Difference between the words Nasrani and Masihi


Question:

For a long period of time, the word Masihi has been commonly used. Is this correct or do we have to use the word Nasrani instead? Provide me with your beneficial answer. May Allah reward you.

Answer:

The word Masihi is an ascription to Al-Masih ibn Maryam (Jesus Christ, son of Mary, peace be upon him). People who allege that they follow the Bible use the word Masihy to claim that they are followers of Al-Masih (peace be upon him) while he is free from them. They are just liars for Al-Masih (peace be upon him) did not state that he is the son of Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He). Rather, Al-Masih (peace be upon him) emphasized that he is the Slave of Allah and His Messenger.

Consequently, it is more proper to call them Nasara as Allah (Glorified and Exalted be He) named them. He (Exalted be He) says: “The Jews said that the Christians follow nothing (i.e. are not on the right religion); and the Christians said that the Jews follow nothing (i.e. are not on the right religion); though they both recite the Scripture.” [al-Baqarah: 113]

The Arabic equivalent of the word “Christians” is “Nasara” and the singular form is “Nasrani”.

Muftis
  • Estimated Reading Time
    1 min read
  • Source :
    Fatawa Al-Shaykh Ibn Baz 5/416
  • Non-muslim
  • Last modified
Share
Facebook Twitter Threads Telegram Whatsapp More