QUESTION:
As Salaamu Alikum,
Could you explain to me the meaning of the word messiah in Islam. I’m asking as both Jesus AS and the dajal have the title messiah. Jazaak Allah.
ANSWER:
Wa Alaikum As Salaam,
Yes, in Islamic teachings, the word Messiah (Al – Masih in Arabic) is used for both Isa (A.S) (Jesus) and the Dajaal. However, the meaning is different in each case.
The word ‘Messiah’ is from the Arabic ‘Al Maseeh’ which means ‘to wipe’ ‘to stroke’ or ‘to anoint (massage) or ‘to travel’.
Isa (A.S) (Jesus) being called the Messiah or ‘Al Maseeh’ is an honorable title identifying him as the Messiah of guidance.
According to the scholars, Isa (A.S) was called the Messiah (Al Maseeh) because he wiped and healed. He wiped his hand over the blind and lepers and they were cured by Allah’s permission. He also traveled much on the earth inviting to Allah, without having a permanent home. Along with this, he was blessed and anointed, and chosen to be Allah’s Prophet and Messenger.
For these reasons, Prophet Isa (Jesus AS) was called ‘Al – Maseeh’ or the Messiah, which was a title of honor and truth.
As for the Dajaal, he is called Al – Maseeh because one of his eye will be ‘Mamsuh’ wiped out. So ‘Maseeh’ (Messiah) here, means one whose eye is wiped out or blotted out.
He is also called Al Maseeh – (Messiah) because he will travel through the lands of the earth in 40 days except Makkah and Madinah.
Thus, he is also known as Al – Maseeh Ad – Dajaal the false Messiah, because he will falsely claim to be the Messiah (Isa A.S) that people were waiting for.
And Allah Knows best
Mufti Waseem Khan
15/09/2026