i.e. he would testify that Jesus is the Word of God and Christ, he will be noble, modest and a prophet from among the righteous.

3. Miraculous Birth of John the Baptist
Zechariah – an old man, his wife – barren Zechariah questions how he can have a son Not difficult for God – He does what He wills Zechariah asks for a sign 3:40. He said: “O my Lord! How can I have a son when I am very old, and my wife is barren?” Allah said: “Thus Allah does what He wills.” 3:41. He said: “O my Lord! Make a sign for me.” Allah said: “Your sign is that you shall not speak to mankind for three days except with signals. And remember your Lord much (by praising Him again and again), and glorify (Him) in the afternoon and in the morning.” On hearing that, Zechariah said, “O my Lord how can I have a son when I am very old and my wife has been barren all her life”? Allah said, “Thus Allah does what He wills.” He said, O my Lord, make a sign for me. Although he prayed for the offspring, but seems like he is finding it hard to digest the idea of having a son, because He knows he is too old and his wife has been barren all her life. So he asks for a sign, seeing which he could strengthen his heart. God tells him, your sign is that you will not be able to speak to the people for three days except with signs. So remember much your Lord, i.e. praise Him, and glorify Him in the afternoon and in the morning. In case you are wondering what does the birth of John the Baptist have to do with our topic, it is important to note that the Birth of Jesus is mentioned at least three times in Quran and every time the birth of John is mentioned before it to make us realize that the birth of John is miraculous too. God, who can bless a very old man whose wife cannot produce child, with a son can also bless Mary with a son, while she is virgin. It is easy for Him.

3. John the Baptist John was given wisdom since childhood
And mercy and purity He was devout and kind to his parents He was not overbearing or rebellious/disobedient Peace be upon John 19: (It was said to his son): “O Yahya (John)! Hold fast the Scripture [Torah].” And We gave him wisdom while yet a child. And (made him) sympathetic to men as a mercy (or a grant) from Us, and pure from sins and he was righteous. And dutiful towards his parents, and he was neither an arrogant nor disobedient (to Allah or to his parents). And peace be on him the day he was born, the day he dies, and the day he will be raised up to life (again)! Here are some of the characteristics of John the Baptist, according to the Qur’an, that he was blessed with wisdom since childhood. God made him sympathetic to men as a Mercy from God, and pure from sins and disbelief. He was righteous and dutiful to his parents. He was neither arrogant nor disobedient to Allah and his parents. Peace be upon him the day he was born, the day he died and the day he will be raised up to life again.

4. Mary was Chosen Angels tell Mary that she was chosen above the women of all nations They ask her to worship her Lord by bowing and prostrating 3:42. And (remember) when the angels said: “O Mary! Verily, Allah has chosen you, purified you, and chosen you above the women of all nations.” 3:43. O Mary! “Submit yourself with obedience to your Lord and prostrate yourself, and bow down along with those who bow down (in prayer, submission)” Next we see that angels tell Mary that she was chosen by Allah and purified and chosen above women of all nations. It is an unmatched honor that Mary enjoys. But with privilege comes more responsibility and expectations. So the angels ask Mary to submit to her Lord, and prostrate and bow down with those who bow down in prayer and submission. Images, courtesy:

4. Mary receives glad tidings of a son
Angels give Mary glad tidings of a son Who will be the Word of God, and Messiah (Christ – the anointed one) Who will be honorable and near to God And who will speak in childhood and will be righteous 3:45. (Remember) when the angels said: “O Mary! Verily, Allah gives you the glad tidings of a Word [“Be!” - and he was! i.e. Jesus] from Him, his name will be the Messiah (Christ) Jesus, the son of Mary, held in honor in this world and in the Hereafter, and will be one of those who are near to Allah.” 3:46. “He will speak to the people in the cradle and in manhood, and he will be one of the righteous.” So Mary grows up as a righteous, noble and chaste lady who is dedicated to worship of God and the service of religion. According to the Qur’an, one day angels come to Mary and give her glad tidings of a son who would be the Word of God. They tell her that his name would be the Messiah Jesus, Jesus Christ, son of Mary. That he will be held in honor in this world and in the Hereafter he will be one of those who are near to Allah. They further tell Mary, that Jesus will speak to the people as an infant and he will be one of the righteous.

Mary questions how she can have a son when she is virgin Not difficult for God – says “Be” and “It is” God will teach Jesus Torah, Gospel and wisdom, she is told 3:47. She said: “O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man has touched me.” He said: “So (it will be) for Allah creates what He wills. When He has decreed something, He says to it only: “Be!” and it is. 3:48. And He (Allah) will teach him [Jesus] the Book and the Wisdom, (and) the Taurat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel). Now this is quite shocking for the virgin lady to hear the news about having a son. She is like, wait a minute, do you tell me that I can have a son when no man has ever touched me? In other words I am a virgin, how on earth can I have a son. Angel Gabriel says, so it will be, for Allah creates what He wills. It is not difficult for Him. When He has decreed something He just says “Be” and “It becomes”. Then the angel Gabriel continues on to tell Mary more about the son. That Allah will teach him the Book and the wisdom and the Torah and the Gospel.

Gabriel tells Mary that Jesus will be a messenger for progeny of Jacob He will perform miracles of: Making a living bird from clay Healing born blinds and lepers Raising from the dead Telling what people eat and store in their houses 3:49. And will make him [Jesus] a Messenger to the Children of Israel (saying): “I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, that I design for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it, and it becomes a bird by Allah's Leave; and I heal him who was born blind, and the leper, and I bring the dead to life by Allah's Leave. And I inform you of what you eat, and what you store in your houses. Surely, therein is a sign for you, if you believe. And Allah will make him a messenger to the progeny of Jacob and enable him to perform miracles as a sign that he is a true messenger from God. Among the miracles that he will perform by the will of God are creating a living bird out of clay, healing born blinds and lepers, give life to dead, and telling what people eat and what they store in their houses. Images, courtesy: and

He will confirm/testify Torah He will make some forbidden things lawful He will ask his people to obey him and worship God – their and Jesus’ God 3:50. And I have come confirming that which was before me of the Torah, and to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden to you, and I have come to you with a proof from your Lord. So fear Allah and obey me. 3:51. Truly! Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him (Alone). This is the Straight Path. He will confirm Torah as a true book from God and make some forbidden things lawful. He will ask his people to fear God and follow Jesus. He will tell them that God is his Lord and their Lord so they should worship God alone. So the angels tell Mary all this in advance, about the virgin birth of Jesus, about him being the word of God, the promised Christ, a messenger to progeny of Jacob, a teacher of Torah and Gospel, and having the ability to perform many miracles.

4. Virgin Birth of Jesus Mary secludes herself to worship God
Angel Gabriel appears in the shape of a man She seeks refuge with God 19:16. And mention in the Book (the Qur'an, O Muhammad, the story of) Mary, when she withdrew in seclusion from her family to a place facing east. 19:17. She placed a screen (to screen herself) from them; then We sent to her Our Spirit [angel Gabriel], and he appeared before her in the form of a man in all respects. 19:18. She said: "Verily! I seek refuge with the Most Beneficent (Allah) from you, if you do fear Allah." Now let us study the virgin birth of Jesus in more detail. This is described in chapter 19 and the name of this chapter is … well…would anybody like to guess the name of this chapter? Well the name of the chapter is “Mary”. The whole chapter is named after Mary, the mother of Jesus. We are told in this chapter that Mary withdrew herself in seclusion from her family to a place facing east. There she placed a screen to screen herself from people and there Allah sent angels to her. Angel Gabriel appeared to her in the form of a man. This was a test for her modesty. Just imagine a virgin young girl in her room with a man, alone. But Mary is a chaste lady, on finding a man in her room she is not like, “wow, what a tall handsome man!”. She is actually frightened and worried. She seeks refuge with God from the man and tells him to fear God and not have any bad intentions towards her.

4. Virgin Birth of Jesus Gabriel reveals his identity and purpose to come Mary questions how she can have a son when she is virgin Says, it is easy for God. He will make him a sign for mankind Mary conceives Jesus and withdraws to a far place 19: (The angel) said: “I am only a Messenger from your Lord, (to announce) to you the gift of a righteous son.” She said: “How can I have a son, when no man has touched me, nor am I unchaste?” He said: “So (it will be), your Lord said: ‘That is easy for Me (Allah): And (We wish) to appoint him as a sign to mankind and a mercy from Us (Allah), and it is a matter (already) decreed, (by Allah).’” 19:22. So she conceived him, and she withdrew with him to a far place So it was a test of her modesty which she successfully passed and on that the Angel Gabriel reveals his identity that he is an angel, a messenger from God, and tells her not to be scared. He also tells her that he came to announce the gift of a righteous son. Mary as we have seen before is shocked, she questions how can she have a son when she is a virgin. Angel tells her that it will be so. Her Lord has said that it is easy for Him. And He will make Jesus a sign for the mankind (i.e. his virgin birth) and a mercy from God. And that this is a matter already decreed. So Mary conceives miraculously and withdraws with the child in her belly to a far place, i.e. the Bethlehem valley, 4 to 6 miles from Jerusalem).

4. Virgin Birth of Jesus Time of childbirth – Mary wishes she had died
Jesus consoles her Informs her of the water stream and fresh dates God provided for her 19:23. And the pains of childbirth drove her to the trunk of a date-palm. She said: “Would that I had died before this, and had been forgotten and out of sight!” 19:24. Then [Jesus] cried unto her from below her, saying: “Grieve not! Your Lord has provided a water stream under you;” 19:25. “And shake the trunk of date-palm towards you, it will let fall fresh ripe-dates upon you.” Then when it is the time to give birth, labor pains drive her to the trunk of a date-palm. She is in pain but the pain and worries of forthcoming insult and embarrassment are overwhelming. At that point Mary wishes that she had died before this and had been long forgotten. She is really worried about what she is gonna tell her people. She is thinking of all the fingers that will be pointed towards her, all the evil titles and names that she will be given, all the comments like “oh look at her, isn’t it the same girl who was dedicated for God’s service”, “isn’t it the same girl who belongs to a noble family”, “and look what she has done”. You can imagine how worried she is. But at that point that what is below her, i.e. the newly born baby consoles her by saying, “Grieve not, Your Lord has provided a water stream under you and fresh dates. Shake the trunk of the date-palm and it will let fresh ripe dates fall on you. So basically she is told that her Lord has not forsaken her. He cares about her and has provided for her dates to gain energy and water to drink as well as get purified. And that God is with her and He will let it pass, she will be able to face her people, so she should not be grieved. Images, courtesy:

4. Virgin Birth of Jesus Tells her to fast and avoid speaking to any human Mary brings her baby boy, Jesus, to her people Her people are shocked, they blame her of immodesty and question her 19:26. “So eat and drink and cool (your) eye, and if you see any human being, say: ‘Verily! I have vowed a fast unto the Most Beneficent (Allah) so I shall not speak to any human being this day.’” 19:27. Then she brought him (the baby) to her people, carrying him. They said: “O Mary! Indeed you have brought a mighty unheard thing.” 19:28. “O sister of Aaron! Your father was not a man who used to commit adultery, nor your mother was an unchaste woman.” After telling her about the dates and water, Jesus, the newly born baby, asks her to eat and drink and cool her eye by looking at her child and hugging and kissing him. He also tells her that when she is ready to go back to her people she should fast and when any human being tries to talk to her she should signal them that she is fasting and cannot speak. So she comes back to her people, carrying the baby, Jesus, in her hands. As expected, everyone is shocked. They exclaim! O Mary, you have indeed brought a mighty unheard thing. O Mary, your father was not an adulterer nor was your mother an unchaste lady, how come could you do such an evil and shameful thing.

4. Virgin Birth of Jesus She points to the baby Jesus
Jesus speaks as an infant and tells them that he is the prophet of God He is given the Gospel, is made blessed and dutiful to his mother Peace be upon him 19:29. Then she pointed to him. They said: “How can we talk to one who is a child in the cradle?” 19: “He [Jesus] said: Verily! I am a slave of Allah, He has given me the Scripture and made me a Prophet;” “And He has made me blessed wheresoever I be, and has enjoined on me prayer, and charity, as long as I live.” And dutiful to my mother, and made me not arrogant, unblest. “And Salam (peace) be upon me the day I was born, and the day I die, and the day I shall be raised alive!” As was told previously, she points to the child, meaning that they should ask him. They are like, what? How can we talk to a baby who is in cradle? On that, the baby, Jesus, says. “Verily, I am a slave of Allah. He has given me the Scripture i.e. Gospel and made me a Prophet”. And He has made me blessed wheresoever I be, and has enjoined on me prayer and charity, as long as I live. And dutiful to my mother and I am not made arrogant or overbearing. Peace be upon me the day I was born, the day I die and the day I shall be raised alive. This is the first miracle of Jesus, when he spoke as an infant in the defense of his mother. He cleared her from all false allegations and slander. It is important to note that Jesus performed this and other miracles by the help of angel Gabriel, whose title in Qur’an is “the Holy Spirit”. So he was truly supported by the Holy Spirit.

This is a true narrative
Muhammad PBUH did not know about these things He did not make it up 3:44. This is a part of the news of the unseen which We inspire you with. You were not with them, when they cast lots with their pens as to which of them should be charged with the care of Mary; nor were you with them when they disputed. The Qur’an tells us that this is a true narrative. Muhammad PBUH did not know about any of the details. The whole Qur’an is the divine revelation and not Muhammad’s own writings, as it is claimed by some non-Muslims. Also, it is interesting to note that the Qur’an has many more stories of other Prophets and their families as compared to very few about him and his family, also the name of Jesus is mentioned in the Qur’an at least 25 times while the name of Muhammad is mentioned just 5 times.

5. Jesus is NOT son of God Such is Jesus… son of Mary
It befits not God that He should beget – He is absolutely perfect 19:34. Such is Jesus, son of Mary. (it is) a statement of truth, about which they doubt (or dispute). 19:35. It befits not (the Majesty of) Allah that He should beget a son. Glorified and Absolutely perfect. When He decrees a thing, He only says to it, “Be!” and it is. After the story of virgin birth of Jesus, the Qur’an says: “Such is Jesus, son of Mary, this is a statement of truth about which people doubt”. It is important to note that most of the time when Jesus is mentioned in the Qur’an, he is mentioned as “Jesus, son of Mary” to emphasize that he was son of Mary and not God. Then Qur’an reads that it befits not God that He should beget a son. Process of begetting is associated with low animal desires. Human beings and animals beget, God does not. He is far too perfect and most exalted to beget and have sons and daughters. He creates. He is the creator of everything. And whenever He decrees something He just says “Be” and “it becomes”. That is how He created Jesus, through His command or word of “Be”, that is why Jesus is said to be the Word of God. Images, courtesy:

5. God is too perfect to have sons
Human beings and animals beget God creates, says “Be” and “It is” He is too perfect and exalted to have sons His is all creation; does NOT need a heir or intermediary It is a mighty thing to say 2: And they say: Allah has begotten a son. Glory be to Him. Nay, to Him belongs all that is in the heavens and on earth, and all surrender with obedience to Him. The Originator of the heavens and the earth. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it : “Be!” - and it is. 18:4-5. And to warn those who say, “Allah has begotten a son” No knowledge have they of such a thing, nor had their fathers. Mighty is the word that comes out of their mouths… Image, courtesy: It is not exclusive to Jesus only, God in general does not have any sons. He is far too perfect and most exalted to have sons. His is all creation. Everything is created by Him and belongs to Him. He does not need a heir or a name bearer or an intermediary.

5. Jesus is NOT God or part of Trinity
Muslims believe that Jesus is not God (5:72) Similarly God is not Jesus Muslims believe that Jesus is not part of Trinity And that there is no Trinity – God is just one (4:171, 5:73) Muslims also believe that Jesus is not God, and similarly God is not Jesus. Declaring anyone else God, other than the true God, the one Creator of the universe, is the greatest sin in Islam which will not be forgiven unless the person repents sincerely. Muslims also believe that Jesus is not part of the Trinity and that Trinity, itself, does not exist. They believe that God is just one.

5. Jesus is like Adam Jesus is like Adam, both were created by God
Adam is more proper candidate to be called ‘Son of God’ 3:59. Verily, the likeness of Jesus before Allah is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: “Be!” - and he was. 3:60. (This is) the truth from your Lord, so be not of those who doubt. According to the Islamic belief Jesus was born of virgin mother. But just because he was born without a father, it does not mean that he was the son of God because then Adam is probably a more proper candidate to be called the son of God. Because Jesus still had a mother. Adam had none. No father, no mother. But the Qur’an says that both Adam and Jesus are human beings. God created both of them. It says that the example of Jesus is just like the example of Adam. God created him from dust/clay and just said, “Be” and he was. Then it says, this is the truth from your Lord so be of not those who doubt.

5. Jesus will be reminded of God’s favors
God will remind Jesus of His favors on the Day of Resurrection Giving him wisdom, teaching Torah and Gospel Giving him ability and permission to perform miracles of: Speaking as an infant Making an alive bird out of clay Healing born blinds and lepers Raising from the dead Saving him from his people Giving him disciples In the Qur’an we are told that God will remind Jesus of His favors on him, on the day of Resurrection. God’s favors on him, like giving him wisdom, teaching him Torah and Gospel, giving him the ability and permission to perform miracles like speaking as an infant, creating a living bird out of clay, healing born blinds and lepers, raising from the dead and so on, and His favor of saving Jesus from his people when they tried to kill him and giving him the disciples. Images, courtesy: and

5. Jesus will be reminded of God’s favors
5:110. (Remember) when Allah will say (on the Day of Resurrection). “O Jesus, son of Mary! Remember My Favor to you and to your mother when I supported you with the Holy Spirit [Gabriel] so that you spoke to the people in the cradle and in maturity; and when I taught you writing, the wisdom, the Torah and the Gospel; and when you made out of the clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, by My Permission, and you breathed into it, and it became a bird by My Permission, and you healed those born blind, and the lepers by My Permission, and when you brought forth the dead by My Permission; and when I restrained the Children of Israel from you since you came unto them with clear proofs, and the disbelievers among them said: 'This is nothing but evident magic.’” 5:111. And when I (Allah) put in the hearts of the disciples to believe in Me and My Messenger, they said: “We believe. And bear witness that we are Muslims.” These are the verses that talk about these favors.

5. Jesus will be questioned
God will question Jesus if he told his people to worship him Jesus will say: “It was not of me to say what I had no right to say” “Had I said such a thing You would have known it, You know what is in my heart…” 5:116. And (remember) when Allah will say (on the Day of Resurrection): "O Jesus, son of Mary! Did you say unto men: ‘Worship me and my mother as two gods besides Allah?’ “ He will say: “Glory be to You! It was not for me to say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, You would surely have known it. You know what is in my inner-self though I do not know what is in Yours, truly, You, only You, are the All-Knower of all that is hidden and unseen. After reminding Jesus of God’s favors on him, God will question him if he told his people to worship him and his mother as two gods besides Allah. He will say, “Glory be to you! It was not of me to say what I had no right to say” “Had I said such a thing, You would surely have known it. You know what is in my inner-self though I do not know what is in Yours, truly, You, only You, are the All-Knower of all that is hidden and unseen.”

5. Jesus will reply… I just said, “worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord” “I was a witness over them while I dwelt amongst them” “If you punish them, they are your slaves” “If you forgive them, you are the All-Mighty, the All-wise” 5:117. “Never did I say to them aught except what You (Allah) did command me to say: ‘Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord.’ And I was a witness over them while I dwelt amongst them, but when You took me up, You were the Watcher over them, and You are a Witness to all things. 5: “If You punish them, they are Your slaves, and if You forgive them, verily You, only You are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise .” Allah will say: “This is a Day on which the truthful will profit from their truth…” Jesus will further say, “I only said to them what You commanded me to say: i.e. Worship Allah, my Lord and Your Lord” And I was a witness over them while I dwelt amongst them, but when You took me up You were the watcher over them. And You are a witness to all things.” “If you punish them they are your slaves, and if you forgive them then verily You and only You are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.” God will say that this is the day on which only the truthful will profit from their truth.

6. High Status of Mary and Jesus
Mary was chosen above all women, was purified The real Miss Universe She was a woman of truth 3:42. And (remember) when the angels said: “O Mary! Verily, Allah has chosen you, purified you, and chosen you above the women of all nations” 5:75. …his mother (Mary) was a woman of truth… Now let us talk about the high status that Jesus and Mary have in Islam. First let’s talk about Mary. As we saw previously that Mary was chosen by God and purified and chosen above women of all nations. It is a great honor and status that she enjoys among women of all nations and all times. She was the real “Miss universe”, who unlike the miss universe of our times was not selected by the physical beauty or attraction but the beauty of character, morals, values, personality, modesty, piety, wisdom, obedience and submission to God. It is a great honor that she enjoys, something even the most righteous among men envy about. Quran also praises her for her truthfulness when it says, that she was a woman of truth. Image, courtesy:

Mary was chaste and obedient She is one of the two examples of the best women of all times 66:11. And Allah has set forth an example for those who believe, the wife of Pharaoh, when she said: "My Lord! Build for me a home with You in Paradise, and save me from Pharaoh and his work, and save me from the people who are evil-doers. 66:12. And Mary, the daughter of Imran who guarded her chastity; and We breathed into her through Our Spirit [Gabriel], and she testified to the truth of the Words of her Lord, and His Scriptures, and she was of the obedient ones. It also praises her for her chastity and modesty and obedience. And presents her as one of the two examples of the best women of all times. It is interesting to see that Islam is usually targeted, of course falsely, as a religion which oppresses and subjugates women. But here we see, that the Qur’an presents the examples of women to all the believers, men and women, of all times. That these women are the shining stars, the role-models for mankind. If you want to know how a believer should be then look at Mary and follow her example.

Jesus and Mary were a sign for mankind Jesus was an example 23:50. And We made the son of Mary and his mother as a sign, And We gave them refuge on high ground, a place of rest, security and flowing streams. 43:59. He [Jesus] was not more than a slave. We granted Our Favor to him, and We made him an example to the Children of Israel (i.e. his creation without a father). Similarly Jesus holds a very high status in Islam. He is given the title of “the Word of God” and “ the Messiah”. Allah made Jesus and Mary as a sign for mankind. Jesus was an example for the children of Israel.

6. But they were human beings
Jesus and Mary both used to eat God does not eat – free from needs, absolutely perfect Something to think about! 5:75. …His mother [Mary] was a woman of truth. They both used to eat food (as any other human being, while Allah does not eat). Look how We make the signs clear to them, yet look how they are deluded away (from the truth) As high a status as they had, according to Islam, both Mary and Jesus were still human beings. We are told in Qur’an that they both used to eat food and then of course excrete. While God does not eat. He is free from any need or dependence or flaw or weakness or imperfection. And Qur’an presents this argument as something to be pondered about. Image, courtesy:

6. But they were human beings
Jesus was a humble slave of God Whoever is proud and rejects God’s worship, God will punish them God has power over everything 4:172. The Messiah will never be proud to reject to be a slave to Allah, nor the angels who are near (to Allah). And whosoever rejects His worship and is proud, then He will gather them all together unto Himself. 5:17. Surely, in disbelief are they who say that Allah is the Messiah, son of Mary . Say (O Muhammad PBUH): “Who then has the least power against Allah, if He were to destroy the Messiah, son of Mary, his mother, and all those who are on the earth together?” And to Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them. He creates what He wills. And Allah has power over everything. Next we are told that Jesus was a humble slave of God. He will never be proud to reject to be a slave of Allah and whoever is proud and rejects God’s worship, God will punish them. And God has power over everything if He wishes to destroy the whole mankind including Jesus and his mother, nothing can stop Him.

7. Jesus is a Prophet like others
Muslims believe that Jesus is actually a prophet (4:171) He was given the Gospel which had guidance and light 5:75. The Messiah [Jesus], son of Mary, was no more than a Messenger; many were the Messengers that passed away before him. 5:46. And in their footsteps, We sent Jesus, son of Mary , confirming the Taurat (Torah) that had come before him, and We gave him the Injeel (Gospel), in which was guidance and light and confirmation of the Torah that had come before it, a guidance and an admonition for righteous ones. So in Islam, Jesus is not son of God or God, he is a human being but not any ordinary human being. He is believed to be a prophet, like other prophets, like Abraham, Moses, and David. God gave him the Divine Book, Gospel, which had guidance and light. Image, courtesy:

Muslims believe in all the prophets and Jesus is one of them Muslims respect and honor all of them and make no distinction among them 2:136. Say (O Muslims), “We believe in Allah and that which has been sent down to us and that which has been sent down to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and to the sons of Jacob, and that which has been given to Moses and Jesus, and that which has been given to the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we have submitted (in Islam).” Muslims believe in all the prophets and Jesus is certainly one of them. They are told to respect and honor all of them and not make any distinction among any of them. Allah says in the Qur’an: Say (O Muslims), “We believe in Allah and that which has been sent down to us and that which has been sent down to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and to the sons of Jacob, and that which has been given to Moses and Jesus, and that which has been given to the Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we have submitted (in Islam).”

Muhammad is also a prophet like Jesus (peace be upon them both) 4:163. Verily, We have inspired you (O Muhammad PBUH) as We inspired Noah and the Prophets after him; We (also) inspired Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the sons of Jacob, Jesus, Job, Jonah, Aaron, and Solomon, and to David We gave the Zabur (Psalms). Muhammad PBUH is also a Prophet like Jesus. Muslims believe that he is the successor of Jesus and the final prophet sent to mankind. He is a descendant of Abraham through his elder son Ishmael, as you can see in the tree on right.

8. Teachings of Jesus Jesus confirmed Torah
He made things clear to his people in which they differed He made some things lawful for them He told them to fear God and obey him He asked them to worship God, his and their Lord 3: And I have come confirming that which was before me of the Torah, and to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden to you, and I have come to you with a proof from your Lord. So fear Allah and obey me. Truly! Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him (Alone). This is the Straight Path. We have seen that Jesus was a prophet according to Islam. Let us take a look at some of his teachings that are described in the Quran. First of all, he confirmed Torah that was revealed before him as a true revelation. He made things clear to his people in which they used to differ. He made some things lawful for them that were previously made unlawful. As for the teachings, he told them to fear God and obey him. He asked them to worship God, his and their Lord.

8. Teachings of Jesus Jesus condemned the rabbis of his time
He revived the true spirit of religion 5: Those among the Children of Israel who disbelieved were cursed by the tongue of David and Jesus, son of Mary. That was because they disobeyed (Allah and the Messengers) and were ever transgressing beyond bounds. They used not to forbid one another from the wrong/evil which they committed. Vile indeed was what they used to do. At the time of Jesus, the true spirit of religion had been lost. His nation had turned into a corrupt and immoral society. People had taken liberties against the God’s religion. They even killed prophets. Rabbis of his time had their hegemony on religion and they would exploit people in the name of religion. We are told in Qur’an that Jesus condemned the rabbis of his time for what they used to do and revived the true spirit of religion.

8. Disciples of Jesus When his people denied him, Jesus asked who would be his helper Disciples became his helpers in God’s cause 3: Then when Jesus came to know of their disbelief, he said: “Who will be my helpers in Allah's Cause?” The disciples said: “We are the helpers of Allah; we believe in Allah, and bear witness that we are Muslims (submit).” Our Lord! We believe in what You have sent down, and we follow the Messenger [Jesus]; so write us down among those who bear witness. The Qur’an also mentions his disciples. When his people denied him, Jesus asked who would be his helpers in the cause of Allah. The disciples said they would be the helpers of Allah. So they believed in him and in the Gospel that was revealed to him and followed him.

9. Jesus was not Crucified
When people plotted to kill Jesus, God saved him and lifted him alive 3: And they (disbelievers) plotted [to kill Jesus], and Allah planned too. And Allah is the Best of the planners. And (remember) when Allah said: “O Jesus! I will take you and raise you to Myself and clear you [of the falsehood of] of those who disbelieve, and I will make those who follow you superior to those who reject faith till the Day of Resurrection. Then you will return to Me and I will judge between you in the matters in which you used to dispute.” This brings us to our last topic about Jesus, which is that according to the Islamic belief based on the Qur’an, Jesus was not crucified. We are told that when his people plotted to kill Jesus, God planned too and He is the best of the planners. He told Jesus, “I will take you and lift you to Myself and clear you of the falsehood of those who disbelieve. And I will make those who follow you, superior to those who reject faith till the Day of Resurrection. Then you will come to me and I will judge in the matters in which you used to dispute”.

9. Jesus was not Crucified
Jesus was not killed Nor was he crucified It was made to appear to them But God lifted him alive 4: And because of their saying (in boast), “We killed Messiah Jesus, son of Mary, the Messenger of Allah,” - but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but so it was made to appear to them, and those who differ therein are full of doubts. They have no (certain) knowledge, they follow nothing but conjecture. For surely; they killed him not. But Allah raised him up (with his body and soul) unto Himself. And Allah is Ever All-Powerful, All-Wise. And there is none of the people of the Scripture, but must believe in him, before his death. And on the Day of Resurrection, he will be a witness against them. The Qur’an says that Jesus was not killed. Nor was he crucified. But it was made to appear to them. That they crucified him, where in fact he was not crucified but God saved him and lifted him alive. Images courtesy:

9. Jesus will be sent again
Jesus will be sent in the End Times People of the Book will believe in him then (as a righteous prophet) He will be a witness over them 43:61. And he [Jesus] shall be a known sign for (the coming of) the Hour (Day of Resurrection) [i.e. Jesus’ descent on the earth] . Therefore have no doubt concerning it. And follow Me (Allah) (i.e. be obedient to Allah and do what He orders you to do, O mankind)! This is the Straight Path. 4:159. And there is none of the people of the Scripture, but must believe in him, before his death. And on the Day of Resurrection, he will be a witness against them. Since Jesus did not die and he was raised alive, Muslims believe that God will send Jesus again to complete his life on earth and die just as all other human beings die. He will be sent near the End Times and will be known as the sign for the Day of Resurrection. We also know through the prophetic narrations that Jesus will gain victory against anti-Christ and his cohorts. The Qur’an also tells that his followers will believe in him as a righteous prophet and he will be a witness over them on the Day of Judgment, that he conveyed the true message from his Lord to them.

Summary Jesus was born of virgin mother, Mary He is the Word of God
He is the Promised Christ He was supported by the Holy Spirit He preached the Divine Book, Gospel He performed miracles including healing blinds and giving life to dead He is not son of God, or God, or third in the Trinity He was a human being (but one of the best that ever lived) He was a prophet He was lifted to the Heavens alive (was not crucified or killed) He will be sent again near the End Times This concludes our topic of seminar. We have seen that according to the Qur’an Jesus was born of virgin mother, Mary. That He is the Word of God, as he was created by God’s command or word. The he is the promised Christ, where Christ means the anointed one. That he was supported by the Holy Spirit who is Angel Gabriel. That he preached the Divine book Gospel, given to him. That he performed many miracles. That he was not son of God or God or part of Trinity. That he was a human being, but one of the best that ever lived. That he was a prophet. That he did not die and was lifted alive to the Heavens and will be sent again near the End Times.

What is required for Salvation?
Obvious answer - Passing the test! Sin – Disobedience of God God is All-Forgiving, His mercy encompasses everything When we disobey we should: Realize and confess our mistake Turn to God in repentance Seek His forgiveness Resolve to not do it again Rectify ourselves Perfection is not desired Sincere struggle is required But Jesus is associated with salvation so I guess I should give a quick description of what Muslims believe about salvation. Since this life is a test, so the obvious answer to the question of what is required for salvation, is to pass the test, which as we saw previously is to have belief and worship and obey God. Sin is the disobedience of God. When we disobey God, we commit sin and become candidate for punishment. The only way this can be averted is that God may forgive us. And He does forgive us for each and everything. He is the All-Forgiving, the All-Merciful. His mercy encompasses everything. What He requires from us is that when we falter, we should realize and confess our mistake, be ashamed about it. Then we should turn to God in repentance, seek His forgiveness, resolve to not repeat the sin and rectify ourselves. It is important to note that perfection is not desired. We can never be perfect. Only God is so. All what is required is a sincere struggle, through worship and obedience and whenever we falter we should turn to God in repentance. And He does forgive. Image, courtesy:

Islam and Christianity
Similarities God, prophets, books, heaven, hell Differences: No trinity in Islam – God is alone, has no son(s)/daughter(s) No original sin in Islam Blood is not needed to blot out sins Faith alone is not enough, both faith and actions are required to pass the test of life The Holy Spirit is Angel Gabriel Jesus – have studied in detail Now let’s take a very quick look at both Christianity and Islam. As you might have noted that there are many similarities between Islam and Christian. Like the concept of God, Books, Prophets, Heaven and Hell. Christians and Muslims believe in the same prophets and in the same books. So the two religions are in a way very close to each other. But of course there are some differences as well. Like there is no concept of Trinity in Islam. Similarly, there is no concept of original sin. Also, blood is not needed to blot out sins. Faith alone is not enough, both faith and actions (worship and obedience) are required to pass the test. The Holy Spirit is angel Gabriel. And similarly there are some differences about Jesus that we have studied in detail. But as I said before the similarities are far more than there are differences. So we should to come closer to each other and promote tolerance, mutual respect and love.

What the Qur’an says about some Christians
They have compassion and mercy They are nearest in love to Muslims Among them are monks and priests and they are not proud “Then, We sent after them, Our Messengers, and We sent Jesus son of Mary, and gave him the Gospel. And We ordained in the hearts of those who followed him, compassion and mercy.” (57:27) “...and you will find the nearest in love to the believers (Muslims) those who say: "We are Christians." That is because amongst them are priests and monks, and they are not proud.” (5:82) Lastly I want to share some verses of Quran with you. These are about Christians. It might be interesting for you to note that the Qur’an speaks good of some Christians. First verse says that those who followed Jesus, God ordained in their hearts compassion and mercy. Second verse says that you will find nearest in love to the believers i.e. Muslims those who say “We are Christians” This is because among them are priests and monks and they are not proud.

What the Qur’an says about some Christians
They believe in Quran when they listen to it “And when they (who call themselves Christians) listen to what has been sent down to the Messenger (Muhammad, peace be upon him) (i.e. Quran), you see their eyes overflowing with tears because of the truth they have recognized. They say: “Our Lord! We believe; so write us down among the witnesses.” (5:83) Third verse says that when they listen to what has been sent down to you O Muhammad you see their eyes overflowing with tears because of the truth they have recognized. They say, Our Lord, We believe, so write us among the witnesses, i.e. those who testify your Oneness and believe in you and messengers.

Questions That concludes today’s presentation and now I can take questions. Please write questions on the small paper sheets provided and pass them on. Image, courtesy:

Contact Aurangzeb Zafar: orangzeb@purdue.edu
Link to download presentation: Office hours: Thursdays from 6:00 to 7:00pm isglonline.org You can also send your questions via later. Here is the link to download powerpoint. The Islamic Center of Greater Lafayette holds office hours every Thursday from 6-7PM. You are welcome to come and bring your friends. May God bless you!

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