Al-Masīḥ (المسيح)
Definition and Usage
Al-Masīḥ (المسيح) is a term used in Islamic theology to refer to Jesus (’Īsā in Arabic). It is employed as a title rather than a proper name, and it appears seven times in the Qur’an as a designation for Jesus. Unlike the Christian interpretation of Jesus Christ, which encompasses notions of divinity, Al-Masīḥ in Islam maintains a clear monotheistic framework, emphasizing Jesus as a revered prophet and messenger.
Etymology
The term “Al-Masīḥ” is derived from the Hebrew word “מָשִׁיחַ” (Mashiaḥ), which corresponds to the Greek “Χριστός” (Christós) and translates into English as “Christ.” Theologians have debated its exact origin within the Islamic context.
Arabic: المسيح (Al-Masīḥ)
Turkish: Mesih
Interpretations of Al-Masīḥ
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“The Blessed One”: According to the commentator Al-Baiḍāwī, the term originally signifies “the blessed one” in Hebrew.
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“The Anointed”: Another interpretation links it to the Arabic root “Masah” (مسح), which means “to anoint.” This interpretation holds that Jesus was either anointed by Gabriel as a prophet or that he healed people with his touch. Al-Baiḍāwī, however, considers this notion erroneous.
Significance in Islam
Jesus (’Īsā) in the Qur’an
Jesus is a central figure in Islam, where he is revered as an important prophet and messenger sent by Allah. The designation Al-Masīḥ marks him out for a unique role among prophets. In Islamic doctrine, Jesus is:
- Born of a Virgin: His birth to Mary (Maryam) is seen as a miraculous event, attesting to Allah’s power.
- Performer of Miracles: By the will of Allah, Jesus performed numerous miracles, including healing the sick and raising the dead.
- Messianic Figure: Although the messianic role is interpreted differently than in Christian theology, he is still considered an eschatological figure who will return at the end of times.
Books for Further Studies
- “Jesus in the Quran” by Geoffrey Parrinder - This book provides an in-depth analysis of the role and depiction of Jesus in the Islamic holy text.
- “Muslim Jesus: Sayings and Stories in Islamic Literature” by Tarif Khalidi - An anthology of sayings and stories about Jesus from Islamic literature.
- “No God but God: The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam” by Reza Aslan - This book offers insights into the development of Islamic theology, including the role of prophets like Jesus.
Takeaways and Conclusion
‘Al-Masīḥ’ reflects the Islamic respect and reverence for Jesus (’Īsā) as a crucial prophetic figure. Understanding the etymological roots and theological implications of this title helps in appreciating the nuanced ways Islam and Christianity perceive Jesus differently yet importantly. While interpretations vary, Al-Masīḥ remains imbued with profound spiritual and eschatological significance in Islam.
Understanding these differences and commonalities offers a bridge for interfaith dialogue and enhances global religious literacy.
