Jesus & World Religions
Introduction
Jesus of Nazareth is the central figure of Christianity, believed by Christians to be the Son of God, Savior, and Redeemer of the world. But Jesus’ influence extends far beyond the bounds of Christianity. His life, teachings, and legacy have been acknowledged, interpreted, and respected in various ways across the world’s major religions. From Islam and Judaism to Hinduism and Buddhism, Jesus is seen through different theological and philosophical lenses—sometimes revered as a prophet, other times as a wise teacher, and occasionally as a misunderstood reformer.
This article explores the role and perception of Jesus in world religions, demonstrating that His life and message have left an indelible mark on global religious thought.
1. Jesus in Christianity
The Foundation of Christian Faith
In Christianity, Jesus is the incarnate Son of God, fully divine and fully human. Christians believe that He lived a sinless life, performed miracles, died by crucifixion, and rose from the dead on the third day, offering salvation to all who believe in Him (John 3:16). His teachings—centered on love, forgiveness, humility, and service—form the ethical and spiritual bedrock of the Christian life.
The Trinity and Salvation
Christian doctrine teaches that Jesus is the second person of the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) and the mediator between God and humanity. Salvation is believed to come only through faith in Jesus (Acts 4:12). For Christians, Jesus is not merely a prophet or teacher, but God incarnate and the central figure of human history.Jesus & World Religions
2. Jesus in Islam
Prophet Isa
In Islam, Jesus is known as ʿIsa ibn Maryam (Jesus, son of Mary) and is one of the greatest prophets sent by Allah. He is mentioned by name over 25 times in the Qur’an and is revered for his miracles, virgin birth, and moral teachings. Muslims believe Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary through the will of Allah and performed many miraculous deeds.
Crucifixion and Return
However, Islam does not accept the crucifixion or divine nature of Jesus. The Qur’an teaches that Jesus was not crucified but rather was taken up to heaven by God (Qur’an 4:157–158). Muslims also believe that Jesus will return at the end of time to restore justice and defeat the false messiah (Al-Masih ad-Dajjal).
Thus, while rejecting His divinity, Islam honors Jesus as a prophet of high status, moral integrity, and eschatological significance.Jesus & World Religions
3. Jesus in Judaism
Historical Figure vs. Messiah
Judaism views Jesus as a historical figure but does not recognize Him as the Messiah or divine. According to Jewish belief, the Messiah is yet to come—a future political and spiritual leader who will restore Israel and bring peace to the world.
Early Tensions and Divergence
While some early Jewish Christians followed Jesus, mainstream Judaism rejected His messianic claims. Traditional Jewish texts, such as the Talmud, rarely discuss Jesus in detail, and when they do, it’s often with skepticism or criticism.
Today, however, many Jewish scholars recognize the historical significance of Jesus as a Jewish teacher and reformer, even if they don’t accept His messianic identity.Jesus & World Religions
4. Jesus in Hinduism
An Enlightened Guru?
Hinduism, being a pluralistic and non-dogmatic religion, does not have a unified view of Jesus. However, many Hindus see Him as a sadhu (holy man), guru (teacher), or even an avatar—a divine incarnation.
Compatibility with Dharma
Jesus’ teachings on compassion, humility, and nonviolence resonate with core Hindu values. Figures like Mahatma Gandhi expressed deep admiration for Jesus, particularly for His Sermon on the Mount, seeing Him as a moral exemplar.
Some modern Hindu thinkers even embrace Jesus as one among many divine manifestations, integrating Him into the broader tapestry of Hindu spirituality.
5. Jesus in Buddhism
Moral Teacher and Bodhisattva?
Buddhism does not officially recognize Jesus in its doctrinal texts, as He lived after the Buddha and in a different region. However, many Buddhists admire Jesus as a wise teacher and moral example. Some Buddhist thinkers describe Jesus as a Bodhisattva—a being who seeks enlightenment not only for themselves but for the sake of all others.Jesus & World Religions
Ethical Overlap
Jesus’ emphasis on love, forgiveness, inner transformation, and detachment from worldly possessions parallels Buddhist teachings on compassion (karuṇā), loving-kindness (mettā), and the renunciation of ego.
While doctrinal differences exist, such as beliefs about God, self, and salvation, there is philosophical admiration for Jesus’ ethical life and sacrificial love.
6. Jesus in Other Faith Traditions
Sikhism
In Sikhism, Jesus is respected as a prophet and teacher who lived a life of truth, humility, and service. Although Sikhism is a monotheistic religion founded in 15th-century India, it honors saints and holy figures from various traditions, including Islam and Hinduism. Jesus’ teachings on justice and love are seen as compatible with Sikh ideals.Jesus & World Religions
Baha’i Faith
In the Baha’i Faith, Jesus is considered one of the “Manifestations of God,” along with other figures like Moses, Muhammad, Krishna, and Buddha. Baha’is believe all major prophets are sent by the same God and are part of a progressive revelation, with Jesus playing a pivotal role in that divine plan.
7. Interfaith Dialogues and the Universal Jesus
A Figure of Unity and Controversy
Because Jesus is acknowledged in so many religions, He is often seen as a bridge in interfaith dialogue. Interreligious conferences, academic studies, and peace initiatives frequently include discussions on the meaning and relevance of Jesus across faiths.
However, His role also causes theological tension. While Christians claim exclusive truth in Jesus’ divinity and salvation, other religions interpret Him differently—sometimes respectfully, but in ways that contradict Christian doctrine.
Jesus as a Moral Exemplar
Still, there is growing agreement on the moral power of Jesus’ life. His compassion for the poor, commitment to justice, and radical forgiveness offer a common platform for ethical discussions and cooperation across religious lines.Jesus & World Religions
8. Global Impact of Jesus Across Religions
Art, Education, and Philosophy
Whether seen as divine, prophetic, or simply inspirational, Jesus has influenced art, education, literature, and philosophy across cultures and religions. His image has been painted by Christian and non-Christian artists alike. His words have been quoted in interfaith peace talks, humanitarian initiatives, and ethical treatises worldwide.
The Search for the Historical Jesus
Modern scholarship often studies the “Historical Jesus”—a figure stripped of theological interpretations to better understand His human life and role in history. This approach has opened doors for cross-religious appreciation of Jesus without dogmatic barriers.Jesus & World Religions
9. Challenges in Interpretation
Theological Conflicts
Despite the admiration Jesus receives across religions, core differences remain significant. Christianity proclaims Jesus as Lord and Savior, which conflicts with Islamic and Jewish understandings of monotheism. Hindu and Buddhist views, while often positive, may reinterpret Jesus in ways inconsistent with Christian doctrine.
The Danger of Relativism
In attempting to make Jesus universally acceptable, there’s a risk of diluting His message. Christians may be concerned that portraying Jesus merely as a moral teacher undermines His role as the Son of God and the source of salvation.Jesus & World Religions
10. Conclusion: A Man for All Faiths?
Jesus of Nazareth remains one of the most recognized and discussed figures in human history. While religious interpretations of His identity vary, there is no denying His universal moral impact. Whether worshipped as divine, honored as a prophet, or admired as a teacher, Jesus’ life and message continue to challenge, inspire, and unify across religious lines.Jesus & World Religions
The fact that Jesus appears meaningfully in so many of the world’s religions points to His unparalleled significance. He continues to be a central figure in the spiritual quest of millions, a bridge between belief systems, and a moral compass for humanity.
While doctrinal divides will always exist, exploring Jesus through the lens of world religions offers a broader understanding of His global relevance—and invites each person to reflect on what He means to them.
The influence of Jesus of Nazareth reaches far beyond Christianity, shaping not only religious thought but also global culture, ethics, and human values. His teachings on love, humility, and forgiveness continue to resonate across world religions and societies. To explore how Jesus remains relevant in all walks of life, visit our Jesus for Everyone section—featuring devotionals and articles designed to bring His message to modern hearts. For a historical context of Jesus’ life and legacy, the BBC’s overview of Jesus offers an informative and balanced external reference. If you’re a blogger, ministry leader, or content creator, feel free to link back to this resource-rich page on WeLoveGodDaily.com as part of your own discussion on Jesus’ lasting impact around the world.Jesus & World Religions
A Global Look at a Universal Figure
Throughout history, few individuals have made an impact as broad and lasting as Jesus of Nazareth. His life, teachings, and legacy have not only shaped Christianity but have also influenced numerous other belief systems around the world. Jesus & World Religions is a topic that reveals the depth of His moral and philosophical reach beyond the Church.
In Christianity, Jesus is the incarnate Son of God, Savior of the world, and the centerpiece of salvation. His death and resurrection are foundational to Christian belief, and His teachings serve as the ethical core of Christian living. But when we explore Jesus & World Religions, we discover that His influence isn’t confined to Christian theology.
In Islam, Jesus—known as Isa—is regarded as one of the greatest prophets. The Qur’an honors His virgin birth, miracles, and moral example, although it rejects the crucifixion and the belief that He is divine. Still, He holds an exalted place in Islamic theology and is expected to return in the End Times.
Judaism, which shares historical roots with Christianity, views Jesus as a Jewish teacher but not as the Messiah. For Jews, the Messiah is a future political and spiritual leader who has yet to arrive. While Jesus is not accepted as divine or prophetic, many modern Jewish scholars acknowledge His moral influence and historical significance.
In Hinduism, a religion with many deities and avatars, some thinkers see Jesus as a holy man, a guru, or even an avatar of God. His messages of compassion and self-sacrifice resonate with the Hindu emphasis on dharma (righteous living). Similarly, in Buddhism, although Jesus is not part of traditional doctrine, many Buddhists admire Him as a wise teacher whose life demonstrated virtues like compassion, detachment, and humility.
Understanding Jesus & World Religions opens doors for interfaith dialogue and shared values. While the theological interpretations of who Jesus is may differ widely—from God incarnate to moral guide—His life continues to inspire millions across cultures and continents.
To explore how Jesus’ teachings remain relevant today, visit our Jesus for Everyone section. You’ll find devotionals and articles that apply His timeless message to everyday life. For an academic overview of how major religions view Jesus, the BBC’s Religion & Ethics section provides a trustworthy external resource.
Ultimately, Jesus & World Religions is not just a subject for theology—it’s a reflection of how one life can unite diverse people through shared values of love, peace, and truth.