In Islam, Prophet Isa (Jesus) holds a revered position as a significant prophet of God. Here's a summary of his life and death according to Islamic beliefs:
Birth and Early Life:
* Miraculous Birth: Muslims believe Isa was born to the Virgin Maryam (Mary) through a miraculous conception, without a father. This is mentioned in the Quran (3:47). The angel Jibril (Gabriel) announced to Maryam that she would conceive a son by the will of God.
* Prophethood: Like other prophets, Isa was chosen by Allah (God) to guide the Israelites (Bani Israel) to the right path.
* Miracles: Isa is believed to have performed many miracles by the permission of Allah, including healing the sick, restoring sight to the blind, and raising the dead (Quran 3:49).
* The Gospel (Injil): God revealed to Isa the Injil (Gospel), which Muslims believe contained God's message but was later altered by his followers.
Ministry and Teachings:
* Call to Worship Allah: Isa called the people to worship Allah alone and to follow His commandments.
* Affirmation of the Torah: He affirmed the Torah (the holy book revealed to Prophet Musa/Moses) but also brought new laws and guidance.
* The Golden Rule: Some scholars identify passages in the Quran that allude to the Golden Rule and other ethical principles taught by Jesus in the Bible.
* Warning Against Materialism: He emphasized spiritual values and warned against excessive attachment to worldly possessions.
* A Prophet for the Israelites: The Quran states that Jesus was sent specifically to the Children of Israel.
The Crucifixion and Ascension:
* The Islamic View on the Crucifixion: This is a crucial point of divergence between Islamic and Christian beliefs. Muslims do not believe that Isa was crucified. The Quran states (4:157-158) that the Jews did not kill him, nor did they crucify him, but it appeared so to them. It says Allah raised him up to Himself.
* The Interpretation of What Happened: There are various interpretations among Islamic scholars about what happened on the cross:
* Some believe that someone who resembled Isa was crucified in his place.
* Others suggest that Isa was made to appear dead, but was then raised to heaven.
* Ascension to Heaven: Muslims believe that Isa was raised alive to heaven by Allah.
Return of Isa Before the Day of Judgment:
* A Sign of the Last Day: Muslims believe that Isa will return to Earth before the Day of Judgment. This is mentioned in the Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad).
* Justice and Peace: He will return as a just ruler, break the cross (a symbol Muslims believe was wrongly associated with his teachings), kill the Dajjal (Antichrist), and establish justice and peace on Earth.
* Follower of Prophet Muhammad: When he returns, Isa will follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and pray behind a Muslim leader, demonstrating the completion and culmination of God's message in Islam.
* Natural Death: After fulfilling his mission, Isa will die a natural death on Earth and will be buried next to Prophet Muhammad in Medina.
Key Differences from Christian Beliefs:
* Divinity: Muslims believe Isa was a prophet of God, but not God himself or the son of God. The concept of the Trinity is rejected in Islam.
* Atonement: Muslims do not believe that Isa died to atone for the sins of humanity. In Islam, individuals are responsible for their own sins and seek forgiveness directly from Allah.
* Crucifixion: The denial of the crucifixion is a central difference.
In summary, Islam reveres Isa as a great prophet, born miraculously, who preached the worship of one God. While acknowledging his miracles and the Gospel he received, Islam differs significantly from Christianity regarding the crucifixion and the nature of Jesus's divinity. His return is a significant event anticipated in Islamic eschatology.