Lady Maryam, known as Mary in Christian tradition, holds a distinguished place in the Quran as a symbol of piety, purity, and unwavering faith. She is the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran, where her miraculous conception of Prophet Isa (Jesus) is highlighted. Lady Maryam is mentioned 34 times, embodying the virtues of patience and submission, making her a role model for believers worldwide.
The story of Maryam in the Quran is one of profound reverence and honor. She is celebrated as one of the greatest women in Islam, known for her piety, devotion, and remarkable life dedicated to the worship of Allah. Let’s delve into the significance of Mary in the Quran, the number of times she was mentioned in the Quran, her place among the best women in Islam, and the lessons we can learn from her exemplary life.
Table of Contents
Who Is Maryam in the Quran?
Maryam, known as Lady Mary in the Christian tradition, is a prominent figure in the Quran. She is the only woman mentioned by name in the Quran, and an entire Surah is named after her. The Quran presents Maryam as a woman of exceptional piety, chosen by Allah above all other women to bear the miraculous birth of Isa without a father.
Her story begins with her mother, who prayed fervently for a child and vowed to dedicate her offspring to the service of Allah. Maryam grew up in the temple, where she devoted herself entirely to the worship of Allah. The Quran describes how Allah provided for her in miraculous ways, such as when Zakariya found her with out-of-season fruits, a sign of her special status with Allah.
The Quran recounts Maryam’s deep faith and submission to Allah’s will as she accepted her divine role, even though it subjected her to social scorn and isolation. Her story highlights the themes of purity, piety, and the miraculous power of Allah.
How Many Times is Maryam Mentioned in the Quran?
Maryam is mentioned several times in the Quran, reflecting her significant role in Islamic teachings, and she is even honored with a surah named after her. Here’s how Maryam is referenced in different contexts as an example:
1. Surah Ali-Imran:
Maryam’s story begins in Surah Al-Imran, where her mother dedicates her to the service of Allah. This chapter also mentions the birth of Jesus and the miraculous events surrounding Maryam.
“But when she delivered her, she said, ‘My Lord, I have delivered a female.’ And Allah was most knowing of what she delivered, and the male is not like the female. ‘And I have named her Maryam, and I seek refuge for her in You and for her descendants from Satan, the expelled from the mercy [of Allah].”
2. Surah Maryam:
As the chapter named after her, Surah Maryam provides a detailed account of her life, including the annunciation by the angel, her conception of Jesus, and the birth of her son. This chapter is often recited by Muslims seeking to reflect on her virtues and the miracles surrounding her.
“She said, ‘How can I have a child while no man has touched me and I have not been unchaste?’ He said, ‘Thus it will be. Your Lord says, ‘It is easy for Me, and [We wish] to appoint him as a sign to the people and a mercy from Us. And it is a matter already decreed.”
3. Surah An-Nisa:
Maryam is mentioned in the context of the prophets and their righteous descendants, emphasizing her elevated status among women and her role in the lineage of prophets.
“And [for] their saying, ‘Indeed, we have killed the Messiah, Isa, the son of Maryam, 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.”
Why Is Maryam So Important?
Maryam holds significant importance in our Deen due to her profound virtues, miraculous experiences, and her exemplary role in the narrative of faith. Her importance can be understood through several key aspects:
1. Chosen by Allah
Maryam is revered as one of the most honored women in Islam, chosen by Allah for a divine purpose. This choice signifies her unique role in Islamic history, reflecting Allah’s special favor upon her. The Quran explicitly states her elevated status:
“And [mention] when the angels said, ‘O Mary, indeed Allah gives you good tidings of a word from Him, whose name will be the Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary – distinguished in this world and the Hereafter and those nearest [to Allah],” (Quran 3:45).
2. Exemplary Piety and Devotion
Maryam’s life is a model of piety, devotion, and submission to Allah. From a young age, she devoted herself to worship and service in the temple. Her unwavering faith and commitment are highlighted in:
Surah Maryam (19:16-17): “And mention Mary in the Book, when she withdrew from her family to a place toward the east. And she took in seclusion from them a screen. Then We sent to her Our Spirit [i.e., Gabriel], and he represented himself to her as a well-proportioned man.”
3. The Miracle of Jesus’ Birth
Maryam’s most notable miracle is the virgin birth of Jesus (Isa). This event demonstrates Allah’s power to create miracles beyond human understanding. The Quran recounts this miraculous birth in:
Surah Maryam (19:20-21): “She said, ‘How can I have a child while no man has touched me and I have not been unchaste?’ He said, ‘Thus [it will be]. Your Lord says, ‘It is easy for Me, and [I will make] him a sign to the people and a mercy from Us. And it is a matter already decreed.’”
4. A Symbol of Purity and Modesty
Maryam is revered for her purity and modesty. Her life and character serve as a model for maintaining personal integrity and spiritual purity. The Quran portrays her as:
Surah Al-Imran (3:47): “She said, ‘My Lord, how will I have a child when no man has touched me?’ He said, ‘Such is Allah. He creates what He wills. When He decrees a matter, He only says to it, ‘Be,’ and it is.’”
5. A Role Model of Patience and Resilience
Maryam faced significant trials, including social stigma and isolation due to her miraculous pregnancy. Her story illustrates immense patience and resilience in the face of adversity. This is evident in:
Surah Maryam (19:26): “So eat and drink and be contented. And if you see from among humanity anyone, say, ‘Indeed, I have vowed to the Most Merciful abstention, so I will not speak today to any man.’”
6. An Example of Trust in Allah’s Plan
Maryam’s trust in Allah’s plan, despite the seemingly impossible nature of her situation, exemplifies the concept of Tawakkul. Her unwavering faith and acceptance of Allah’s decree are central themes in her story:
Surah Maryam (19:20): “She said, ‘How can I have a child while no man has touched me and I have not been unchaste?’ He said, ‘Thus [it will be]. Your Lord says, ‘It is easy for Me, and [I will make] him a sign to the people and a mercy from Us. And it is a matter already decreed.’”
Best 4 Women in Islam
Islamic tradition venerates four women as the epitome of virtue and excellence: Asiya, Maryam, Khadijah, and Fatimah. Each of these distinguished women is celebrated for her unique qualities and profound contributions to the Islamic faith.
1. Asiya the Wife of Firaun:
The wife of Pharaoh, is celebrated for her unyielding faith in Allah despite being married to a tyrant. Her story exemplifies immense courage and unwavering devotion to the divine, even in the face of oppression and adversity.
2. Maryam Ibnat Imran:
Her piety, chastity, and role as the mother of Prophet Isa (Jesus) elevate her to a revered status in Islam. Her narrative in the Quran underscores her dedication to Allah and her resilience in confronting societal judgment and trials.
3. Khadijah Bint Khuwaylid:
The first wife of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Khadijah, is esteemed for her unwavering support and belief in the Prophet’s mission from its inception. Her wisdom, loyalty, and entrepreneurial acumen played a pivotal role in the nascent Muslim community.
4. Fatimah Bint Muhammad:
Fatimah, the beloved daughter of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is revered for her exemplary piety, generosity, and profound devotion to her family. Her life exemplifies humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to faith.
Traits of Maryam and How to Learn from Her Story?
Maryam’s character in the Quran is depicted with several notable traits that make her a model of virtue for all believers:
1. Piety and Devotion:
Maryam’s life was marked by her unwavering devotion to Allah. From a young age, she dedicated herself to worship and remained steadfast in her faith, even when faced with great trials. Her piety is a reminder of the importance of maintaining a strong connection with Allah through worship and obedience.
2. Purity and Modesty:
The Quran emphasizes Maryam’s purity, both physical and spiritual. Her chastity is central to her story, as she remained a virgin while giving birth to Jesus. Her modesty and sense of honor are highlighted when she withdraws from her people to a secluded place when she feels the pangs of childbirth, seeking refuge in Allah.
3. Patience and Perseverance:
Maryam faced immense challenges, including the potential for public disgrace due to her miraculous pregnancy. Despite this, she exhibited remarkable patience, trusting in Allah’s plan and enduring the hardship with grace. Her story teaches the value of patience in the face of adversity.
4. Trust in Allah:
Maryam’s trust in Allah is evident throughout her story. When the angel appeared to her with the news of her miraculous conception, she accepted Allah’s decree with full trust, saying, “My Lord, how will I have a child when no man has touched me?” (Quran 19:20). Her unwavering faith in Allah’s wisdom is a lesson for all believers to trust in His plan, even when it seems incomprehensible.
5. Strength and Resilience:
Maryam’s strength is showcased in her ability to bear the trials that came her way. From the moment she accepted her divine role to the birth of Jesus and the subsequent challenges, she remained resilient, drawing strength from her faith in Allah. Her story encourages believers to be strong in their faith and resilient in the face of life’s difficulties.
6. Courage and Bravery:
Maryam demonstrated immense courage in the face of societal pressure and potential stigma. Despite the fear of being judged or ostracized for her miraculous pregnancy, she stood firm and maintained her faith. Her bravery in confronting these challenges head-on exemplifies the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs, even when faced with adversity.
7. Compassion and Care:
Maryam’s compassion is evident in her nurturing role as the mother of Jesus. Her concern for her child’s well-being and her protective nature highlights her deep love and care. This trait reflects the importance of kindness and tenderness in one’s relationships, emphasizing the value of caring for others selflessly.
8. Submission to Divine Will:
Maryam’s complete submission to Allah’s will is a profound aspect of her character. She accepted her role and the challenges it entailed with humility and grace. Her ability to surrender to Allah’s plan, without resistance or complaint, serves as a powerful example of how to embrace divine will with an open heart and trust.
Join Riwaq Al Quran for a Journey of Spiritual Growth!
At Riwaq Al Quran, we are dedicated to nurturing the spiritual growth and understanding of the Quran in our students. Inspired by the exemplary life of Maryam, we offer comprehensive Quranic studies that emphasize the virtues of piety, patience, and trust in Allah. Join us to explore the teachings of the Quran deeply and apply its timeless lessons to your life.
We offer several courses such as:
- Online courses for kids.
- Online Quran classes for kids and adults.
- Online Arabic courses
- Online Ijazah courses
- Online Islamic Studies courses.
Here are a sample of our set of Quran Courses that will be helpful for you:
- Online Tafseer Course: Delve into Quranic meanings with our insightful online Tafseer course.
- Noorani Qaida Online: Learn Quranic basics efficiently through our Noorani Qaida online program.
- Online Quran Recitation Course: Enhance Quranic recitation skills through our expert-led online course.
- Online Tajweed Classes: Master Tajweed rules for beautiful Quranic recitation in online classes.
- Quran Memorization Online Course: Memorize the Quran effectively with our specialized online memorization course.
- Online Qirat Course: Explore diverse Qirat styles with our comprehensive online Qirat course.
- Online Quran Classes for Kids: Nurture a love for the Quran in kids through interactive online classes.
Conclusion
Maryam’s story in the Quran exemplifies the highest virtues of piety, devotion, and unwavering faith. As one of the most revered women in Islam, she serves as a timeless role model for all believers. Her life, marked by miraculous events and profound challenges, teaches us the importance of maintaining trust in Allah’s plan, demonstrating patience in the face of adversity, and upholding purity and modesty.
The lessons drawn from Maryam’s life offer invaluable guidance on how to lead a life of devotion and integrity. Her story encourages us to cultivate a deep connection with Allah, embrace His will with acceptance, and display courage and compassion in our interactions with others. By reflecting on her virtues and applying these principles in our daily lives, we can strive to embody the qualities that made Maryam one of the most honored women in Islamic tradition.
