A Comparative- analytical Study of Verse 55 of Surah Aal-e Imran Based on Shiite and Sunnite Perspectives

Abstract
The present research deals with how verse 55 of Surah Aal-e Imran signifies Jesus' return to the world during the time of the reappearance of Imam Mahdi, the twelfth Shiite Imam (A.S). The study has been conducted precisely with a view to opinions and sayings of Sunni and Shiite exegetes concerning this holy verse. Thus, in order to find out about their views as well as the commonalities and points of difference in this regard, the commentaries authored by prominent scholars of both sects have been studied comparatively. It has been inferred from the sources of the two sects that verse 55 signifies the rise of Prophet Jesus at the time of the reappearance of the Imam of Age. Conclusively, what Ibn Ashur and Maraghi have stated about the actual death of Prophet Jesus (A.S) is incorrect, though it may somehow be in conformity with the outward meaning of the verse. As well, it has been learnt through this research that God only desired that Jesus live for a period of time and then be risen up to Him alive. Whence it is time of the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (A.S), he will come back to earth when the Imam of Time, may Allah hasten his reappearance, will fill the world with justice and equity after it has been filled with injustice and tyranny