Among the many revered prophets in Islam, Prophet Isa (A.S), known as Jesus in Christian tradition, holds a unique and elevated status. His life is a testament to divine miracles, unwavering faith, and the profound relationship between Allah and His chosen messengers. Referred to in the Qur’an as the “Word of Allah” and the “Spirit from Him” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:171), the journey of Prophet Isa (A.S) begins even before his miraculous birth and continues to echo through the ages.
A Birth Unlike Any Other
The journey of Prophet Isa (A.S) begins with his mother, Maryam (A.S), a woman praised in the Qur’an above all other women. Allah says:
“And [mention] when the angels said, ‘O Mary, indeed Allah has chosen you and purified you and chosen you above the women of the worlds.’”
(Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:42)
Maryam (A.S) was known for her piety and devotion. She spent her days in worship, and Allah had honored her with sustenance delivered miraculously (Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:37). It was during this period of spiritual solitude that she received the news of a child:
“[The angel] said, ‘I am only the messenger of your Lord to give you [news of] a pure boy.’”
(Surah Maryam, 19:19)
She was astounded, having never been touched by a man. But Allah willed it as a sign:
“[Allah] said, ‘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.’”
(Surah Maryam, 19:21)
Thus, Prophet Isa (A.S) was born, a miraculous sign to all mankind.
Speaking from the Cradle
One of the earliest miracles of Isa (A.S) was his ability to speak as a newborn. When Maryam (A.S) brought her child to her people, they were shocked and accused her of wrongdoing. It was then that Isa (A.S), still in the cradle, spoke:
“[Jesus] said, ‘Indeed, I am the servant of Allah. He has given me the Scripture and made me a prophet.’”
(Surah Maryam, 19:30)
This moment was not only a defense of his mother’s honor but also a declaration of his divine mission. From the very beginning, his life was marked by divine purpose.
A Messenger to Bani Isra’il
Prophet Isa (A.S) was sent to the Children of Israel to revive the message of Tawheed (oneness of Allah) and to reform their corrupted practices. He came confirming the Torah and bringing the Injil (Gospel), a scripture full of wisdom and mercy.
“And [make him] a messenger to the Children of Israel, [who will say], ‘Indeed I have come to you with a sign from your Lord…’”
(Surah Aal-e-Imran, 3:49)
Isa (A.S) performed many miracles by the permission of Allah: healing the blind and lepers, bringing the dead to life, and creating a bird from clay which came to life, all signs to affirm his Prophethood.
The Message of Tawheed
Despite being gifted with miracles, Isa (A.S) never claimed divinity. He consistently preached the oneness of Allah and his status as a servant and messenger. The Qur’an affirms this message:
“Never would the Messiah disdain to be a servant of Allah…”
(Surah An-Nisa, 4:172)
In a powerful statement on the Day of Judgment, Allah will ask Isa (A.S):
“Did you say to the people, ‘Take me and my mother as deities besides Allah?” He will say, ‘Exalted are you! It was not for me to say that to which I have no right…’”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:116)
This declares the Islamic belief that Isa (A.S) was a noble prophet, not divine.
The Plan of Allah and the Raising of Isa (A.S)
Despite the pure message and miracles, many from Bani Isra’il rejected Isa (A.S) and plotted against him. However, Allah in His wisdom had a plan:
“…They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them…”
(Surah An-Nisa, 4:157)
Muslims believe that Prophet Isa (A.S) was not crucified but was raised by Allah:
“Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise.”
(Surah An-Nisa, 4:158)
This miraculous ascension marked the temporary conclusion of his earthly journey.
The Return of Isa (A.S)
One of the unique aspects of Prophet Isa (A.S) is that his journey is not yet over. According to authentic Hadith, he will return before the Day of Judgment to defeat the false messiah (Dajjal), restore justice, and bring people back to the worship of Allah alone.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, surely the son of Mary will soon descend among you and judge mankind justly…”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 3448)
His second coming is a sign of mercy and justice, a continuation of his mission.
“The Light of Maryam: Journey of Prophet Isa (A.S)” is not just the story of a prophet; it is the unfolding of a divine promise, a tale of faith, sacrifice, and the ultimate triumph of truth. Through Maryam’s purity, Isa’s miracles, and his steadfast call to worship one God, we are reminded of the mercy and might of Allah. As Muslims, we honor Isa (A.S) not just as a prophet, but as a luminous chapter in the grand narrative of divine guidance.
May Allah grant us the understanding and love of His prophets, and allow us to walk in the light of their example. Ameen.