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Clarification

Is the ‘Holy Spirit’ in this verse anything to do with belief in ‘Trinity’?

In short

The Holy Spirit with which God supported Jesus was the Angel Gabriel.

Answer

The reference in this verse (see also 2:87, 253) is to the Angel Gabriel, as becomes clear from 16:102, which affirms that this same Holy Spirit (Ruh al-Qudus) brings the revelation to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (cf. 2:97, 26:192-195). Gabriel is also referred to as a ‘Spirit’ in other verses (e.g. 19:17, 26:193).

The repeated use of this designation in verses speaking of Prophet Jesus (peace be upon him) is likely intended to correct misconceptions around this name and concept, as Jesus was indeed supported by the angelic spirit sent by the One God. The Quran invites people back to the purest conception of monotheism, and recognizing both the Angel and the Prophet as God’s honored servants.

Sources cited

  • Ibn ‘Ashur, Al-Tahrir wa ‘l-Tanwir
  • Ibn ‘Atiyyah, al-Muharrar al-Wajiz
  • Ibn Kathir, Tafsir al-Qur’an al-Azim
  • Al-Shinqiti, Adwa’ al-Bayan
  • Christianity
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Verses cited