While Christians believe Jesus (Prophet Isa) was crucified and died, Muslims believe Allah (SWT) raised him to the sky and saved him. Allah (SWT) says:
“That they said (in boast), “We killed Christ Jesus the son of Mary, the Messenger of Allah”;- but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but so it was made to appear to them, and those who differ therein are full of doubts, with no (certain) knowledge, but only conjecture to follow, for of a surety they killed him not” (Surah An-Nisa 4:157).
Both religions nonetheless believe in his return. It is usually referred to as the ‘Second Coming” or “Parousia” and “Second Advent” in Christianity. Prophet Isa’s return plays a major role in both religions as it is inextricably linked to the end of time. So, when will Prophet Isa (Jesus) return and where?
When and where will Prophet Isa return?
According to Islam, Prophet Isa will return before the Day of Judgment. No precise date is given but it will surely be after the coming of Dajjal (anti-Christ). Abu Hurayrah narrated:
“Allah’s Messenger (pbuh) said, “The Hour will not be established until the son of Mary (i.e. Jesus) descends amongst you as a just ruler, he will break the cross, kill the pigs, and abolish the Jizya tax. Money will be in abundance so that nobody will accept it (as charitable gifts)” (Sahih Al-bukhari).
As to where, Prophet Isa will descend close to the white minaret of Damascus (Dimashq in Arabic). The exact location is unknown however. Prophet Muhammed (pbuh) said:
“…it would be at this very time that Allah would send Jesus, son of Mary, and he will descend at the white minaret in the eastern side of Damascus wearing two garments lightly dyed with saffron and placing his hands on the wings of two Angels. When he would lower his head, there would fall beads of perspiration from his head, and when he would raise it up, beads like pearls would scatter from it. Every non-believer who would smell the odor of his self would die and his breath would reach as far as he would be able to see. He would then search for him (Dajjal) until he would catch hold of him at the gate of Ludd and would kill him” (Sahih Muslim).
Conclusion:
The return of Prophet Isa is really important as it indicates the end of time. Yet, Allah (SWT) is the only one who knows the exact time and place for he is the only all-knowing. He says:
“They ask you ˹O Prophet˺ regarding the Hour, “When will it be?” Say, “That knowledge is only with my Lord. He alone will reveal it when the time comes. It is too tremendous for the heavens and the earth and will only take you by surprise.” They ask you as if you had full knowledge of it. Say, “That knowledge is only with Allah, but most people do not know.” (Surah Al-A’raf 7:187).
All in all, only God Almighty knows the exact details of the Judgment Day. May He forgive us and guide us all.
