Prophet Jesus (ʿIsa عليه السلام) is mentioned 25 times by name in the Quran. These references emphasize his role as a revered prophet and messenger of Allah, not divine, but uniquely honored as the Messiah (al-Masīḥ). His mother, Maryam (Mary), is mentioned 34 times, more often than in the New Testament, further highlighting her elevated status in Islam.
The Quran narrates key aspects of Jesus’ life, including his miraculous birth (Surah Maryam 19:16–36), his ability to heal the blind and the leper, and even raise the dead by Allah’s permission (Surah Al-Imran 3:49). Importantly, Islam distinguishes itself from Christianity by teaching that Jesus was not crucified, but rather that Allah raised him up to Himself (Surah An-Nisa 4:157–158). His repeated mention across different surahs reinforces his significance as part of the continuity of prophethood, linking earlier revelations with the final message of the Quran.
How Many Times Nabi Isa Mentioned by Name in the Quran?
How Does the Quran Compare Mentions of Jesus and Prophet Muhammad?
While Prophet Jesus is mentioned 25 times, Prophet Muhammad is mentioned only 4 times in the Quran. This difference does not diminish Muhammad’s role but reflects the Quran’s focus on Jesus as a central prophetic figure. The Quran does not contain a biography of Muhammad, nor does it attribute spoken words directly to him.
The emphasis on Jesus in the Quran aligns with his recognition as a major prophet in Islam. His miracles, titles such as “Word of God” and “Spirit from God,” and his eschatological role contribute to his prominence. Meanwhile, Muhammad’s mentions are fewer but important in establishing his position as the final prophet. Below is the list of the 25 places where Prophet ʿIsa (Jesus) is mentioned by name in the Quran:
| Surah | Verse | Context / Description |
|---|---|---|
| Al-Baqarah (2) | 87 | Affirmation that Jesus was supported by the Holy Spirit (Jibrīl). |
| Al-Baqarah (2) | 136 | Muslims affirm belief in all prophets, including Jesus. |
| Al-Baqarah (2) | 253 | Allah gave Jesus miracles, supported him with the Spirit. |
| Aal ʿImrān (3) | 45 | Angel announces Maryam will bear Jesus, a noble messenger. |
| Aal ʿImrān (3) | 52 | Disciples declare belief in Allah and follow Jesus. |
| Aal ʿImrān (3) | 55 | Allah promises to raise Jesus and purify him from disbelievers. |
| Aal ʿImrān (3) | 59 | Jesus compared to Adam — both created by Allah’s command. |
| Aal ʿImrān (3) | 84 | Continuity of belief in prophets including Jesus. |
| An-Nisāʾ (4) | 157 | Denial of crucifixion; Jesus was not killed nor crucified. |
| An-Nisāʾ (4) | 163 | Jesus included among the prophets who received revelation. |
| An-Nisāʾ (4) | 171 | Warning against exaggeration; Jesus was a prophet, not divine. |
| Al-Māʾidah (5) | 46 | Gospel (Injīl) given to Jesus as guidance and light. |
| Al-Māʾidah (5) | 78 | Jesus cursed disobedient Children of Israel. |
| Al-Māʾidah (5) | 110 | Allah recounts Jesus’ miracles (clay bird, healing, raising dead). |
| Al-Māʾidah (5) | 112 | Disciples ask Jesus for a table spread from heaven. |
| Al-Māʾidah (5) | 114 | Jesus prays for the table spread to be sent down. |
| Al-Māʾidah (5) | 116 | Allah questions Jesus if he told people to worship him and his mother. |
| Al-Anʿām (6) | 85 | Jesus listed among the righteous prophets. |
| Maryam (19) | 34 | Jesus declared as a true prophet, not divine. |
| Al-Aḥzāb (33) | 7 | Allah took a covenant from prophets including Jesus. |
| Ash-Shūrā (42) | 13 | Religion revealed consistently to prophets, including Jesus. |
| Az-Zukhruf (43) | 63 | Jesus brought clear proofs and called to worship Allah. |
| Ash-Saff (61) | 6 | Jesus foretells coming of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Ahmad). |
| Ash-Saff (61) | 14 | Believers in Jesus (disciples) supported Allah’s cause. |
What Titles Are Given to Jesus in the Quran?
The Quran refers to Prophet Jesus with several honorific titles, including Messiah (Al-Masih), Son of Mary (Ibn Maryam), and Word of God (Kalimatullah). These titles distinguish him from other prophets and emphasize his miraculous nature. The Quran also calls him a “Spirit from God” (Ruh min Allah), further elevating his status.
These designations highlight Jesus’ unique birth and divine mission. For example, the title “Word of God” signifies his creation through God’s command, while “Messiah” aligns with Islamic eschatology, where Jesus will return before the Day of Judgment.
Why Is Jesus Mentioned More Frequently Than Muhammad in the Quran?
The Quran’s emphasis on Jesus stems from his theological significance in both Islam and Christianity. His miracles, virgin birth, and role in Islamic eschatology necessitate detailed discussion. The Quran addresses Christian beliefs about Jesus, clarifying Islamic teachings on his nature and mission.
Muhammad’s fewer mentions do not indicate lesser importance. Instead, the Quran focuses on his function as the final messenger, while Jesus’ narrative serves as a bridge between Abrahamic faiths. The text reaffirms Jesus’ prophethood while correcting perceived theological deviations in Christian doctrine.
How Does the Quran Describe Jesus’ Miracles?
The Quran attributes several miracles to Prophet Jesus, including healing the blind, curing lepers, and raising the dead. These acts are performed by God’s permission, reinforcing Jesus’ role as a prophet rather than a divine figure. The Quran also mentions his ability to create a bird from clay and breathe life into it.
These miracles distinguish Jesus from other prophets, illustrating his special status. The Quran presents them as signs of God’s power, not as evidence of Jesus’ divinity. This aligns with Islam’s strict monotheism, where miracles are always attributed to God’s will.
What Is the Islamic Perspective on Jesus’ Crucifixion?
The Quran explicitly denies the crucifixion of Jesus, stating that he was raised to heaven by God. This contrasts with the Christian belief in his death and resurrection. Islamic tradition holds that another individual was made to resemble Jesus and crucified in his place.
This teaching underscores Islam’s rejection of the notion that Jesus died for humanity’s sins. Instead, the Quran emphasizes his ascension and future return, where he will fulfill his eschatological role before the final judgment.
How Does the Quran Portray Mary in Relation to Jesus?
Mary (Mariam) is mentioned 34 times in the Quran, more frequently than Jesus himself. She holds a revered position as the mother of Jesus and is the only woman named in the Quran. Her story includes the annunciation, the virgin birth, and her devotion to God.
The Quran’s focus on Mary reinforces Jesus’ miraculous origin. Her piety and purity are emphasized, serving as a model for believers. The frequent mentions of both Mary and Jesus highlight their intertwined narratives in Islamic scripture.
What Is the Significance of Jesus’ Mentions in the Quran?
The Quran’s repeated references to Jesus affirm his prophethood and correct theological misconceptions. By detailing his miracles, titles, and ascension, the Quran positions Jesus as a pivotal figure in Islamic belief. His mentions serve to align Islamic teachings with earlier Abrahamic traditions while distinguishing them from Christian doctrines.
The emphasis on Jesus also facilitates interfaith dialogue, as his role is recognized across Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. The Quran’s portrayal bridges theological gaps while firmly establishing Islamic monotheistic principles.