mathematics), were transmitted to medieval Europe from the Muslimworld. Sophisticated instruments which were to make possible the European voyages of discovery, such as the astrolabe, the quadrant, and good navigational maps, were also developed by Muslims. What Do Muslims Believe about Jesus? Muslims respect and revere Jesus (peace be upon him). They consider him one of the greatest of God’s messengers to mankind. The Qur’an confirms his virgin birth, and a chapter of the Qur’an is entitled ‘Maryam’ (Mary). The Qur’an describes the birth of Jesus as follows: (Remember) when the angels said: “O Mary, God gives you good news of a word from Him (God), whose name is the Messiah Jesus, son of Mary, revered in this world and the Hereafter, and one of those brought near (to God). He will speak to the people from his cradle and as a man, and he is of the righteous.” She said: “My Lord, how can I have a child when no mortal has touched me?” He said: “So (it will be). God creates what He wills. If He decrees a thing, He says to it only, ‘Be!’ and it is.” (Qur’an, 3:45-47) Jesus was born miraculously by the command of God which had brought Adam into being without a father. God has said: The case of Jesus with God is like the case of Adam. He created him fromdust, and then He said to him, “Be!” and he came into being. (Qur’an, 3:59) During his prophetic mission, Jesus performed many miracles. God tells us that Jesus said: What Do Muslims Believe about Jesus? Chapter 3 General Information on Islam A Brief Illustrated Guide To Understanding Islam 57
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTUxNjQ1