Messiah (Al-Masih)

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What is Messiah (Al-Masih)?

Al-Masih, meaning "the Messiah" or "the anointed one," derives from the Arabic root m-s-ḥ, generally associated with wiping, anointing, or traveling — scholars have offered various linguistic explanations, including the idea that Isa's touch could soothe the sick, or that he traveled extensively during his mission. In the Qur'an, this title is applied uniquely and repeatedly to Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam, distinguishing him among the prophets as a figure of singular honor and miraculous origin.

Theologically, the title Al-Masih affirms Isa's elevated prophetic status without ascribing divinity to him. Islam firmly rejects the Christian doctrine of the Trinity and the sonship of Christ, teaching instead that Isa was a human being and a messenger chosen by Allah, granted miracles such as speaking from the cradle, healing the sick, and giving life to clay birds by Allah's permission. The Qur'an is emphatic that Isa himself never claimed divinity and that ascribing partners to Allah is the gravest of theological errors.

Historically, the figure of Al-Masih has been central to Muslim-Christian dialogue for centuries, as both traditions revere Isa but differ profoundly on his nature and role. Islamic scholarship across the centuries — from early exegetes of the Qur'an to later theologians — has carefully distinguished the Islamic understanding of Al-Masih from the Christian concept of the Messiah, affirming Isa's prophethood while categorically denying his divinity or crucifixion, as the Qur'an states he was raised up by Allah rather than killed.

Spiritually, Isa al-Masih holds a place of deep love and reverence in the hearts of Muslims. He is one of the five greatest prophets (Ulul Azm), a sign of Allah's power, and a model of devotion, humility, and reliance on Allah. Muslims are taught to honor him alongside all prophets, recognizing the continuity of the same essential message — pure monotheism — sent through Adam, Nuh, Ibrahim, Musa, Isa, and finally Muhammad ﷺ.

In contemporary practice, belief in Isa al-Masih remains a living article of faith. Muslims anticipate his second coming as one of the major signs preceding the Day of Judgment, when he will return to earth, affirm the truth of Islam, defeat the false messiah (Dajjal), and establish a period of justice and peace before his natural death. This belief connects everyday Muslim life to the broader eschatological narrative shared, in different forms, across the Abrahamic faiths.

Examples of Messiah (Al-Masih)

• Qur'anic title: The Qur'an repeatedly refers to Isa as "Al-Masih, Isa, son of Maryam," honoring him with this distinctive title.
• Miraculous birth: Muslims believe Al-Masih was born of the Virgin Maryam without a father, by Allah's direct command "Be, and it is."
• Denial of crucifixion: Islamic teaching holds that Al-Masih was raised up to Allah and was not crucified, contrary to the Christian narrative.
• Awaited return: Muslims believe Al-Masih will descend again before the Day of Judgment to defeat falsehood and restore justice on earth.

References in Qur'an & Hadith

"The Messiah, Isa, son of Maryam, was no more than a messenger of Allah." — Surah An-Nisa 4:171

"And [for] their saying, 'Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Isa, son of Maryam, the messenger of Allah.' And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them... rather, Allah raised him to Himself." — Surah An-Nisa 4:157-158

The Prophet ﷺ said: "By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, surely the son of Maryam will soon descend among you as a just judge." — Sahih al-Bukhari 3448