The Miracles of Prophet Isa (AS): A Quranic Perspective

Prophet Isa (AS)

The Story of Prophet Isa (AS) in the Quran: A Reminder of God's Love and Mercy

Prophet Isa (AS), also known as Jesus in Christianity, is one of the most beloved prophets in Islam. The Quran tells his story in several chapters, including Al-Imran, Maryam, and Al-Maidah. His miraculous birth, his message of love and mercy, and his ascension to heaven are some of the key events that are mentioned in the Quran.

The Miraculous Birth of Prophet Isa (AS)

Prophet Isa (AS) was born to Maryam (AS), who was a chaste and pious woman. The Quran describes his birth in the following verse:

"[And mention] when the angels said, 'O Maryam, indeed Allah has chosen you and purified you and chosen you above the women of the worlds. O Maryam, be devoutly obedient to your Lord and prostrate and bow with those who bow [in prayer].' That is from the news of the unseen which We reveal to you, [O Muhammad]. And you were not with them when they cast their pens as to which of them should be responsible for Maryam. Nor were you with them when they disputed. [Al-Imran: 42-44]"

Prophet Isa's (AS) message of Love and Mercy

Prophet Isa (AS) was sent to the Children of Israel to invite them to the worship of One God and to live a life of love and mercy. He performed several miracles, including healing the blind and the lepers, and reviving the dead, with the permission of Allah (SWT). The Quran describes his message in the following verses:

"[And mention] when Allah said, 'O Isa, indeed I will take you and raise you to Myself and purify you from those who disbelieve and make those who follow you [in submission to Allah alone] superior to those who disbelieve until the Day of Resurrection. Then to Me is your return, and I will judge between you concerning that in which you used to differ. And as for those who disbelieved, I will punish them with a severe punishment in this world and the Hereafter, and they will have no helpers.' But as for those who believed and did righteous deeds, He will give them in full their rewards, and Allah does not like the wrongdoers. This is what We recite to you, [O Muhammad], of [Our] verses and the precise [and wise] message. Indeed, the example of Isa to Allah is like that of Adam. He created Him from dust; then He said to him, 'Be,' and he was. [Al-Imran: 55-59]"

The Ascension of Prophet Isa (AS)

One of the unique events in the life of Prophet Isa (AS) was his ascension to heaven, which is also known as the "Night Journey". The Quran describes this event in the following verses:

"[And mention] when Allah said, 'O Isa, I will take you and raise you to Myself and purify you from those who disbelieve and make those who follow you [in submission to Allah alone] superior to those who disbelieve until the Day of Resurrection. Then to Me is your return, and I will judge between you concerning that in which you used to differ. And as for those who disbelieved, I will punish them with a severe punishment in this world and the Hereafter, and they will have no helpers.' But as for those who believed and did righteous deeds, He will give them in full their rewards, and Allah does not like the wrongdoers. This is what We recite to you, [O Muhammad],and what We revealed to the messengers before you. And Allah is the Exalted in Might, the Wise." [Al-Imran: 55-58]

The ascension of Prophet Isa (AS) was a miraculous event in which he was raised up to the heavens and purified from those who disbelieved in him. It also highlighted the ultimate victory of those who believe in Allah (SWT) and follow the teachings of Prophet Isa (AS), as they will ultimately triumph over the disbelievers until the Day of Resurrection.

The Miracles of Prophet Isa (AS)

Prophet Isa (AS) was also known for his numerous miracles, which were granted to him by Allah (SWT) as a sign of his prophethood. These miracles included healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, and even raising the dead.

The Quran describes one of his miracles in the following verse:

"[And mention] when Allah will say, 'O Isa, son of Maryam, remember My favor upon you and upon your mother when I supported you with the Pure Spirit and you spoke to the people in the cradle and in maturity; and [remember] when I taught you writing and wisdom and the Torah and the Gospel; and when you designed from clay [what was] like the form of a bird with My permission, then you breathed into it, and it became a bird with My permission; and you healed the blind and the leper with My permission; and when you brought forth the dead with My permission; and when I restrained the Children of Israel from [killing] you when you came to them with clear proofs and those who disbelieved among them said, 'This is not but obvious magic.'" [Al-Maidah: 110]

This verse highlights the various miracles that Allah (SWT) granted Prophet Isa (AS) as a sign of his prophethood, including the ability to speak as a newborn, the power to create a bird out of clay, and the ability to heal the sick and even bring the dead back to life.

The Second Coming of Prophet Isa (AS)

Another important aspect of the story of Prophet Isa (AS) in the Quran is the prediction of his second coming. According to Islamic belief, Prophet Isa (AS) will return to earth before the end of time and will establish peace and justice on earth.

The Quran describes this event in the following verses:

"[And mention] when Allah said, 'O Isa, indeed I will take you and raise you to Myself and purify you from those who disbelieve and make those who follow you [in submission to Allah alone] superior to those who disbelieve until the Day of Resurrection. Then to Me is your return, and I will judge between you concerning that in which you used to differ. And as for those who disbelieved, I will punish them with a severe punishment in this world and the Hereafter, and they will have no helpers. But as for those who believed and did righteous deeds, He will give them in full their rewards, and Allah does not like the wrongdoers. This is what We recite to you, [O Muhammad], and what We revealed to the messengers before you. And Allah is the Exalted in Might, the Wise." [Al-Imran: 55-58]

This verse predicts the return of Prophet Isa (AS) before the Day of Resurrection, during which he will judge between people and establish justice on earth. This belief is an important part of Islamic eschatology and serves as a reminder to Muslims of the ultimate victory of righteousness over evil.

In conclusion, the story of Prophet Isa (AS) in the Quran is a testament to the power of faith and the many miracles that can be performed through it. His life and teachings serve as an inspiration for believers to strive towards righteousness and to always put their trust in Allah (SWT).

Prophet Isa (AS) is also a reminder of the importance of community and working towards unity amongst all people, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. He demonstrated compassion and mercy towards all, and his message of love and forgiveness is one that continues to resonate with people around the world.

As Muslims, we are called upon to follow the example of Prophet Isa (AS) and to strive towards excellence in our faith and our deeds. We should seek to embody the qualities of love, compassion, and forgiveness in our interactions with others, and to always turn to Allah (SWT) for guidance and support. May Allah (SWT) grant us the strength and guidance to follow in the footsteps of the Prophets and to live a life that is pleasing to Him.