December is the month that brings renewed thought, discussion and religious dialogue about Jesus, son of the Chaste Mary (May Almighty Allah bless them both). The international holiday referred to as ‘Christmas’, is celebrated on December 25th. Many Christians believe that this marks the birth of Jesus, whom Muslims acknowledge as the second to last Messenger of The Almighty.
Muslims’ love for Jesus, Son of Mary (peace be upon him) is undeniable. He is revered as the Almighty Creator’s messenger that foretold the coming of the final messenger, Muhammad Mustafa (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). He is also the only messenger born of a virgin birth and was blessed with performing miracles, even in his infancy.
The life, teachings and example of Jesus, the Anointed One, is a legacy of enjoining good and forbidding evil. He is a symbol of Almighty Allah’s mercy and with that comes hope offered to mankind with the sweetest forbearance and joy of kindness and compassion. Jesus, Son of Chaste Mary, taught love for the One Almighty Creator and taught his followers tauheed – belief in the Oneness of the Almighty. Of the Epistles written by his followers, some attest to this truth and provide examples.
St. Barnabas, a disciple of Jesus whose important role as his scribe has been obscured in history, compiled a written record of Jesus’ exploits. The Gospel of Barnabas, contains an authentic narration of when Jesus left the mountain and entered Jerusalem, and he came upon a leper who sought healing. After following the instructions of Al Mash (the Messiah), the leper pleaded to Almighty Allah to heal him. When the blessed Jesus laid his hands upon the leper, he was cleansed of the disfiguring disease. The leper cried out, “Behold the Prophet! Behold the holy one of God!” (The Gospel of Barnabas). The people of Jerusalem shared in joy with others that with the permission of the Almighty Creator, Jesus (peace be upon him) was able to cure the leper. There was no similitude given between the One True God and His messenger, Jesus, that would make them one and the same.
The following is excerpted from an editorial article entitled “Jesus and the Good News”that appeared in a February, 2017 issue of The Islamic Post:
In an introduction to a recent printing of The Gospel of Barnabas by the
Barnabas Society of USA, a statement on the authenticity of Barnabas’ Gospel
is provided, as well as comments regarding the dubious authenticity of
the New Testament:
“…individuals about whom we have no knowledge, after compiling their “books” where did they go? Whatever they wrote has fallen far beneath historical accounts. It is all based on hearsay, because they were not there. They had not seen Jesus. They did not know him.”
Additionally, in Matthew 15:19, Jesus states: “But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men”. Mark 7:9 says, “Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition” (King James Bible). Jesus, Son of the Honorable Mary only refers to Almighty Allah separate from himself. This truth is evident.
We Muslims, whose love for Jesus the Messiah is pure and true, reach out with love and respect to our Christian brethren. In these trying times wherein it may appear that the evildoers have the upper-hand, we seek solidarity with all those who believe in the winning power of the Almighty. None are closer to us Muslims in brotherhood than those who love and follow Jesus (peace be upon him). They are the ones whose hearts and faith are inspired by his teachings and strengthened by his message, that is, there is no God but the One Almighty Lord, Creator of the Heavens and Earth, the Lord of Moses, Jesus and Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon them all).
During this upcoming holiday season, let us, as believers, unite in the love of the Prophet and Messenger of Almighty Allah, Jesus Christ (peace be upon him), Son of Chaste Mary – the Spirit and Word of Almighty God.
Let us reflect on his words as he bestowed them upon the people of Jerusalem. “Blessed be the Holy Name of God, who of His goodness and mercy willed to create His creatures that they may glorify Him!” (Gospel of Barnabas).
The Islamic Post Editorial
