Descent of Jesus Christ

Muslims and Christians both expect the return of Jesus, and both are usually surprised to learn that the other does. That shared expectation, and the differences within it, is the subject of this short booklet.

What It Sets Out

The descent of 'Isa عليه السلام is one of the major signs of the Day of Judgment, and it is established in the Qur'an and in a substantial body of authentic narration. This booklet gathers that material into a coherent account: when he returns, what he does, and how his return relates to the other great events of the end.

The method is what makes it reliable. It meticulously combines verses from the Qur'an with the sayings of the Prophet ﷺ, producing a single narrative from the sources rather than from later elaboration — which matters here more than almost anywhere, since eschatology attracts invention.

The Comparative Element

It also includes references to the Christian Bible, for comparative theological study. That makes it usable in a way a purely internal treatment would not be: a Muslim discussing the end times with a Christian friend can see where the two accounts overlap and where they diverge.

The overlap is larger than most people on either side expect. The divergence is precise and significant.

The Compiler

Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan is best known for his translation and commentary of the meanings of the Noble Qur'an into English, and for his extensive work in Hadith. His command of both Arabic and English produced literature that has become standard, and his work is marked by accessibility joined to reliability.

Who It Is For

Muslims who know the descent of 'Isa is coming and could say very little more. Christians curious about the Islamic account. Da'wah workers — this is often an unexpectedly effective opening, since it begins from common ground. Adults wanting clarity on end-time prophecy without a full volume.

Related Reading

• The Book of the End — Ibn Kathir on the trials and events still to come
• Smaller Signs of the Day — the smaller signs, including those fulfilled
• Christianity and Islam According to the Bible and the Qur'an — Islam and Christianity compared from their scriptures