Muslims believe that Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary (Maryam) through a miraculous act of God. This belief is supremely important in Islam and is explicitly detailed in the Quran.
The Annunciation
The Quran, specifically in 19:20, describes Mary's conversation with the angel Gabriel (Jibril). Mary expresses her bewilderment at the prospect of conceiving, as no man has touched her. This verse highlights the miraculous nature of Jesus's conception without a biological father.
Key Points of the Islamic Belief:
- Miraculous Conception: Muslims believe that Jesus's birth was a direct miracle from God, bypassing the normal biological process of conception.
- Virgin Birth: The Quran explicitly states that Mary was a virgin at the time of Jesus's conception.
- Importance of Maryam: Mary is held in high regard in Islam. She is considered one of the most righteous women in history.
- God's Power: The virgin birth of Jesus is seen as a testament to God's omnipotence and His ability to create as He wills.
Quranic Perspective
| Aspect | Quranic Reference (Example) | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Annunciation | Quran 19:20 | Mary questions how she can conceive without a man. |
| Divine Will | Various verses | Conception through God's will, not natural means. |
| Mary's Purity | Various verses | Mary's exceptional purity is emphasized. |
Comparison with other religions
While the belief in a virgin birth is shared with Christianity, the Islamic view emphasizes God's unique power in creating Jesus, without any aspect of divinity being attributed to Jesus himself. Muslims view Jesus as a prophet of God, not as the son of God in a divine sense.
