Ahl al-Bayt (as) Teachings

Ahl al-Bayt (as) Teachings

Explanation the Concept of the "Son of God" in the Qur’an and the Bible from a Novel Perspective: A Historical-Analytical and Dialogical Approach

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Mahdi Salehi
Assistant Professor, Faculty of Islamic studies, Ahlulbayt Intl University, Iran.
10.22034/jatj.2026.581115.1089
Abstract
This study presents a comparative and analytical examination of the concept of the “Son of God” in the theological traditions of Islam and Christianity, with particular emphasis on the Qur’anic and Biblical texts. The primary objective is to elucidate the semantic development and historical–cultural contexts of this term, as well as its role in shaping divergent—and at times conflicting—theological discourses between these two Abrahamic religions. The central issue addressed in this research is the identification of the roots of differing interpretations concerning the status of Jesus (peace be upon him). While orthodox Christian theology understands the “Son of God” as the second person of the Trinity and consubstantial with the Father, the Qur’an categorically rejects any attribution of offspring to God and presents Jesus instead as a chosen prophet of God. Employing a library-based methodology alongside a historical–analytical and dialogical approach, this study demonstrates that the early use of this term in Jewish texts—and even in certain passages of the New Testament, particularly the Synoptic Gospels—functioned primarily as an honorific or metaphorical designation. The transformation of this concept toward the full divinization of Jesus was largely influenced by Pauline interpretations and was later formalized at the Council of Nicaea (325 CE) under the influence of both political and theological factors. In contrast, while the Qur’an affirms the miraculous birth of Jesus, it does not regard it as evidence of divinity. The study concludes that a historical re-examination of this term, along with an understanding of the contexts that shaped contemporary interpretations, can help reduce misunderstandings and provide a basis for constructive and respectful dialogue between Islam and Christianity, without overlooking their fundamental theological differences.
Keywords
Son of God, Holy Qur&rsquo
an, The Bible, Theological History, Interfaith Dialogue
Subjects
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Ahl al-Bayt (as) Teachings
Volume 3, Issue 4
Winter 2026
Pages 109-127

  • Receive Date 10 May 2026
  • Accept Date 26 May 2026
  • First Publish Date 26 May 2026
  • Publish Date 01 March 2026