Mary in Islam

-1- Abraham is often presented as the common father to the three monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. This idea is not found in the Bible, but is actually of ​​Muslim origin. So we must use a critical mind and not receive it as a self-evidence. There are major differences between the biblical monotheism, where God establishes a Covenant, and the Quranic monotheism, where there is no trace of the Covenant. It is important, because without a covenant there is no mediation possible, therefore it is useless to pray with Mary! This is the first important point when considering the question of "Mary in Islam."

-2- The fact that Islam rejected Christ also changes the perspective on Mary. In the Qur’an "Jesus" became "Issa." The name “Jesus” means “He saves,” but for the Muslims Jesus does not save. The Qur'an uses a similar name emptied of that meaning, "Issa." Similarly, Mary is not venerated as Mother of God, nor as Mother of the Redeemer. This is the second important point.

The close study of Sura 19 shows significant differences with the Annunciation according to the Gospel. Moreover, in certain parts of the Qur’an, Mary is confused with the sister of Moses and Aaron, Myriam, who lived in the 13^th century before Christ. There are a number of considerations that we should not ignore.

Mary is a model of purity and of piety. These are admirable human virtues that should theoretically bring Christians and Muslims in closer unity. However the Qur’an tends to equate purity with physical virginity before marriage and piety with total submission.

This being said, it is true that many Muslims know and respect Mary, and sometimes even pray to her.

Mary radiates peace and sweetness. The bright and virtuous face of the Virgin Mary attracts all men of goodwill, from any religion, including Muslims.

We have to keep the nuances and even paradoxes in mind: We do see some Muslims who sing the Hail Mary along with Christians, while others smash statues representing the Virgin Mary and kill Christians 

The reality is complex. The aim of this chapter is to learn a little more about Islam’s position and practices, to understand nuances while keeping in mind that Islam has no authoritative magisterium to give a consistent doctrine to all the Muslims in the world.