Who Crucified Jesus in Islam?
The Islamic Narrative of Jesus' End: A Tale of Divine Intervention and Enduring Mystery
Who Crucified Jesus in Islam?
No, Islam does not believe that Jesus was crucified. The Quran states that it appeared so to the people, but in reality, God raised Jesus to Himself.
Introduction:
The story of Jesus’ crucifixion is one of the most significant narratives in Christian theology, symbolizing sacrifice and redemption. However, the Islamic view of this event is quite different. For those who are new to Islamic teachings, it may come as a surprise that the Quran provides a unique account of Jesus’ life and his crucifixion.
The Islamic Jesus – Isa Ibn Maryam:
In Islam, Jesus is known as ‘Isa ibn Maryam’ or Jesus, the son of Mary. He is considered one of the greatest prophets, born to the virgin Mary, and bestowed with many miracles. However, Islam does not recognize Jesus as the son of God or part of a divine trinity, as in Christian doctrine.
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The Quranic Account of the Crucifixion:
The Quran discusses the crucifixion in several verses, but most notably in Surah An-Nisa (4:157-158), which states that Jesus was not crucified or killed, but rather, it appeared so to the people. According to Islamic teachings, God raised Jesus to Himself, and he was not subjected to the pain and humiliation of crucifixion.
Understanding the Phrase “It Appeared So to Them”:
For beginners, this phrase can be perplexing. Islamic scholars interpret it in various ways, but a common understanding is that God created a situation where someone else was made to resemble Jesus and was crucified instead. This interpretation upholds the belief that Jesus was saved by divine intervention.
The Wisdom Behind the Quranic Version:
In Islam, prophets are held in high esteem and are protected from such ignoble deaths. The account also emphasizes the power and mercy of God, who saved Jesus from his enemies.
Who Would Have Crucified Jesus?
In the historical context, the Roman authorities and Jewish leaders of the time were responsible for crucifixions as a form of capital punishment. However, since the Quran asserts that Jesus was not crucified, the question of who crucified Jesus becomes moot in Islamic theology.
The Role of Judas Iscariot:
Some Islamic traditions suggest that Judas Iscariot, the disciple who betrayed Jesus according to the New Testament, was the one who was made to look like Jesus and was crucified in his place. This narrative serves as a lesson in betrayal and divine justice.
The Return of Jesus:
Islamic eschatology holds that Jesus will return before the Day of Judgment to restore justice and defeat the false messiah. This belief underscores the significant role of Jesus in Islamic teachings and the end times.
Conclusion:
Understanding who crucified Jesus in Islam requires an open mind and respect for the religious sensitivities involved. The Quran provides a clear but different narrative from the Christian scriptures. For Muslims, the non-crucifixion of Jesus is a testament to God’s ultimate wisdom and mercy. As beginners explore these concepts, it is crucial to approach them with curiosity and a willingness to understand the diverse interpretations that exist within the Islamic faith.
Further Learning:
The article would encourage further learning by providing references to Quranic verses, sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, and works of respected Islamic scholars. It would also invite readers to explore interfaith dialogues for a broader understanding of the topic.
FAQs
Does Islam believe that Jesus was crucified?
No, Islam does not believe that Jesus was crucified. The Quran states that it appeared so to the people, but in reality, God raised Jesus to Himself.
