The Quran acknowledges the mortality of messengers, yet it does not contradict the belief that Jesus was raised alive, as these verses address the general state of prophets while allowing for exceptions.
What the verses actually say
In Quran 3:144, the verse highlights the mortality of prophets to remind the believers that their faith should not depend on any individual, including the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):
Muhammad is no more than a messenger; many were the messengers that passed away before him. If he died or were slain, will you then turn back on your heels?
Quran 3:144
Similarly, Quran 5:75 states:
The Messiah, son of Mary, was no more than a messenger; many were the messengers that passed away before him. His mother was a woman of truth. They both ate food.
Quran 5:75
These verses emphasize that prophets were human, subject to human needs and limitations, and ultimately mortal.
The exception of Jesus
The belief that Jesus was raised alive is based on other Quranic verses and Hadith, which are not contradicted by the general statements about prophets' mortality. In Quran 4:157-158, it is stated:
And [for] their saying, 'Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, the messenger of Allah.' And they did not kill him, nor did they crucify him; but [another] was made to resemble him to them. And indeed, those who differ over it are in doubt about it. They have no knowledge of it except the following of assumption. And they did not kill him, for certain. Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise.
Quran 4:157-158
This passage clearly indicates an exception in Jesus' case, affirming his unique status among prophets.
The purpose of these verses
The verses in question serve to remind believers of the fallibility and mortality of prophets, reinforcing the idea that Islam is a faith centered on God, not on individuals. It is not meant to deny specific events or exceptions that are clarified elsewhere in the Quran and Hadith.
In understanding these verses, it is crucial to consider the broader context of Islamic teachings, which allows for exceptions like that of Jesus while maintaining the general principle of human mortality for prophets.
These insights offer a balanced view, encouraging a deeper understanding of the Quranic message and the unique roles of prophets within Islam.