For centuries, the Qur’an has been interpreted to deny the crucifixion of Jesus, contradicting the New Testament’s account. The key verse often cited is from Surah An-Nisa (4:157):

“And [for] their saying, ‘Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, the messenger of Allah.’ And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain.”

Despite this textual interpretation, recent scholars, both Muslim and non-Muslim, have begun to reconsider this view. Rather than denying Jesus’ crucifixion outright, some argue that the Qur’an questions the responsibility of the Jews for the act. They suggest that the passage emphasizes God’s authority over events, including Jesus’ death.

However, this nuanced interpretation faces significant challenges, particularly when considering the historical consensus among Muslim scholars. Throughout history, scholars from various schools of thought—Sunnis, Shias, Muʿtazilīs, and Sufis—have unanimously rejected the idea of Jesus’ crucifixion as portrayed in the New Testament.

Prominent figures like Ṭabarī, Māwardī, and Qurṭubī among Sunnis, and Qummī, Ṭūsī, and Ṭabāṭabāʾī among Shias, have upheld this view. Even those who believe Jesus died on earth after being raised, like Ibn Ḥazm al-Andalusī, concur that he was not crucified.

Moreover, the suggestion that earlier scholars supported the crucifixion is based on a few isolated writings from Shia Ismāʿīlī authors, whose interpretations were doctrinally motivated rather than exegetical. These interpretations, which emerged centuries after the Prophet Muhammad, do not represent the mainstream understanding of the Qur’an.

One notable example often cited is Fakhr al-Dīn al-Rāzī, whose apparent references to the crucifixion have been misinterpreted. When closely examined, Rāzī’s commentary reaffirms the Qur’an’s denial of Jesus’ crucifixion.

In modern times, scholars like Sayyid Ahmad Khan have proposed nuanced views, suggesting Jesus was crucified but did not die on the cross. However, these interpretations remain a minority position against the broader historical consensus.

The enduring unanimity among Muslim exegetes on this matter underscores the consistent interpretation of Surah An-Nisa (4:157). Despite exposure to differing Christian beliefs, Muslim scholars have steadfastly maintained the Qur’an’s stance on Jesus’ crucifixion.

In conclusion, while alternative readings exist, the weight of scholarly consensus supports the traditional understanding of the Qur’an’s denial of Jesus’ crucifixion. This consensus reflects a deep engagement with the text and its historical context, reaffirming the distinct theological perspectives between Islam and Christianity on this pivotal event.

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