The Honourable Status of Jesus Christ (‘Isa, Peace Be Upon Him) in Islam

Introduction

In Islam, Jesus Christ (‘Isa, peace be upon him) holds a revered and noble position as a prophet and messenger of Allah SWT. The Quran frequently mentions Jesus with profound respect, highlighting his miraculous birth, his extraordinary life, and his divine mission. Among these instances, the verses in Surah Maryam (Chapter Mary) are particularly notable, where the infant Jesus speaks from the cradle, conveying profound wisdom and moral guidance. These verses encapsulate essential messages for all humanity worldwide.

وَجَعَلَنِي مُبَارَكًا أَيْنَ مَا كُنْتُ وَأَوْصَانِي بِالصَّلَاةِ وَالزَّكَاةِ مَا دُمْتُ حَيًّا (مریم / ٣١)
وَبَرًّا بِوَالِدَتِي وَلَمْ يَجْعَلْنِي جَبَّارًا شَقِيًّا (مریم / ٣٢)

“And He has made me blessed wherever I am and has enjoined upon me prayer and almsgiving as long as I live. (31) And [He has made me] dutiful to my mother, and He has not made me a wretched tyrant. (32)”

These verses have several educational messages for the different audiences in the Muslim communities, as outlined here.

Lessons Derived from These Verses for Youth and Adolescents

1. Be a Source of Blessing Wherever You Are:

The verse “وَجَعَلَنِي مُبَارَكًا أَيْنَ مَا كُنْتُ” (“And He has made me blessed wherever I am”) inspires young people to contribute positively to their surroundings. Whether in studies, work, or social interactions, strive to be a source of goodness, avoiding behaviours that cause harm or discomfort. Being a blessing means leaving a positive impact on others through faith, kindness, honesty, and compassion. It also involves recognising opportunities to uplift others and bring about meaningful change in every situation.

2. Recognise Allah as the Source of All Virtues:

The phrase “And He has made me blessed” reminds youth to attribute their abilities and virtues to Allah SWT. Success, talent, and blessings are gifts from God that should be used responsibly.

3. Uphold Prayer and Charity as Lifelong Duties:

The command “وَأَوْصَانِي بِالصَّلَاةِ وَالزَّكَاةِ مَا دُمْتُ حَيًّا” (“has enjoined upon me prayer and almsgiving as long as I live”) emphasises the importance of maintaining a consistent relationship with Allah and a sense of social responsibility through acts of worship and charity.

Lessons Derived from These Verses for Parents

1. Instil Respect and Kindness Towards Parents:

The verse “وَبَرًّا بِوَالِدَتِي” (“And [He has made me] dutiful to my mother”) underscores the importance of filial piety. Parents should nurture this value in their children to ensure that respect for parents becomes a lasting principle in their lives. Be cautious that your children are not influenced by the degenerate aspects of Western culture, where children often show little respect for their parents. By instilling in them the obligation to respect their parents, you are effectively passing this religious and human value on to future generations.

2. Prevent Your Children from Violating Others’ Rights:

The phrase “وَلَمْ يَجْعَلْنِي جَبَّارًا شَقِيًّا” (“And He has not made me a wretched tyrant”) serves as a reminder to discourage arrogance and harshness in children. Parents should guide their children to remain humble and compassionate despite societal pressures. Keep in mind that if your children commit an act of injustice against someone in the future, you will also share in the accountability for their wrongdoing. From an early age, teach them through your actions, words, and behaviour to be extremely cautious about avoiding injustice towards others.

3. Encourage Lifelong Devotion to Worship and Charity:

Parents have a responsibility to instil in their children the significance of “prayer and almsgiving” (بِالصَّلَاةِ وَالزَّكَاةِ) as continuous acts of devotion and kindness.

Lessons Derived from These Verses for Religious Leaders and Cultural Institutions

1. Promote the Honourable Status of Prophets in Islam:

Religious leaders should educate their audiences about the esteemed position of Jesus (peace be upon him) in Islam. Highlighting his role as a prophet fosters mutual respect and understanding among followers of different Abrahamic faiths.

2. Emphasise the Interconnectedness of Worship and Social Responsibility:

The dual mention of “prayer and almsgiving” (بِالصَّلَاةِ وَالزَّكَاةِ) reminds leaders to stress that spiritual practices and humanitarian efforts are inseparable. A true believer strengthens their bond with Allah while serving humanity. This verse teaches that worship is not merely a personal act but one that must inspire us to address the needs of others. It encourages a holistic approach to faith that balances devotion with community care. Leaders are urged to emphasise this connection, fostering a sense of accountability to both Allah SWT and humanity.

Last word

The Quranic verses from Surah Maryam encapsulate valuable messages that transcend generations. They inspire youth to strive for excellence and goodness, remind parents of their pivotal role in shaping values, and encourage religious leaders to foster harmony and social responsibility. By reflecting on these teachings, Muslims can draw closer to the ideals exemplified by Jesus Christ (‘Isa, peace be upon him) and contribute positively to society.