Jesus in Islam: A Muslim's Perspective

As Christmas approaches, Christians around the world come together to celebrate the birth of Jesus (peace be upon him), who they see as Lord and Savior. This view is countered, however, by many Muslims who believe that Jesus (peace be upon him) was an exceptional human being, a Prophet of God, thereby disbelieving in his divinity. He is mentioned in a verse from the Holy Qur’an to have said, ‘Surely, God is my Lord, and your Lord. So, worship Him alone; this is the right path’ (19:37). Jesus (peace be upon him) himself worshipped God, and is included as one of God’s creations. In the New Testament, Jesus (peace be upon him) referred to himself as being sent by God (John 17:3).

The Ahmadiyya Muslim community goes further to mention that Jesus (peace be upon him) did not die on the cross; instead travelled eastwards, and united the 12 tribes of Israel that were dispersed in different locations around the world at the time (Afghanistan, Kashmir), fulfilling the mission sent to him by God.

Despite any differences, Jesus (peace be upon him) is surely seen by Muslims everywhere as a shining example of the message of peace and unity he shared during his lifetime. Muslims surely recognize Christmas as a time of selflessness and cheer and we wish upon our brothers and sisters happy holidays.