Islam holds a unique perspective on Jesus Christ (Isa, عليه السلام). While he is revered as a mighty prophet and messenger of God, his role in Islamic eschatology differs significantly from that in Christianity. Among the most notable aspects of his return is the prophecy that he will "break the cross," an event mentioned in the authentic hadiths of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). This hadith has profound theological implications, symbolizing the rectification of religious misunderstandings and the establishment of true monotheism.
In this article, we explore the meaning of Jesus’s return in Islamic tradition, the significance of the "breaking of the cross," and what lessons can be derived from this prophetic event.
The Prophecy of Jesus’s Return in Islam
In Islam, Jesus is considered a prophet, not the son of God or part of a divine trinity. Muslims believe that Jesus was neither crucified nor killed but was taken up to the heavens by God. His return is a key component of Islamic eschatology, marking one of the major signs of the Day of Judgment.
The following hadith is among the most well-known regarding the return of Jesus:
“By Him in Whose Hand is my soul, the son of Mary will soon descend among you as a just ruler. He will break the cross, kill the swine, and abolish the jizya.”
– (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 3448; Sahih Muslim, Hadith 155)
This hadith suggests that Jesus’s return will serve a particular mission: to clarify the truth about his life and message, eliminate distortions in religious belief, and reestablish the oneness of God.
Breaking the Cross: What Does It Symbolize?
The "breaking of the cross" is a metaphorical expression with profound significance. In Islamic thought, this act does not imply the destruction of Christianity itself but rather the correction of doctrinal errors that developed over time. The cross is a central symbol in Christianity, representing Jesus’s crucifixion and resurrection, which are viewed in Islam as theological inaccuracies. Here are several meanings associated with this prophetic act:
Correction of the Trinity Doctrine
One of the primary theological differences between Islam and Christianity is the Christian belief in the Trinity, which portrays Jesus as divine and the "Son of God." Islam, however, emphasizes the absolute oneness of God (Tawhid) and teaches that associating partners with God is shirk, the gravest sin. When Jesus breaks the cross, it will serve as a declaration of his true nature—that he is not divine but a servant and prophet of God.
Rejection of the Crucifixion Narrative
According to the Quran, Jesus was not crucified but was raised by God:
“They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him, but it was made to appear so to them.” (Quran 4:157)
The breaking of the cross may also signify the rejection of the belief that Jesus died on the cross for the sins of humanity, thereby nullifying the doctrine of atonement. This act will clarify that salvation lies not in the crucifixion but in submission to God’s will.
Unifying Humanity Under True Monotheism
Jesus’s return will mark the end of divisions between religious communities. The breaking of the cross is a symbolic act to bring people back to the worship of one God, without any intermediaries or divine partnerships. His mission will reaffirm the monotheistic teachings preached by all prophets, including Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).
Jesus as a Just Ruler
The hadith describes Jesus not only as breaking the cross but also as ruling justly. His governance will reflect the justice, mercy, and equity characteristic of prophetic leadership. The return of Jesus will be marked by the establishment of peace and justice across the earth.
One of the hadith’s mentions is the abolition of the jizya, a tax historically imposed on non-Muslim citizens under Islamic rule. This suggests that with the arrival of Jesus, religious distinctions and tensions will cease to exist, as all people will unite under the banner of monotheism.
Additionally, Jesus will "kill the swine," another symbolic act. Swine, considered impure in Islamic law, may represent the elimination of prohibited or immoral practices that had become accepted. His mission will aim to restore purity and righteousness in human behavior.
What Can Muslims and Non-Muslims Learn from This Prophecy?
The breaking of the cross is not merely an act aimed at Christians but a profound lesson for all of humanity. Here are some key takeaways:
The Universality of Monotheism
Jesus’s return will reaffirm the core message of all prophets: the oneness of God. The breaking of the cross serves as a reminder that ultimate salvation lies in the worship of the Creator alone. For both Muslims and Christians, this event emphasizes the importance of seeking truth and aligning one’s beliefs with divine revelation.
The Importance of Clarifying Religious Misunderstandings
The prophecy highlights the need to correct religious misconceptions. Over time, various religious traditions can develop doctrines that may deviate from their original teachings. The mission of Jesus upon his return will be to clear these misconceptions, guiding people back to the path of truth.
Respecting Jesus as a Prophet and His Role in the End Times
Muslims honor Jesus as a beloved prophet, and his return reinforces the continuity between Islam and previous revelations. Understanding this prophecy can foster interfaith dialogue and mutual respect, highlighting both the common ground and differences between Islam and Christianity.
The Need for Unity and Justice
Jesus’s role as a just ruler points to the importance of justice in human society. His leadership will serve as a model for governance rooted in fairness, equality, and compassion. For modern societies, this prophecy offers a reminder of the importance of building just systems that ensure the well-being of all.
Conclusion
The hadith of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) about the return of Jesus and the breaking of the cross carries deep theological and moral significance. This event symbolizes the rejection of false doctrines, the reaffirmation of monotheism, and the unification of humanity under the worship of one God. Jesus’s mission will not be to establish a new religion but to restore the original message of all prophets: to worship God alone and live righteously.
For Muslims, this prophecy strengthens the belief in Jesus as a revered prophet and reinforces the interconnectedness of all divine revelations. For people of other faiths, understanding this aspect of Islamic eschatology offers an opportunity to appreciate the Islamic perspective on Jesus and foster mutual respect.
Ultimately, the breaking of the cross serves as a powerful reminder of the need for truth, unity, and justice—values that transcend religious boundaries and offer guidance for all of humanity in preparation for the Day of Judgment.
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