Jesus, Man or God?

The figure of Jesus is central to Christianity and Islam, yet the two religions offer contrasting views on his nature and role. Christianity holds Jesus as the Son of God, part of the Holy Trinity, and divine. Islam, on the other hand, reveres Jesus as a prophet and messenger but firmly denies his divinity. This article explores these differing perspectives, using both the Quran and the Bible to examine the claims about Jesus' identity. By analyzing his birth, miracles, crucifixion, resurrection, and the concept of his second coming, we seek to provide a comprehensive understanding of how each religion views Jesus.

 

The Birth and Early Life of Jesus: A Comparative View

Both the Quran and the Bible recount the miraculous birth of Jesus. In the Bible, the Gospel of Matth
ew (1:18-25) and Luke (1:26-38) describe the virgin birth, emphasising divine intervention. Luke 1:35 (KJV) states, "The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore, also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God."

The Quran similarly acknowledges the virgin birth of Jesus, stating in Surah Maryam (19:20-21, Sahih International), "[Mary] said, 'How can I have a boy while no man has touched me, and I have not been unchaste?' He said, 'Thus [it will be]; your Lord says, 'It is easy for Me, and We will make him a sign to the people and a mercy from Us. And it is a matter [already] decreed.'" Additionally, the Quran compares the creation of Jesus to that of Adam to emphasize God's power in creating life. Surah Al-Imran (3:59, Sahih International) states, "Indeed, the example of Jesus to Allah is like that of Adam. He created him from dust; then He said to him, 'Be,' and he was."

Despite the similarities in his birth narrative, the interpretation of its significance diverges. Christianity views the virgin birth as evidence of Jesus' divine sonship. In contrast, Islam considers it a sign of God's power and Jesus' prophetic status, without implying divinity.

 

Miracles and Teachings: Prophet or Divine?

Jesus performed numerous miracles according to both scriptures, which are central to his identity. The Bible recounts miracles such as turning water into wine (John 2:1-11), feeding the five thousand (Matthew 14:13-21), and raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-44). These acts are seen as signs of his divine nature.

However, the Bible also contains verses that highlight Jesus' reliance on God. For instance, John 5:30 (KJV) states, "I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me." This suggests Jesus' submission to God's will, indicating his humanity.

In the Quran, Jesus' miracles are also acknowledged, such as healing the blind and the leper and raising the dead, by God's permission (Surah Al-Ma'idah 5:110, Sahih International). These miracles are presented as signs of his prophethood and God's power, not as proof of divinity. Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:75, Sahih International) emphasizes Jesus' humanity: "The Messiah, son of Mary, was not but a messenger; [other] messengers have passed on before him. His mother was a supporter of truth. They both used to eat food."

 

The Crucifixion and Resurrection: Divergent Beliefs

One of the most significant differences between Christianity and Islam lies in their accounts of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. Christianity holds that Jesus was crucified, died, and rose from the dead, a cornerstone of the Christian faith. Matthew 27:35 (KJV) states, "And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet."

In contrast, the Quran denies the crucifixion, stating that it was made to appear so to the people, but Jesus was not killed nor crucified. Surah An-Nisa (4:157-158, Sahih International) asserts, "And [for] their saying, 'Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, the messenger of Allah.' And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him, but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain. Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise."

 

The Second Coming: A Shared Expectation with Different Roles

Both Christianity and Islam anticipate the return of Jesus, but they differ significantly in the expected role he will play. In Christianity, the second coming of Jesus is associated with the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom on earth. Revelation 19:11-16 (KJV) describes Jesus' return as a triumphant king: "And I saw heaven opened and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness, he doth judge and make war."

Islam also believes in Jesus' return, but his role is that of a just leader who will restore justice and defeat the false messiah (Dajjal). Surah Az-Zukhruf (43:61, Sahih International) states, "And indeed, Jesus will be [a sign for] knowledge of the Hour, so be not in doubt of it, and follow Me. This is a straight path." Islamic tradition holds that Jesus will live for a period, marry, and die a natural death.