What does the Quran say about Christians?
It depends on the passage, because the Quran speaks about Christians in several ways. It praises their humility, compassion and devotion, calls them People of the Book, and describes them as nearest in affection to Muslims. It also clearly disagrees with some Christian beliefs, especially the Trinity and the divinity of Jesus, and invites Christians to worship One God together.
Warm words about Christians
One of the best-known verses on this topic says:
The Quran also says God placed "compassion and mercy" in the hearts of those who followed Jesus (Quran 57:27), and that among the People of the Book are people who pray at night, believe in God and the Last Day, and hurry to do good (Quran 3:113-114).
Jesus and Mary at the center
The Quran speaks of Jesus with great honor: he is the Messiah, born miraculously to the Virgin Mary, a word from God, and a mighty prophet who healed the sick. Mary has a whole chapter named after her (Surah Maryam). The Prophet ﷺ said, "I am the nearest of all the people to Jesus, the son of Mary" (Sahih al-Bukhari 3443). See What does the Quran say about Mary?
Where the Quran disagrees
The Quran is also direct about theological differences, and addresses Christians as "O People of the Scripture":
- The Trinity: "do not say, 'Three'; desist - it is better for you. Indeed, Allah is but one God" (Quran 4:171).
- Jesus as God: the Quran says Jesus himself taught, "worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord" (Quran 5:72).
- The crucifixion: it states Jesus was not killed or crucified, but raised by God (Quran 4:157-158).
These are disagreements about beliefs, not hostility toward people. Many Christians disagree with Islam just as clearly, and both can still respect each other. See Do Muslims and Christians believe in the same God?
An invitation, not an attack
The Quran's main message to Christians is an invitation to common ground: "come to a word that is equitable between us and you - that we will not worship except Allah" (Quran 3:64). It tells Muslims to discuss faith "in a way that is best" (Quran 29:46), and allows kindness and justice toward anyone who doesn't fight them over religion (Quran 60:8).
This is why many Muslims welcome Christian neighbors to their mosques for open days and interfaith events. See Can I visit a mosque if I'm not Muslim?
- The Quran calls Christians nearest in affection to Muslims.
- It praises their humility, compassion and devotion.
- It disagrees with the Trinity and the divinity of Jesus.
- Its main message to Christians is an invitation to worship One God.
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