Since Jesus is a predominant figure in many religions, many speculations were and are still made about his religion. Was he Jewish? Or was he Christian? In reality, both religions claim him. This raises the question: what is Islam’s take on this? What was Jesus’ religion according to Islam?
The religion of the prophet Isa (Jesus)?
According to Islam, he was neither. Rather, Islam describes Prophet Isa (Jesus) as a Muslim Prophet. The fact of the matter is all prophets preached the oneness of Allah (Tawhid) which is the core of Islam. Prophet Isa too invited his people to submit to Allah (SWT) and to accept the one truth that God Almighty and only Him is the God of everyone and everything.
In His holy book, the Quran, Allah (SWT) says:
“But when Jesus felt [persistence in] disbelief from them, he said, “Who are my supporters for [the cause of] Allah ?” The disciples said,” We are supporters for Allah . We have believed in Allah and testify that we are Muslims [submitting to Him].” (Surah Ali’Imran 3:52).
This verse explains that not only Prophet Isa (Jesus) was Muslim, but also his disciples. This means only one evident truth: Prophet Isa (Jesus) was Muslim and preached his people to follow Islam. Another verse proves this as well. God Almighty says:
“And [remember] when I inspired to the disciples, “Believe in Me and in My messenger Jesus.” They said, “We have believed, so bear witness that indeed we are Muslims [in submission to Allah ].” (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:111).
Conclusion
Muslims believe Jesus is a Muslim prophet sent by Allah (SWT). He is part of a long list of prophets who all invited their people to the one and only truth: Allah (SWT) is the only deity and creator of the universe. All prophets including Prophet Isa followed Islam for it is the true religion. Allah (SWT) says:
“Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam. And those who were given the Scripture did not differ except after knowledge had come to them – out of jealous animosity between themselves. And whoever disbelieves in the verses of Allah , then indeed, Allah is swift in [taking] account.” (Surah Ali’Imran 3:19).
You can find out more about Prophet Isa in our other articles: