THE HOLY INJIL

Translation Chapter 1

The purpose of this Book

1Many have set out to write a narrative of the events (concerning ‘Īsā al-Masīh) that have taken place[1]among us. 2In fact, those who from the beginning were eye-witnesses of these events and servants of the word passed on to us the account of what they had seen. 3 It seemed good to me[2]also to write an orderly account for you, most noble Theophilus,[3]after I had carefully investigated everything from that period of time.4My purpose is that you may know for certain the truth of the message you have been taught (concerning al-Masīh ‘Īsā).

The Angel Jibrīl announces the birth of Prophet Yahyā to Prophet Zakarīyā (peace be upon them)

5 In the time of Herod,[4]king of Judea, there lived a Jewish priest[5]named Zakarīyā who was part of the priestly division of Abijah. His wife, Elizabeth, was also descended from Hārūn. 6 They were both righteous in the sight of Allah and blameless, walking in all the commands and requirements of the Lord. 7They had no children because Elizabeth was unable to conceive, and they were both elderly.[6]

8It so happened, when Zakarīyā was serving as a Jewish priest before Allah and his priestly division was on duty, 9 that he was chosen by lot, according to Jewish priestly custom, to enter the Lord’s Bayt ul-Muqaddas[7]to burn incense.[8]10 The whole assembly was praying outside at the time for burning incense.

11 While he was there, an angel of the Lord appeared,[9] standing to the right of the place for burning incense.[10]12When he saw the angel, Zakarīyā was shaken and overwhelmed with fear. 13But the angel said to him, ‘Don’t be afraid, Zakarīyā! Your du’ā has been answered and your wife, Elizabeth will bear you a son. You are to name him Yahyā.[11]14 He will be your joy and delight, and many will rejoice at his birth,15 for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He must never drink wine or alcohol. He will be filled with the Holy Spirit[12]even in his mother’s womb. 16He will turn back many of the Banī Isrā’īl to the Lord their God. 17And he is the one who will go ahead of the Lord in the spirit and power of Ilyās,[13]to turn the hearts of the parents towards their children,[14]and the rebellious to the wisdom of the righteous; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.’[15]

18 Zakarīyā said to the angel, ‘How can I be sure about this? I’m an old man and my wife is elderly too.’[16]

19 The angel answered him, ‘I am Jibrīl and I stand in the presence of Allah. I was sent to speak to you and announce this good news to you. 20 But now you will be silent and unable to speak until the day these things happen, because you did not believe my message which will be fulfilled in its appointed time.’

21Meanwhile the people were waiting for Zakarīyā and were surprised that he was taking so long in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas. 22 When he came out, he was not able to speak to them, and they realised he had seen a vision in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas. He kept making signs to them with his hands and remained unable to speak.

23 When the time of his service in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas was completed, he left to go home. 24Soon after this, his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months did not appear in public. 25 ‘This is what the Lord has done for me,’ she said. ‘Now he has shown his concern for me by taking away my disgrace among the people.’

The Angel Jibrīl (pbuh)announces the birth of ‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)to Maryam (pbuh)

26In the sixth month, the angel Jibrīl was sent from Allah to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, 27to a virgin who was pledged to be married to a man named Yūsuf from the house of Dāwūd. The virgin’s name was Maryam.28The angel came to her and said, ‘As-salāmu ‘alaykum, you who are highly favoured! The Lord is with you.’

29Maryam was deeply disturbed by his message and wondered what this greeting might mean. 30 The angel said to her, ‘Don’t be afraid, Maryam, for you have found grace from Allah. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to name him ‘Īsā.[17]32He will be great and will be called spiritual Son of al-Muta’ālī.[18]The Lord Allah will give him the throne of his father Dāwūd. 33 He will reign over the house of Ya’qūb forever; his kingship will never end.’[19]

34 ‘How can this happen,’ Maryam asked the angel, ‘since I am a virgin?’[20]

35 The angel replied, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of al-Muta’ālī will overshadow you. For this reason, the child to be born will be holy.[21]He will be called the spiritualSon of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is expecting a child in her old age; she who was called infertile is now in her sixth month of pregnancy. 37 For nothing is impossible with Allah.’[22]

38Maryam said, ‘I am the Lord’s servant. May it happen to me as you have said.’

Then the angel left her.

Hazrat Maryam (pbuh)visits Hazrat Elizabeth (pbuh)

39In those days Maryam set off and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea. 40 There she went into Zakarīyā’s house and greeted Elizabeth. 41When Elizabeth heard Maryam’s greeting, the baby leaped for joy in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42She exclaimed in a loud voice, ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child in your womb! 43And how is it that the mother of my Lord[23]has come to me? 44For as soon as I heard your greeting, the baby in my womb leaped for joy and gladness. 45You are blessed because you have believed that the Lord will fulfil what he has said to you.’

Hazrat Maryam’s (pbuh)Nashīd

46Then Maryam said,

‘My soul glorifies the Lord

                  47and my spirit rejoices greatly in Allah my Saviour,[24]

48for he has looked with favour on the humble status of his servant.

From now on all generations will call me blessed,

                  49for al-Qādir[25]has done great things for me.

Al-Quddūs[26]is his name.

                  50His mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation

51 He has done mighty acts with his arm,[27]

            He has scattered those whose hearts are proud.

52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones

            but the humble he has honoured.

53 He has filled the hungry with good things,

            but the rich he has sent away empty.

54 He has helped the Banī Isrā’īl, his servant,

            remembering his mercy.

55 This is what he promised to our ancestors,

            to Ibrāhīm and his descendants forever.’[28]

56 Maryam stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home.

The birth of Prophet Yahyā (pbuh)

57 The time came for Elizabeth to have her baby, and she gave birth to a son. 58 Her neighbours and relatives heard that the Lord had shown such great mercy to her and they rejoiced with her.

59 On the eighth day, they came to circumcise the child, and they were going to name him Zakarīyā after his father. 60 But his mother said, ‘No! He is to be called Yahyā.’

61 They said to her, ‘None of your relatives has that name.’

62 They signalled with their hands to his father to find out what he would like the child to be called. 63 He asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, ‘His name is Yahyā.’ Everyone was astonished.

64 Immediately Zakarīyā’s mouth was opened and his tongue released, and he started to speak, praising Allah. 65 Everyone in the neighbourhood was filled with awe, and throughout the entire hill country of Judea, people were talking about all these events. 66 Everybody who heard pondered them and asked, ‘What is this child going to be?’ For the Lord’s hand was with him.

Prophet Zakarīyā’s (pbuh)Nashīd

67The child’s father Zakarīyā was filled with the Holy Spirit and gave this prophecy:

68 ‘Praise be to the Lord, the God of the Banī Isrā’īl,

            for he has shown his concern and redeemed his people.

69He has raised up a strong king[29]in the house of Dāwūd, his servant,

            who will bring salvation for us,[30]

                  70just as he said through his holy prophets from past ages.

71 This salvation is from our enemies

            and from the hand of all who hate us.

72 Allah has shown mercy to our ancestors

            and has remembered his holy covenant,

                  73- the oath which he swore to Ibrāhīm our father.[31]

He promised 74 to deliver us from the hands of our enemies,

            that we might worship him without fear,

                  75 in holiness and righteousness in his presence all our days.

76 And you, child, will be called a prophet[32]of al-Muta’āli.

For you will go ahead of the Lord to prepare his ways,[33]

                  77to give knowledge of salvation to his people

            through the forgiveness of their sins.

78 Out of the merciful heart of our God,

            the dawn from heaven will break upon us,

79 to shine on those in darkness

            and those living in the shadow of death,[34]

to guide our feet into the way of peace.’

80 The child grew and became strong in spirit. He lived in the wilderness until the time of his public appearance to the Banī Isrā’īl.

Translation Chapter 2

The birth of al-Masīh‘Īsā (his peace be upon us)

2At that time a decree went out from Caesar Augustus[1]that there should be a census of the entire Roman Empire. 2This was the first census that was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria.[2]3Everyone went to register in their own town.

4 Yūsuf went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the town of Dāwūd called Bethlehem, because he was from the house and family line of Dāwūd. 5He went there to be registered with Maryam, who was engaged to be married to him and was pregnant. 6 While they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 She gave birth to a son, her firstborn.[3]She wrapped him in strips of cloth and laid him in a manger,[4]because there was no guest room available for them.

An Angel announces al-Masīh ‘Īsā’s birth to shepherds

8 Now there were some shepherds in that region who were out in the open country, keeping watch over their flock at night. 9 An angel of the Lord stood near them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, ‘Don’t be afraid. Listen! I have good news for you – news of great joy which will be for all the people. 11 For today in the town of Dāwūd a saviour has been born to you. He is al-Masīh,[5]the Lord. 12 And this is the sign for you: you will find the baby wrapped in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.’

13 Suddenly there was a great multitude of the armies of heaven with the angel, praising Allah and saying,

                  14‘Glory to Allah in the highest heaven,

            and upon earth peace to people on whom his favour rests.’

15 When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to each other, ‘Let’s go now to Bethlehem and see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has revealed to us.’

16 So they hurried there, and they found Maryam and Yūsuf, and the baby lying in a manger. 17 When they had seen him, the shepherds made known what the angel had told them about this child. 18 Everyone who heard marvelled at what the shepherds told them.19 But Maryam treasured all these things and reflected deeply on them in her heart. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising Allah for all they had heard and seen, which were just as the angel had told them.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)is circumcised

21 After eight days, the time came for the child to be circumcised. They called him ‘Īsā, which was what the angel had named him before he was conceived.

22When the time of their purification was completed according to the Taurāt of Mūsā,[6]Maryam and Yūsuf took ‘Īsā to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. 23It is written in the Taurāt of the Lord that every firstborn male is called holy to the Lord,[7]24and sacrifice is to be offered according to what is said in the Taurāt of the Lord – a pair of pigeons or two young doves.[8]

Hazrat Simeon (pbuh)and Hazrat Anna (pbuh)prophesy about ‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)

25 There was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout, and he was longing for Allah to bring comfort to the Banī Isrā’īl,[9]and the Holy Spirit[10]was upon him. 26The Holy Spirit had also made known to him that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Masīh. 27 Led by the Spirit, Simeon went to al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas. When the parents brought in the child ‘Īsā, to do for him what was required according to the custom of sharī’ah (revealed to Prophet Mūsā), 28 Simeon took the child in his arms and praised Allah, saying:

29‘Mālik ul-Mulk,[11]you are now letting your servant depart in peace,

            just as you promised.

30For with my own eyes I have seen your salvation,

                  31which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,

32 a light for revelation to the nations,[12]

            and for glory to your people, the Banī Isrā’īl.’[13]

33 The child’s father and mother were astonished at what was said about him.34Simeon gave du’ā for them and said to Maryam, his mother, ‘Listen! This child is destined to cause the fall and rise of many of the Banī Isrā’īl, and to be a sign that will be rejected, 35so that the secret thoughts of many will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul.’

36 There was also a prophet named Anna, the daughter of Phanuel from the tribe of Asher.[14]She was very old, having lived with her husband for seven years of marriage, 37 and then as a widow until she was eighty-four.[15]She did not leave al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas, but worshipped with fasting and du’ā both night and day. 38At that very hour she was standing there praising Allah, and she spoke about ‘Īsā to all who were longing for the redemption of Jerusalem.[16]

39After they had completed everything according to the Taurāt of the Lord, they returned to their own town of Nazareth in Galilee. 40 The child grew and became strong. He was full of wisdom, and the grace of Allah was upon him.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)in Jerusalem for Passover Eid

41 Now his parents used to go to Jerusalem every year for the Passover Eid.[17]42When ‘Īsā was twelve years old they went up to Jerusalem as was usual at the time of the Eid. 43When the days of the Eid were completed, they began the journey home, but the boy ‘Īsā stayed in Jerusalem, and his parents were not aware of it. 44 They thought he was among their fellow pilgrims and they travelled a day’s journey. Then they started looking for him among their relatives and friends. 45 When they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem to search for him there. 46 After three days they found him in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 All who heard him were astonished at his understanding and the answers that he gave.

 48 When his parents saw him, they were overwhelmed. His mother said to him, ‘Son, why did you do this to us? Look, your father and I were worried sick trying to find you!’

49 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘Why were you looking for me? Didn’t you know that I had to be in my Heavenly Father’s[18]house?’

50 But they did not understand what he had said to them.

51 He left with them and came to Nazareth and he was obedient to them. His mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 ‘Īsā grew physically and increased in wisdom, and in favour with Allah and people.

Translation Chapter 3

The work of the Prophet Yahyā (pbuh)

3In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar,[1]when Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea,[2]Herod was ruler of Galilee,[3]his brother Philip was ruler of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias was ruler of Abilene 2 while Annas and Caiaphas were Jewish high priests,[4]the word of Allah came to Yahyā son of Zakarīyā in the wilderness. 3He came to the entire region around the Jordan, preaching a ritual washing[5]of tauba[6]for the forgiveness of sins. 4As it is written in the Book of the words of the Prophet Isaiah,

“A voice calling out in the wilderness,

            ‘Prepare the way of the Lord,

make straight his paths.

                   5Every valley will be filled in,

and every mountain and hill made low,

            the twisted paths will become straight,

and the rough roads made smooth,

                   6and all mankind will see Allah’s salvation.’[7]

7 Yahyā said to the crowds coming out to receive ritual washing from him, ‘You offspring of snakes, who warned you to flee from the anger of Allah that is coming? 8 Produce fruits that show you have repented, and do not begin to say among yourselves, “We have Ibrāhīm as our father.” For I say to you that Allah is able from these stones to raise up children for Ibrāhīm. 9 Already, the axe is lying at the root of the trees. Every tree that does not produce good fruit is going to be cut down and thrown in the fire.’

10 The crowd asked him, ‘What should we do?’

11Yahyā answered them, ‘Whoever has two shirts should share with the person who has none. And whoever has food should do the same.’

12 Tax collectors came to receive ritual washing, and they said to him, ‘Teacher, what should we do?’

13He said to them, ‘Don’t take more than you are ordered to.’

14 Some soldiers asked him, ‘What about us? What should we do?’

Yahyā said to them, ‘Don’t take money from people using violence or blackmail. And be content with your wages.’

15The people were waiting with hope and longing, and everyone was wondering in their hearts about Yahyā, whether he might perhaps be al-Masīh. 16Yahyā answered them all, ‘I am the one who gives ritual washing to you with water. But one is coming who is more powerful than I. I’m not worthy even to loosen the straps of his sandals.[8]He is the one who will give ritual washing to you with the Holy Spirit[9]and fire.[10]17 His winnowing fork is in his hand to clean out his threshing floor and gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with fire that never goes out.’[11]

18 Yahyā urged the people with many more words and he proclaimed the good news to them. 19 (But later, when Yahyā reprimanded Herod the ruler concerning Herodias, his brother’s wife,[12]and all the evil things which Herod had done, 20 Herod added this to them all - he locked up Yahyā in prison).

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)receives ritual washing

21While all the people were receiving the ritual washing, ‘Īsā also received it.[13]As he was praying, the heaven was opened, 22 and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in a bodily form like a dove.[14]And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my spiritual Son,[15]whom I love! In you I take delight!’[16]

The genealogy[17]of al-Masīh ‘Īsā (hpbuu)

23 When ‘Īsā began his work,[18]he was about thirty years old. He was the son, so people thought, of Yūsuf,[19]

the son of Heli, 24the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Melki, the son of Jannai, the son of Yūsuf, 25 the son of Mattathias, the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Esli,

the son of Naggai, 26 the son of Maath, the son of Mattathias, the son of Semein, the son of Josek, the son of Joda, 27 the son of Yoanan, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, the son of Neri,

28 the son of Melki, the son of Addi, the son of Kosam, the son of Elmadam, the son of Er, 29the son of Yūsha’, the son of Eliezer, the son of Yorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, 30 the son of Simeon,

the son of Yahuda, the son of Yūsuf, the son of Jonam, the son of Eliakim, 31 the son of Melea, the son of Menna, the son of Mattatha, the son of Nathan, the son of Dāwūd, 32 the son of Jesse, the son of Obed,

the son of Boaz, the son of Salmon, the son of Nahshon, 33the son of Amminadab, the son of Admin, the son of Arni, the son of Hezron, the son of Perez, the son of Yahuda, 34 the son of Ya’qūb, the son of Ishāq,

the son of Ibrāhīm, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor, 35the son of Serug, the son of Reu, the son of Peleg, the son of Eber, the son of Shelah, 36 the son of Cainan, the son of Arphaxad, the son of Shem,

the son of Nūh, the son of Lamek, 37 the son of Methuselah, the son of Idris, the son of Jared, the son of Mahalalel, the son of Cainan, 38 the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the spiritual son of God.[20]

Translation Chapter 4

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)is tempted by Iblīs

4‘Īsā returned from the Jordan full of the Holy Spirit[1], and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness 2for forty days, to be tempted by Iblīs[2]. He did not eat anything in these days, and when they were completed he was hungry.

3Iblīs said to him, ‘If you are the spiritual Son of Allah[3], tell this stone to become bread.’

4‘Īsā answered him, ‘It is written, “Mankind cannot live on bread alone[4].”’

5Then Iblīs took ‘Īsā up and showed him in a moment of time all the kingdoms of the world. 6 Iblīs said to him, ‘I will give you all this authority and all their glory, because it has been handed over to me, and I give it to anyone I wish. 7If you prostrate yourself before me, it will all be yours.’

8‘Īsā answered him, ‘It is written, “You shall prostrate yourself before the Lord your God, and you shall serve only him[5].”’

9 Iblīs took him into Jerusalem and set him on the highest point of al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas. He said to ‘Īsā, “If you are the spiritualSon of Allah, throw yourself down from here, 10 for it is written, ‘He will command his angels concerning you – to protect you, 11and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not even dash your foot against a stone[6].’”

12‘Īsā answered him, “It is said, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test[7].’”

13Then Iblīs, having finished all this tempting, left him until another opportunity came.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)preaches in the synagogue[8]in Nazareth

14 ‘Īsā then returned to Galilee in the power of the Spirit. News about him spread throughout the whole region. 15He taught in their synagogues and received praise from everyone.

16He came to Nazareth where he had grown up. On the Sabbath[9]he entered the synagogue as usual, and he stood up to read. 17The scroll of the prophet Isaiah[10]was handed to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where it is written,

18“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,

            because he has anointed[11]me

            to tell the good news to the poor.

He has sent me to proclaim freedom to prisoners,

            and recovery of sight to the blind,

to set the oppressed free,

                   19to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour[12].”

20 Then, rolling up the scroll, he handed it back to the attendant and sat down. Everyone in the synagogue had their eyes fixed on him. 21He began by saying to them, ‘Today this Scripture is fulfilled as you are hearing it[13].’

22 Everyone was speaking well of him, and they marvelled at the gracious words that came from his mouth. ‘Isn’t this Yūsuf’s son?’ they asked.

23He said to them, ‘No doubt you will quote this proverb to me, “Doctor, heal yourself.” And you’ll say to me, “Do here in your home town what we heard happened in Kfar Nāhūm.”’

24He said, ‘Truly I tell you, no prophet is welcomed in his home town. 25I tell you the truth, there were many widows in Isrā’īl in the days of Ilyās, when the sky was shut for three years and six months, and there was a great famine in the entire land. 26Yet Ilyās was not sent to any of them, but to a widow in Zarephath in the land of Saydā[14].27 And there were many people with leprosy[15]in Isrā’īl in the time of the prophet Al-Yasa’. Yet none of them were made clean, but only Naaman the Syrian[16].’

28Everyone in the synagogue was filled with rage when they heard this. 29They got up and threw him out of the town. Then they took him to the edge of the cliff on which their town was built, to throw him down. 30But ‘Īsā passed through the middle of the crowd and left.

‘Īsā al-Masīh(hpbuu)drives out a jinn

31‘Īsā went into Kfar Nāhūm, a town of Galilee. He taught people on the Sabbath, 32 and they were astonished at his teaching, because his message had authority.

33In the synagogue there was a man who had a jinn[17]. It shouted out in a loud voice, 34‘Hey! What have you to do with us, ‘Īsā of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are! You are the Holy One of Allah!’

35‘Īsā commanded the jinn, ‘Be quiet and come out of him!’

The jinn threw the man down into the midst of the people, and came out without harming him.

36Everyone was amazed and they kept saying to each other, ‘What is this message? With authority and power, he commands jinn[18]and they come out!’

37So the news about ‘Īsā went out everywhere in that area.

‘Īsā al-Masīh(hpbuu)heals many people

38‘Īsā left the synagogue and entered Simon’s house. Simon’s mother-in-law was suffering from a high fever, so they asked ‘Īsā about her. 39He stood by her and ordered the fever to depart, and it left her. She got up at once and began to serve them.

40As the sun was setting, everyone whose relatives were sick with various kinds of diseases brought them to ‘Īsā. He placed his hands on each one of them and healed them. 41 Even jinn[19]were coming out from many people shouting out, “You are the spiritualSon of Allah![20]”

He spoke to them severely and would not allow them to speak, because they knew that he was al-Masīh.

Al-Masīh ‘Īsā’s mission to proclaim the good news of the kingdom of Allah

42At daybreak, ‘Īsā left and went to a lonely place. Then a large group of people came looking for him, and when they reached him, they tried to hold on to him to keep him from leaving them. 43But he said to them, ‘I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom of Allah[21]to other towns too. It’s for this purpose that I was sent.’ 44 So he went around preaching in the synagogues of Judea.

Translation Chapter 5

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)and the miraculous catch of fish

5One day ‘Īsā was standing by Lake Gennesaret,[1]and a crowd was pressing all around him as they listened to the message of Allah. 2 ‘Īsā saw two boats at the shore of the lake. Some fishermen had got out of them and were washing their nets. 3 ‘Īsā got into one of the boats, which belonged to Simon, and asked Simon to push it out a little from the shore. ‘Īsā sat in the boat and taught the crowds.

4When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, ‘Take the boat out into the deep water, and you and your companions let down your nets for a catch.’

5 Simon replied, ‘Sir, we’ve worked hard all night and caught nothing. But if you say so, I’ll let down the nets.’

6 They did this and caught such a huge catch of fish that their nets were starting to break. 7They signalled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. So they came over, and they filled both boats so much that they began to sink.

8Seeingall this, Simon Peter fell down at ‘Īsā’s knees and said, ‘Go away from me, Master; I’m a sinful man.’ 9For he and all his companions were struck with amazement at the catch of fish they had taken, 10 as were Simon’s partners, Ya’qūb and John, the sons of Zebedee.

‘Īsā said to Simon, ‘Don’t be afraid. From now on you will catch people.’[2]

11 They brought the boats to land, left everything and followed him.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)heals a man with leprosy

12 When ‘Īsā was in one of the towns, he met a man whose body was covered with leprosy.[3]Seeing ‘Īsā, the man fell on his face and pleaded with him, ‘Master, if you want to, you can make me clean.’[4]

13‘Īsā reached out and touched him,[5]saying, ‘I do want to. Be clean!’

Immediately the leprosy left him.[6]14Then ‘Īsā gave orders to him, ‘Don’t tell anyone, but go and show yourself to the Jewish priest and bring the qurbānī for your cleansing, just as Mūsā commanded,[7]as a witness to them.’

15But instead, the word about ‘Īsā kept spreading, and large crowds gathered to hear him and be healed of their diseases.16But ‘Īsā would often withdraw into the wilderness and pray.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)heals a paralysed man

17One day ‘Īsā was teaching, and Pharisees[8]and teachers of the Taurāt were sitting there. They had come from all the villages of Galilee and Judea, and from Jerusalem. And the power of the Lord was there for him to heal people.

18Some men arrived carrying a paralysed man on a stretcher. They were looking for ‘Īsā so that they could bring the man in and set him down in front of him. 19 But they could not find a way to carry him through the crowd, so they went up on the roof[9]and lowered him down through the roof tiles, along with the stretcher, right into the middle of the crowd, in front of ‘Īsā.

20Seeing their faith, ‘Īsā said, ‘Friend, your sins are forgiven!’

21The ulemā and the Pharisees started thinking to themselves, ‘Who is this man who commits shirk?[10]Who can forgive sins except Allah al-Ahad?’[11]

22‘Īsā knew their thoughts and responded, ‘Why are you thinking such things in your hearts? 23 Which is easier, to say, “Your sins are forgiven,” or to say, “Get up and walk”? 24But so that you may know that the Son of Man[12]has authority on earth to forgive sins’ – he turned to the paralysed man and said - ‘I say to you, get up, pick up your stretcher and go home.’

25 Immediately the man got up in front of them, picked up what he had been lying on, and went to his home, praising Allah. 26They were all utterly astonished. Filled with awe, they praised Allah and said, ‘We have seen wonderful things today!’

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)calls Levi (pbuh)to follow him

27 After this ‘Īsā went out and saw a tax collector named Levi, sitting at his tax office. ‘Īsā said to him, ‘Follow me.’ 28 Levi got up, left everything and followed him.     

29 Then Levi held a great banquet in honour of ‘Īsā at his home. A large crowd of tax collectors and others were there, eating with them.

30 But the Pharisees and the ulemā who belonged to their group began complaining to his disciples, ‘Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?’[13]

31 ‘Īsā answered them, ‘It’s not healthy people who need a doctor, but those who are ill. 32 I have not come to call righteous people, but sinners to tauba.’[14]

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)is questioned about fasting

33Then they said to him, ‘The disciples of Yahyā frequently fast and pray, as do the disciples of the Pharisees. But yours keep on eating and drinking.’[15]

34‘Īsā said to them, ‘Can you make the companions of the bridegroom fast while the bridegroom is with them? 35But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them. They will fast in those days.’

36Then he told them a parable. ‘No one tears a patch from a new piece of clothing and attaches it to an old piece of clothing. If someone does, both the new piece will be torn and the patch from the new cloth won’t match the old.

37 ‘And no one pours new wine[16]into old wineskins, because the new wine would burst the wineskins. Then the wine would be spilt and the wineskins would be destroyed. 38 Instead, new wine must be poured into new wineskins. 39And no one having drunk the old wants the new, for they say, “The old is good.”’

Translation Chapter 6

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)and the Sabbath

6One Sabbath ‘Īsā was walking through some cornfields, and his disciples were plucking grains of corn, rubbing them in their hands and eating them. 2 Some of the Pharisees said, ‘Why are you doing what is not permitted on the Sabbath?’[1]

3 ‘Īsā answered them, ‘Haven’t you read what Dāwūd did when he and his companions were hungry?  4 He went into the house of Allah and took and ate the holy bread, and he gave some to his companions, even though no one is permitted to eat this bread, except the Jewish priests.’[2]5 Then ‘Īsā said to them, ‘The Son of Man[3]is Lord of the Sabbath.’[4]

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)heals a man on the Sabbath

6On another Sabbath, ‘Īsā went into a synagogue to teach. A man was there whose right hand was paralysed. 7 The ulemā and Pharisees were watching closely to see if he healed on the Sabbath, so that they might find a reason to accuse him. 8But ‘Īsā knew their thoughts. He said to the man whose hand was paralysed, ‘Get up and stand here in our midst.’

The man got up and stood there. 9‘Īsā said to them, ‘I’m asking you; is it permitted on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?’[5]

10Then, looking round at all of them, he said to the man, ‘Stretch out your hand.’ The man did this, and his hand was restored to health.

11But the ulemā and the Pharisees were filled with rage and began to discuss together what they might do to ‘Īsā.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)chooses twelve Companions

12 At that time ‘Īsā went out to a mountain to pray, and spent the whole night in du’ā to Allah. 13 When day came, he called his disciples to him, and he chose twelve of them, whom he also named apostles:[6]14 Simon, whom he called Peter, Andrew his brother, Ya’qūb, John, Philip, Bartholomew, 15 Matthew, Thomas, Ya’qūb bin Alphaios, Simon called the Zealot,[7]16 Judas bin Ya’qūb and Judas Iskariot, who became a betrayer.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)heals many

17 Then ‘Īsā came down with them and stood on a level place. A large crowd of his disciples was there, as well as a huge gathering of people from all Judea, Jerusalem and the sea coast of Tyre and Saydā.[8]18 They had come to hear him and to be healed from their diseases. Those who were afflicted by evil jinn[9]were cured. 19 The whole crowd was trying to touch him, because power was coming out from him and healing everyone.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)teaches his disciples

20 Then ‘Īsā looked round at his disciples and said,

‘Blessed are you who are poor,

            for yours is the kingdom of Allah.[10]

21Blessed are you who are hungry now,

            for you will eat your fill.

Blessed are you who weep now,

            for you will laugh.

22 ‘Blessed are you when people hate you,

            and when they exclude you

            and revile you and disown your name as evil,

            because of the Son of Man.

23 Rejoice in that day and leap for joy,

            for your reward in heaven is great.

            For their ancestors used to do the same to the prophets.

24 ‘But woe to you who are rich,

            for you have received your comfort.

25Woe to you who have had your fill now,

            for you will be hungry.

Woe to you who are laughing now,

            for you will mourn and weep.

26 Woe to you when all people speak well of you,

            for their ancestors used to do the same to the false prophets.

Love your enemies

27 ‘But I say this to you who are listening: love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28 bless those who curse you, pray for those who ill-treat you. 29 To the one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other cheek, and if someone takes your coat, don’t refuse them your shirt. 30Give to everyone who asks you for something, and if someone takes what is yours, don’t demand it back. 31Do to others what you would like them to do to you.

32 ‘If you love those who love you, how is that to your credit? For even sinners[11]love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who do good to you, how is that to your credit? Even sinners do the same thing. 34And if you lend to those who you expect will repay you, how is that to your credit? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to get back the same amount. 35But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend without expecting anything in return. Then your reward will be great, and you will be spiritualchildren of al-Muta’āli,[12]for he is kind to those who are ungrateful and evil. 36Be merciful, just as your heavenly Father is merciful.

Judging others

37 ‘Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. 38 Give, and it will be given to you – a good measure, packed down, shaken and overflowing will be poured into the fold of your garment. For the measure you give out will be the measure you receive back.’

39 Then he told them a parable. ‘Can a blind person lead another blind person? Won’t they both fall into a hole? 40 A disciple is not above their teacher. But every disciple who is thoroughly trained will be like their teacher.

41 ‘Why do you see the speck in your brother’s eye but don’t notice the log in your own eye? 42How can you say to your brother, “Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,” when you yourself don’t see the log in your own eye? You hypocrite! First take out the log from your own eye, and then you’ll see clearly to take out the speck in your brother’s eye.

A tree is known by its fruit

43‘A good tree does not produce bad fruit, nor does a bad tree produce good fruit. 44 Each tree is known by its own fruit. People don’t gather figs from thorn bushes nor do they pick grapes from briars. 45 The good person produces what is good from the store of good in their heart. And the evil person produces what is evil from the store of evil in their heart. For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks.

Two kinds of building

46‘Why do you call me, “Master, master,” and not do what I say?

47 ‘All those who come to me and hear my words and do them – I’ll show you what they are like. 48 They are like a person building a house, who dug, going down deep, and set the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the river pounded against that house but it could not shake it,because it had been built well. 49But anyone who hears my words and does not do them is like a person building a house on the ground with no foundation. The river pounded against it, and it collapsed immediately, and that house was left a total ruin.’

Translation Chapter 7

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu) heals a centurion’s[1]servant

7After ‘Īsā had finished saying all these things in the hearing of the crowd, he went to Kfar Nāhūm. 2 A centurion there had a servant who was ill and about to die, and this servant was highly valued by his master. 3 Having heard about ‘Īsā, the centurion sent some Jewish elders to ask him to come and save his servant’s life.

4 When they came to ‘Īsā, they pleaded with him earnestly, ‘This man deserves to have you grant his request. 5He loves our nation, and he’s the one who built the synagogue for us.’ 6 So ‘Īsā went with them.

When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to say to him, ‘Master, don’t trouble yourself. I don’t deserve to have you come under my roof. 7 That’s why I didn’t think myself worthy to come to you. But just give the word, and let my servant be healed. 8For I myself am a man placed under authority, and I have soldiers under me. So I say to this man, “Go,” and he goes, and to another man, “Come,” and he comes. I say to my servant, “Do this,” and he does it.’

9 When he heard this,‘Īsā was amazed at the centurion. He turned to the crowd following him and said, ‘I tell you, I have not found faith as strong as this, even among the Banī Isrā’īl.’

10 Then the people who had been sent returned to the house and found the servant in good health.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)raises a dead man to life

11 Soon after this, ‘Īsā went to a town called Nain. His disciples and a large crowd went with him. 12As he drew near the gate of the town, a dead man was being carried out. He was the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A sizable crowd from the town was with her. 13 When the Lord saw her, he was moved with compassion for her and said to her, ‘Don’t cry.’

14 He came and touched the bier.[2]Those who were carrying it stood still. Then he said, ‘Young man, I tell you, get up!’

15 The dead man sat up and began to speak,[3]and ‘Īsā gave him back to his mother.

16 Everyone was filled with awe, and they praised Allah, ‘A great prophet has risen among us,’ they said. ‘Allah has shown his concern for his people.’

17 Word about ‘Īsā spread round the whole of Judea and all the surrounding country.

Prophet Yahyā (pbuh)asks if Sayyidnā ‘Īsā (hpbuu)is al-Masīh

18 Now Yahyā’s disciples reported all these things to him.[4]So Yahyā called two of them 19 and sent them to the Lord to ask, ‘Are you the One who is to come,[5]or should we expect somebody else?’

20 When they came to ‘Īsā, the men said, ‘Yahyā who gave ritual washing[6]sent us to you to ask; are you the One who is to come,or should we expect somebody else?’

21At that time ‘Īsā healed many with diseases, illnesses and evil jinn,[7]and he gave sight to many blind people. 22 So he replied to them, ‘Go and tell Yahyā what you have seen and heard: the blind receive sight, the lame walk, those with leprosy are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised and the poor hear the good news.[8]23 Blessed is anyone who does not take offence at me.’

24After Yahyā’s messengers had left, ‘Īsā began to speak to the crowds about Yahyā, ‘What did you go out to the wilderness to see? A reed swaying in the wind? 25 What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Look, those who are clothed in luxury and splendour live in palaces. 26So what did you go out to see? A prophet? Certainly, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 27 He is the one about whom it is written,

            “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you,

 who will prepare your way before you.”[9]

28 ‘I tell you, there is no one born of woman who is greater than Yahyā. Yet the least important person in the kingdom of Allah[10]is greater than he.’

29 All the people who heard, including the tax collectors, acknowledged that Allah’s way was right, because they had received ritual washing from Yahyā. 30But the Pharisees and the experts in the Taurāt rejected the purpose of Allah for themselves by not receiving ritual washing from Yahyā.[11]

31‘Īsā continued, ‘To what, then, shall I compare the people of this generation? What are they like? 32They are like children sitting in the market place and calling out to each other,

“We played the flute for you and you didn’t dance;

we sang a lament and you didn’t weep.”

33For Yahyā who gave ritual washing has come neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, “He has a jinn.”[12]34The Son of Man[13]has come eating and drinking, and you say, “Look, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!” 35 But wisdom is proved right by all her children.’[14]

At the home of Simon the Pharisee

36 One of the Pharisees invited ‘Īsā to eat with him, so he went to the home of the Pharisee and reclined[15]at the meal.

37 Now there was a woman in that town who had lived a sinful life. When she heard that ‘Īsā was having a meal at the house of the Pharisee, she brought an alabaster jar of perfume, 38 and stood behind his feet weeping and started to wet his feet with her tears.[16]Then she began drying them with her hair, kissing his feet and pouring the perfume on them.

39The Pharisee who had invited him saw this and said to himself, ‘If this man were a prophet, he would know who is touching him and what sort of woman this is – that she’s a sinner.’

40 In response, ‘Īsā said to him, ‘Simon, I have something to say to you.’

‘Tell me, teacher,’ he said.

41 ‘Two people were in debt to a money-lender. One owed him five hundred denarii,[17]the other fifty. 42 Neither of them were able to pay him back, so he cancelled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more?’

43 Simon replied, ‘I suppose the one who had the bigger debt cancelled.’

‘Īsā said to him, ‘You are right.’ 44 Then turning to the woman, he said to Simon, ‘Do you see this woman? I came into your home. You didn’t give me water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and dried them with her hair. 45 You didn’t give me a kiss, but she, from the time I came here, hasn’t stopped kissing my feet. 46 You didn’t put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet.[18]47 Therefore I tell you; her many sins have been forgiven, that’s why she showed much love. But the one who is forgiven little loves little.’

48 Then ‘Īsā said to the woman, ‘Your sins are forgiven.’

49 Those who were at the meal with him began to say among themselves, ‘Who is this who even forgives sins?’

50 ‘Īsā said to the woman, ‘Your 

Translation Chapter 8

The women who supported ‘Īsā al-Masīh(hpbuu)and his Companions

8Some time later, ‘Īsā went about the towns and villages, preaching and announcing the good news of the kingdom of Allah.[1]The twelve were with him, 2and also some women who had been healed of evil jinn[2]and illnesses. There was Maryam called Magdalene, from whom seven jinn[3]had come out, 3Johanna the wife of Khouza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others. These women used to support ‘Īsā and the twelve from their own resources.

The parable of the seed and the soils

4While a great crowd was gathering and people from one town after another kept coming to ‘Īsā, he told them this parable. 5‘A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was sowing, some seed fell along the path and was trampled underfoot, and the birds ate it up. 6Some seed fell on rocky ground. When it sprouted, the plants withered because they didn’t have any moisture. 7Other seed fell among thorn bushes, which grew with it and choked the plants. 8 Still other seed fell on good soil, which grew and produced a hundredfold crop.’

When he said this, he called out, ‘Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear!’

9 His disciples asked him what this parable meant. 10 ‘Īsā replied, ‘It has been granted to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of Allah, but to the rest I speak in parables, so that,

            “seeing, they may not see, and hearing, they may not understand.”[4]

11 ‘This is what the parable means: the seed is the word of Allah. 12Those along the path are people who hear the word, but then Iblīs comes and takes the word away from their hearts, to prevent them from believing and being saved. 13 The ones on the rocky ground are people who receive the word with joy when they hear it, but they don’t have any root. For a while they believe, but in a time of testing they fall away. 14The seed that fell among thorns are people who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the concerns, riches and pleasures of life, and they don’t produce a mature, ripe yield. 15 The seed on the good soil stands for people with a good and upright heart, who hear the word, keep hold of it, and by enduring patiently,produce a crop.

The parable of the lamp on the lampstand

16‘No one lights a lamp and then covers it with a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they will put it on a lampstand, in order that everyone who comes in to the room may see the light. 17 For nothing is hidden that will not be clearly seen, and nothing is secret that will not be known and brought to light. 18 So be careful how you hear. For those who have will be given more; and those who do not have, even what they seem to have will be taken away from them.’

Al-Masīh ‘Īsā’s mother and brothers

19‘Īsā’s mother and brothers came to him, but were unable to meet him because of the crowd. 20 ‘Īsā was told, ‘Your mother and brothers are standing outside and want to see you.’

21 He answered them, ‘My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of Allah and do what it says.’

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)calms a storm

22 One day ‘Īsā got into a boat with his disciples. He said to them, ‘Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.’ So they set off.

23 While they were sailing, he fell asleep. A violent wind blew down on the lake, so that the boat was filling with water, and they were in severe danger. 24The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, ‘Master, Master, we’re going to die!’

He got up and gave strict orders to the wind and the surging waves. They stopped, and it became calm.

25 He said to the disciples, ‘Where is your faith?’

They were afraid and astonished and said to each other, ‘Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him!’[5]

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)drives out many jinn

26 They sailed on, towards the region of the Gerasenes, which is across the lake from Galilee. 27 When ‘Īsā stepped ashore,he was met by a man from the town who was possessed by jinn.[6]For a long time he had worn no clothes, and he did not live in a house, but among the tombs. 28 When he saw ‘Īsā, he shouted and threw himself down in front of him. ‘What do I have to do with you, ‘Īsā, spiritual Son of the Most High God?’[7]he yelled, ‘I beg you, don’t torment me!’ 29 For ‘Īsā had commanded the evil jinn[8]to come out of the man. Many times it had seized him, and the man had been bound with chains and shackles and kept under guard. But he would break the chains,and the jinn[9]would drive him into desolate places.

30 ‘Īsā asked him, ‘What is your name?’

‘Legion,’[10]he answered, because many jinn had gone into him. 31They kept begging ‘Īsā not to command them to go into the Abyss.[11]

32 In that place there was a large herd of pigs[12]feeding on the hillside. The jinn begged ‘Īsā to allow them to go into the pigs, and he gave them permission. 33The jinn came out of the man and entered the pigs, and the herd stampeded down the steep slope into the lake and was drowned.

34Those who were looking after the pigs saw what had happened, and they ran off and spread the news in the town and countryside. 35 The people went out to see what had happened. They came to ‘Īsā, and found the man from whom the jinn had come out, sitting at the feet of ‘Īsā, wearing clothes and in his right mind, and they were afraid. 36 Those who had seen it told the people how the man possessed by jinn had been saved from them. 37Then all the people from the region of the Gerasenes requested ‘Īsā to leave them, because great terror had gripped them. So he got into the boat to return.

38 The man from whom the jinn had come out pleaded with ‘Īsā that he might stay with him. But ‘Īsā sent him back saying, 39 ‘Go to your home and tell them how much Allah has done for you.’

He went away and proclaimed around the whole town how much ‘Īsā had done for him.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)heals a woman and raises a dead girl

40 When ‘Īsā returned to the other side of the lake, a crowd welcomed him, for they were all waiting for him. 41 A man named Jairus, who was a leader of the synagogue, came and fell down at ‘Īsā’s feet. He pleaded with ‘Īsā to come to his house, 42because his only daughter, who was about twelve years old, was dying.

As ‘Īsā was going along, the crowds pressed in all around him. 43A woman was there who had suffered continual bleeding for twelve years.[13]She had used up all her money on doctors, but no one was able to cure her. 44 Coming up behind him, she touched the edge of his clothing, and immediately her flow of blood stopped.

45 ‘Īsā said, ‘Who touched me?’

Everyone denied it,and Peter said, ‘Master, the crowds are all around pressing against you.’

46But ‘Īsā said, ‘Somebody touched me; I knew it when power went out from me.’

47 When the woman saw that she could not avoid being found out, she came trembling and fell down at ‘Īsā’s feet. In front of all the people, she confessed why she had touched him and how she had been healed instantly. 48‘Īsā said to her, ‘Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace.’

49While ‘Īsā was still speaking, a man came from the synagogue leader’s house and said, ‘Your daughter’s dead. Don’t bother the teacher any longer.’

50But ‘Īsā heard this and he said to Jairus, ‘Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be saved.’

51When he reached the house, he would not allow anyone to enter with him except Peter, John and Ya’qūb, and the child’s father and mother.  52 Everyone was weeping and mourning for her. ‘Īsā said, ‘Stop weeping; she’s not dead, s

Translation Chapter 9

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)sends out the Twelve

9‘Īsā called together the twelve and gave them power and authority over all jinn[1]and to heal diseases. 2 Then he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of Allah[2]and to heal the sick. 3He said to them, ‘Take nothing with you on your journey. Don’t take a staff, a bag, bread, money, or a change of clothes. 4 Whichever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. 5 If people don’t welcome you, leave that town shaking the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.’[3]

6 They left and travelled from one village to another, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere.

Herod hears about ‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)

7 Herod the ruler heard about all that was happening and he was thoroughly perplexed because some people were saying that Yahyā had been raised from the dead.[4]8 Others were saying that Ilyās had appeared, and still others that some prophet from ancient times had risen. 9 Herod said, ‘I was the one who had Yahyā beheaded. So who is this I’m hearing such things about?’ And he looked for an opportunity to see him.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)feeds five thousand

10 The apostles[5]returned and told ‘Īsā all they had done. Then, taking them with him, he withdrew privately to a town called Bethsaida. 11 But the crowds found out and followed him. ‘Īsā welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of Allah, and healed those in need of healing.

12 As evening drew near, the twelve came and said to him, ‘Send the crowd away so that they can go to the nearby villages and farms to find a place to stay and something to eat. We’re in a remote place here.’

13 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘You give them something to eat.’

They replied, ‘We’ve only got five loaves of bread and two fish. Surely you don’t want us to go and buy food for all this crowd?’ 14 (There were about five thousand men.)

‘Īsā said to his disciples, ‘Get them to sit in groups of about fifty people each.’

15 The disciples did this, getting them all to sit down. 16 ‘Īsā took the five loaves of bread and two fish, and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks for them. Then he broke them into pieces and handed them to the disciples to give out to the crowd. 17 They all ate their fill, and twelve baskets of broken pieces were picked up from the leftovers.

Peter (pbuh)declares that Prophet ‘Īsā (hpbuu)is Allah’s Masīh

18 One day ‘Īsā was praying by himself, although the disciples were with him. He asked them, ‘Who do the crowds say I am?’

19They replied, ‘Some say Yahyā who gave ritual washing,[6]others say Ilyās, still others say that some prophet from ancient times has risen.’

20‘What about you?’ ‘Īsā asked them, ‘Who do you say I am?’

Peter replied, ‘You are Allah’s Masīh.’[7]

Al-Masīh ‘Īsā (hpbuu)predicts his own martyrdom[8]and resurrection

21‘Īsā warned them and ordered them not to tell this to anyone. 22He said, ‘The Son of Man[9]must suffer much and be rejected by the elders, the Jewish high priests and the ulemā. He must be killed, and on the third day be raised to life.’

23Then he said to them all, “If anyone wants to come after me, let them disregard themselves, and take up their cross[10]every day, and follow me. 24 For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life because of me will save it. 25 What good is it for a person to gain the entire world, but lose or forfeit their own self? 26 If anyone is ashamed of me and my teaching, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he comes in his glory and in the glory of the heavenly Father[11]and of the holy angels.

27 Truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not die before they see the kingdom of Allah.’

The disciples see ‘Īsā al-Masīh’s (hpbuu)glory

28 About eight days after ‘Īsā said these things, he took along Peter, John and Ya’qūb and climbed up a mountain to pray. 29 While he was praying, the appearance of his face changed and his clothing became radiant like lightning. 30 Suddenly two men were talking with ‘Īsā. They were Mūsā and Ilyās, 31 who appeared in splendour. They were speaking about ‘Īsā’s departure,[12]which he would soon fulfil in Jerusalem.

32 Peter and those with him were overcome with sleep, but when they became fully awake, they saw ‘Īsā’s glory and the two men standing with him. 33 As the two men were leaving ‘Īsā, Peter said to him, ‘Master, it’s good that we are here. Let us make three shelters; one for you, one for Mūsā and one for Ilyās.’

Peter did not know what he was saying. 34 But as he was speaking, a cloud came and began to cover them, and the disciples were afraid as they entered the cloud. 35 Then a voice came from out of the cloud, ‘This is my spiritual Son, my Chosen One. Listen to him!’ 36As the voice was speaking, they found ‘Īsā by himself.

The disciples kept quiet and told nobody at that time about what they had seen.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)drives out a jinn

37 The next day, when they had come down from the mountain, a large crowd met ‘Īsā. 38 A man from the crowd cried out, ‘Teacher, I beg you, look at my son; he’s my only child. 39 A jinn[13]seizes him and he suddenly shrieks; it throws him into fits and he foams at the mouth; it hardly ever leaves him and it’sdestroying him. 40 I pleaded with your disciples to drive it out, but they couldn’t do it.’

41 ‘Īsā replied, ‘You unbelieving and corrupt generation. How long must I be with you and put up with you? Bring your son here.’

42 As the boy was coming, the jinn[14]attacked him and threw him into a fit. But ‘Īsā rebuked the evil jinn,[15]healed the child, and gave him back to his father. 43 And everyone was amazed at the mighty power of Allah.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)again predicts his own suffering

While everyone was still astonished by all that he was doing, ‘Īsā said to his disciples,44 ‘Get a firm grasp of what I’m about to say to you! The Son of Man is going to be betrayed into human hands.’

45 But they did not know what this meant. It was hidden from them, so that they were unable to understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about it.

True greatness

46 An argument arose among them about which one of them would be the greatest. 47‘Īsā knew about their argument and what was in their hearts, so he took a little child and made him stand by his side. 48 Then he said to them, ‘Anyone who welcomes this child in my name, welcomes me. And anyone who welcomes me, welcomes the One who sent me. For the one who is least among you all is the one who is great.’

49 John replied, ‘Master, we saw someone driving out jinn[16]in your name and we told him to stop, because he doesn’t follow you with us.’

50 ‘Īsā said to him, ‘Don’t stop him, because whoever is not against you is for you.’

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)sets out for Jerusalem and is rejected in a Samaritan village

51 When the time drew near for him to be taken up,[17]‘Īsā set out with firm resolve to go to Jerusalem.

52 He sent messengers ahead of him, who went into a Samaritan[18]village to make preparations for him. 53 But the village did not welcome him, because he was going in the direction of Jerusalem. 54 When they saw this, his disciples, Ya’qūb and John said, ‘Master, do you want us to call down fire from heaven and burn them up?’[19]

55 But ‘Īsā turned and rebuked them. 56 Then they went to another village.

The cost of following ‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)

57 As they were walking along the road, someone said to ‘Īsā, ‘I will follow you wherever you go.’

58 ‘Īsā replied, ‘Foxes have dens and birds have places to roost, but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.’

59 He said to another man, ‘Follow me.’

He replied, ‘Master, first let me go back to bury my father.’[20]

60 ‘Īsā said to him, ‘Let the dead bury their own dead. But as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of Allah.’

61 Someone else said, ‘I will follow you, Master, but first let me take leave[21]from my family.’

62 ‘Īsā replied, ‘No one who puts their hand to the plough and keeps looking back is fit for the kingdom of Allah.’he’s asleep.’

53They ridiculed him, because they knew that she was dead. 54 But he took hold of her hand[14]and called out, ‘Child, get up!’

55 Her spirit returned and she got up straight away.[15]Then ‘Īsā told them to give her something to eat. 56 Her parents were astounded, but he gave orders to them not to tell anyone what had happened.faith has saved you. Go in peace.’

Translation Chapter 10

Al-Masīh ‘Īsā (hpbuu)sends out seventy-two disciples

10After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to all the towns and places where he himself was about to go. 2 He said to them, ‘The harvest is great but the workers are few. So then, pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out workers to reap his harvest. 3 Go! Remember, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. 4 Don’t carry a purse or a bag or sandals. And don’t stop to greet anyone on the road.

5 ‘Whenever you enter someone’s home, first say, “As-salāmu ‘alaykum to this house.” 6 If a son or daughter of peace[1]lives there, your peace will rest on them. If not, it will return to you.

7 ‘Stay in that home, eating and drinking what they give you, for the worker deserves to be paid. Don’t move about from house to house. 8 Whenever you enter a town and they welcome you, eat what is set before you. 9 Heal the sick in that town, and tell them, “The kingdom of Allah[2]has come near to you.”

10 ‘But whenever you enter a town and they don’t welcome you, go out into the streets of that town and say, 11 “Even the dust from your town that sticks to our feet we wipe off in protest against you. But understand this: the kingdom of Allah has come near.” 12 I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom[3]in that day than for that town.

Woe to the towns that would not repent

13 ‘Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida![4]For if the powerful miracles that took place in you had taken place in Tyre and Saydā[5], they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.[6]14 But for Tyre and Saydā it will be more tolerable at the judgement than for you. 15 And you, Kfar Nāhūm, will you be lifted up to heaven? No, you will go down to the place of the dead!

16 ‘Anyone who listens to you listens to me, and anyone who rejects you rejects me. And anyone who rejects me rejects the One who sent me.’

The seventy-two return

17 The seventy-two returned with joy saying, ‘Master, even the jinn[7]have to submit to us when we use your name.’

18 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘I saw the Shaytān fall like lightningfrom heaven. 19 See, I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and upon all the power of the enemy, and nothing will ever harm you. 20 However, don’t rejoice that the jinn[8]have to submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.’

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)rejoices

21 At that time ‘Īsā was filled with joy in the Holy Spirit[9]and said, ‘I praise you, heavenlyFather,[10]Lord of heaven and earth, that you have kept these things hidden from the wise and intelligent, and have revealed them to young children. Yes, heavenlyFather, for you graciously decided it would happen this way.

22 All things have been entrusted to me by my heavenly Father. No one knows who the spiritualSon is except the heavenly Father, and no one knows who the heavenly Father is except the spiritualSon and those to whom the spiritual Son wishes to reveal him.’

23 Then ‘Īsā turned to his disciples and said in private, ‘Blessed are the eyes that see what you are seeing. 24 For I tell you, many prophets and kings longed to see what you are seeing, but did not see it, and to hear what you are hearing, but did not hear it.’

The parable of the Good Samaritan 

25 An expert in the Taurāt got up and tried to test ‘Īsā. ‘Teacher,’ he said, ‘what must I do to inherit eternal life?’[11]

26 ‘Īsā replied, ‘What is written in the Taurāt? How do you read it?’

27 He answered, ‘“Love the Lord your[12]God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind”[13]; and, “Love your neighbour as yourself.”[14]’

28 ‘You are right,’ ‘Īsā said to him, ‘Do this and you will live.’

29 But the expert in the Taurāt wanted to justify himself, so he asked ‘Īsā, ‘Who is my neighbour?’

30 ‘Īsā replied, ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho,[15]when he was seized by robbers. They stripped him, beat him up, and then went away, leaving him half dead.

31 ‘It so happened that a Jewish priest was going down that road. He saw the man, but passed by on the other side of the road. 32 So too, a Levite[16]came to that place, and he too saw the man, but passed by on the other side of the road. 33 Then a Samaritan[17]who was travelling on that road came towards the man. He saw him, and had compassion on him. 34 Going to him, he bandaged his wounds, pouring on olive oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own animal, led him to an inn, and took care of him there. 35 The next day he took out two denarii,[18]gave them to the innkeeper and said, “Take care of him, and if you spend more than this on him, I will reimburse you when I return.”

36 ‘Which of these three do you think became a neighbour to the man who was attacked by robbers?’

37 The expert in the Taurāt replied, ‘The one who had mercy on him.’

‘Īsā said to him, ‘You go and do the same.’

At the home of Martha and Maryam

38While ‘Īsā and his disciples were on their journey, he went into a village where a woman named Martha welcomed him. 39 She had a sister named Maryam who sat at the feet of the Lord listening to his teaching. 40But Martha was flustered with all the preparations she had to make. She came to ‘Īsā and said, ‘Master, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to come and help me.’

41 The Lord replied, ‘Martha, Martha, you are anxious and upset by many things, 42 but only one thing is needed. Maryam has chosen the good part, and it won’t be taken away from her.’

Translation Chapter 11

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)teaches about du’ā

11At one place ‘Īsā was praying, and when he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Master, teach us to pray just as Yahyā taught his disciples.’

2 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘When you pray, say:

“Heavenly Father[1],

            may your name be revered as holy,

            may your kingdom[2]come.

3 Give to us each day our daily bread.

4 Forgive us our sins,

            for we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.

And do not lead us into the time of testing.”’

5 Then he said to them, ‘Which of you has a friend like this? Someone comes to him at midnight and asks him, “Friend, please lend me three loaves of bread, 6 because a guest who is on a journey has arrived, and I’ve got nothing to give him.”

7 ‘The friend answers from inside his house, “Don’t cause me trouble. My door is already locked and my children are with me in bed. I can’t get up and give you bread.”

8 ‘I tell you, even if he won’t get up and give him the bread because he is his friend, yet to preserve his honour he will get up and give him whatever he needs.

9 ‘I tell you, ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and it will be opened for you. 10 For all who ask receive, and all who seek find, and to all who knock, it will be opened.

11 ‘Which father among you, if your son asks you for a fish, will give him a snake instead of a fish? 12 Or if he asks for an egg, will you give him a scorpion? 13 So if you who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!’

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)and the jinn

14 ‘Īsā was driving out a jinn[3]that was mute. When the jinn came out, the person who was mute began to speak,[4]and the crowd were astonished.[5]15 But some of them said, ‘He is driving out jinn by Beelzeboul,[6]the ruler of the jinn.’

16 Others were testing him by demanding a sign from heaven. 17 But ‘Īsā knew what they were thinking and said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself will be devastated, and every house divided against itself will fall. 18 And if the Shaytān is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? I’m saying this because you are accusing me of driving out jinn[7]by Beelzeboul. 19 But if I drive out jinn by Beelzeboul, by whom do your people drive them out? So, they will be your judges. 20 But if by the finger[8]of Allah I drive out jinn, then the kingdom of Allah has come to you.

21 ‘Imagine a strong man who is fully armed, guarding his own house. His possessions are safe. 22 But when a stronger man attacks and defeats him, he takes away the weapons and armour the strong man was relying on, and he divides up his plunder.

23 ‘Anyone who is not with me is against me, and anyone who does not gather with me scatters.

24 ‘When an evil jinn[9]has come out of a person, it passes through desert places looking for a resting place, but it does not find one. Then it says, “I’ll go back to my house which I left.” 25 So it returns and finds the house clean and in order. 26Then it goes and takes along another seven jinn[10]more evil than itself, and they all go in and live there. So the last state of that person is worse than the first.’

True blessedness

27 While ‘Īsā was saying these things, a woman in the crowd said to him in a loud voice, ‘Blessed is the womb that gave you birth and the breasts that nursed you.’

28 ‘Īsā replied, ‘Blessed rather are those who hear the word of Allah and obey it.’

The sign of Prophet Yūnus (pbuh)

29 As the crowd grew, ‘Īsā said, ‘This is an evil generation. It looks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Yūnus.[11]30 For just as Yūnus was a sign to the people of Nineveh, so also will the Son of Man be a sign to this generation. 31 The queen of the south will be raised up at the judgement with the people of this generation and condemn them, because she came from the ends of the earth to listen to the wisdom of Sulaymān;[12]and now something greater than Sulaymān is here! 32 The people of Nineveh will rise at the judgement with this generation and condemn it, because they repented when Yūnus preached; and now something greater than Yūnus is here!

Parables about light

33 ‘Nobody lights a lamp and puts it where it can’t be seen. Instead they put it on a lamp-stand, so that those who go inside can see the light.

34 ‘The lamp of the body is your eye. When your eye is generous,[13]your whole body too is full of light. But when your eye is evil,[14]your body too is full of darkness. 35 Make sure, then, that the light in you is not darkness. 36 So then, if your whole body is full of light, with no part of it in darkness, it will be completely full of light, as when a lamp shines its light on you.’

Woes on the Pharisees and experts in the Taurāt

37 While ‘Īsā was speaking, a Pharisee[15]invited him for dinner, so he went in and took his place at the meal. 38 The Pharisee was surprised to notice that ‘Īsā did not first have a ritual wash before the meal.[16]39 The Lord said to him, ‘Now you Pharisees purify the outside of the cup and plate, but inside you are full of greed and evil! 40 How foolish! Did not he who made the outside also make the inside? 41 However, give what is inside to the poor, then everything will be pure for you.

42 ‘But woe to you Pharisees! You donate a tenth of your mint, rue and all your vegetables,[17]but neglect justice and the love of Allah. These are what you must do, without neglecting the former things.

43 ‘Woe to you Pharisees! You love the place of honour in the synagogues and to be greeted respectfully in the market places.

44 ‘Woe to you! You are like unmarked graves, and people walk on them without realising.’

45 ‘Teacher,’ one of the experts in the Taurāt replied, ‘when you say these things, you insult us too.’

46 ‘Īsā said, ‘And woe to you experts in the Taurāt! You load people down with burdens that are hard to bear, and you yourselves won’t lift a finger to help them.

47 ‘Woe to you! You build mazārsfor the prophets, and it was your ancestors who killed them. 48 So then, you are witnesses that you approve of your ancestors’ actions - they killed them, and you build their mazārs. 49 Because of this, Allah’s wisdom said, “I will send prophets and apostles to them. They will kill some of them and persecute others.” 50 So this generation may be charged for the blood of all the prophets shed since the creation of the world, 51 from the blood of Hābīl[18]to the blood of Zakarīyā[19]who was martyred between the place for offering qurbānī and the house of Allah. Yes, I tell you, it will be charged against this generation.

52 ‘Woe to you experts in the Taurāt! You have taken away the key to knowledge. You yourselves have not entered, and you have held back those who are entering.’

53 When ‘Īsā left that place, the ulemā and the Pharisees became fiercely hostile towards him and began to question him about many things, 54 plotting to catch him off guard in something he might say.

Translation Chapter 12

Beware of hypocrisy

12Meanwhile a crowd numbering thousands had come together, so that people were stepping on each other. ‘Īsā began to speak first to his disciples, ‘Watch out for the yeast of the Pharisees which is hypocrisy. 2 Everything that is covered up will be exposed, and everything that is hidden will be made known. 3 So then, whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you’ve whispered into someone’s ear behind closed doors will be announced publicly from the roof tops.

Trust in Allah

4‘I tell you, my friends; don’t be afraid of those who kill the body, but after that can’t do anything worse. 5 But I’ll warn you about whom you should fear: fear him who, after killing, has authority to throw you into jahannam.[1]Yes, I tell you, fear him!

6 ‘Aren’t five sparrows sold for two small copper coins? Yet not one of them escapes Allah’s notice. 7 Even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows.

8 ‘I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me in the presence of other people, the Son of Man[2]will acknowledge them in the presence of Allah’s angels. 9 But anyone who disowns me in the presence of other people will be disowned in the presence of Allah’s angels. 10All who speak a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven. But anyone who commits blasphemy against the Holy Spirit[3]will not be forgiven.

11‘When they drag you before synagogues, rulers and authorities, don’t worry about how to defend yourselves or what you should say, 12 for at that time the Holy Spirit will teach you what to say.’

The parable of the rich fool

13 Someone in the crowd said to ‘Īsā, ‘Teacher, tell my brother to give me my share of the inheritance.’

14 ‘Īsā replied, ‘Brother,[4]who appointed me a judge to divide the inheritance between you?’ 15 Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against every kind of greed; life is not about gaining more and more possessions.’

16 He told them a parable. ‘There was a rich man whose land produced abundant harvests. 17 He thought to himself, “What should I do? I don’t have anywhere to store my crops.”

18 ‘Then he said, “This is what I will do; I’ll knock down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I’ll store all my grain and my wealth. 19 Then I’ll say to myself, ‘You’ve got plenty of good things stored up, that will last for many years. Take life easy, eat, drink, enjoy yourself.’”

20 ‘But Allah said to him, “You fool! This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will get the things you have prepared for yourself?”

21 ‘This is how it will be for those who store up things for themselves, but are not rich in relation to Allah.’

‘Do not worry’

22 Then ‘Īsā said to his disciples, ‘This is why I tell you, don’t worry about your life - what you are going to eat; or about your body - what you are going to wear. 23 For life is more important than food, and the body is more important than clothes. 24Look at the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storeroom nor barn, but Allah provides for them. And how much more valuable are you than the birds! 25 Can any of you by worrying add a few inches[5]to your height?[6]26 Since you can’t do even this small thing, why do you worry about anything else?

27 ‘Look at the wild flowers and how they grow. They don’t toil or spin cloth. But I tell you, not even Sulaymān in all his splendour was clothed like one of these. 28 If that is how Allah clothes the grass in the field, which is here today and thrown in the oven tomorrow, how much more will he clothe you - people of little faith? 29 Don’t strive after what you are going to eat or what you are going to drink, and don’t be anxious about it.30 For the nations of the world strive after all these things, but your heavenly Father[7]knows that you need them. 31 But strive for his kingdom,[8]and these things will be provided for you.

32 ‘Don’t be afraid, little flock,[9]because your heavenly Father is delighted to give you the kingdom. 33Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Make for yourselves moneybags that won’t wear out, treasure in heaven that will never decrease, where no thief gets near and no moth consumes. 34 For where your treasure is, there also will be your heart.

‘Be ready’

35 ‘Tuck your clothing into your belts so that you are ready for action, and keep your lamps lit, 36 like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding feast. As soon as he arrives and knocks, they open the door for him. 37 Blessed are those servants whose master finds them awake and watching when he arrives. Truly I tell you, he’ll tuck his clothing into his belt so that he’s ready for action, then he’ll make them recline[10]at the table, and he’ll come and serve them. 38 Even if the master comes in the middle of the night or towards day break and finds his servants ready – blessed are those servants.

39 ‘Be sure of this; that if the owner of the house had known what time the thief was going to come, he wouldn’t have let his house be broken into. 40You too must be ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you don’t expect him.’

Faithful and unfaithful servants

41 Peter asked, ‘Master, are you telling this parable for us or for everyone?’

42 The Lord said, ‘Who then is the faithful and wise household manager whom the master puts in charge of his servants, to give them their share of food at the appropriate time? 43 Blessed is that servant whose master comes back and finds him doing this. 44 Truly I tell you, he will put that servant in charge of all his property. 45 But suppose that servant says to himself, “My master is taking a long time to come back”, and so he begins to beat both the male and female servants, and to eat, drink and get drunk. 46 The master of that servant will arrive on a day when he is not expecting him, and at an hour he doesn’t know. He will cut that servant in pieces and give him the fate of the unbelievers.

47 ‘The servant who knows his master’s will but does not get ready or do what his master wants, will be beaten severely. 48 But the servant who does not know his master’s will and does things that deserve punishment, will be beaten lightly. From everyone who has been given much, much will be required. And from anyone who has been entrusted with much, much more will be demanded.

Fire and division

49 ‘I came to throw fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! 50I have a dreadful experience to pass through, and how distressed I am until it’s over.

51 ‘Do you think I came to give peace to the earth? No, I tell you, not peace, but division. 52 For from now on five in one family will be divided; three against two and two against three. 53 They’ll be divided; father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.’

Interpreting the present time

54 ‘Īsā said to the crowds, ‘When you see a cloud appearing in the west, immediately you say, “The rain’s on its way” – and that’s what happens. 55 And when a south wind blows, you say, “It’s going to get very hot” - and it does. 56You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky; so why don’t you know how to interpret this present time?[11]

57 ‘Why don’t you judge for yourselves what is right? 58 As you are going with your opponent before a magistrate, while you are on the way, try hard to settle the matter with him, or he may drag you before the judge. Then the judge will hand you over to the officer, and the officer will throw you into jail. 59 I tell you, you won’t get out until you’ve paid the last penny.’

Translation Chapter 13

The need for tauba

13At that time some people came and reported to ‘Īsā about the Galileans[1]whose blood Pilate[2]had mixed with their sacrifices.[3]2 ‘Īsā replied, ‘Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered in this way? 3 No, I tell you! But unless you repent,[4]you will all be destroyed as they were. 4 Or what about those eighteen who were killed when the tower in Siloam[5]fell on them? Do you think they were more guilty than everyone else living in Jerusalem? 5 No, I tell you! But unless you repent, you will all be destroyed as they were.’

6 Then ‘Īsā told this parable: ‘There was a man who had a fig tree planted in his vineyard. He came looking for fruit on it but didn’t find any. 7 He said to the gardener, “Look, for three years now I’ve come looking for fruit on this fig tree and I haven’t found any. Dig it out. Why should it use up the ground?”

8 ‘The gardener replied, “Sir, leave it for another year. I’ll dig round it and put down manure. 9 Then it may bear fruit next year. But if it doesn’t, dig it out.”’[6]

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)heals again on the Sabbath

10 On a Sabbath ‘Īsā was teaching in one of the synagogues. 11 A woman was there with a spirit of weakness that had caused her to be crippled for eighteen years. She was bent over and was unable to straighten up at all. 12When ‘Īsā saw her, he called her over and said to her, ‘Sister,[7]you are set free from your condition.’ 13 And he placed his hands on her, and at once she was able to stand up straight again, and she praised Allah.

14 The synagogue leader was angry that ‘Īsā had healed on the Sabbath. He said to the people, ‘There are six days when you should work. Come and be healed on those days, not on the Sabbath!’

15 The Lord replied to him, ‘You hypocrites! Doesn’t each of you on the Sabbath release your ox or donkey from its stall and lead it out to get water? 16This daughter of Ibrāhīm has been bound by the Shaytān for eighteen long years. Should she not be released on the Sabbath day from what bound her?’

17 When ‘Īsā said this, all who had opposed him were put to shame, while the whole crowd was rejoicing at all the wonderful things he was doing.

The kingdom of Allah is like a mustard seed and like yeast

18 Then ‘Īsā said, ‘What is the kingdom of Allah[8]like? What can I compare it to? 19 It’s like a mustard seed which somebody took and planted in their garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds roosted in its branches.’

20 Again he said, ‘What can I compare the kingdom of Allah to? 21 It’s like yeast, which a woman took and mixed in with about thirty kilograms of flour until it was spread all through the dough.’

Are there only a few people who will be saved?’

22 Now ‘Īsā passed through towns and villages, teaching as he continued his journey towards Jerusalem. 23 Someone said to him, ‘Master, will only a few people be saved?’[9]

‘Īsā answered them, 24 ‘Strive hard to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter but won’t be able to. 25 When the owner of the house gets up and shuts the door, you will stand outside and knock, saying, “Lord, open the door for us!”

‘But he will answer, “I don’t know you or where you’re from.”

26 ‘Then you will begin to say, “We ate and drank with you and you taught in our streets.”

27 ‘But he will say to you, “I don’t know you or where you’re from. Go away from me, all you evildoers!”

28 ‘There will be weeping and grinding of teeth there, when you see Ibrāhīm, Ishāq and Ya’qūb and all the prophets in the kingdom of Allah, but you yourselves thrown outside. 29 People will come from east and west and from north and south, and they will eat at the feast in the kingdom of Allah.[10]30 Yes, there are those who are last who will be first, and those who are first who will be last.’

‘Īsā al-Masīh’s sorrow over Jerusalem

31 Just then some Pharisees came to ‘Īsā and said, ‘Leave here and go somewhere else, because Herod[11]wants to kill you.’

32 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘Go and tell that fox, “See, I am casting out jinn[12]and healing the sick today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will complete my work.” 33 In any case, I must keep going today, tomorrow and the day after – for a prophet cannot die outside Jerusalem![13]

34 ‘Jerusalem! Jerusalem! You kill the prophets and stone those sent to you. How many times have I wanted to gather your children together, like a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing. 35 Look, your house[14]is abandoned. I tell you, you will certainly not see me until you say, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”[15]’

Translation Chapter 14

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)again heals on the Sabbath

14One Sabbath ‘Īsā went to the home of a leading Pharisee for a meal. The Pharisees were watching him closely. 2 A man appeared in front of him who was suffering from oedema.[1]3 ‘Īsā asked the experts in the Taurāt and the Pharisees, ‘Is it permitted to heal people on the Sabbath or not?’

4 But they kept quiet. So ‘Īsā took hold of the man and healed him, and then sent him on his way.

5 Then ‘Īsā said to them, ‘If your child or ox falls into a well on the Sabbath day, which of you would not immediately pull it out?’

6 But they were unable to give any answer.

Taking the place of honour

7 ‘Īsā noticed how the guests were choosing the places of honour, so he told them a parable. 8 ‘When you are invited to a wedding feast, don’t take the place of honour. Someone more distinguished than you may have been invited, 9 and the host who invited you both would come and say to you, “Give up your place for this person.” Then, covered in shame, you would have to take the least important place.

10 ‘Instead, when you’re invited, go and take the least important place, so that when your host comes, he’ll say to you, “Friend, move up to a better place.” Then you will be honoured in the presence of all your fellow guests. 11For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.’

Whom you should invite

12 Then ‘Īsā said to his host, ‘When you prepare a lunch or a dinner, don’t invite your friends or your brothers and sisters or your relatives or your wealthy neighbours. If you do, they might invite you back and then you’d be repaid. 13 Instead, when you prepare a feast, invite the poor, the disabled, the lame, and the blind. 14 Then you’ll be blessed, because they can’t repay you, for you’ll be repaid at the qiyāmat[2]of the righteous.’

The parable of the great banquet

15 When he heard this, one of the other guests said to ‘Īsā, ‘Blessed is the one who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of Allah.’[3]

16 ‘Īsā said to him, ‘There was a man who prepared a great banquet and invited many people to it. 17 At the hour of the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, “Come, because everything is now ready.”

18 ‘But they all alike began to make excuses. The first person said to him, “I’ve bought a field, and I must go out to see it. Please excuse me.”

19 ‘Another said, “I’ve bought five yoke of oxen and I’m going to try them out. Please excuse me.”

20 ‘Someone else said, “I’ve just got married, so I won’t be able to come.”

21 ‘The servant returned and reported all this to his master. Then the master of the house became angry and told his servant, “Go out at once into the streets and alleys of the town, and bring back the poor, the disabled, the blind and the lame.”

22 ‘The servant said, “Sir, your order has been carried out, and there is still room for more.”

23 ‘The master replied to the servant, “Go out into the country roads and along the hedgerows, and urge them to come in so that my house may be full.”

24 ‘But I tell all of you; none of those who were invited will taste my banquet.’[4]

The cost of being a disciple of al-Masīh ‘Īsā (hpbuu)

25 Great crowds were walking along with ‘Īsā. He turned and said to them, 26‘If anyone comes to me and does not hate their own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters,[5]and even their own life, that person cannot be my disciple. 27 Whoever does not carry their cross and come after me cannot be my disciple.

28 ‘If one of you wants to build a tower, won’t you first sit down and calculate the cost to see whether you’ve got enough to finish it? 29 Otherwise you won’t be able to complete the building after having laid the foundation. Everybody who sees it will laugh at you. 30 They will say, “This person started to build and wasn’t able to complete it.”

31 ‘Or if a king is on his way to fight a battle against another king, won’t he first sit down and work out whether he is strong enough with ten thousand soldiers to face the king who is coming against him with twenty thousand? 32And if he’s not strong enough, he will send an envoy to ask for peace while the other king is still a long way off. 33 In the same way, anyone of you who does not give up all that you have, cannot be my disciple.

34 ‘Salt is good. But if it loses its saltiness,[6]how can it become salty again? 35 It’s no use for the soil or the manure heap - it will be thrown out. Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear!’

Translation Chapter 15

The parable of the lost sheep

15Now all the tax-collectors and sinners[1]were gathering round ‘Īsā to listen to him. 2 But the Pharisees and the ulemā complained, ‘This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.’

3 So ‘Īsā told them this parable: 4 ‘Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and you lose one of them. What would you do? You would leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the lost sheep until you find it. 5And when you find it, you would lift it onto your shoulders rejoicing. 6Then, when you come home, you would call together your friends and neighbours and say to them, “Celebrate with me; I have found my lost sheep.”

7 ‘In the same way, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who don’t need to repent.’

The parable of the lost coin

8 ‘Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins[2]and loses one. What would she do? She would light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds the coin. 9 And when she finds it, she would call together her friends and neighbours and say, “Celebrate with me; I have found the silver coin that I lost.”

10 ‘In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of Allah over one sinner who repents.’

The parable of the lost son

11 Then ‘Īsā said, ‘There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger son said to his father, “Father, give me my share of the property.” So the man divided his property between them.

13 ‘A short time later, the younger son sold his entire share of the property and set out for a distant country, where he squandered his money in reckless living. 14 When he had spent it all, a severe famine spread throughout that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and attached himself to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to look after pigs.[3]16 He even longed to eat his fill from the pods[4]which the pigs were eating, but nobody gave him anything.

17 ‘But then he came to his senses and he said, “How many of my father’s hired workers have more than enough food, and here am I dying of hunger. 18I will get up and go to my father and say to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against Allah[5]and against you. 19 I no longer deserve to be called your son. Treat me as one of your hired workers.’”20 So he got up and went back to his father.

‘But while he was still some distance away, his father saw him and was moved with compassion for him. He ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.

21 ‘His son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against Allah and against you. I no longer deserve to be called your son.”

22 ‘But his father said to his servants, “Quick! Bring out the best robe and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet. 23Get the fattened calf and slaughter it. Let us eat and celebrate, 24 because this son of mine was dead and is alive again! He was lost and is found!” And they began to celebrate.

25 ‘His older son was out in the field. As he approached the house, he heard music and dancing. 26 He called one of the children and asked what was happening. 27The child told him, “Your brother has come home, and your father has slaughtered the fattened calf, because he has him back safe and sound.”

28 ‘The older son got angry and refused to go in, so his father came out and urged him to come in. 29 But he replied to his father, “Look here! I’ve been slaving for you for years and I’ve never disobeyed your orders, yet you never gave me so much as a young goat so that I could have a party with my friends. 30 But when this son of yours comes home after devouring your property with prostitutes, you slaughter the fattened calf for him!”

31 ‘His father replied, “Son, you are always with me and all that is mine is yours. 32 But we had to celebrate and be joyful because this, your brother, was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”’

Translation Chapter 16

The parable of the corrupt manager

16‘Īsā said to his disciples, ‘There was a rich man whose manager was accused of squandering his master’s possessions. 2 He summoned the manager and said to him, “What’s this I’m hearing about you? Hand over the account of your management, for you can no longer be my manager.”

3 ‘The manager said to himself, “What am I going to do? My master is taking my job away from me. I’m not strong enough to dig, and I’m ashamed to beg. 4I know what I’ll do, so that when I’m dismissed as manager, people will welcome me into their homes.”

5 ‘He called in each of his master’s debtors.[1]He asked the first one, “How much do you owe my master?”

6 ‘“Three thousand litres of olive oil,” he answered.

‘“Take your bill,” the manager said to him, “sit down quickly and write on it fifteen hundred litres.”

7 ‘Then he asked another, “How much do you owe?”

‘“Thirty tons of wheat,” he replied.                  

‘The manager said to him, “Take your bill and write on it twenty-four.”

8 ‘The master praised the corrupt manager because he’d acted shrewdly.[2]

‘You see, the children of this age are more shrewd toward their own kind than are the children of the light.9 So I tell you, make friends for yourselves using deceitful wealth,[3]so that when it’s spent, they will welcome you into eternal homes.

Allah and wealth

10 ‘Anyone who is trustworthy with very little will also be trustworthy with much; and anyone who is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. 11 So if you have not been trustworthy with deceitful wealth, who’s going to trust you with true wealth? 12 And if you have not been trustworthy with what belongs to someone else, who’s going to give you what will belong to you?

13 No one can serve two masters. For a servant will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You can’t serve both Allah and money.’

14 The Pharisees were listening to all this and sneering at ‘Īsā, because they loved money. 15 He said to them, ‘You are the ones who make yourselves appear righteous in the sight of others; but Allah knows your hearts. What is highly valued among human beings is detestable to Allah.

16 ‘The Taurāt and the Books of the Prophets[4]were taught until the time of Yahyā. From that time on, the kingdom of Allah[5]is being proclaimed[6]and all are urged strongly to come into it.[7]17 It is easier for heaven and earth to pass away, than for a single pen-stroke to drop out of the Taurāt.[8]

18 ‘Any man who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery, and the man who marries a divorced woman commits adultery.’[9]

The parable of the rich man and Lazarus

19 ‘There was a rich man who wore expensive purple[10]cloth and fine linen and enjoyed great luxury every day. 20 There was also a poor man named Lazarus,[11]who was laid at the rich man’s gate and who was covered with sores. 21 He longed to eat his fill from what fell from the rich man’s table. Instead, the dogs came and licked his sores.

22 ‘The time came for the poor man to die, and he was carried by the angels to Ibrāhīm’s side. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 In barzakh, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Ibrāhīm from a great distance, and Lazarus at his side. 24 He cried out, “Father Ibrāhīm, show me some mercy and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I’m in agony in this fire.”[12]

25 ‘But Ibrāhīm said, “Son, remember that you received your good things in your life, while Lazarus received bad things. But now he is comforted here while you are in agony. 26 And besides all this, there is a great chasm fixed between us and you, so that those who want to go across from here to you cannot do so, nor can anybody cross over from there to us.”

27 ‘The rich man said, “Then please father, send Lazarus to my father’s house, 28 where I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they won’t also come to this place of torment.”

29 ‘Ibrāhīm answered, “They have (the Taurāt of) Mūsā and the Books of the Prophets.[13]Let them listen to them.”

30 ‘“No, father Ibrāhīm,” he replied, “but if someone from the dead would go to them, they will repent.”

31 ‘Ibrāhīm said to him, “If they don’t listen to (the Taurāt of) Mūsā and the Books of the Prophets, then even if someone were to rise from the dead they will still not be convinced.”’  

Translation Chapter 17

Causing others to sin

17‘Īsā said to his disciples, ‘Things that ensnare people and cause them to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. 2 It would be better for that person to have a millstone hung round their neck and be thrown into the sea, than for them to ensnare one of these little ones[1]and cause them to stumble. 3 Keep watch of yourselves!

Tauba

‘If your brother or sister sins, warn them, and if they repent, forgive them. 4 And if your brother or sister sins against you seven times in one day, and each time they turn to you and say, “I repent,” you must forgive them.’

Faith

5 The apostles[2]said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith.’

6 The Lord replied, ‘If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, “Be uprooted and planted in the sea,” and it would obey you.

Duty

7 ‘Suppose one of you has a servant who is out ploughing or tending the flock. When he comes in from the field, are you going to say to him, “Come at once and have your meal.”? 8 Instead, will you not say to him, “Prepare my dinner, then tuck your clothing into your belt[3]and serve me while I eat and drink. After that you may eat and drink”? 9 Does the servant have special merit because he did what he was told? 10 It’s the same with you; when you have done everything you were told to do, you should say, “We are servants who are owed nothing; we have only done our duty.”’

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)heals ten men with leprosy[4]

11 On his way to Jerusalem, ‘Īsā was travelling along the border between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As he was entering a village, he was met by ten men who had leprosy. They kept their distance from him 13 and shouted out, ‘‘Īsā, Master! Have mercy on us!’

14 ‘Īsā looked at them and said, ‘Go and show yourselves to the Jewish priests.’[5]While they were going there, they were healed and made clean.[6]

15 When one of them saw that he was healed, he came back and in a loud voice he praised Allah. 16 He fell on his face at ‘Īsā’s feet and thanked him. And this man was a Samaritan.

17 ‘Īsā replied, ‘Were there not ten who were made clean? Where are the other nine? 18 Has no one come back to give praise to Allah apart from this foreigner?’

19 Then ‘Īsā said to him, ‘Get up and go. Your faith has saved you.’

The kingdom of Allah[7]

20 Some Pharisees asked ‘Īsā when the kingdom of Allah was coming. He answered them, ‘The kingdom of Allah is not coming with things that people can observe. 21 Nor will people say, “Look, here it is,” or, “Look, there it is,” for the kingdom of Allah is in your midst.’

The day of the Son of Man[8]

22 ‘Īsā said to the disciples, ‘The days will come when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. 23 People will say to you, “Look, there he is!” or, “Look, here he is!” Don’t go running after them. 24 For just as lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one end to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day. 25 But first he must suffer much and be rejected by this generation.

26 ‘Just as it was in the days of Nūh[9], so also it will be in the days of the Son of Man. 27 People were eating and drinking, getting married and arranging marriages right until the day Nūh went into the ark.[10]Then the flood came and destroyed everyone.

28 ‘It was just the same in the days of Lūt.[11]People were eating and drinking, buying and selling, planting and building. 29But on the day Lūt left Sodom, fire and sulphur rained down from the sky and destroyed everyone.

30 ‘That is what it will be like on the day the Son of Man is revealed. 31On that day, anyone who is on the roof of their house must not go down to get their belongings that are inside the house. In the same way, anyone out in the field must not turn back for anything. 32 Remember Lūt’s wife![12]

33 ‘Whoever wants to preserve their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life will keep it. 34 I tell you, on that night there will be two people in one bed; one will be taken away, the other will be left. 35(36)Two women will be grinding corn together: one will be taken away, the other will be left.’

37 ‘Where, Master?’ the disciples asked him.

He replied, ‘Where the dead body is, there the eagles will gather.’

Translation Chapter 18

The parable of the widow and the judge

18‘Īsā told his disciples a parable about how they should always pray and never give up. 2He said, ‘In a certain town there was a judge who did not fear Allah or have any respect for people. 3 Now there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him and demanding, “Give me justice against my enemy.”

4 ‘For a while he refused. But after some time, he said to himself, “Even though I don’t fear Allah or have any respect for people, 5 yet I’ll see that this widow gets justice because she keeps bothering me. If I don’t, she’ll keep on coming and in the end, she’ll wear me out!”’

6 The Lord said, ‘Listen to what the unjust judge said. 7 Will not Allah grant justice to his chosen ones who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off? 8 I tell you, he will grant justice to them without delay. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?’

The parable of the Pharisee and the tax-collector

9 Then ‘Īsā spoke to some people who were convinced that they were righteous and who looked down on everybody else. He told them this parable:

10 ‘Two men went up to al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas for prayers.[1]One was a Pharisee, the other was a tax-collector. 11 The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed, “Allah, I thank you that I am not like other people – thieves, unrighteous, adulterers – or even like this tax-collector. 12I fast twice a week; I give you a tenth of all I get.”[2]

13 ‘The tax-collector stood at a distance from the people. He wouldn’t even look up towards heaven, but struck his chest and said, “Allah, have mercy on[3]me, a sinner!”

14 ‘I tell you, this man, and not the Pharisee, went home righteous in the sight of Allah. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, but those who humble themselves will be exalted.’

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)blesses little children

15 People were bringing babies to ‘Īsā for him to place his hands on them (in blessing). The disciples saw this and ordered them sternly not to do so. 16But ‘Īsā called the babies to himself and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and don’t hold them back, because the kingdom of Allah[4]belongs to such as these. 17 Truly I tell you, anyone who does not receive the kingdom of Allah like a little child will never enter it.’

The rich and the kingdom of Allah

18 A certain leader asked ‘Īsā, ‘Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?’[5]

19 ‘Īsā replied, ‘Why do you call me good? There is no one good except the one God.[6]20 You know the commandments: do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not give false witness, honour your father and mother.’[7]

21 ‘I’ve obeyed all these commandments since I was young,’ the leader replied.

22 When ‘Īsā heard this, he said to him, ‘There’s still one thing you fall short in. Sell everything you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come and follow me.’

23 When the leader heard this, he became very sad, because he was extremely rich. 24 ‘Īsā looked at him and said, ‘How difficult it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of Allah. 25 It’s easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of Allah.’[8]

26 Those who heard this asked, ‘In that case, who can be saved?’[9]

27 ‘Īsā replied, ‘What is impossible with humans is possible with Allah.’

28 Peter said, ‘Look, we have given up our possessions and followed you.’

29 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘Truly I say to you, there is no one who has given up house or wife, brothers or sisters, parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of Allah, 30 who will not receive many times as much in this age, and in the age to come, eternal life.’

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)predicts his own martyrdom[10]and resurrection

31 ‘Īsā took the twelve aside and said to them, ‘Listen! We are going up to Jerusalem and all that is written by the prophets about the Son of Man will be fulfilled. 32 He will be handed over to people from the other nations. He will be mocked, abused and spat on. 33 And they will flog him and kill him. On the third day, he will be raised to life.’

34 The disciples did not understand any of this.  The significance of ‘Īsā’s words was hidden from them and they did not know what he was talking about.

Al-Masīh ‘Īsā (hpbuu)heals a blind man

35As‘Īsā was approaching Jericho, a blind man was sitting at the roadside begging. 36 He heard the crowd going past and asked what was happening. 37 They told him, ‘‘Īsā of Nazareth is passing by.’

38 He shouted out, ‘‘Īsā, Son of Dāwūd,[11]have mercy on me!’

39 The people in front scolded him, ‘Be quiet!’ they said.

But he yelled even more loudly, ‘Son of Dāwūd, have mercy on me!’

40 ‘Īsā stopped and ordered that the man be led to him. When he came near, ‘Īsā asked him, 41‘What do you want me to do for you?’

‘Master,’ he replied, ‘I want to regain my sight,’.

42 ‘Īsā said to him, ‘Receive your sight. Your faith has saved you.’

43 At once he was able to see[12]and he followed ‘Īsā, praising Allah. All the people who saw this also gave praise to Allah.

Translation Chapter 19

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)at the house of Zakkai

19‘Īsā entered Jericho and was passing through. 2A man named Zakkai was there. He was a chief tax-collector and he was rich. 3 He wanted to see who ‘Īsā was, but was not able to due to the crowd, and because he was a short man. 4So he ran ahead and climbed into a sycamore fig tree in order to see ‘Īsā, who was about to pass that way. 5When ‘Īsā came to that place, he looked up and said to him, ‘Hurry and come down, Zakkai. I must stay at your house today.’

6 Zakkai hurried down and welcomed ‘Īsā joyfully. 7Everyone who saw this began to complain, ‘He’s gone to be the guest of a sinner!’

8But Zakkai stood up and said to the Lord, ‘Look, Master! I’m going to give half of my possessions to the poor. And if I’ve cheated anyone out of anything, I’m going to give back four times as much.’

9‘Īsā said to him, ‘Today salvation has come to this house, because this man too is a son of Ibrāhīm.[1]10For the Son of Man[2]came to seek and to save the lost.’

The parable of the king, the servants and the money

11While the people were listening to this, ‘Īsā went on to tell a parable, because he was close to Jerusalem, and they were thinking that the kingdom of Allah[3]was about to appear at once. 12 So he said, ‘There was a man of noble birth who was about to go to a distant country to have himself made king and then return. 13 He called ten of his servants and gave them each one mina,[4]and said to them, “Trade with this money, because I am coming back.”

14 ‘But the citizens of his country hated him and sent a delegation after him to say, “We do not want this man to rule over us.”

15 ‘He was appointed king and returned to his own land. He then sent for the servants to whom he’d given the money, to find out how they had got on with their trading.

16 The first servant arrived and said, “Master, your mina has earned ten more minas.”

17‘“Well done, you excellent servant!” the master replied, “Since you’ve been trustworthy with a very small amount, you can take charge of ten cities.”

18 ‘The second servant came and said, “Master, your mina has made five more minas.”

19‘“And you can take charge of five cities,” his master told him.

20‘Then another servant came and said, “Master, here’s your mina. I wrapped it in a cloth and stored it away. 21 I was afraid of you, because you’re a hard man. You pick up what you didn’t put down, and you reap what you didn’t sow.”

22 ‘His master replied, “You useless servant! I will condemn you with your own words! You knew, did you, that I’m a hard man, picking up what I didn’t put down and reaping what I didn’t sow? 23 Why didn’t you put my money in the bank? Then when I came I could have got it back with interest.”[5]

24 Then the master said to the servants standing by, “Take the mina from him and give it to the one who has ten minas.”

25 ‘”But master,” they said, “he’s got ten minas.”

26 ‘“I tell you, everyone who has will be given more, but anyone who does not have, even what they do have will be taken away. 27 But as for those enemies of mine who did not want me to rule over them; bring them here and slay them in my presence.”’

Al-Masīh ‘Īsā (hpbuu) rides into Jerusalem as King

28 When ‘Īsā had finished speaking, he went on ahead, making his way up to Jerusalem. 29As he drew near Bethpage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, he sent ahead two of the disciples, 30 saying to them, ‘Go into the village over there. As you enter it, you’ll find a colt tied up, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and lead it here. 31 If someone asks you why you’re untying it, tell them, “The Lord needs it.”’

32 The disciples who were sent left and found everything just as ‘Īsā had told them. 33 As they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, ‘Why are you untying the colt?’

34 The disciples replied, ‘The Lord needs it.’

35 They led the colt to ‘Īsā, put their cloaks on it and then seated ‘Īsā on it.[6]36 As he rode along, people were spreading their cloaks on the road.37 By this time he was close to where the road descends from the Mount of Olives, and the whole crowd of his disciples started to praise Allah joyfully and in loud voices for all the powerful miracles they had seen. 38They shouted,

‘Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord![7]

            Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!’

39 Some of the Pharisees who were in the crowd said to ‘Īsā, ‘Teacher, tell your disciples to stop saying these things.’

40 ‘I tell you,’ he answered, ‘if they keep quiet, the stones would shout out.’

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)weeps over Jerusalem

41 As ‘Īsā approached Jerusalem, he saw the city and wept over it. 42 He said, ‘If only you, even you, had recognised on this day what would bring you peace. But now it is hidden from your eyes. 43 The days will come upon you when your enemies will set up a barricade around you. They will surround you and close in on you from every side. 44 Then they will dash you and your children within you to the ground. They will not leave one stone upon another, because you did not recognise the time when you were visited.’[8]

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)clears al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas of those who were trading there

45 ‘Īsā entered al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas and began to drive out those who were selling things there.[9]46 He said to them, ‘It is written, “My house will be a house of prayer”[10], but you’ve made it “a den of robbers.”’[11]

47 ‘Īsā taught every day in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas. The Jewish high priests, ulemā and leaders of the people were trying to kill him. 48 But they could not find an opportunity to do it, because all the people were hanging on his words.

Translation Chapter 20

‘Īsā al-Masīh’s authority is challenged

20One day ‘Īsā was teaching the people in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas and preaching the good news.[1]The Jewish high priests and ulemā were standing there along with the elders, 2and they said to him, ‘Tell us, by what authority are you doing these things? Who gave you this authority?’

3 ‘Īsā answered them, ‘I too will ask you a question. Tell me, 4 was (the authority for) Yahyā’s ritual washing[2]from heaven or from human beings?’

5 They discussed this among themselves, saying, ‘If we say, “From heaven,” he’ll say, “Why didn’t you believe him?” 6 But if we say, “From human beings,” all the people will stone us to death, because they are convinced that Yahyā was a prophet.’ 7 So they answered, ‘We don’t know where it came from.’

8 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘And I won’t tell you by what authority I am doing these things.’        

The parable of the vineyard owner and the rebellious tenant farmers[3]

9 ‘Īsā went on to tell the people this parable. ‘There was a man who planted a vineyard and let it out to tenant farmers. Then he went away for a long time. 10At the time of the grape harvest, he sent a servant to the tenant farmers to receive from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. But the tenant farmers beat the servant and sent him away empty-handed. 11 He then sent another servant, but the tenant farmers beat and insulted him as well, and sent him away empty-handed. 12 Again, he sent a third servant, but they injured him and drove him out.

13 ‘The master of the vineyard said, “What shall I do? I will send my son whom I love. Perhaps they’ll have some respect for him.”

14 ‘But when they saw the son, the tenant farmers discussed together and said, “This is the heir. Let’s kill him, and then the inheritance will be ours.” 15 So they drove him out of the vineyard and killed him.

‘What then, will the master of the vineyard do to those tenant farmers? 16 He will come and put those tenant farmers to death and give the vineyard to others.’

Those who were listening said, ‘May it never happen!’

17 ‘Īsā looked at them and said, ‘Why, then, is it written,

            “The very stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone”[4]?

18 ‘Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces; and if it falls on anyone, they will be crushed.’

19 The ulemā and the Jewish high priests wanted to arrest ‘Īsā right away, but they were afraid of the people, because they knew that ‘Īsā had told this parable against them.         

Paying taxes to Caesar

20 So they kept a close watch on ‘Īsā. They sent men they had hired, who pretended to be sincere. They wanted to trap ‘Īsā in something he said, so that they could hand him over to the official power and authority of the Roman governor.[5]21 The men asked ‘Īsā, ‘Teacher, we know that you say and teach what is right, and that you do not show favouritism, but teach the path of Allah according to the truth. 22 Is it permitted for us to pay tax to Caesar, or not?’

23 Seeing through their cunning, ‘Īsā said to them, 24 ‘Show me a denarius.[6]Whose image and inscription does it have on it?’

‘Caesar’s,’ they answered.

25 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘So then, give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to Allah what is Allah’s.’

26 They were not able to trap him in anything he said in public. Amazed at his answer, they had nothing to say.           

The qiyāmat[7]and marriage

27 Some of the Sadducees,[8]who say there is no qiyāmat, approached ‘Īsā. They asked him, 28 ‘Teacher, Mūsā wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies leaving a wife but no children, the man must marry his brother’s widow and father offspring for his brother.[9]29 Now there were seven brothers. The first brother had a wife, but died childless. 30 The second 31 and then the third married her, and in the same way, all seven married her, and died without leaving any children. 32 Afterwards, the woman also died. 33 So whose wife will she be at the qiyāmat? For all seven brothers were married to her.’

34 ‘Īsā replied, ‘The children of this age get married and have marriages arranged.35 But those considered worthy of experiencing the age to come and the qiyāmat from the dead will not get married or have marriages arranged. 36Indeed, they cannot die for they are like the angels. They are spiritualchildren of God[10]since they are children of the qiyāmat.[11]37 Even Mūsā[12]revealed that the dead are raised. In the account of the burning bush,[13]it refers to the Lord as the God of Ibrāhīm and the God of Ishāq and the God of Ya’qūb.[14]38 Allah is not the God of the dead, but of the living. For to him all of them are alive.’

39 Some of the ulemā spoke up, ‘Well said, teacher!’ 40 For they no longer dared to ask him anything.    

Why is al-Masīh (hpbuu)called the son of Dāwūd (pbuh)?

41 Then ‘Īsā asked them, ‘Why do they say that al-Masīh is the son of Dāwūd?42 For Dāwūd himself says in the Zabūr,

            “The Lord said to my Lord:

‘Sit at my right hand

43 until I put your enemies

as a footstool under your feet.’”[15]

44 ‘Dāwūd calls al-Masīh, “Lord”. How then can he be his son?’                  

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)warns about the ulemā

45 While all the people were listening, ‘Īsā said to his disciples, 46‘Beware of the ulemā, who like to walk about in long flowing robes, and love to be greeted respectfully in the market places. They love the most distinguished seats in the synagogues and the places of honour at feasts. 47 They take advantage of widows’ households and for appearance’s sake they make long du’ās. These men will receive the more severe punishment.

Translation Chapter 21

The poor widow’s donation

21‘Īsā looked up and noticed some rich people putting their gifts into the collection chest in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas. 2 Then he saw a poverty-stricken widow putting in two small copper coins. 3 He said, ‘Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all the rest of them. 4They all gave out of their riches, but she, out of her poverty, gave all she had to live on.’     

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)prophesies the devastation of Jerusalem

5 Some of the disciples were talking about al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts devoted to Allah. ‘Īsā said, 6 ‘The time will come when all that you’re looking at will be torn down. There won’t be one stone left on another.’

7 They asked him, ‘Teacher, when will this take place? And what will be the sign that it’s about to happen?’

8 ‘Īsā replied, ‘Watch out! Don’t be led astray. Many will come using my name, saying, “I am the one!” and “The time has come!” Do not go after them. 9When you hear of wars and rebellions, don’t be alarmed. These things must happen first, but the end[1]will not come straight away.’            

10 Then he said to them, ‘One nation will rise up against another, and one kingdom against another. 11 There will be severe earthquakes, and famines and plagues in various places. There will be terrifying events and great signs from heaven.     

12 ‘But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They’ll hand you over to synagogue authorities, and put you in prison, and you’ll be brought to trial before kings and governors. And all of this will be because of my name. 13 This will give you opportunity to bear witness. 14 But make up your mind not to prepare beforehand how you will defend yourselves. 15For I will give you words and wisdom which none of those opposing you will be able to resist or refute. 16 Even parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends will betray you, and they will put some of you to death. 17 Everybody will hate you because of my name. 18 But not a single hair of your head will be destroyed. 19 Stand firm, and you will gain your lives.[2]        

20 ‘When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies,[3]then know that its devastation will soon take place. 21 At that time, those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains. Those who are in the city must get out, and those who are in the country must not enter the city. 22For these are the days of punishment, when all that has been written will be fulfilled.[4]23 How awful it will be in those days for pregnant women and those nursing babies! For there will be terrible distress in the land and anger against this people. 24 Some will fall by the sword, and others will be led away as captives to every nation. Jerusalem will be trampled on by the nations until the times of the nations are brought to an end.   

25 ‘There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be distressed in their confusion at the roaring and surging of the sea. 26People will faint from fear and dread of what is coming to the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.[5]28 When these things start to happen, stand up and lift your heads high, because your redemption is drawing near.’

The parable of the fig tree

29 ‘Īsā told them a parable. ‘Look at the fig tree and all the trees. 30When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and you know that summer is near. 31 In the same way, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of Allah[6]is near. 32 Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have taken place.[7]33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.[8]           

34 ‘Be careful that your hearts are not weighed down with intoxication, drunkenness, and the worries of daily life. Then that day may catch you unawares35 like a trap. For it will come suddenly upon everyone who lives on the face of the whole earth. 36 Keep watch and pray at all times that you will be able to escape all that’s going to happen, and that you will be able to stand before the Son of Man.’          

‘Īsā al-Masīh‘s activity in Jerusalem

37 ‘Īsā spent those days teaching in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas, and each evening he would go out of the city to spend the night on the Mount of Olives. 38 All the people got up early in the morning to go and hear him in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas.

Translation Chapter 22

Judas agrees to betray ‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)

22The Eid of Unleavened Bread, known as Passover,[1]was near. 2 The Jewish high priests and the ulemā were trying to find a way to put ‘Īsā to death, because they were afraid of the people.

3 Then Shaytān entered Judas, called Iskariot, who was one of the twelve. 4Judas went and spoke with the Jewish high priests and officers of the guard of al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas about how he might betray ‘Īsā to them. 5 They were delighted and agreed to pay money to Judas. 6 He agreed and started looking for an opportunity to deliver ‘Īsā into their hands when there was no crowd present.     

Preparing the Passover meal

7 The day of Unleavened Bread arrived when the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. 8 ‘Īsā sent Peter and John, saying, ‘Go and get the Passover meal ready for us to eat.’

9 They asked him, ‘Where do you want us to prepare it?’    

10 He replied, ‘After you’ve entered the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him into the house he enters. 11 Then say to the owner of the house, “The teacher is asking you, ‘Where is the room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?’” 12 He will show you a large upstairs room, all laid out. Prepare the meal there.’

13 They went and found everything just as ‘Īsā had said to them, and they prepared the Passover meal there.   

The last supper

14 When the hour came, ‘Īsā took his place at the meal along with the apostles.[2]15 He said to them, ‘I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover meal with you before I suffer. 16 For I tell you, I won’t eat it again until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of Allah.’

17 Then ‘Īsā took a cup, gave thanks to Allah, and said, ‘Take this and share it among yourselves. 18 For I tell you, I will not drink from the fruit of the vine from now on, until the kingdom of Allah comes.’

19 Then he took bread and, giving thanks to Allah, he broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body which is given for you.[3]Do this as a reminder of me.’                   

20 ‘Īsā did the same with the cup after the meal and said, ‘This cup is the new covenant[4]in my blood, which is poured out for you.

21 But look! The hand of my betrayer is with mine on the table. 22 For the Son of Man will go just as it has been decided. But woe to that man who betrays him!’

23 The disciples began to discuss with each other which of them it could be who was about to do this.  

Who is the greatest?

24An argument also broke out among them as to which of them should be regarded as the greatest. 25 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘The kings of the other nations lord it over them, and those who have power over people call themselves ‘benefactors’. 26 But it’s not like this with you. Instead, the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader must be like the servant. 27 Who is the greater, the one who is reclining at the meal, or the one who is serving? Is it not the one reclining at the meal? But I am among you as one who serves.

28 ‘You’re the ones who have stood by me in my trials. 29Just as my heavenly Father[5]has covenanted to give me a kingdom, so I covenant with you, 30 that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and you will sit on thrones ruling the twelve tribes of the Banī Isrā’īl.[6]

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)predicts Peter’s denials

31 ‘Simon, Simon, listen! The Shaytān has demanded to sift all of you like wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith won’t fail. And when you turn back again, strengthen your brothers.’  

33Simon said to him, ‘Master, I’m ready to go to prison and death with you!’     

34 ‘Īsā replied, ‘I tell you, Peter,[7]before the cock crows today, you’ll have denied three times that you know me.’                     

Al-Masīh ‘Īsā (hpbuu)fulfils the Scriptures

35 Then ‘Īsā asked the disciples, ‘When I sent you out without a purse, a bag or sandals[8], were you in need of anything?’

‘Nothing,’ they replied.

36 He said to them, ‘But now, if you’ve got a purse or a bag, take it with you. And if you haven’t got a sword, sell your cloak and buy one. 37 For I tell you, this Scripture must be fulfilled in me,

            “And he was counted with the lawless.”[9]

‘Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfilment.’

38 The disciples said, ‘Look Master, here are two swords.’

‘That is enough!’ ‘Īsā replied.[10]        

‘Īsā al-Masīh’s du’ā of submission to Allah

39 ‘Īsā left the city and went, as was his custom, to the Mount of Olives, and the disciples followed him. 40 When he arrived there, he said to them, ‘Pray that you won’t give in to temptation.’

41 He withdrew from them about a stone’s throw away. Then he knelt down and began praying, 42‘HeavenlyFather, if it’s your will, take this cup[11]away from me. Yet not my will, but yours be done.’           

43 An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. 44 In his anguish he prayed even more fervently, and his sweat became like drops of blood falling to the ground.

45 When he got up from du’ā, he came to the disciples and found them sleeping, worn out from distress. 46 He said to them, ‘Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray so that you won’t give in to temptation.’  

The arrest of al-Masīh ‘Īsā (hpbuu)

47 ‘Īsā was still speaking when a crowd appeared with the man called Judas, who was one of the twelve, leading them. He approached ‘Īsā to kiss him. 48‘Īsā said to him, ‘Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?

49 When those who were around ‘Īsā saw what was about to happen, they said, ‘Master, shall we strike with our swords?’ 50 Then one of them struck the servant of the Jewish high priest, cutting off his right ear.

51But‘Īsā replied, ‘Stop! That’s enough!’ Then he touched the man’s ear and healed him.

52 ‘Īsā said to the Jewish high priests, the officers of the guard of al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas and the elders who had come for him, ‘Why have you come out with swords and clubs as if I were a violent revolutionary? 53 I was with you every day in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas, and you didn’t arrest me. But this is your moment; this is the power of darkness!’           

Peter disowns ‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)

54 They seized ‘Īsā, led him away, and brought him into the house of the Jewish high priest. Peter followed at a distance. 55 A fire was kindled in the middle of the courtyard, and Peter joined those who were sitting round it. 56 A servant girl saw him there, sitting near the light. She looked at him closely and said, ‘This one was with him!’

57 But Peter denied it, ‘Woman, I don’t know him,’ he said.

58 A little while later, somebody else saw him and said, ‘You also are one of them!’

But Peter said, ‘No man, I am not!’

59 About an hour later, another person insisted, ‘This one was definitely with him – he’s a Galilean!’

60 Peter replied, ‘Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!’

Immediately, while he was still speaking, a cock crowed.

61 The Lord turned and looked directly at Peter. Then Peter remembered the Lord’s words to him, ‘Before the cock crows today, you’ll have disowned me three times.’ 62 And Peter went outside and wept bitterly.

The guards mock ‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)

63 The men who were guarding ‘Īsā started to mock and beat him. 64 Blindfolding him, they kept demanding, ‘Prophesy! Who hit you?’ 65 And they hurled many other insults at him.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)appears before the Jewish Ruling Council

66 When day came, the council of elders of the people, including the Jewish high priests and the ulemā, held a meeting, and they brought ‘Īsā in before their council. 67 They said, ‘If you are al-Masīh, then tell us.’

‘Īsā replied, ‘If I told you, you would not believe me, 68and if I asked you, you wouldn’t answer. 69 But from now on, the Son of Man[12]will be seated at the right hand of Allah’s power.’[13]

70 They all said, ‘Are you then the spiritualSon of God?’[14]

He replied, ‘You yourselves say that I am.’

71 They said, ‘What more testimony do we need? We have heard it ourselves from his own mouth!’

Translation Chapter 23

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)appears before Pilate

23When the council of eldersrose from their meeting, they took ‘Īsā to Pilate.[1]2 Then they began to accuse him, ‘We found this man leading our people astray, forbidding them to pay tax to Caesar and claiming to be al-Masīh, a king.’[2]

3 Pilate asked ‘Īsā, ‘Are you the king of the Jews?’

‘You have said it,’ ‘Īsā replied.

4 Pilate said to the Jewish high priests and the crowd, ‘I find no reason to punish this man.’

5 But they insisted, ‘He stirs up the people throughout the whole of Judea with his teaching. He began in Galilee, and now he’s come here.’

6 When he heard this, Pilate asked if the man was a Galilean. 7Now Galilee was under Herod’s jurisdiction, so when Pilate found out that ‘Īsā was from there, he sent him to Herod, who was also in Jerusalem at that time.              

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)is questioned by Herod[3]

8 Herod was very glad to see ‘Īsā, because for a long time he had wanted to see him. He had heard about ‘Īsā and hoped to see him perform some kind of sign. 9 He asked ‘Īsā many questions, but ‘Īsā did not answer him. 10The Jewish high priests and the ulemā stood there vehemently accusing him. 11 Then Herod and his soldiers treated ‘Īsā with contempt. They ridiculed him by dressing him in majestic clothes. Then Herod sent him back to Pilate. 12On that day Herod and Pilate became friends. Before this they had been enemies.

Before Pilate again

13 Pilate called together the Jewish high priests, the leaders and the people. 14 He said to them, ‘You have brought this man to me as someone who is leading the people astray. Now I have examined him in your presence and I find no basis for your accusations against him. 15 Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. He has not done anything to deserve death. 16(17) So I’ll have him scourged and then set him free.’ 

18 They all shouted together, ‘Take this man away! Release Barabbas for us!’[4]19 (Barabbas had been thrown in jail for taking part in a rebellion in the city, and for murder).

20 Again Pilate addressed them, wanting to release ‘Īsā. 21 But they kept on shouting, ‘Crucify him! Crucify him!’

22A third time Pilate said to them, ‘What crime has this man committed? I find no reason to put him to death. So I’ll have him scourged and then set him free.’

23 Shouting loudly, they kept up the pressure, demanding that he be crucified, and their voices prevailed. 24 So Pilate decided that their demand be carried out. 25 He released the man they were asking for, who had been thrown into jail for rebellion and murder. Then Pilate handed ‘Īsā over (to the Roman soldiers) just as the Jewish high priests, the leaders and the people had wanted.                 

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)is led away

26 As the Roman soldiers led him away, they seized a man called Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and they put the cross on him, and made him carry it behind ‘Īsā.

27 A large crowd of people were following him, including women who were striking their breasts and mourning for him. 28 ‘Īsā turned towards them and said, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, don’t weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children. 29 For the days are coming when people will say, “Blessed are the women who are unable to conceive, the wombs which have never given birth and the breasts that have never nursed!” 30 At that time

            “they will start saying to the mountains, ‘Fall on us!’

and to the hills, ‘Cover us!’”[5]

31 For if they do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it’s dried up?’[6]

The martyrdom[7]of al-Masīh ‘Īsā(hpbuu)

32 Two others, both criminals, were also led away with ‘Īsā to be put to death. 33 When they came to the place called the Skull, the soldiers crucified ‘Īsā[8]there, along with the criminals, one on his right and the other on his left.[9]34 ‘Īsā said, ‘Heavenly Father,[10]forgive them. They don’t know what they are doing.’[11]

The soldiers also divided up his clothes by casting lots.[12]

35 The people stood there watching and the leaders ridiculed him[13], ‘He saved others; let him save himself if he’s Allah’s Masīh, the Chosen One!’

36 The soldiers also mocked him. Coming close, they offered him sour vinegar[14]37 and said, ‘If you’re the king of the Jews, save yourself.’

38 A written sign was fastened above him with these words: ‘THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.’[15]

The two criminals and ‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)

39 One of the criminals hanging there hurled insults at ‘Īsā; ‘You’re al-Masīh aren’t you? Then save yourself and us!’

40 But the other criminal replied with a rebuke, ‘Don’t you fear Allah, since you’re condemned with the same sentence? 41 We’re punished justly, because we’re getting what we deserve for what we’ve done. But this man hasn’t done anything wrong’ 42 Then he said, ‘‘Īsā, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’

43 ‘Īsā said to him, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.’

The death of al-Masīh ‘Īsā (hpbuu)

44 By now it was about noon and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, 45 for the sun’s light went out.[16]The curtain in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas was torn down the middle.[17]46 In a loud voice ‘Īsā cried out, ‘Heavenly Father, into your hands I entrust my spirit.’[18]  Having said this, he died.      

47 The centurion[19]saw what happened and praised Allah, saying, ‘Truly this man was righteous.’ 48All the people who had gathered to watch this spectacle saw what happened, and they returned home, striking their chests. 49 All those who knew ‘Īsā, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance and saw these things.[20]

The burial of al-Masīh ‘Īsā (hpbuu)

50Now there was a man named Yūsuf, who was a member of the Jewish ruling council. He was a good and righteous man, 51 and had not agreed with the decision and action of the council (in condemning ‘Īsā). He was from the Jewish town of Arimathea, and he was longing for the kingdom of Allah[21]to come. 52 He went to Pilate and asked for the body of ‘Īsā. 53Taking it down from the cross, he wrapped it in a linen cloth. Then he placed the body in a tomb hewn out of rock, in which no one had ever been buried. 54 It was the day of Preparation,[22]and the Sabbath[23]was about to begin.[24]

55 The women who had travelled with ‘Īsā from Galilee followed Yūsuf and saw the tomb and how ‘Īsā’s body was placed in it. 56 Then they went home and prepared spices and ointments. Then they rested on the Sabbath as the commandment required.[25]

Translation Chapter 24

The women visit ‘Īsā al-Masīh’s tomb

24On the first day of the week,[1]at the first light of dawn, the women went to the tomb carrying the spices they had prepared. 2 They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3but when they went in, they did not find the body of the Lord ‘Īsā. 

4 While they were still at a loss over what to make of this, suddenly two men in shining clothes stood near them. 5 The women were frightened and bowed down with their faces to the ground. But the two men said to them, ‘Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? 6 He is not here; he has been raised! Remember how he told you, when he was still in Galilee, 7 “The Son of Man[2]must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified and on the third day rise from the dead.”’8 Then the women remembered his words.  

9 They returned from the tomb, and reported all these things to the eleven and the other disciples. 10 It was Maryam Magdalene, Johanna, Maryam the mother of Ya’qūb, and some other women with them[3]who told these things to the apostles.[4]11 But their words seemed like nonsense to the disciples, and they did not believe them. 12 But Peter got up and ran to the tomb. He stooped down to look inside, and saw only the strips of linen cloth. Then he left, astonished, wondering what had happened.                

The stranger on the road to Emmaus

13 On that same day, two of the disciples were walking to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles[5]from Jerusalem, 14 and they were talking to each other about all that had taken place. 15 While they talked and discussed together, ‘Īsā himself came up and began to walk along with them, 16 but they were kept from recognising him. 17 He asked them, ‘What are you debating about while you’re walking along?’

They stood there, looking sad. 18 One of them, named Cleopas, replied, ‘Are you the only person staying in Jerusalem who doesn’t know what has happened there these past few days?’                     

19 ‘What has happened?’ he asked them.

‘It’s about ‘Īsā of Nazareth,’ they replied. ‘He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed in the judgement of Allah and all the people.20 Our Jewish high priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death, and they crucified him. 21 We had been hoping that he was the one who was going to redeem the Banī Isrā’īl.[6]And besides all this, it’s now the third day since these things happened. 22But then some women from our group astonished us. They went to the tomb at dawn this morning, 23 and they didn’t find his body there. They came back saying they had also seen angels appear, who said that ‘Īsā is alive.24 Then some of those who’d been with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see ‘Īsā.’                  

25 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have said! 26 Did not al-Masīh have to suffer these things and then come into his glory?’ 27 And starting with (the Taurāt revealed through) Mūsā, and with all the Prophets,[7]he explained to them what was written in all the Scriptures about himself.                  

28 They drew near the village to which they were going. ‘Īsā kept walking as if he were going further, 29 but the two disciples urged him strongly, ‘Stay with us, because it will soon be evening and the day’s about to end.’ So he went in to stay with them.    

30 While ‘Īsā was with them at the meal, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and began to give it to them. 31 Then their eyes were opened and they recognised him, and he disappeared from their sight. 32 They said to each other, ‘Were not our hearts on fire within us while he was talking with us on the road and explaining the Scriptures to us?’   

33 That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem. They found the eleven and the others with them, gathered together, 34 saying, ‘The Lord really has been raised! And he’s appeared to Simon!’[8]

35 Then the two disciples described to them what had happened on the road, and how ‘Īsā was made known to them when he broke the bread.

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)appears to his disciples

36 While they were still speaking about these things, ‘Īsā himself stood in their midst and said to them, ‘As-salāmu ‘alaykum.’

37 The disciples were startled and terrified, thinking they were seeing a ghost.38 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘Why are you so shaken? Why are doubts arising in your minds? 39 Look at my hands and my feet.[9]See that it is I myself! Touch me and see. A ghost doesn’t have flesh and bones, as you can see I have.’           

40 Having said this, he showed them his hands and feet. 41 While they still could not believe it out of joy and wonder, he asked them, ‘Have you got anything here to eat?’ 42 They gave him a piece of roasted fish,43which he took and ate in their presence.       

44 ‘Īsā said to them, ‘This is my teaching that I gave you while I was still with you: everything that is written about me in the Taurāt of Mūsā, the Books of the Prophets and the Zabūr must be fulfilled.’ 45 Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. 46 He said to them, ‘This is what is written: al-Masīh must suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and in his name repentance and forgiveness of sins must be proclaimed to all nations,[10]starting from Jerusalem. 48You are witnesses of these events. 49 I myself am sending upon you what my heavenly Father has promised.[11]But stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.’

‘Īsā al-Masīh (hpbuu)is taken up into heaven

50 Then ‘Īsā led the disciples out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands, he blessed them.[12]51While he was blessing them, he parted from them and was taken up into heaven.[13]52 The disciples prostrated themselves before him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. 53 And they spent their time continually in al-Bayt ul-Muqaddas, praising Allah.