Table Of Contents

Comprehensive Glossary & Vocabulary Guide For Surah Maryam

1. ‘Abd Allāh (عَبْدُ اللَّهِ) – Servant of God

Linguistic Root & Etymology

This phrase combines ‘Abd (servant), from the root ع-ب-د (ʻ-B-D) signifying servitude and worship, with Allāh, the proper name for God. The title ‘Abd Allāh, “Servant of God,” is the highest and noblest station for any created being. It signifies a state of perfect, willing submission and devotion to the Creator. It is the ultimate expression of the purpose of human existence.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

The first words that Prophet ‘Isa (Jesus) speaks from the cradle are a declaration of this station: “He said, ‘Indeed, I am the Servant of God'” (qāla innī ‘abd Allāh). Classical commentators have emphasized the profound significance of this first utterance. It is a direct and powerful refutation, from his own mouth, of the future claims that he was God or the son of God. His very first act is to affirm his true identity and highest honor: his servitude to the One God. This statement is the foundation of his entire mission.

Thematic Context

The declaration of being ‘Abd Allāh is the theological climax of the story of Maryam and ‘Isa, and a central theme of the entire surah. The chapter is a powerful argument against the concept of God having a son (walad). By having ‘Isa himself declare his servitude as his first words, the surah establishes pure monotheism as the core of his message. It demonstrates that all prophets, from Zakariyya to Ibrahim to ‘Isa, share one identity: they are all honorable servants of God.

Modern & Comparative Lens

This statement is a central point of divergence between Islamic and Christian theology. While Christianity views Jesus as the divine Son of God, Islam sees his declaration as ‘Abd Allāh as the core of his reality. Modern Islamic scholarship continues to highlight this verse as a foundational text for Islamic Christology, emphasizing a deep reverence for Jesus as a great prophet while unequivocally affirming his status as a created, mortal servant of the Most High.

Practical Reflection & Application

‘Isa’s declaration is a powerful model for our own self-identity. In a world that encourages us to define ourselves by our careers, our wealth, or our status, this verse reminds us that our truest and most honorable identity is that of being an ‘Abd Allāh. We should strive to live up to this title in all aspects of our lives, finding our dignity and our purpose not in serving ourselves, but in serving our Creator.

2. A‘ūdhū (أَعُوذُ) – I seek refuge

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The verb A‘ūdhū comes from the root ع-و-ذ (ʻ-W-Dh), which means to seek refuge, to seek protection, or to take shelter. It is an active and deliberate turning towards a source of power for safety from a perceived threat. The act of seeking refuge is a fundamental expression of reliance and trust.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is uttered by Maryam (Mary) at a moment of extreme vulnerability. When the angel appears to her in the form of a perfect man, her immediate reaction, thinking he is a mortal with ill intentions, is one of piety and fear: “She said, ‘Indeed, I seek refuge in the Most Merciful from you, if you should be God-fearing!'” (innī a‘ūdhū bir-raḥmāni minka in kunta taqiyyā). Commentators have praised this reaction as a sign of her immense purity and her immediate turning to God for protection in a moment of perceived danger. She seeks refuge in God’s specific attribute of “The Most Merciful” (Ar-Raḥmān), a key theme of the surah.

Thematic Context

Maryam’s act of seeking refuge is a pivotal moment in the narrative. It demonstrates that her first instinct, even before knowing the nature of the visitor, is to turn to God. This highlights the theme of reliance on divine mercy. The surah teaches that the proper response to any fear or threat is to immediately seek shelter with Ar-Raḥmān. Maryam’s pious reaction is what establishes her character and shows her worthiness of receiving the great miracle that is about to be announced.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The act of “seeking refuge” is a universal spiritual practice. This verse provides a powerful model for this practice. Maryam does not just panic; she makes a strong, verbal declaration of her reliance on God. Her appeal to the man’s own potential piety (“if you should be God-fearing”) is also a powerful psychological and ethical appeal, attempting to activate his conscience. It is a response that is both spiritually reliant and ethically intelligent.

Practical Reflection & Application

Maryam’s example is a direct lesson for our own lives. When we are faced with a situation that frightens us—be it a physical threat, a powerful temptation, or a moment of overwhelming anxiety—our first recourse should be to say, “I seek refuge in the Most Merciful.” This is not a passive statement; it is an active and powerful spiritual tool. It is a declaration of where our ultimate trust lies and a direct call for divine protection. It is the first line of defense for a believer in any crisis.

3. Ādam (آدَم) – Adam

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The name Ādam is of ancient Semitic origin, related to the Hebrew word for “earth” or “ground” (adamah), signifying his creation from the earth. He is the first human being, the father of all humanity, and the first prophet in the Islamic tradition.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, Ādam is mentioned in the context of the lineage of the prophets. After narrating the stories of several prophets, the surah concludes the section by saying, “Those were the ones upon whom Allah bestowed favor from among the prophets of the descendants of Adam and of those We carried [in the ark] with Noah…” This verse places all the prophets mentioned, and by extension all of humanity, within the lineage of this first man and prophet.

Thematic Context

The mention of Ādam reinforces the surah’s theme of the unity of the prophetic message and the continuity of divine guidance. The surah traces a golden chain of prophecy, showing that the guidance sent to Zakariyya, ‘Isa, and Ibrahim is the same essential guidance that was given to humanity from its very beginning with Ādam. It emphasizes the shared origin and shared spiritual heritage of all humankind, reminding the reader that we are all the “descendants of Adam.”

Modern & Comparative Lens

The figure of Ādam is foundational to the cosmology and anthropology of the Abrahamic faiths. The Quranic narrative emphasizes his role as the first prophet and establishes a direct, unmediated relationship between God and the first human. In modern discourse, the story of Adam is often read allegorically, representing the dawn of human consciousness and moral responsibility. The Quranic emphasis on his descendants inheriting his prophetic legacy is a powerful statement on the innate spiritual potential within every human being.

Practical Reflection & Application

Remembering that we are all the “descendants of Adam” is a powerful reminder of our shared humanity. It is a direct refutation of racism and tribalism. It should inspire a sense of kinship with all people, regardless of their background. It also reminds us of our shared spiritual inheritance. We are all descendants of a prophet, and the capacity for receiving divine guidance and living a righteous life is embedded in our very nature.

4. ‘Ahd (عَهْد) – Covenant/Promise

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word ‘Ahd comes from the root ع-ه-د (ʻ-H-D), meaning to make a covenant, to promise, or to entrust. An ‘ahd is a solemn promise or a pact. It implies a binding commitment for which one is accountable.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, this word is used in a powerful rhetorical question that challenges the arrogance of the disbeliever who boasts of his future success. The surah asks, “Has he looked into the unseen, or has he taken from the Most Merciful a promise?” (aṭṭala‘a al-ghayba am ittakhadha ‘inda ar-raḥmāni ‘ahdā). Commentators explain that this is a sarcastic refutation of the disbeliever’s baseless confidence. His claim to be guaranteed wealth and children in the hereafter is absurd, unless he has somehow received a special, private covenant from God—which he obviously has not.

Thematic Context

The theme of the divine ‘Ahd is central to the surah’s argument against the false beliefs of the polytheists. The surah teaches that the only basis for hope in the hereafter is the covenant of faith and righteous deeds that God has revealed through His prophets. Any other source of hope—whether it is based on wealth, lineage, or wishful thinking—is a delusion. The verse challenges the listener to ask themselves: On what basis do you hope for salvation? Is it based on a true covenant with God, or on your own baseless assumptions?

Modern & Comparative Lens

The idea of a covenant as the basis for a relationship with the divine is central to the Abrahamic faiths. This verse highlights the exclusivity of that covenant. It is not something that can be assumed or taken for granted. It must be actively entered into through faith and demonstrated through action. This challenges any form of cultural or nominal religious identity, arguing that true security comes only from a real and living commitment to the divine promise.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a powerful call to self-examination. We should ask ourselves what our hope for a good outcome in the hereafter is truly based on. Is it just a vague, wishful thinking? Or is it based on our sincere effort to fulfill the ‘ahd that God has offered us: the covenant of faith and righteous deeds? The verse encourages us to move from a hope based on assumption to a hope that is grounded in a real and active relationship with God.

5. ‘Aqīr (عَاقِرًا) – Barren

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word ‘Aqīr comes from a root that means to be sterile, barren, or to produce no offspring. It is used to describe a woman who is unable to conceive. It signifies a state of biological barrenness, which in ancient societies was often a source of great personal and social distress.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is used by Prophet Zakariyya in his intimate and heartfelt prayer to God. After complaining of his old age and white hair, he says, “And my wife has been barren” (wa kānati imra’atī ‘āqirā). He is laying bare before his Lord all the worldly reasons why his request for a child should be impossible. He is old, his wife is past the age of childbearing, and she was barren even in her youth. Commentators explain that by listing all these impossibilities, Zakariyya is demonstrating his profound faith. He is showing that he is not relying on worldly means at all, but is placing his hope purely and solely in the miraculous power of God.

Thematic Context

The barrenness of Zakariyya’s wife is a central element in the surah’s opening story, which sets the theme for the entire chapter: God’s power to create life and mercy from seemingly impossible situations. The birth of Yahya from a woman who was ‘āqir and an extremely old man is the first great miracle of the surah. It serves as a direct prelude and a logical precedent for the even greater miracle to come: the birth of ‘Isa from a virgin. The surah begins by demonstrating God’s power to overcome biological barrenness, and then moves on to demonstrate His power to create life without any male input at all.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The story of a miraculous birth to a barren woman is a recurring theme in the Abrahamic scriptures, most famously with Sarah (the wife of Abraham) and Hannah (the mother of Samuel). The story of Zakariyya and Elizabeth (his wife’s name in the New Testament) is another powerful expression of this theme. These stories are profound statements of hope and faith in the face of biological “impossibility.” In an age of advanced fertility treatments, the story reminds us that even with all our science, the ultimate power to create life rests with God alone.

Practical Reflection & Application

Zakariyya’s prayer is a model for how to ask God for something that seems impossible. We should, like him, be honest and vulnerable. We can lay out all the reasons why our situation seems hopeless. But then, we should, like him, turn our hearts to God with the unwavering conviction that for Him, nothing is impossible. The story of the barren woman who gave birth to a great prophet is a timeless source of hope for anyone facing a situation that seems completely barren of possibility.

6. Ar-Raḥmān (الرَّحْمَٰن) – The Most Merciful

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The divine name Ar-Raḥmān comes from the root ر-ح-م (R-Ḥ-M), the same root as mercy (raḥmah) and the womb (raḥim). The form raḥmān is a superlative form that signifies a mercy that is immense, all-encompassing, and an intrinsic part of God’s very essence. It refers to His mercy that extends to all of creation, believers and disbelievers alike, in this world. It is one of the most frequently mentioned names of God in the Qur’an.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

Surah Maryam is often considered the surah of Ar-Raḥmān. The name appears 16 times, more than in any other surah. The chapter begins with the mention of the “mercy of your Lord upon His servant Zakariyya.” Maryam seeks refuge in Ar-Raḥmān. The believers are promised Gardens by Ar-Raḥmān. The disbelievers are those who have taken false gods besides Ar-Raḥmān. Commentators have noted that the surah’s entire message revolves around this attribute. The miraculous births, the intimate prayers, the warnings, and the promises are all manifestations of the mercy of Ar-Raḥmān.

Thematic Context

The theme of the all-encompassing mercy of Ar-Raḥmān is the central and defining theme of Surah Maryam. The surah is a powerful refutation of the idea of God having a son, and it does so by emphasizing His mercy. The argument is that God’s mercy is so vast that He does not need a son to mediate it. He bestows His mercy directly upon His servants, as seen in the stories of Zakariyya and Maryam. The surah teaches that to associate a partner with God is to misunderstand the very nature of the mercy of Ar-Raḥmān.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The emphasis on God’s overwhelming mercy and love is a central aspect of many religious traditions. The name Ar-Raḥmān is the ultimate Islamic expression of this reality. Modern Islamic thinkers often highlight this attribute to counter extremist interpretations that portray God as being primarily wrathful or vengeful. Surah Maryam is a foundational text for this “theology of mercy,” showing that the Quranic worldview is rooted in a profound sense of a compassionate and loving Creator.

Practical Reflection & Application

This surah is an invitation to know God through His name Ar-Raḥmān. We should reflect on how this all-encompassing mercy manifests in our own lives and in the world around us. When we are in need, we should call upon Him as Ar-Raḥmān. When we are in fear, we should, like Maryam, seek refuge in Ar-Raḥmān. Cultivating a deep and personal connection with this name is one of the keys to a hopeful, resilient, and compassionate faith.

7. ‘Asiyyā (عَصِيًّا) – Disobedient/Rebellious

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word ‘Asiyyā is an intensive adjective from the root ع-ص-ي (ʻ-Ṣ-Y), which means to disobey or to rebel against a command. ‘Asiyyā means one who is persistently and grievously disobedient. It describes a state of active rebellion against authority.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, this word is used by Prophet Ibrahim in his gentle and wise address to his idolatrous father. He warns his father against worshipping Satan, saying, “O my father, do not worship Satan. Indeed Satan has ever been, to the Most Merciful, rebellious” (kāna lir-raḥmāni ‘aṣiyyā). Commentators have noted the beautiful contrast in this verse. Satan’s rebellion is juxtaposed with God’s attribute of “The Most Merciful” (Ar-Raḥmān). This highlights the sheer ugliness and irrationality of Satan’s sin: he chose to rebel against the very source of all mercy and goodness.

Thematic Context

The theme of obedience versus disobedience is a key part of the story of Ibrahim, which serves as a powerful example in the surah. Ibrahim represents the path of perfect submission and obedience to God. His father, by following the path of idolatry, is following the path of Satan, the ultimate symbol of disobedience. Ibrahim’s dialogue is a powerful lesson in how to call a loved one away from the path of rebellion and towards the path of mercy.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of Satan or the devil as the archetype of rebellion against the divine order is a shared feature of the Abrahamic faiths. The Quranic description of him as being ‘aṣiyyā to Ar-Raḥmān is psychologically and theologically profound. It frames disobedience not as a quest for freedom, but as a foolish and self-destructive act of turning away from the source of all good. It is a rebellion that ultimately only harms the rebel.

Practical Reflection & Application

Ibrahim’s beautiful warning to his father is a model for us. It teaches us that the ultimate consequence of sin is that it aligns us with the rebellious one, Satan, and takes us away from the embrace of the Most Merciful. This understanding should create in our hearts a deep aversion to sin. Every act of disobedience, big or small, is a step on the path of the rebellious one. We should constantly seek to be on the path of the obedient, the path that leads to the mercy of Ar-Raḥmān.

8. Āyah (آيَة) – A Sign

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Āyah comes from a root that means a sign, a mark, or a miracle. An āyah is a clear indicator that points to a reality beyond itself. It is used in the Qur’an for the verses of the scripture and for the phenomena of the natural world, both of which are “signs” pointing to God.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, the word āyah is used for the specific, miraculous signs given to the prophets. When Zakariyya asks for a sign to confirm the miraculous news of his son, God gives him a sign: “Your sign (āyatuka) is that you will not speak to the people for three nights, while you are sound.” When the angel tells Maryam about the birth of ‘Isa, he says, “It is easy for Me, and We will make him a sign (āyatan) for the people and a mercy from Us.” Commentators explain that these are not signs for entertainment, but powerful proofs designed to strengthen faith and demonstrate God’s limitless power.

Thematic Context

The theme of the āyah is central to the surah’s focus on the power of God to act outside the normal laws of nature. The miraculous births of both Yahya and ‘Isa are presented as supreme signs. ‘Isa, in particular, is not just given a sign; he *is* a sign in his very being—his virgin birth, his ability to speak from the cradle, and his other miracles. The surah argues that in the face of such clear signs, disbelief is an act of pure stubbornness.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of “signs” and “wonders” as proof of divine action is a key feature of religious narratives. The Islamic perspective, as highlighted in this surah, is that a miracle (or sign) is a direct act of God, a temporary suspension of the normal laws of nature (which are also His creation), done for a specific and wise purpose. The story of Zakariyya’s sign—a temporary inability to speak—is particularly subtle and profound, a miracle of silence rather than of spectacle.

Practical Reflection & Application

The stories of the great āyāt in this surah should fill our hearts with a sense of awe and wonder at God’s power. They teach us that we should not limit our conception of God to the everyday laws of nature that we observe. He is the Lord of both the natural and the supernatural. This should give us the confidence to pray for things that seem impossible, knowing that we are praying to the one for whom nothing is impossible, the one who made a barren woman conceive and a virgin give birth.

9. ‘Azīz (عَزِيز) – The Almighty

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The divine name Al-‘Azīz comes from the root ع-ز-ز (ʻ-Z-Z), signifying might, power, honor, and invincibility. It describes a power that is both supreme and dignified. Al-‘Azīz is The All-Mighty, The Invincible One, whom none can overcome. His might is absolute and beyond challenge.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, after describing the horrific claim of the disbelievers that God has taken a son, the surah makes a powerful declaration of God’s true nature, quoting the heavens and the earth which are nearly torn apart by this blasphemy. The surah then establishes God’s true relationship with creation: “There is no one in the heavens and earth but that he comes to the Most Merciful as a servant.” This absolute sovereignty is a manifestation of His being Al-‘Azīz. The surah also pairs this name with Al-Ghaffār (The All-Forgiving), as in the prayer of Ibrahim, showing that His might is perfectly balanced with His mercy.

Thematic Context

The attribute of Al-‘Azīz is a crucial part of the surah’s refutation of shirk. The idea of God needing a son is a profound insult to His might and self-sufficiency. An Almighty being has no need for a partner or an heir. The surah argues that the very power that holds the cosmos together is a testament to the fact that the Creator is Al-‘Azīz, the All-Mighty, and therefore, He is alone in His divinity. This theme reinforces the core message of pure and uncompromising monotheism.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of divine omnipotence is a central attribute of God in the monotheistic traditions. The name Al-‘Azīz provides a specific and powerful term for this attribute, combining the idea of might with honor and invincibility. It is a concept that stands in stark contrast to mythologies where gods have rivals and can be challenged or defeated. The might of Al-‘Azīz is absolute and ultimate.

Practical Reflection & Application

Contemplating God as Al-‘Azīz should instill in us a sense of both awe and confidence. Awe, because we recognize the immense and unchallengeable power of our Creator. Confidence, because if we are on the side of the All-Mighty, we have no reason to fear any created power. It should give us the courage to stand for the truth, knowing that the ultimate power in the universe is with the righteous.

10. Baghiyyā (بَغِيًّا) – An Unchaste Woman

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Baghiyyā comes from a root that means to seek or to desire, but it developed a specific negative connotation of seeking something unlawful, especially in a lustful or transgressive way. A baghiyyā is an unchaste woman, a prostitute, or a woman who actively seeks illicit sexual relations. It is a strong term for sexual immorality.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is used by Maryam in her state of shock and confusion after the angel has given her the news of a son. She declares her own purity to the angel, saying, “How can I have a boy while no man has touched me and I have not been unchaste?” (wa lam aku baghiyyā). Commentators have highlighted this statement as a powerful affirmation of her lifelong chastity and piety. Her question is one of pure astonishment, as she knows that, according to the normal laws of God, a child can only come through a physical union, and she has never engaged in any unlawful act.

Thematic Context

Maryam’s denial of being a baghiyyā is central to the theme of her purity and the miraculous nature of the virgin birth. Her character is established as the epitome of chastity and devotion. The surah goes to great lengths to defend her honor against the slanderous accusations that would later be leveled against her. Her own words are the first line of this defense. The story powerfully contrasts her profound purity with the monstrous falsehood of those who would later accuse her of unchastity.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The figure of Mary is revered in both Christianity and Islam as the ultimate symbol of purity and piety. The Quranic account of the annunciation is unique in its emphasis on this dialogue, where Maryam actively questions the angel and defends her own honor. This gives her a powerful and active voice in the narrative. In modern feminist readings, this scene is often highlighted as a portrayal of a strong and articulate woman who is a central actor in her own story, not just a passive vessel.

Practical Reflection & Application

Maryam’s example is the ultimate model of chastity and modesty for both men and women. Her immediate concern, even in the face of a supernatural event, was for her own honor and purity. This teaches us to be vigilant in guarding our own modesty and to be deeply averse to any form of unchastity. Her story reminds us that true honor in the sight of God is found in a life of purity and devotion.

11. Barran (بَرًّا) – Dutiful/Kind

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Barran comes from the root ب-ر-ر (B-R-R), which means to be pious, righteous, kind, and dutiful. Birr is righteousness, and barran is an adjective describing one who embodies this quality, especially in their treatment of others. It implies a loving, gentle, and dutiful form of kindness.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This beautiful quality is attributed to two prophets in Surah Maryam. Prophet Yahya (John the Baptist) is described as “dutiful to his parents” (wa barran bi-wālidayh). In his miraculous speech from the cradle, Prophet ‘Isa (Jesus) describes himself in the same way, “And [He made me] dutiful to my mother” (wa barran bi-wālidatī). Commentators have noted that for both prophets, this quality of being dutiful to their parents is mentioned alongside their other great prophetic qualities, such as having the Book and wisdom. This shows that kindness to parents is an essential characteristic of prophethood.

Thematic Context

The theme of being barran to one’s parents is a key ethical teaching of the surah. It reinforces the message of the sister surah, Al-Isra, which commands iḥsān (excellence) to parents. Surah Maryam provides the living examples of this principle in the character of two of the greatest prophets. It teaches that a person’s relationship with God is intrinsically linked to their relationship with their parents. True piety towards God must manifest as dutiful kindness towards the two people who were the worldly cause of one’s existence.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The virtue of honoring one’s parents is a universal ethical principle. The Quranic stories of Yahya and ‘Isa provide powerful and moving models for this virtue. The specific mention of ‘Isa being dutiful to his mother is particularly poignant, given that he had no father. It highlights the unique and profound bond between Maryam and her son, and it elevates the status of motherhood. In modern societies where the elderly are often neglected, the prophetic example of being barran is a powerful call to restore a culture of deep respect and dutiful care for one’s parents.

Practical Reflection & Application

The prophets are our role models. If being barran to parents was a defining characteristic of great prophets like Yahya and ‘Isa, then it should be a central goal in our own lives. We should strive to be dutiful, kind, and loving to our parents in our words, our actions, and our prayers. This is not just a social duty; it is a profound act of worship that is beloved by God and was embodied by His noblest messengers.

12. Basharan Sawiyyā (بَشَرًا سَوِيًّا) – A Man in all respects

Linguistic Root & Etymology

This phrase combines Basharan (a human/mortal) with Sawiyyā, from the root س-و-ي (S-W-Y), which means to be well-proportioned, sound, or complete. A basharan sawiyyā is a complete and sound human being, a man in all respects, with no apparent defect. It implies a perfect and fully formed human specimen.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This is the form that the Angel Gabriel (the Spirit, ar-Rūḥ) took when he appeared to Maryam in her seclusion: “Then We sent to her Our Spirit, and he represented himself to her as a man in all respects” (fa-tamaththala lahā basharan sawiyyā). Commentators explain that the angel took this form of a perfect man for several reasons. It was to make it possible for him to communicate with her in a human way. It was also a test of her piety. The appearance of a beautiful, unknown man in her private chambers was a situation fraught with potential danger and temptation, and her immediate reaction of seeking refuge in God proved her immense purity.

Thematic Context

The appearance of the angel as a basharan sawiyyā is the inciting incident of the story of the annunciation. It is a moment of profound mystery and awe, where the unseen world (the angel) intersects with the seen world in a tangible form. This event is a key part of the surah’s theme of divine power and miracles. It demonstrates that God can command His angels to take on forms that humans can perceive in order to deliver His message and carry out His will.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of angels appearing in human form (theophany) is a common feature in the narratives of the Abrahamic faiths (e.g., the angels who visited Abraham and Lot). The Quranic description of the angel as a basharan sawiyyā is particularly vivid and psychologically powerful. It creates a scene of immense dramatic tension and highlights the courage and piety of Maryam in her response.

Practical Reflection & Application

The story of Maryam’s encounter with the basharan sawiyyā is a powerful lesson in guarding one’s modesty and seeking God’s protection. It teaches us to be cautious and to immediately turn to God when faced with a situation that is potentially compromising or dangerous. Maryam’s reaction is the model of piety for any believer who finds themselves in a situation of unexpected and potentially threatening vulnerability.

13. Bukiyyā (بُكِيًّا) – Weeping

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Bukiyyā is the plural of bākin, the active participle from the root ب-ك-ي (B-K-Y), which means to weep or to cry. Bukiyyā means “weeping ones.” It describes a state of shedding tears, usually out of awe, humility, or repentance.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is used in a beautiful verse that describes the deep piety and humility of all the prophets. After mentioning a chain of prophets from Adam to Idris, the surah says, “When the verses of the Most Merciful were recited to them, they fell down prostrate and weeping” (kharrū sujjadan wa bukiyyā). Commentators explain that this was the hallmark of the true prophets and their sincere followers. The Word of God did not make them arrogant or argumentative; it penetrated their hearts so deeply that it caused them to fall down in prostration, with tears of awe and humility streaming from their eyes.

Thematic Context

The act of being among the bukiyyā is presented as the ideal human response to divine revelation. This theme is central to the surah’s focus on the proper relationship between a servant and their Lord. The surah contrasts this state of humble, weeping prostration with the arrogance of the disbelievers who hear the same verses and only increase in rebellion. It teaches that the sign of a truly living heart is its ability to be moved to tears by the remembrance of God.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The expression of intense emotion, including tears, during religious experience is a phenomenon found in the contemplative and devotional traditions of many faiths. It is seen as a sign of a genuine and heartfelt connection with the divine, a state where the intellect is humbled and the heart is overcome with emotion. The Quranic description of the prophets as being among the “weeping ones” validates this emotional dimension of faith and presents it as a noble and praiseworthy state.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a powerful inspiration and a standard by which we can measure our own connection to the Qur’an. We should ask ourselves: Does the recitation of God’s words move our hearts? Does it ever bring tears to our eyes? If not, we should pray to God to soften our hearts and to grant us the gift of this blessed and humble weeping. We should strive to listen to and recite the Qur’an with a presence of heart that allows its profound meanings to penetrate our souls and bring us to this beautiful state of prostration and tears.

14. Dhikr (ذِكْر) – A Mention/Remembrance

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Dhikr comes from the root ذ-ك-ر (Dh-K-R), meaning to remember or to mention. Dhikr is “a mention,” “a remembrance,” or “a report.” It is used in the Qur’an to refer to the act of remembering God, and also to the revelation itself, which is a “reminder” (Ad-Dhikr).

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

Surah Maryam begins with this very word: “This is a mention of the mercy of your Lord to His servant Zakariyya” (dhikru raḥmati rabbika ‘abdahū Zakariyyā). Classical commentators have noted the gentle and narrative tone of this opening. The surah is being presented as a story, a “mention” of a specific and beautiful episode of divine mercy. This sets the stage for the entire chapter, framing it not as a book of harsh laws, but as a recounting of the intimate and merciful relationship between God and His chosen servants.

Thematic Context

The theme of Dhikr is central to the surah’s purpose. The entire chapter is a “remembrance” of the stories of the prophets, designed to be recited and remembered by the community of believers. The goal of this remembrance is to remind the listeners of the core truths of monotheism, the power of prayer, and the reality of God’s mercy. The surah itself is a form of dhikr (remembrance) that is meant to lead the listener to the practice of dhikr (remembering God).

Modern & Comparative Lens

The practice of “remembrance” through the recounting of sacred stories is a fundamental way that religious traditions transmit their values and maintain their collective memory. The opening of Surah Maryam frames the chapter in this very way. It is not just a historical text, but a sacred “mentioning” that is meant to be a living part of the community’s spiritual life. This narrative approach to theology is a powerful pedagogical tool that teaches through story rather than through abstract propositions.

Practical Reflection & Application

The opening of this surah teaches us the importance of “mentioning” and “remembering” the stories of God’s mercy in our own lives. We should make it a practice to recall and share the stories of the prophets. We should also become storytellers of our own experiences of divine mercy, “mentioning” to our families and friends the times that God has answered our prayers and helped us in our difficulties. This practice of dhikr is a powerful way to strengthen our own faith and the faith of those around us.

15. Fariyyā (فَرِيًّا) – A Monstrous Thing

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Fariyyā comes from the root ف-ر-ي (F-R-Y), which means to cut, to split, or to invent a lie. A fariyyā is a monstrous, unprecedented, and fabricated thing. It is a lie or an act that is so shocking that it “severs” the norms of reality and decency. It is a stronger term than a simple lie (kadhib).

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This powerful word of condemnation is uttered by the people of Maryam’s town when she returns to them carrying the infant ‘Isa. Seeing her with a child, and knowing her to be an unmarried, pious maiden, they immediately jump to the worst conclusion. They say, “O Mary, you have certainly done a monstrous thing!” (laqad ji’ti shay’an fariyyā). Commentators explain that they were accusing her of the grave sin of fornication, an act that was completely unheard of from a woman of her piety and lineage. Their accusation was a monstrous slander.

Thematic Context

The accusation of having committed a fariyyā is the climax of Maryam’s personal trial. After the miracle of the annunciation and the pains of childbirth in isolation, she now has to face the ultimate social test: the false accusations and slander of her own community. This theme is central to the surah’s defense of her honor. The narrative shows her patient and divinely-guided response: she does not argue, but simply points to the baby in the cradle, letting the miracle speak for itself. The true “monstrous thing” was not her action, but their baseless and cruel accusation.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The story of a pious woman being falsely accused of sexual immorality is a tragic and recurring theme in world literature. The Quranic narrative is a powerful story of vindication. It highlights the evils of slander, gossip, and rushing to judgment. In modern terms, it is a powerful critique of “cancel culture” and the tendency of society to condemn individuals based on suspicion and rumor, without waiting for the truth to become manifest.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a profound warning against the sin of slander (buhtān). We must be extremely careful not to be among those who accuse others, especially the righteous, of monstrous things based on our own suspicions. The story also provides a model for how to respond to false accusations. Maryam’s response was one of patient silence and trust in God to reveal the truth. It teaches us that in some situations, the most powerful response is not to engage in a futile argument, but to let our character and the truth of the matter speak for itself, with God as our ultimate defender.

16. Ghayy (غَيّ) – Error/Perdition

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Ghayy means error, deviation from the right path, or perdition. It is the opposite of rushd (right guidance). It describes a state of being completely lost and heading towards destruction as a result of one’s own choices.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, this word is used to describe the fate of the unworthy successors who came after the great prophets. After praising the prophets who would fall down weeping when God’s verses were recited, the surah says, “But there came after them successors who neglected prayer and followed their passions. So they will meet perdition” (fa-sawfa yalqawna ghayyā). Commentators have identified the two primary causes of this “perdition”: abandoning the formal prayer (ṣalāh), which is the primary connection to God, and following one’s base desires (shahawāt), which is the primary driver of sin.

Thematic Context

The theme of the successors who fall into ghayy is a powerful historical and moral warning. It is a central part of the surah’s contrast between the prophetic path and the path of heedlessness. The surah teaches that a noble heritage is not a guarantee of salvation. Even the descendants of the prophets can fall into error and ruin if they abandon the core practices of their faith. This serves as a solemn warning to the community of believers of every generation.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The phenomenon of generational decline, where the children or grandchildren of pious and hardworking immigrants or pioneers become complacent and lose the virtues of their ancestors, is a well-observed sociological pattern. The Quranic verse provides a spiritual diagnosis for this phenomenon. The decline is caused by two key factors: the loss of the spiritual connection (neglecting prayer) and the rise of hedonism (following passions). This is a timeless analysis of the causes of civilizational and spiritual decay.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a direct and personal warning to each of us. We should never become complacent about our faith, assuming that our family background or our religious identity is enough to save us. We must actively guard against the two paths to ghayy. Firstly, we must be diligent and steadfast in our prayers, as this is our lifeline to God. Secondly, we must strive to control our base desires and not allow them to dictate our choices. This constant vigilance is the only way to avoid the pitfall of “perdition.”

17. Ghulām (غُلَام) – Boy

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Ghulām means a boy, a lad, or a youth, typically one who has not yet reached puberty. It comes from a root that can signify a strong desire or passion, perhaps alluding to the vitality of youth. It is the word used by the angel to announce the impending birth of both Yahya and ‘Isa.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, this word is central to the two miraculous annunciations. The angel tells Zakariyya, “O Zakariyya, indeed We give you good tidings of a boy whose name is Yahya” (innā nubashshiruka bi-ghulāmin ismuhū Yaḥyā). Later, the angel tells Maryam, “I am only the messenger of your Lord to give you [news of] a pure boy” (li-ahaba laki ghulāman zakiyyā). In both cases, the announcement of a ghulām is met with astonishment, as the worldly means for such a birth are absent. Commentators highlight that this is a direct gift from God, a creation that defies normal human biology.

Thematic Context

The gift of a ghulām in both stories is the central sign (āyah) that demonstrates the surah’s primary theme: the power of God to create life out of “impossible” circumstances. The word itself, meaning “boy,” emphasizes the human and created nature of both Yahya and ‘Isa. This is particularly important in the case of ‘Isa, as it refutes the idea of his divinity. He is not a god, but a ghulām, a human boy, created by a special command of God.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The annunciation narratives in Surah Maryam share a common structure with the annunciation stories in the Gospel of Luke. Both involve the visit of an angel, an expression of astonishment by the recipient, and a divine reassurance. The Quranic account is unique in its parallel structure, presenting the story of Yahya’s birth immediately before the story of ‘Isa’s birth, with the first miracle serving as a clear precedent for the second, even greater, miracle.

Practical Reflection & Application

The stories of the two miraculous births of these boys are a profound source of hope. They teach us that God’s creative power is not bound by the laws of nature that He Himself has created. We should learn from these stories to never see a situation as completely hopeless. The same Lord who granted a ghulām to a barren woman and an old man, and to a pure virgin, is able to grant us relief and to create a way out for us from situations that seem impossible.

18. Ḥafiyyā (حَفِيًّا) – Gracious/Welcoming

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Ḥafiyyā comes from a root that means to be kind, to be welcoming, or to be very knowledgeable about something through diligent inquiry. In the context of Surah Maryam, it means one who is exceedingly gracious, kind, and responsive, especially in answering prayers.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This beautiful attribute is used by Prophet Ibrahim to describe his Lord. After his father threatens to stone him and commands him to leave, Ibrahim responds with peace and a promise: “I will ask forgiveness for you from my Lord. Indeed, He is ever to me, gracious” (innahū kāna bī ḥafiyyā). Commentators have marveled at the beauty of this statement. Even in a moment of painful rejection, Ibrahim’s focus is on the kindness and responsiveness of his Lord. His confidence that God is ḥafiyyā towards him gives him the strength to leave his home and to pray for his misguided father.

Thematic Context

The attribute of God being Ḥafiyyā is a key part of the surah’s theme of the intimate and merciful relationship between God and His servants. It portrays God not as a distant, stern deity, but as a deeply personal, loving, and gracious Lord who listens attentively to the calls of His servants. Ibrahim’s personal experience of this divine graciousness is what fuels his unwavering faith and his compassionate attitude, even towards those who reject him.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of a personal and loving God who is responsive to prayer is a central element of theistic belief. The name Ḥafiyyā is a particularly beautiful and intimate expression of this reality. It suggests a relationship of warmth and closeness. In a world where many feel alienated and alone, the belief in a God who is ḥafiyyā—always welcoming, always attentive, always gracious—is a profound source of psychological and spiritual comfort.

Practical Reflection & Application

We should strive to develop the same deep, personal conviction that Ibrahim had. We should believe with certainty that God is ḥafiyyā towards us. This conviction will transform our prayer life. It will make us turn to Him with confidence and hope in all our affairs, knowing that we are calling upon a Lord who is never dismissive, but is always gracious and attentive to our needs. It is the key to a deeply personal and loving relationship with our Creator.

19. Hajr (هَجْر) – Abandonment

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Hajr comes from the root ه-ج-ر (H-J-R), which means to abandon, to forsake, to shun, or to emigrate. The famous term Hijrah (emigration) comes from this root. Hajr signifies a deliberate act of cutting off ties and abandoning someone or something.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In the dialogue between Ibrahim and his father, after Ibrahim’s gentle reasoning is met with anger, his father threatens him: “If you do not desist, I will surely stone you; so abandon me for a long time” (wahjurnī maliyyā). The father is demanding a complete and prolonged shunning or abandonment. Ibrahim responds not with anger, but with peace, and then declares his own form of hajr—a spiritual and physical withdrawal from their idolatrous practices: “And I will withdraw from you and what you invoke besides Allah.”

Thematic Context

The theme of hajr in the story of Ibrahim is a powerful lesson in prioritizing faith over family ties when the two are in direct conflict. Ibrahim’s story illustrates a painful but necessary principle: when faced with a choice between idolatry and monotheism, a believer must be willing to “abandon” their family and society for the sake of God. However, this abandonment is not done with hatred, but with peace and a prayer for the guidance of those left behind. It is a physical withdrawal, but not an emotional one.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The struggle between loyalty to one’s family and culture versus one’s personal convictions is a timeless human dilemma. This is particularly acute for new converts to a faith or for those who adopt a way of life that is at odds with their family’s traditions. The story of Ibrahim provides a nuanced and compassionate model for navigating this painful situation. It teaches that one must be firm in one’s principles, even to the point of physical separation, but one should never sever the ties of mercy or stop praying for the well-being of one’s family.

Practical Reflection & Application

This story teaches us how to deal with loved ones who may be hostile to our faith or our values. We should, like Ibrahim, always respond to their anger with peace (salām). We must be firm in our own beliefs and “withdraw” from participating in anything that compromises our faith. However, we should never cut the lines of communication or stop showing them kindness and praying for their guidance. It is a difficult balance between firmness in principle and gentleness in person.

20. Hiddā (هَدًّا) – Torn down

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Haddā comes from a root that means to demolish, to tear down, or to cause to collapse with a great crash. It is an onomatopoeic word that conveys the sound of a great structure being utterly demolished and collapsing into ruin.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This powerful word is used to describe the cosmic reaction to the blasphemous claim that “the Most Merciful has taken a son.” Surah Maryam states that this claim is so monstrously false that “The heavens are almost torn apart from it, and the earth splits open, and the mountains fall down in utter ruin” (wa takhirru al-jibālu haddā). Commentators explain that this is a graphic depiction of the sheer gravity of the sin of shirk. It is an idea so antithetical to the true nature of reality that if the physical creation had feelings, it would collapse into dust out of horror.

Thematic Context

The image of the mountains collapsing into ruin is the thematic climax of the surah’s powerful refutation of the doctrine of divine sonship. It is the ultimate expression of the theme of pure monotheism (tawḥīd). The surah argues that the entire universe is built upon the foundation of God’s oneness. Therefore, the claim that He has a partner or a son is not just a theological error; it is a cosmic lie, an assault on the very fabric of reality. The stability of the cosmos is dependent on the truth of God’s singularity.

Modern & Comparative Lens

This is one of the most powerful examples of rhetorical imagery in the Qur’an. It uses the grand and stable imagery of the mountains, a symbol of permanence, and depicts them being utterly demolished. In modern physics, we understand the immense forces that hold matter and the cosmos together. The verse can be read as a powerful allegory: the claim of shirk is so false that it violates the fundamental “laws of spiritual physics,” and if this were to be made manifest, the physical universe itself would not be able to withstand the contradiction.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse should instill in us a profound sense of awe and a deep aversion to the sin of shirk in all its forms, both overt and subtle. We should realize that associating partners with God is not a small matter. It is the greatest possible injustice and the most monstrous of falsehoods. This understanding should make us extremely vigilant in purifying our own beliefs and intentions, ensuring that our worship, our reliance, and our ultimate love are directed exclusively to the One God who has no son and no partner.

21. Hiyyā (حَيًّا) – Alive

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Ḥiyyā comes from the root ح-ي-ي (Ḥ-Y-Y), which means to live or to be alive. The root is the source of the word for life (ḥayāh) and the divine name Al-Ḥayy (The Ever-Living). Ḥiyyā means “alive.”

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is used in two key contexts in Surah Maryam, both related to the Day of Resurrection. Prophet Yahya is blessed with peace “on the day he was born and the day he dies and the day he is raised alive” (yawma yub‘athu ḥiyyā). Prophet ‘Isa says the same thing about himself. Later, the disbeliever who denies the resurrection arrogantly asks, “When I have died, am I going to be brought forth alive?” (sawfa ukhraju ḥiyyā). The surah powerfully refutes his doubt by reminding him that God created him the first time when he was nothing.

Thematic Context

The theme of being “raised alive” is a central part of the surah’s eschatological teachings. The stories of the prophets, who are blessed with peace on the day they are raised, affirm the reality of the resurrection. The doubt of the disbeliever is presented as being irrational. The theme is that the same God who has the power to create life from nothing (the first creation) and to create life in miraculous ways (the births of Yahya and ‘Isa) most certainly has the power to bring the dead back to life. The resurrection is presented as a logical and certain consequence of God’s creative power.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The belief in a resurrection from the dead is a core tenet of the Abrahamic faiths, which stands in contrast to beliefs in reincarnation or the simple annihilation of the soul at death. The Quranic argument for the resurrection is consistently a rational one, based on an analogy with the first creation. This is an argument from a greater to a lesser case: if God could accomplish the more difficult task of creating from absolute nothingness, then the lesser task of re-creating from existing matter is, for Him, even easier.

Practical Reflection & Application

The certainty of being “raised alive” should be a foundational pillar of our worldview. This belief gives meaning to our life, provides a basis for morality, and gives us hope for ultimate justice. It should motivate us to live our lives in preparation for that day when we will stand before our Lord, fully alive and fully accountable for our deeds. It is the ultimate source of both hope and mindfulness.

22. Ibrāhīm (إِبْرَاهِيم) – Abraham

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The name Ibrāhīm (Abraham) is of ancient Semitic origin, meaning “father of a multitude.” He is the great patriarch and champion of monotheism, revered in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam as a model of unwavering faith. The Qur’an gives him the special title Khalīl-Allāh (the Intimate Friend of God).

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

The story of Ibrāhīm‘s gentle but firm dialogue with his idolatrous father is a central narrative in Surah Maryam. He is described as being a “man of truth, a prophet” (ṣiddīqan nabiyyā). His story is presented as a model of how to call one’s family to the truth with wisdom, compassion, and courage. Even when his father threatens him, Ibrahim responds with “Peace,” a promise to pray for his forgiveness, and a declaration that he will withdraw from their false worship. He is the archetype of one who chooses God over kinship when the two are in conflict.

Thematic Context

The story of Ibrāhīm serves as a powerful illustration of the surah’s central theme of monotheism versus polytheism. It provides a historical precedent for the struggle of all prophets, including the Prophet Muhammad. Just as Ibrahim was rejected by his own father and people, the Prophet Muhammad was being rejected by his kin in Mecca. The story is a source of comfort and a model of steadfastness. It also reinforces the theme of mercy, as Ibrahim’s first response to his father’s harshness is one of peace and a prayer for forgiveness.

Modern & Comparative Lens

Abraham is the great unifying figure of the three monotheistic faiths. The Quranic account of his dialogue with his father is unique in its detail and its focus on the gentle and respectful nature of his argument. It is a powerful narrative that is often studied in the context of inter-generational and interfaith dialogue. It provides a model for how to disagree on the most fundamental of issues with love, respect, and a genuine concern for the other’s well-being.

Practical Reflection & Application

The story of Prophet Ibrāhīm and his father is a timeless manual on how to share our faith with our loved ones. It teaches us to lead with compassion, to use gentle and logical arguments, to warn against the dangers of falsehood with genuine concern, and to respond to anger and rejection with peace and prayer. It is a profound lesson in the art of loving and respectful disagreement, especially within the family.

23. Iddā (إِدًّا) – A monstrous/grievous thing

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Iddā comes from a root that means a great calamity, a monstrous affair, or a grievous thing. It describes something that is not just wrong, but is shockingly and horrendously evil. It is an utterance or an act of immense gravity.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This powerful word of condemnation is used in Surah Maryam to describe the claim that God has a son. After mentioning their claim, the surah states, “You have certainly brought forth a thing most monstrous” (laqad ji’tum shay’an iddā). Commentators explain that this highlights the Quranic view of this doctrine. It is not considered a minor theological error or a difference of opinion. It is presented as a monstrous falsehood, a cosmic blasphemy of the highest order, so grievous that the heavens and the earth themselves are nearly torn apart upon hearing it.

Thematic Context

The declaration that attributing a son to God is an iddā is the theological climax of the entire surah. The chapter begins by demonstrating God’s creative power through the miraculous but human births of Yahya and ‘Isa. It then culminates in this powerful refutation of the deification of ‘Isa. The theme is the absolute and uncompromising oneness and transcendence of God. The surah argues that the claim of divine sonship is a profound insult to the majesty of the Most Merciful, who is the sole creator and master of all, and to whom all beings come as humble servants.

Modern & Comparative Lens

This is, without question, the sharpest point of theological disagreement between Islam and Christianity. While the language used is extremely strong, it is important to understand it within its theological context. From the Islamic perspective, the doctrine of divine sonship compromises the absolute and unique oneness (tawḥīd) of God, which is the foundational and non-negotiable principle of the faith. The term iddā is used to convey the gravity of this compromise from that perspective.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse should instill in a believer a profound and unshakable commitment to the principle of pure monotheism. It teaches us the seriousness of the sin of shirk (attributing partners or sons to God). We should be deeply grateful for the blessing of this clear and uncompromising creed. When engaging in dialogue with people of other faiths, while we must always be respectful, we should also have a clear and confident understanding of this foundational principle of our own faith and the reasons why it is considered to be of such ultimate importance.

24. Idrīs (إِدْرِيس) – Idris

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The name Idrīs is an Arabic name for a prophet. Its etymology is debated. Some have linked it to the Arabic root d-r-s, meaning to study, suggesting he was one who studied the divine revelations deeply. He is traditionally identified by many commentators with the biblical figure of Enoch.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

Idrīs is mentioned in Surah Maryam in the list of the great prophets of the past. He is mentioned after Isma’il, and he is described with the same high praise as Ibrahim: “And mention in the Book, Idris. Indeed, he was a man of truth, a prophet” (wa kānā ṣiddīqan nabiyyā). The verse then adds a unique honorific for him: “And We raised him to a high station” (wa rafa‘nāhu makānan ‘aliyyā). Commentators have understood this “high station” to refer to both his high spiritual rank among the prophets and, according to some traditions, his physical ascension to the heavens.

Thematic Context

The mention of Idrīs is part of the surah’s theme of the continuity of prophecy. He is another link in the golden chain of guidance that stretches back through the descendants of Abraham and Noah. His story, though brief, serves to reinforce the idea that God has continuously sent prophets and men of truth to guide humanity. The description of him being raised to a “high station” is a sign of the great honor that God bestows upon His obedient and truthful servants.

Modern & Comparative Lens

Enoch, the figure with whom Idrīs is often identified, is a mysterious and important figure in Jewish and Christian apocryphal literature (such as the Book of Enoch). He is known for his righteousness and for being “taken” by God. The Quranic mention of Idris being raised to a “high station” is a powerful parallel to these traditions, affirming his exalted status. His name, if derived from “study,” presents him as an archetype of the prophet as a scholar and a deep thinker.

Practical Reflection & Application

The story of Prophet Idrīs is a reminder that sincerity and truthfulness (the qualities of a ṣiddīq) are the keys to achieving a high station with God. We may not be prophets, but we can strive to be people of truth in our beliefs, our words, and our actions. The brief but powerful mention of his story should inspire us to live a life of such integrity that we too might be raised to a “high station” of honor and closeness to our Lord.

25. Insiyyā (إِنسِيًّا) – A Human being

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Insiyyā comes from the root أ-ن-س (A-N-S), which means to be companionable, to be familiar, or to be sociable. The word for a human being, insān, comes from this root. An insiyyā is a human being, a person. The root emphasizes the social and familiar nature of humanity.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, this word is used by Maryam during her pains of childbirth. In her moment of ultimate distress, she cries out, “Oh, I wish I had died before this and was in oblivion, forgotten” (wa kuntu nasyan mansiyyā). She is so overwhelmed that she wishes she had never been created. After the birth, when she is commanded to take a vow of silence, she is told, “And if you see any human being (basharan), say, ‘Indeed, I have vowed to the Most Merciful a fast, so I will not speak today to a human being'” (lan ukallima al-yawma insiyyā). The use of this word here simply means any person from humankind.

Thematic Context

Maryam’s vow not to speak to any insiyyā is a key part of her divinely-guided response to the impending social crisis. It is a profound act of trust in God. Instead of preparing her own defense against the inevitable accusations of her people, she is commanded to be silent and to let the miraculous speech of her infant son be her only defense. This theme highlights the idea that when one is on the path of truth, God Himself will provide the proof and the defense in ways that are beyond human planning.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The vow of silence is a spiritual practice found in various contemplative traditions, used as a means of focusing the heart and withdrawing from the distractions of worldly speech. Maryam’s vow of silence is a unique and divinely-commanded act with a specific, strategic purpose. It is a powerful narrative device that builds suspense and sets the stage for the ultimate miracle of ‘Isa speaking from the cradle.

Practical Reflection & Application

Maryam’s story teaches us that sometimes, the most powerful and eloquent response to slander and false accusation is a dignified silence. In situations where our words will only be twisted and used against us, it may be wiser to remain silent and to entrust our defense to God. It is a profound lesson in the wisdom of knowing when to speak and when to be silent.

26. ‘Itiyyā (عِتِيًّا) – Extreme old age

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word ‘Itiyyā comes from a root that means to be old, withered, or dried up. It is an intensive form that signifies an extreme and advanced stage of old age, a state of decrepitude and feebleness. It is a powerful word that conveys not just old age, but the physical decay that accompanies it.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is used by Prophet Zakariyya in his prayer to God to describe his own physical state. He says, “My Lord, indeed my bones have weakened, and my head has filled with white hair… and I have already reached from old age, extremity” (wa qad balaghtu min al-kibari ‘itiyyā). He is describing his state of extreme physical decline. Commentators explain that by detailing his own feebleness and his wife’s barrenness, Zakariyya was demonstrating that he had absolutely no reliance on worldly means. His hope was placed 100% in the miraculous power of God, making his prayer a pure expression of faith.

Thematic Context

The state of ‘itiyyā is the humanly “impossible” starting point for the first great miracle of the surah. It sets the stage for the theme that runs throughout the chapter: God’s mercy and power are not bound by the limitations of the physical world. He can bring forth life from the “death” of old age and barrenness, just as He can bring it forth from a virgin. Zakariyya’s state of extreme old age makes the subsequent birth of his son, Yahya, an undeniable sign of God’s creative power.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The physical realities of aging and the decline of the body are universal human experiences. Zakariyya’s prayer is a deeply moving and relatable expression of the vulnerability that comes with old age. His story is a powerful narrative of hope for the elderly. It teaches that even in a state of physical decline, one can still maintain a vibrant and hopeful spiritual life, and that it is never too late to receive a great and unexpected blessing from God.

Practical Reflection & Application

Zakariyya’s prayer is a model for how we should approach God in our moments of weakness. We should be honest and open with Him about our vulnerabilities and our feebleness. It is often in our moments of greatest weakness, when we have exhausted all worldly means and have nothing left to rely on but Him, that we are most open to receiving His direct and miraculous help. The story teaches us that what we perceive as an end (extreme old age) can, by God’s will, become a new beginning.

27. Jabbār (جَبَّار) – Arrogant tyrant

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Jabbār comes from a root that means to compel, to be mighty, or to mend something that is broken. When used as a name of God, Al-Jabbār means The Compeller or The Restorer. However, when used to describe a human being, it is a negative quality. A jabbār is an arrogant and oppressive tyrant, one who compels others unjustly and acts with haughty pride.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This negative quality is mentioned in Surah Maryam in the descriptions of both Yahya and ‘Isa, as something they were *not*. Prophet Yahya is described as being dutiful to his parents, “and he was not an arrogant tyrant, a rebel” (wa lam yakun jabbāran ‘aṣiyyā). Prophet ‘Isa, in his speech from the cradle, says that God made him dutiful to his mother, “and He did not make me an arrogant tyrant, a wretch” (wa lam yaj‘alnī jabbāran shaqiyyā). Commentators explain that this shows that true prophetic character is the opposite of tyranny and arrogance. It is characterized by humility, kindness, and dutifulness.

Thematic Context

The absence of the quality of being a jabbār is a central part of the surah’s portrayal of the ideal prophetic character. The surah contrasts the gentle, merciful, and humble nature of God’s chosen prophets with the arrogant and oppressive nature of the disbelievers. The theme is that true strength lies not in tyrannical compulsion, but in gentle and dutiful service to God and to one’s parents. This quality is a fruit of a heart that is rightly connected to the Most Merciful.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The critique of tyranny and oppression is a central theme in all ethical systems. The Quranic description of the prophets as being free from the quality of a jabbār is a powerful statement on the nature of righteous leadership. It teaches that a true leader, whether religious or political, is not one who is a domineering tyrant, but one who is humble, compassionate, and just. This stands as a permanent divine critique of all forms of political and personal tyranny.

Practical Reflection & Application

The example of Yahya and ‘Isa is a direct call for us to expunge any trace of being a jabbār from our own character. We should be careful in our dealings with those over whom we have authority—our children, our employees, our students. We should lead with kindness, mercy, and justice, not with arrogant compulsion. The surah teaches us that to be a tyrant, even in the smallest of ways, is to adopt a character that is the very opposite of the prophetic ideal.

28. Jannah (جَنَّة) – Garden

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Jannah comes from the root ج-ن-ن (J-N-N), meaning to cover or conceal, because a garden’s foliage covers the ground. It is the primary Quranic name for Paradise, the blissful abode of the righteous in the Hereafter.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, the reward for those who repent after neglecting their prayers and following their passions is described as entry into the “Gardens of Eden” (Jannāt ‘Adn), which the Most Merciful has promised His servants in the unseen. The surah states that in this jannah, “They will not hear therein ill speech—only peace.” Commentators explain that this highlights the perfect social and psychological environment of Paradise. It is a place free from the gossip, slander, and negativity that plague human interactions in this world. There is only peace, both internal and external.

Thematic Context

The promise of Jannah is the ultimate manifestation of the surah’s central theme of divine mercy (raḥmah). It is the beautiful and peaceful destination that awaits those who respond to God’s mercy with faith and repentance. The description of Paradise as a place free from “ill speech” (laghw) is particularly poignant in this surah, which contains so much ugly speech from the disbelievers—their slander of Maryam and their monstrous claim that God has a son. The Jannah is the ultimate refuge from the verbal and spiritual pollution of this world.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The idea of Paradise as a place of perfect peace and harmony is a universal human longing. The Quranic focus on the absence of “ill speech” is a psychologically profound detail. It recognizes that much of human unhappiness stems from negative and harmful communication. The promise of a society where all speech is “peace” (salām) is a description of a utopia that fulfills a deep social and psychological need.

Practical Reflection & Application

The description of Jannah as being free from ill speech is a direct instruction for us on how to build a “paradisiacal” community in this world. We should strive to make our homes, our mosques, and our social circles places where there is no backbiting, no slander, and no harmful gossip. We should train our tongues to speak only that which is good and peaceful. By creating a small piece of this heavenly environment on earth, we hope to be worthy of entering the true and eternal Jannah.

29. Jidhdh‘ (جِذْع) – Trunk

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Jidhdh‘ means the trunk or the stem of a tree, especially a palm tree. It refers to the main body of the tree, the foundation from which the branches grow.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word appears in a pivotal and moving scene in the story of Maryam. Overwhelmed by the pains of childbirth and the fear of what her people will say, she is in a state of deep distress. A voice calls out to her from beneath her, comforting her and giving her a divine command: “And shake toward you the trunk of the palm tree; it will drop upon you ripe, fresh dates” (wa huzzī ilayki bi-jidh‘i an-nakhlah). Commentators have noted the miracle here: she, in a weakened state after childbirth, is commanded to shake the massive trunk of a date palm, a task that even a strong man could not do. The miracle is that a slight effort from her was met with a divine response, causing the dry palm tree to produce fresh dates for her nourishment.

Thematic Context

The command to shake the jidhdh‘ is a profound lesson in the surah’s theme of the interplay between human effort and divine providence. It teaches that while God has the power to provide for us without any effort on our part, His way is that we must first make a sincere effort, no matter how small or seemingly futile. Maryam could have been given the dates without doing anything, but she was commanded to take the means (asbāb). Her small shake was an act of obedience and striving, which was then met by the miraculous power of God.

Modern & Comparative Lens

This story is a beautiful illustration of the principle that “God helps those who help themselves.” It provides a balanced theological perspective that avoids the extremes of pure fatalism (where human effort is meaningless) and pure self-reliance (where everything depends on human effort). The Quranic model is one of a divine-human partnership: we must do our part, and God will do His.

Practical Reflection & Application

This is one of the most practical and inspiring lessons in the Qur’an. When we are in a difficult situation and feel weak and helpless, we should not give in to passivity. We must, like Maryam, “shake the trunk.” We must make whatever small effort we are capable of. We should take that first small step, make that one phone call, write that one sentence. The story teaches us that if our small effort is sincere, God can bless it and produce miraculous results from it that are far beyond our own capacity.

30. Jithiyyā (جِثِيًّا) – On their knees

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Jithiyyā comes from a root that means to kneel or to sit on one’s knees, often in a state of awe, fear, or waiting. It describes a posture of humility and submission before a great authority.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is used to describe the state of all of humanity on the Day of Judgment. Surah Maryam gives a solemn warning: “Then We will surely bring them around Hell, on their knees” (thumma la-nuḥḍirannahum ḥawla jahannama jithiyyā). Commentators explain that this is a universal state of awe and terror that will befall every person, believer and disbeliever alike, as they are gathered around the Fire, awaiting the final judgment. It is a posture that reflects their complete powerlessness and submission before the majesty of the Judge.

Thematic Context

The image of all of humanity being brought forth jithiyyā is a central part of the surah’s eschatological warnings. It is a powerful and humbling depiction of the Day of Judgment. The theme is one of ultimate and universal accountability. In this world, people may be arrogant and stand tall in their rebellion. But on that Day, all arrogance will vanish, and every single person will be brought to their knees before the reality of God’s power and the terror of Hellfire. This image is meant to shatter the pride of the arrogant and to instill a sense of awe and mindfulness in the believer.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The image of kneeling as a sign of submission before a king or a deity is a universal symbol of reverence and humility found in many cultures and religious traditions. The Quranic scene takes this familiar image and applies it to the ultimate eschatological drama, making it a universal posture for all of humanity on the final day. It is a powerful literary image that conveys a sense of absolute and universal submission to the divine decree.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a powerful reminder of a future reality that we will all face. It should motivate us to choose to kneel before God in humble worship in this life, so that our kneeling on that Day will be a kneeling of honor rather than a kneeling of terror. The five daily prayers, with their acts of bowing and prostration, are a physical training for this ultimate state of submission. By kneeling before our Lord in this world out of love and reverence, we hope to be saved from kneeling before His wrath in the next.

31. Khalaf (خَلْف) – Successors

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Khalaf means successors or a generation that comes after. It comes from the root خ-ل-ف (Kh-L-F), which means to come after or to be a successor. It can be used for a good or a bad generation that follows a previous one.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, this word is used in a negative context to describe the unworthy generations that came after the great prophets: “But there came after them successors (khalfun) who neglected prayer and followed their passions.” Classical commentators have explained this as a description of a universal pattern of spiritual decline. A righteous generation of prophets and their followers is often succeeded by a generation that takes their religious heritage for granted, loses the spirit of the faith, abandons its core practices like prayer, and becomes engrossed in worldly desires.

Thematic Context

The theme of the corrupt khalaf is a powerful historical warning and a central part of the surah’s contrast between the prophetic ideal and human failure. The surah first builds a beautiful picture of the piety of the prophets, and then it immediately contrasts this with the corruption of their successors. This serves as a solemn warning to the community of believers: a noble lineage is no guarantee of salvation. Every generation is responsible for its own choices, and the legacy of the prophets can be lost if it is not actively preserved through prayer and piety.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The phenomenon of generational decline is a well-observed pattern in sociology and history. The proverb “shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations” describes the same pattern in the context of wealth. The Quranic verse provides a spiritual diagnosis of this phenomenon. The decay begins when the connection to the divine (prayer) is lost and is replaced by a connection to the self (passions). This is a timeless analysis of the causes of spiritual and civilizational decline.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a direct and urgent warning for us as parents and as a community. It is not enough for us to be righteous ourselves; we must be deeply concerned with the spiritual well-being of the next generation. We must strive to instill in our children a love for the prayer and the discipline to guard against their base desires. This verse should motivate us to be active in Islamic education and in creating a community environment that supports the faith of our youth, so that they become a righteous khalaf, not a corrupt one.

32. Khafiyyā (خَفِيًّا) – Secretly

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Khafiyyā is an adverb from the root خ-ف-ي (Kh-F-Y), which means to be hidden, to be secret, or to be concealed. Khafiyyā means “in secret” or “in a hidden manner.” It describes an action that is done away from the eyes of people.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is used to describe the nature of Prophet Zakariyya’s prayer at the very beginning of the surah: “When he called to his Lord a secret call” (idh nādā rabbahū nidā’an khafiyyā). Classical commentators have deeply reflected on why he prayed in secret. They suggest several reasons: 1) A secret prayer is a sign of greater sincerity, as it is done for God alone, with no element of showing off to others. 2) It is a sign of profound humility and reverence before God. 3) He did not want his people to ridicule him for asking for something so seemingly impossible—a child in his extreme old age. The secrecy of the prayer is thus a mark of its deep piety.

Thematic Context

The “secret call” is the event that initiates the entire surah and establishes its central theme of the power of sincere prayer and the intimate nature of God’s mercy. The surah begins not with a loud, public miracle, but with a quiet, hidden whisper from the heart of an old man. The theme is that God hears all prayers, especially those that are offered with this kind of humility and sincerity. The fact that this secret call was answered so miraculously is the first great proof of the mercy of Ar-Rahman.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The practice of private, contemplative prayer is a central part of the devotional life of all major religions. It stands in contrast to public, liturgical worship. The story of Zakariyya’s secret call is a powerful validation of this intimate and personal form of devotion. It teaches that the most powerful prayers are not necessarily the loudest ones, but the most sincere ones, whispered from the heart in the privacy of one’s solitude.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a direct inspiration for us to cultivate the practice of the “secret call” in our own lives. We should have times, perhaps in the dead of night like Zakariyya, when we are completely alone with our Lord. In these moments, we should pour out our hearts to Him, sharing our deepest vulnerabilities, our greatest fears, and our most “impossible” hopes. The story of Zakariyya teaches us that these secret, humble conversations with God are especially beloved to Him and are a powerful key to having our prayers answered.

33. Luddā (لُدًّا) – Stubbornly contentious

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Luddā is the plural of a word that comes from the root ل-د-د (L-D-D), which means to be contentious, to be quarrelsome, or to be a fierce opponent in a dispute. It describes a people who are given to stubborn and hostile argumentation, not for the sake of finding the truth, but for the sake of argument itself.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is used in the final section of Surah Maryam to describe the nature of the people to whom the Prophet has been sent. After affirming that the Qur’an has been made easy in the Prophet’s own tongue, its purpose is stated: “that you may give good tidings thereby to the righteous and warn thereby a people stubbornly contentious” (wa tundhira bihī qawman luddā). Commentators explain that this is a description of the pagan Arabs’ reaction to the Qur’an. Instead of engaging with its message sincerely, their response was one of stubborn and hostile debate, twisting words and raising baseless objections simply to avoid submitting to the truth.

Thematic Context

The description of the disbelievers as luddā is a key part of the surah’s theme of the human response to revelation. The chapter contrasts two types of people. There are the prophets and the righteous, who respond to God’s verses with humble, weeping prostration. And then there are the luddā, who respond with arrogant and contentious debate. The surah thus provides a psychological diagnosis of disbelief: it is often rooted not in a lack of evidence, but in a disease of the heart that loves to argue and hates to submit.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The phenomenon of arguing for the sake of arguing, or what is sometimes called “contrarianism” or “trolling” in the digital age, is a timeless human behavior. The Quranic term luddā perfectly captures this mindset. It is a debate that is not a sincere search for truth, but is a form of intellectual combat and ego-defense. The Qur’an’s identification of this as a major barrier to guidance is a profound psychological insight.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a warning to avoid being among the luddā. We should be careful in our discussions, especially about matters of faith. Is our goal to sincerely understand and seek the truth, or is it simply to win the argument and prove that we are right? The verse encourages a spirit of sincere inquiry, not hostile debate. When we encounter people who are stubbornly contentious, the prophetic model is often one of patient forbearance, recognizing that their issue is not a lack of information, but a condition of the heart.

34. Mahd (مَهْد) – Cradle

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Mahd means a cradle, a bed, or a place that is made smooth and comfortable for a child to lie in. The root means to make something smooth, level, or comfortable. It is a symbol of infancy and childhood.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is central to one of the greatest miracles described in Surah Maryam: the speech of the infant ‘Isa. When Maryam returns to her people and they accuse her of a monstrous sin, she silently points to her baby. They respond with mockery, “How can we speak to one who is a child in the cradle?” (man kāna fī al-mahdi ṣabiyyā). It is at this moment that the infant speaks, declaring his prophethood and defending his mother’s honor. His speech from the mahd is his first miracle and the ultimate vindication of Maryam.

Thematic Context

The miracle of the speech from the mahd is the climactic sign (āyah) in the story of Maryam and ‘Isa. It is the ultimate demonstration of the surah’s theme of God’s power to defy the normal laws of nature to support His righteous servants. The theme is one of divine vindication. Maryam was in a situation of complete social helplessness, unable to defend herself. God, in His mercy, provided her defense from the most impossible of sources: the mouth of her own infant son. This miracle silences all the slanderers and establishes the divine origin of this special child.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The story of Jesus speaking from the cradle is unique to the Qur’an and is not found in the canonical Gospels, though some apocryphal gospels contain similar traditions. From a comparative religious perspective, it is a powerful narrative that establishes the prophetic status of Jesus from the very moment of his birth. It is a miracle that serves to immediately clarify his mission and to defend the honor of his mother.

Practical Reflection & Application

The story of the miracle in the mahd is a profound source of hope for anyone who is being unjustly slandered and feels that they have no way to defend themselves. It teaches us to have trust in God as the ultimate defender of the innocent. We should, like Maryam, respond to slander with patience and trust, knowing that God can bring forth a proof of our innocence from the most unexpected of places and at the most perfect of times.

35. Makān Sharqiyyā (مَكَانًا شَرْقِيًّا) – An Eastern Place

Linguistic Root & Etymology

This phrase combines Makān (a place) with Sharqiyyā (eastern), from the root for east or sunrise. It means “an eastern place” or “a place to the east.”

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This is the location to which Maryam withdrew from her family for her private worship: “And mention in the Book, Mary, when she withdrew from her family to an eastern place” (ilā makānin sharqiyyā). Commentators have speculated on the significance of this location. Some have said it was a place in her home or in the temple that was facing the east, perhaps to catch the first light of the morning for her prayers. Others have said she literally traveled to a place east of her hometown. In either case, the key elements are her withdrawal and her seclusion for the purpose of undisturbed devotion.

Thematic Context

Maryam’s withdrawal to a makān sharqiyyā is the setting for the annunciation. It establishes her character as a woman of deep piety and devotion who actively sought solitude to worship her Lord. This theme of withdrawal from the distractions of the world for the sake of spiritual intimacy with God is a recurring motif in the lives of the righteous. It was in this state of pure devotion and seclusion that she was spiritually prepared to receive the angel and the news of her immaculate conception.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The practice of spiritual retreat or seclusion is a common thread in the contemplative traditions of all major religions. The image of Maryam in her “eastern place” is a powerful symbol of this practice. The direction “east,” the place of the rising sun, is often symbolically associated with new beginnings, birth, and enlightenment. Her story suggests that it is in these moments of quiet, prayerful seclusion that the most profound spiritual events of our lives can occur.

Practical Reflection & Application

Maryam’s example is a powerful inspiration for us to find our own “eastern place” in our daily lives. In our busy and noisy world, we must make a conscious effort to find a time and a place for quiet seclusion with our Lord. This could be a corner of our room in the early morning, a few moments of quiet reflection during the day, or a visit to the mosque when it is not crowded. These moments of spiritual retreat are essential for nurturing our relationship with God and preparing our hearts to receive His light.

36. Mubarak (مُبَارَك) – Blessed

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Mubarak is the passive participle from the root ب-ر-ك (B-R-K), which means to bless, to increase, or to be firm. The word barakah means blessing, a divine grace that causes something to increase and flourish. Something that is mubarak is something that has been blessed by God, making it a source of good and benefit for others.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In his miraculous speech from the cradle, the infant ‘Isa describes himself with this quality: “And He has made me blessed wherever I may be” (wa ja‘alanī mubārakan ayna mā kunt). Commentators explain that this means that God had made him a source of good, a teacher of righteousness, and a benefit to humanity wherever he went. His very presence was a blessing. This is a defining characteristic of a prophet of God.

Thematic Context

The quality of being mubarak is a central part of the surah’s portrayal of the ideal prophetic character. The prophets are not just recipients of God’s blessings; they become conduits of His blessings to the world. Their lives are a source of guidance, healing, and benefit for all those who follow them. This theme refutes the idea that piety is a purely personal and solitary affair. True piety, as exemplified by the prophets, is a state that naturally overflows and brings good to the entire community.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The idea of a “blessed” individual who brings good fortune and benefit to others is a common archetype. The Islamic concept of being mubarak is not about luck; it is a direct result of one’s connection to God. God is the source of all blessings, and by being a true servant of God, a person becomes a channel for those blessings to flow into the world. It is a state of being that is both a divine gift and a personal responsibility.

Practical Reflection & Application

We should pray to God to make us mubarak wherever we may be. This is a beautiful and comprehensive prayer. It is a request that our presence—in our families, in our workplaces, in our communities—be a source of good, benefit, and positive influence. It is an aspiration to be a person who solves problems rather than creates them, who brings people together rather than divides them, and who leaves every place and every person a little better than how they found them. This is the practical legacy of a true believer.

37. Nabī (نَبِيّ) – A Prophet

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Nabī comes from the root ن-ب-ء (N-B-’), which means a report, news, or to inform. A nabī is a prophet, one who is given news from God and is tasked with informing others. In Islamic theology, a prophet is a human being who receives revelation from God. Some prophets are also messengers (rusul), who are given a new sacred law.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

Surah Maryam is a celebration of the prophets. In his speech from the cradle, ‘Isa declares, “He has given me the Scripture and made me a prophet” (wa ja‘alanī nabiyyā). Ibrahim is described as “a man of truth, a prophet” (ṣiddīqan nabiyyā). Idris is also given the same title. The surah lists a chain of prophets, including Isma’il and Musa, as examples of God’s favor and guidance. The station of prophethood is presented as the highest honor that God can bestow upon a human being.

Thematic Context

The theme of the nabī is central to the surah. The chapter is a defense of the institution of prophecy and a demonstration of its continuity. It shows that God has never left humanity without guidance, but has continuously sent prophets with the same core message of monotheism and righteous conduct. The stories are meant to comfort and strengthen the final prophet, Muhammad, by showing him that his experience and his message are part of a long and noble tradition.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of prophecy is a cornerstone of the Abrahamic faiths. The Quranic portrayal of the prophets is distinctive in its strong emphasis on their shared message (the “brotherhood of the prophets”) and their full humanity. They are not divine beings, but are the best of mortals, chosen by God to receive and convey His guidance. The list of prophets in Surah Maryam, which includes figures central to both Jewish and Christian traditions, is a powerful statement of Islam’s self-understanding as the inheritor and final expression of this shared prophetic heritage.

Practical Reflection & Application

The stories of the prophets are not just for our historical information; they are for our inspiration and emulation. We should study the lives of the prophets and strive to embody their qualities in our own lives: their unwavering faith, their patience in the face of rejection, their compassion for their people, and their absolute submission to God. While we cannot be prophets, we can be followers of the prophets, and this is the path to salvation.

38. Nasyan Mansiyyā (نَسْيًا مَّنسِيًّا) – In oblivion, forgotten

Linguistic Root & Etymology

This phrase combines Nasyan (oblivion/a thing forgotten), from the root ن-س-ي (N-S-Y) meaning to forget, with Mansiyyā (one who is forgotten), which is the passive participle from the same root. The combination is an intensive expression that means to be utterly and completely forgotten, to be a thing of no consequence that has completely passed into oblivion.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This is the cry of anguish from the heart of Maryam when she is overcome by the pains of childbirth in her solitary retreat. She cries out, “Oh, I wish I had died before this and was a thing forgotten, completely forgotten!” (wa kuntu nasyan mansiyyā). Commentators explain that this was not a rejection of God’s decree, but a natural human expression of extreme pain, fear, and anxiety. She was alone, in physical agony, and terrified of the false accusations that she knew her people would level against her. In that moment, the peace of non-existence seemed preferable to the trial she was facing.

Thematic Context

Maryam’s cry is one of the most moving and human moments in the entire Qur’an. It is a central part of the surah’s theme of the reality of human struggle, even for the most righteous of people. The surah does not present its heroes as stoic, emotionless figures. It portrays them in their full humanity, feeling pain, fear, and sorrow. The greatness of Maryam is not that she did not feel this distress, but that even in this state, she did not despair of God’s mercy, which immediately came to her in the form of the voice that comforted her and provided for her.

Modern & Comparative Lens

This verse is a powerful validation of human emotional and psychological pain. In a world that often encourages people to suppress their negative feelings, this verse shows that even one of the greatest women in history experienced a moment of such profound distress that she wished for oblivion. This is deeply comforting and relatable. It gives permission for believers to be honest about their pain, while also showing, through the subsequent verses, that divine help is closest in these very moments of ultimate vulnerability.

Practical Reflection & Application

When we are in a state of such overwhelming pain or anxiety that we feel we cannot go on, we should remember Maryam. Her story teaches us that it is okay to feel this way and to be honest with God about our pain. It also teaches us that this moment of ultimate crisis is often the very moment that precedes divine relief. Like her, we should hold on through the pain, trusting that the voice of comfort and the source of our provision is near, even if we cannot yet see it.

39. Nida’ Khafiyyā (نِدَاءً خَفِيًّا) – A Secret Call

Linguistic Root & Etymology

This phrase combines Nidā’ (a call), from the root ن-د-ي (N-D-Y) meaning to call out, with Khafiyyā (secret/hidden), from the root خ-ف-ي (Kh-F-Y) meaning to be concealed. A Nidā’ Khafiyyā is a secret, hidden, or quiet call. It is a prayer that is made in the intimacy of solitude, away from the ears of other people.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This is the description of the prayer of Prophet Zakariyya that opens the surah: “When he called to his Lord a secret call.” As mentioned under *Khafiyyā*, classical commentators have praised the secret nature of this prayer as a sign of its profound sincerity and humility. Zakariyya was not making a public performance of his piety. He was having an intimate, vulnerable, and heartfelt conversation with his Lord in private. This sincerity is seen as a key reason why his seemingly impossible prayer was answered.

Thematic Context

The Nidā’ Khafiyyā establishes the central theme of the surah from the very first story: the power of sincere prayer and the intimate, merciful nature of God’s relationship with His servants. The surah begins with a whisper, not a shout. It teaches that God’s mercy is not reserved for grand, public displays, but is attentive to the most secret and humble calls of a single, sincere heart. The entire surah unfolds as a response to this secret call, a grand “mention” of God’s mercy.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The practice of private, contemplative prayer is a cornerstone of the devotional life in many spiritual traditions. The story of Zakariyya’s “secret call” is a beautiful Quranic endorsement of this form of worship. It is a powerful contrast to a purely performative or social form of religion. It emphasizes that the core of our relationship with God is built in these quiet moments of intimate and secret communion.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a direct invitation to cultivate the practice of the “secret call.” We should ensure that our spiritual life includes moments of solitude where we can speak to God freely and secretly, sharing our deepest hopes and fears. These secret conversations, far from the eyes and ears of others, are a powerful way to build a personal and sincere relationship with our Creator. The story teaches us that these are the prayers that are especially beloved to Him and are most likely to be answered.

40. Qadiyyā Maqdiyyā (قَضِيًّا مَّقْضِيًّا) – A Matter Decreed

Linguistic Root & Etymology

This powerful phrase combines two words from the root ق-ض-ي (Q-Ḍ-Y), which means to decree, to judge, or to complete. Qadiyyā Maqdiyyā is an intensive phrase that means “a matter [that is already] decreed,” “an affair that has been decided,” or “a judgment that has been passed.” It signifies a divine decree that is final, absolute, and unchangeable.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This is the statement made by the angel to Maryam after she expresses her astonishment at the news of a son. After explaining that this is easy for God and that it is for a divine purpose, the angel concludes the matter by saying, “And it is a matter decreed” (wa kāna amran maqdiyyā). Commentators explain that this statement signals the end of the discussion. The decision has already been made in the divine realm. The matter is not up for debate; it is a reality that is now unfolding. It is a statement of the absolute and final nature of the divine command.

Thematic Context

The theme of the qadiyyā maqdīyyā is a central part of the surah’s focus on the absolute sovereignty and power of God. The surah is filled with events that defy normal human and natural laws. The births of Yahya and ‘Isa are not normal biological events; they are the result of a direct, creative command from God. This phrase emphasizes that when God decrees a matter, it comes into being, regardless of how impossible it may seem to us. It is a powerful statement on the irresistible nature of the divine will.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of a “divine decree” is a core tenet of monotheism. This Quranic phrase gives it a sense of profound finality and certainty. It speaks to the theological concept of God’s creative command, “Be!” (kun), which brings things into existence. When God decrees a matter, its existence is as good as done. It is a reality that is simply unfolding in the realm of time.

Practical Reflection & Application

This concept should instill in us a deep sense of trust in God’s promises. When God promises something in the Qur’an—whether it is the promise of forgiveness for the repentant, the promise of victory for the righteous, or the promise of the Hereafter—we should believe in it as a qadiyyā maqdīyyā, a matter that has already been decreed. This should give us a profound sense of certainty and hope, and it should motivate us to do the deeds that will make us worthy of receiving the fulfillment of His good promises.

41. Qawl al-Ḥaqq (قَوْلَ الْحَقِّ) – The Word of Truth

Linguistic Root & Etymology

This phrase combines Qawl (word/statement) with Al-Ḥaqq (The Truth). Qawl al-Ḥaqq means the “Word of Truth” or the “Statement of Reality.” It refers to the true and definitive statement about a matter, free from any doubt or falsehood.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

After narrating the story of ‘Isa’s miraculous birth and his speech from the cradle, Surah Maryam makes a conclusive and decisive statement about his true nature: “That is Jesus, the son of Mary—the word of truth about which they are in dispute” (dhālika ‘Īsā ibnu Maryama qawla al-ḥaqqi alladhī fīhi yamtarūn). Classical commentators explain that this is God’s final verdict on the matter. After presenting the narrative evidence, God Himself declares that this account—of ‘Isa as a noble servant and prophet of God, miraculously born to the virgin Mary—is the final and absolute truth, cutting through all the conflicting and erroneous doctrines that people have invented about him.

Thematic Context

The declaration of the Qawl al-Ḥaqq is the central theological purpose of the surah. The entire chapter, with its beautiful and detailed narrative, builds towards this moment. The theme is to correct the false doctrines of the Christians who deified Jesus and the Jews who slandered his mother. The surah presents the “third way,” the true and balanced account, and then seals it with this divine declaration. It is a powerful affirmation of the Quran’s role as the final arbiter and corrector of previous religious traditions (the Muhaimin).

Modern & Comparative Lens

This verse is a cornerstone of the Islamic understanding of Jesus and is central to the field of Muslim-Christian dialogue. It encapsulates both what Islam affirms about Jesus (his miraculous birth, his prophethood, the honor of his mother) and what it denies (his divinity and sonship). The phrase Qawl al-Ḥaqq is a claim to possess the definitive and true account of one of the most influential figures in human history.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse should fill Muslims with a sense of clarity and confidence about their beliefs concerning Prophet ‘Isa. It teaches us to love and honor him as one of the greatest messengers of God, and to honor his mother as one of the greatest women in all of history, while maintaining a clear and uncompromising belief in the absolute oneness of God. It encourages us to learn and to share this “word of truth” with wisdom and respect.

42. Qarri ‘Aynā (قَرِّي عَيْنًا) – Cool your eye

Linguistic Root & Etymology

This is a beautiful Arabic idiom. Qarri is a command from the root ق-ر-ر (Q-R-R), which means to be cool, stable, or settled. ‘Aynā means “eye.” The literal command is “Cool your eye.” In the hot climate of Arabia, hot tears were a sign of grief and sorrow, while “coolness of the eye” was a powerful metaphor for joy, contentment, and peace of mind. To be the “coolness of someone’s eyes” means to be a source of their deepest joy.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This is the command given to Maryam from the voice that calls her from beneath the palm tree, after she has given birth and is in a state of distress. She is told to eat, drink, “and cool your eye” (wa qarri ‘aynā). Commentators explain that this is a divine command for her to cease her grieving and to find joy and contentment in the miraculous child that God has just gifted her. The provision of food and water was a comfort for her body, and this command was a comfort for her soul. It was a call to replace her tears of sorrow with the “cool tears” of joy.

Thematic Context

The command to qarri ‘aynā is a central part of the theme of divine mercy and comfort. It is a moment of profound tenderness in the surah. After showing Maryam in her most vulnerable human state, God immediately sends his solace. The theme is that after hardship comes ease, and that God is attentive to the emotional and psychological needs of His servants. The new-born child, who was the source of her immediate anxiety, is now being reframed as the source of her ultimate joy, the “coolness of her eyes.”

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of finding joy and contentment in one’s children is a universal human experience. The Quranic idiom “coolness of the eyes” is a particularly beautiful and poetic expression of this deep parental love. The famous prayer from the Qur’an, “Our Lord, grant us from among our spouses and offspring the coolness of our eyes” (qurrata a‘yun), is derived from this same beautiful concept. It is a prayer for children who will be a source of true and lasting joy.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a beautiful reminder that God wants us to find joy and contentment in the blessings He has given us. When we are feeling overwhelmed by anxiety about the future, we should look at the blessings we have in the present—our children, our families, our faith—and consciously try to find “coolness of the eye” in them. It is a call to practice a form of mindful gratitude, to focus on the sources of joy that God has placed in our lives as a direct remedy for our sorrow.

43. Raḍiyyā (رَضِيًّا) – Pleasing/Well-pleased

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Raḍiyyā is an adjective from the root ر-ض-ي (R-Ḍ-Y), which means to be pleased, to be satisfied, or to be content. A person who is raḍiyyā is one who is pleasing and acceptable to God. The ultimate state of success in the Qur’an is to be in a state of mutual contentment: the servant is pleased with God, and God is pleased with the servant.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In his prayer for a child, Prophet Zakariyya does not just ask for an heir. He asks for a righteous heir, and he specifies the quality he hopes for: “and make him, my Lord, pleasing” (waj‘alhu rabbi raḍiyyā). He is praying for a son who will be pleasing to God in his beliefs and his character, and who will also be a source of pleasure and contentment for his father. This shows that the primary concern of a prophetic parent is the spiritual and moral state of their child.

Thematic Context

The aspiration to be raḍiyyā is a key theme in the surah’s portrayal of the prophetic ideal. The prophets are not seeking worldly gain; they are seeking the pleasure of their Lord. Zakariyya’s prayer for his son establishes this as the ultimate goal of parenthood. The entire surah is a call to a path that leads to this state of being “well-pleasing” to God, which is the key to entering the Gardens of Eden, the ultimate abode of divine pleasure.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The desire for one’s children to be good and successful people is a universal parental aspiration. Zakariyya’s prayer provides a powerful spiritual reorientation of this desire. It teaches parents that the most important quality to pray for in their children is not that they become wealthy or famous, but that they become people who are “pleasing” to God. This is a profound statement on the true definition of a successful life.

Practical Reflection & Application

Zakariyya’s prayer is a beautiful and comprehensive supplication that all parents should adopt for their own children. We should constantly pray to God for our children’s worldly well-being, but our most important and heartfelt prayer should be for their spiritual well-being. We should ask God, “O my Lord, make my child righteous and make them pleasing to You.” This is the greatest gift we can ask for our children and the truest expression of our love for them.

44. Rikzā (رِكْزًا) – A whisper/faintest sound

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Rikzā comes from a root that means a faint sound, a low voice, or a whisper. It is the quietest and most subtle of sounds, almost imperceptible. It is used in the Qur’an to create a sense of absolute silence and stillness.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This powerful word is used in the very last verse of Surah Maryam. After describing the destruction of many generations who came before the people of Mecca, the surah ends with a haunting rhetorical question: “Do you perceive of them anyone, or hear from them a whisper?” (hal tuḥissu minhum min aḥadin aw tasma‘u lahum rikzan). Commentators explain that this is a powerful call to reflect on the silent ruins of history. The powerful civilizations of the past, who were once so full of noise and activity, are now completely gone. There is not even the faintest sound, not a single whisper, remaining from them.

Thematic Context

The final, deafening silence of the word rikzā is the thematic culmination of all the historical warnings in the surah and in the Qur’an as a whole. It is a profound meditation on the transience of human life and power. The theme is one of ultimate accountability. All the noise of this world—the arguments of the disbelievers, the boasting of the arrogant, the hustle and bustle of civilizations—will one day be reduced to an absolute and eternal silence. The only thing that will remain are the deeds that were sent forth.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The image of the silent ruins of a once-great civilization is a powerful and universal symbol of impermanence, famously captured in the poem “Ozymandias.” The Quranic verse uses this image to make a profound theological point. It is a call to listen to the “sound of silence” that emanates from the archaeological remains of the past. This silence is a sermon, a powerful reminder of our own mortality and the ultimate fate of all who deny the Creator.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a powerful exercise in contemplation. We are encouraged to reflect on the passage of time and the fate of those who came before us. This can be done by visiting historical sites, by reading history, or simply by contemplating our own mortality. This reflection should have a humbling effect. It should make us realize how short our own time is and how foolish it is to be arrogant or to be attached to this fleeting world. It is a powerful motivation to live a life of meaning and to prepare for the eternity that will follow the silence of the grave.

45. Rūḥ (رُوح) – Spirit

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Rūḥ comes from the root ر-و-ح (R-W-Ḥ), which means breath, wind, or spirit. It refers to the divine spirit or the principle of life. In the Qur’an, it is used to refer to the soul, to divine inspiration, and as a specific title for the Angel Gabriel, who is the carrier of this divine inspiration.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, this word is used specifically to refer to the Angel Gabriel. In the story of the annunciation, the surah states, “Then We sent to her Our Spirit” (fa-arsalnā ilayhā rūḥanā), who then appeared to her in the form of a perfect man. Commentators are in consensus that “Our Spirit” here is a noble title for Gabriel, the angel of revelation. He is the divine messenger who brings the “word” and the “spirit” of God’s command into the world.

Thematic Context

The sending of the Rūḥ is the pivotal event that initiates the miracle of the virgin birth. It is a moment of direct and powerful intersection between the heavenly realm and the earthly realm. The theme is that the great events of divine guidance are not accidental; they are brought about by the sending of a divine messenger, the Spirit. The story highlights the power and majesty of this Spirit, who can take on human form and deliver the creative command of God.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of a “Holy Spirit” as a divine messenger or an agent of divine action is a central feature of the Abrahamic faiths. In Judaism, the Spirit of God is a force of creation and prophecy. In Christianity, the Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. In Islam, the Rūḥ al-Qudus (the Holy Spirit) is a specific title for the Angel Gabriel, the trusted conveyor of revelation to all the prophets. Surah Maryam’s narrative of his visit to Maryam is one of the most detailed and honored accounts of his role in the entire scripture.

Practical Reflection & Application

The story of the sending of the Rūḥ is a reminder of the reality of the unseen world and the active role that angels play in carrying out God’s command. It should increase our reverence for the Angel Gabriel, the honored messenger who brought the words of this Qur’an to our Prophet. It is a call to believe in the ghayb (the unseen) and to recognize that the reality of our world is shaped by forces and beings that are beyond our normal perception.

46. Ruṭaban Janiyyā (رُطَبًا جَنِيًّا) – Ripe, Fresh Dates

Linguistic Root & Etymology

This phrase combines Ruṭaban (ripe dates) with Janiyyā (freshly picked/ready to be picked). Ruṭab are dates at a specific stage of ripeness, when they are soft, moist, and sweet. Janiyyā comes from a root meaning to harvest or to pick, implying that the dates were perfectly ripe and ready to fall. The phrase paints a vivid picture of delicious, fresh, and perfectly ripe dates.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This is the miraculous provision that God sent to Maryam in her moment of greatest need. The voice from beneath her told her to shake the trunk of a dry palm tree, and promised that “it will drop upon you ripe, fresh dates” (tusāqiṭ ‘alayki ruṭaban janiyyā). Commentators have noted the multiple miracles here. A dry, dead palm tree was miraculously brought to life. It produced fruit out of season. And it produced the most perfect and nourishing kind of fruit for a woman who has just given birth. It was a complete and perfect act of divine care and sustenance.

Thematic Context

The provision of the ruṭaban janiyyā is a central part of the theme of God’s mercy and His active care for His servants. It is a tangible and delicious manifestation of the mercy of Ar-Raḥmān. The theme is that God’s mercy is not just a spiritual concept; it manifests as real, physical sustenance and comfort in our moments of need. This miraculous meal was the provision that gave Maryam the physical and emotional strength to face her community.

Modern & Comparative Lens

Dates are known to be a “superfood,” rich in natural sugars, fiber, and essential minerals. Modern science has confirmed that dates are an excellent food for women in late-term pregnancy and post-partum, as they can help with labor and replenish energy. The specific mention of fresh dates as the provision for Maryam is seen by many Muslims as another example of the scientific and practical wisdom contained in the Qur’an.

Practical Reflection & Application

This story is a powerful reminder of God’s role as the ultimate Provider (Ar-Razzāq). It teaches us that when we are in a state of need, we should make our sincere effort (shake the trunk) and then trust in Him to provide for us from sources we could never have imagined. The story should also make us appreciate the blessing of the food we eat, especially natural and wholesome foods like dates. We should see them not just as sustenance, but as a direct sign of the mercy and creative power of our Lord.

47. Salām (سَلَام) – Peace

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Salām comes from the root س-ل-م (S-L-M), meaning to be safe, sound, and free from defect. It is the same root as Islam and Muslim. Salām is a comprehensive term for peace, security, and well-being. It is the standard Islamic greeting and the very nature of Paradise.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, the word Salām is bestowed as a special divine honor upon two prophets at three critical junctures of their existence. God says about Yahya, “And peace be upon him the day he was born and the day he dies and the day he is raised alive.” ‘Isa, in the cradle, declares the same for himself: “And peace is on me the day I was born and the day I die and the day I am raised alive.” Commentators explain that this is a divine guarantee of safety and security for these prophets at the three most terrifying and vulnerable moments of human existence: birth, death, and resurrection.

Thematic Context

The bestowal of Salām is a central part of the surah’s theme of honoring the prophets. It shows that they are under God’s special protection and care throughout their entire life cycle. The surah also describes Paradise as a place where the inhabitants will hear no ill speech, “only peace” (illā salāman). This connects the peace granted to the prophets in their lives to the ultimate state of peace that awaits all believers. The path of the prophets is the path that leads to the Abode of Peace (Dār as-Salām).

Modern & Comparative Lens

The quest for peace is a universal human aspiration. The Quranic concept of Salām is holistic, encompassing physical security, psychological tranquility, and spiritual well-being. The specific mention of peace at birth, death, and resurrection is a profound theological statement. It addresses the deepest existential anxieties of the human condition and offers the divine promise of safety and peace at these critical transitions for those who follow the prophetic path.

Practical Reflection & Application

The greeting of Salām is a powerful prayer and a daily practice for Muslims. When we say “As-salāmu ‘alaykum” to someone, we are not just saying hello; we are praying that God grants them peace and security. We should also strive to be people of peace, bringing tranquility and harmony to our relationships. The ultimate goal is to live a life that is worthy of the divine greeting of Salām upon our birth, at our death, and on the day we are resurrected.

48. Sariyyā (سَرِيًّا) – A Stream

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Sariyyā comes from the root س-ر-ي (S-R-Y), which means to travel by night or to flow. A sariyyā is a small river or a stream that flows. The word is related to Isrā’ (the Night Journey), which comes from the same root.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This is the second of the miraculous provisions that God sends to Maryam in her moment of distress during childbirth. The voice that calls to her from beneath her says, “Do not grieve; your Lord has provided beneath you a stream” (qad ja‘ala rabbuki taḥtaki sariyyā). Commentators explain that God miraculously caused a stream of fresh water to flow in the dry, desolate place where she had given birth. This provided her with water to drink and to purify herself. It was a direct, tangible sign of God’s mercy and care for her.

Thematic Context

The miraculous creation of the sariyyā is a central part of the theme of God’s mercy (Raḥmah) providing for His servants in their time of need. It complements the miraculous provision of the fresh dates. Together, the dates and the stream provided the perfect nourishment and refreshment for a woman who had just undergone the ordeal of childbirth alone. This story is a powerful narrative illustration of the divine name Ar-Razzāq (The Provider).

Modern & Comparative Lens

Water is the universal symbol of life, purity, and mercy. The miraculous appearance of a stream in a dry land is a powerful archetypal image of hope and divine intervention found in many traditions (e.g., the story of Moses striking the rock to bring forth water). The story in Surah Maryam is particularly tender and intimate, a quiet miracle provided for the comfort of a single, righteous woman in her moment of greatest vulnerability.

Practical Reflection & Application

The story of the sariyyā is a powerful source of hope. It teaches us that even when we feel we are in a spiritually or emotionally “dry” and desolate place, God has the power to make a “stream” of mercy flow for us. We should never despair of His ability to provide for us and to bring life to our barren situations. Our duty is to turn to Him in our distress, and His mercy will surely come to our aid.

49. Sawiyyā (سَوِيًّا) – Sound/Healthy

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Sawiyyā comes from the root س-و-ي (S-W-Y), which means to be well-proportioned, sound, straight, or complete. It describes a state of being healthy, sound, and free from any defect. It is used in Surah Maryam to describe both a person’s physical state and their moral state.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is used in two key places. First, the angel appears to Maryam as a “man, sound in all respects” (basharan sawiyyā), meaning he was in a complete and healthy human form. Second, when Zakariyya asks for a sign, God tells him that he will not be able to speak to people for three nights, “while you are sound” (wa anta sawiyyun). Commentators explain that the addition of this phrase is crucial. It clarifies that his inability to speak was not the result of any illness or defect, but was a specific, miraculous sign from God. He was physically healthy in every other way.

Thematic Context

The concept of being sawiyyā is part of the surah’s theme of the perfection of God’s creation and His signs. The angel appeared in a perfect form. Zakariyya remained in a perfect state of health, even while the sign was upon him. This highlights the precise and controlled nature of God’s miracles. They are not chaotic or flawed events. The theme is one of divine perfection in all of God’s actions.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of “soundness” or “wholeness” is a key goal in modern psychology and wellness movements. The Quranic term sawiyyā encapsulates this idea of a balanced and healthy state. The story of Zakariyya’s sign is a profound meditation on the nature of miracles. It was a miracle of subtraction (the removal of an ability) rather than addition, highlighting the subtle and diverse ways that God can manifest His signs.

Practical Reflection & Application

We should be grateful to God for the blessing of being sawiyyā—for being physically and mentally sound. This is a great blessing that we often take for granted. We should use our sound health and our sound mind in the service of God. The verse also teaches us to trust in God’s signs. Just as Zakariyya’s silence was a clear sign for him, we should be attentive to the signs that God sends us in our own lives, which may not always be spectacular, but are always perfect and full of wisdom.

50. Ṣawm (صَوْم) – A Fast

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Ṣawm means a fast, the act of abstaining. The root means to abstain from something. While it is most commonly used in Islam to refer to the fast from food, drink, and sexual relations during the month of Ramadan, its more general meaning is to abstain from any action, including speech.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, this word is used to mean a vow of silence. After the birth of ‘Isa, Maryam is divinely instructed on how to handle her people’s accusations. She is told to say, “Indeed, I have vowed to the Most Merciful a fast (ṣawman), so I will not speak today to a human being.” Commentators explain that this was a specific form of worship known in previous religious traditions. Her ṣawm from speech was a profound act of trust in God, a declaration that she was entrusting her entire defense to Him alone.

Thematic Context

Maryam’s ṣawm is a central part of the theme of complete reliance on God (tawakkul). She is in a situation where any words she might say would be disbelieved and twisted. Her only recourse is to be silent and to let the miracle that God has provided—the speech of her infant son—be her sole defense. Her fast from speech is a powerful symbol of her submission to the divine plan. It is a silence that is more eloquent and more powerful than any words she could have spoken.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The practice of a vow of silence is a form of spiritual discipline found in various contemplative traditions, such as in some monastic orders in Christianity and in some forms of Buddhist meditation. It is seen as a way to quiet the mind, to conserve spiritual energy, and to become more receptive to the divine. Maryam’s ṣawm is a unique, divinely-commanded act with a specific, strategic purpose within the narrative. It is a silence of power, not of weakness.

Practical Reflection & Application

The story of Maryam’s ṣawm teaches us the great wisdom and power of silence. In an age where everyone is encouraged to have an opinion on everything and to constantly speak, this story reminds us that there are times when the most pious and the most powerful response is silence. When faced with slander, gossip, and futile arguments, we should remember Maryam. Sometimes, it is better to take a “fast from speech” and to let our good character and our trust in God be our ultimate defense.

51. Shaqiyyā (شَقِيًّا) – Wretched/Miserable

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Shaqiyyā is an adjective from the root ش-ق-و (Sh-Q-W), which means misery, distress, and wretchedness. A person who is shaqiyyā is one who is in a state of profound hardship, misery, and spiritual ruin. It is the opposite of sa‘īd (blissful).

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word appears in several key places in Surah Maryam. First, in his prayer, Prophet Zakariyya says, “and I have never been, in my supplication to You, my Lord, wretched” (wa lam akun bi-du‘ā’ika rabbi shaqiyyā). He means that his prayers have never been unanswered or a source of misery for him; they have always been a source of blessing. Later, the prophet ‘Isa, in his speech from the cradle, says that God did not make him “an arrogant tyrant, a wretch” (jabbāran shaqiyyā). This shows that arrogance is a direct cause of wretchedness.

Thematic Context

The state of being shaqiyyā is presented in the surah as the direct consequence of being disconnected from God’s mercy. Zakariyya’s statement links prayer directly to avoiding this state: to be in a state of supplication is to be saved from wretchedness. ‘Isa’s statement links it to character: to be humble and dutiful is to be saved from wretchedness. The theme is that true misery and wretchedness are not caused by poverty or worldly hardship, but by arrogance, disobedience, and a broken connection with the Most Merciful.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The search for happiness and the avoidance of misery is the primary driver of human behavior. The Quranic concept of being shaqiyyā provides a spiritual diagnosis of the root cause of human misery. It argues that a life lived in arrogant rebellion against the divine order is, by its very nature, a life of wretchedness, regardless of its external appearances of success. This resonates with the philosophical idea that a life without virtue and purpose is an unfulfilled and unhappy life.

Practical Reflection & Application

This surah gives us a clear roadmap for how to avoid the state of being shaqiyyā. First, like Zakariyya, we must maintain a constant and hopeful connection with God through prayer. Our supplication is our lifeline away from misery. Second, like ‘Isa, we must cultivate a character of humility and kindness, especially towards our parents, and avoid the path of arrogance. To be humble and prayerful is to be on the path that leads away from wretchedness and towards bliss.

52. Shaybā (شَيْبًا) – White hair

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Shaybā means white hair or hoariness. It comes from the root ش-ي-ب (Sh-Y-B), which means to grow old or for one’s hair to turn white. White hair is the classic and universal sign of old age.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This word is used in a famously eloquent and poetic phrase in Prophet Zakariyya’s opening prayer: “My Lord, indeed my bones have weakened, and my head has become aflame with white hair” (wa ishta‘ala ar-ra’su shaybā). Commentators have marveled at the beauty of this imagery. He does not just say “my hair has turned white.” He says his head has “ignited” or “become aflame” with whiteness, as if the white hair has spread through his dark hair like a fire spreading through wood. This is a powerful and poignant image of the rapid and complete onset of old age.

Thematic Context

The image of the head “aflame with white hair” is a key part of the surah’s opening theme of the power of God to create life from “dead” or “impossible” situations. Zakariyya is painting a vivid picture of his own physical decline. His bones are weak, and his head is a “white fire” of old age. It is from this state of near-extinction that the new life of his son, Yahya, will emerge. The “fire” of old age is met with the “light” of a new generation, all by the mercy of God.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The metaphor of white hair as a sign of wisdom, but also of the approach of death, is a universal one. The Quranic phrase “aflame with white hair” is a uniquely powerful and dynamic image. It has been praised by literary critics, both Muslim and non-Muslim, for its stunning beauty and its emotional power. It is a perfect example of the high literary quality of the Qur’an.

Practical Reflection & Application

Zakariyya’s description of his own aging is a beautiful lesson in how to speak to God with vulnerability and eloquence. It is also a reminder for all of us of the passage of time. The “white flame” on our own heads, when it appears, should not be a cause for despair. It should be, as it was for Zakariyya, a catalyst for turning to God with even greater sincerity and urgency. It is a sign that our time in this world is limited, and that we should focus on what is most important: our relationship with our Lord and the legacy we will leave behind.

53. Siddīq (صِدِّيق) – A man of truth

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Siddīq comes from the root ص-د-ق (Ṣ-D-Q), which means to be truthful. The form ṣiddīq is an intensive form, meaning one who is completely and constantly truthful. A ṣiddīq is not just someone who does not lie; they are a person whose entire being is saturated with truthfulness. Their belief, their words, and their actions are all a single, integrated expression of the truth.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, this high and noble title is given to Prophet Ibrahim: “And mention in the Book, Abraham. Indeed, he was a man of truth, a prophet” (innahū kāna ṣiddīqan nabiyyā). It is also given to Prophet Idris. Commentators explain that this is one of the highest spiritual ranks mentioned in the Qur’an, second only to that of a prophet. A ṣiddīq is one who has completely internalized the truth of the revelation and has become a living embodiment of it. Ibrahim’s entire life—his rejection of idols, his dialogue with his father, his migration for the sake of God—was a perfect testament to his truthfulness.

Thematic Context

The attribute of being a ṣiddīq is a central part of the surah’s portrayal of the prophetic ideal. The surah emphasizes the truthfulness of the prophets and their message. The prophets are not just speakers of the truth; they *are* men of truth. This theme stands in stark contrast to the falsehood of idolatry and the lies of those who slandered Maryam or who claim that God has a son. The surah presents a clear choice between the path of the truthful and the path of the liars.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of integrity, of being “true to oneself,” is a highly valued ideal in modern ethics. The Islamic concept of being a ṣiddīq is a God-centric version of this ideal. It is not about being true to one’s own desires, but about being true to the ultimate Truth of God. This requires a complete alignment of one’s inner state and one’s outer actions. Maryam is also considered a ṣiddīqah (the feminine form), as she completely and immediately believed the word of her Lord.

Practical Reflection & Application

While we may not be prophets, the rank of being a ṣiddīq is something that we can and should aspire to. This is a call to a life of absolute integrity and truthfulness. We should strive to be truthful in our words, to be honest in our dealings, and to be sincere in our beliefs. We should pray to God to make us among the ṣiddīqīn, whom He has mentioned in the Qur’an as being in the best of company in the hereafter, along with the prophets, the martyrs, and the righteous.

54. Walad (وَلَد) – A child/son

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Walad comes from the root و-ل-د (W-L-D), which means to give birth or to beget. A walad is a child, an offspring, or a son. It is a general term for progeny.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

The concept of the walad is arguably the most central theological topic of Surah Maryam. The surah begins with the story of a righteous man (Zakariyya) desperately praying for a walad (in the form of a waliyy, or heir). It then moves to the story of a righteous woman (Maryam) being miraculously granted a walad without a father. The surah then culminates in a powerful and absolute refutation of the idea that God Himself has taken a walad: “And they say, ‘The Most Merciful has taken a son.’ You have certainly brought forth a thing most monstrous… It is not appropriate for the Most Merciful that He should take a son.”

Thematic Context

The theme of the walad creates a profound theological structure in the surah. The chapter first demonstrates God’s absolute power to create a child in seemingly impossible ways. This establishes His creative power. Then, it uses this very power as a proof against the idea that He would need a son Himself. The argument is that the one who has the power to create children for barren old men and for virgins has no need to take a child for Himself. The concept of divine sonship is presented as a profound misunderstanding of both God’s power and His mercy. All of creation, including the prophets, are His servants, not His children.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The doctrine of the divine sonship of Jesus is a central tenet of Christianity and the primary point of theological divergence with Islam. Surah Maryam is one of the most important chapters in the Qur’an for understanding the Islamic position. It addresses the topic with a unique methodology: it does not begin with a polemical refutation. It begins by showing the utmost honor and reverence for Jesus and his mother, narrating their miraculous story in beautiful detail. It is only after establishing this love and reverence that it corrects what it sees as the doctrinal error of deifying him.

Practical Reflection & Application

This surah teaches us how to hold two truths in balance: to have the deepest love and reverence for Prophet ‘Isa and his mother, Maryam, and at the same time, to hold an uncompromising belief in the absolute and unique oneness of God, who has no son, no partner, and no equal. It is a lesson in how to affirm the truth with clarity and strength, while still approaching the subject with a spirit of reverence and respect for the prophets of God.

55. Wahn al-‘Aẓm (وَهَنَ الْعَظْمُ) – The weakness of the bones

Linguistic Root & Etymology

This phrase combines Wahn, meaning weakness, feebleness, or enervation, with al-‘Aẓm, meaning the bone. The phrase literally means “the weakness of the bone,” but it is a powerful idiom for the fragility and decline of the entire physical structure that comes with old age.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

This is the first part of Prophet Zakariyya’s intimate complaint to his Lord. He begins his prayer by saying, “My Lord, indeed my bones have grown weak” (rabbi innī wahana al-‘aẓmu minnī). Commentators have noted the profound eloquence of this opening. The bones are the very frame and foundation of the body. For the bones themselves to become weak is a sign of the deepest and most inescapable physical decline. Zakariyya is starting his prayer by acknowledging his complete and utter physical helplessness. He has no strength of his own left to rely on.

Thematic Context

The complaint of wahn al-‘aẓm is the starting point for the surah’s central theme of divine mercy and power. It establishes the “zero point” from which the miracle will spring. Zakariyya’s prayer is so powerful precisely because it begins with this total confession of weakness. The theme is that God’s power is most beautifully manifest when all human and worldly means have been exhausted. It is when our own bones are weak that we are most able to appreciate the strength of our Lord.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The experience of aging and the weakening of the body is a universal human reality. Zakariyya’s prayer is a deeply moving and relatable expression of the vulnerability of old age. It is a powerful example of what modern psychology calls “radical acceptance”—the act of honestly and courageously facing one’s own limitations. However, in the spiritual context of the prayer, this acceptance is not an end in itself; it is the prelude to a profound act of hope and trust in a power that lies beyond the physical.

Practical Reflection & Application

Zakariyya’s prayer is a model for how to approach God in our own moments of weakness, whether that weakness is due to age, illness, or any other trial. It teaches us the power of vulnerability in prayer. We should not be afraid to be completely honest with God about our feebleness and our fears. It is often when we stop pretending to be strong and finally admit our own weakness that we open the door for God’s strength to enter our lives.

56. Waliyy (وَلِيّ) – An Heir/Protector

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Waliyy comes from the root و-ل-ي (W-L-Y), which means to be near or to be in charge. A waliyy is a protector, a guardian, a patron, a close friend, or an heir who will take charge of one’s affairs after one is gone.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In his prayer, Prophet Zakariyya asks God for a child for a specific purpose. He says, “So give me from Yourself an heir” (fa-hab lī min ladunka waliyyā), “Who will inherit me and inherit from the family of Jacob.” Commentators explain that Zakariyya’s concern was not for a normal heir to inherit his material possessions, as prophets do not leave behind material inheritance. His fear was that after his death, there would be no one to carry on his spiritual legacy and to guide his people correctly. He was praying for a spiritual heir who would inherit his prophethood and his wisdom.

Thematic Context

The prayer for a waliyy is a central part of the surah’s theme of the continuity of prophecy and divine guidance. It shows the deep sense of responsibility that a prophet feels for the spiritual well-being of the generations to come. The story teaches that the legacy of the prophets is not one of blood or money, but of knowledge and guidance. The birth of Yahya is God’s answer to this prayer, a guarantee that the light of guidance will not be extinguished.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The desire to leave behind a legacy and to have an heir who will carry on one’s work is a universal human aspiration. Zakariyya’s prayer spiritualizes this desire. It is a model for any parent, teacher, or leader. The ultimate goal should not be to just have a successor, but to have a righteous successor who will carry on the legacy of goodness and truth. It is a prayer for the preservation of values, not just the preservation of a name.

Practical Reflection & Application

We should learn from Zakariyya’s prayer to be concerned with our own legacy. We should ask ourselves: What are we leaving behind for the next generation? Are we investing in the spiritual and moral upbringing of our children and our students? We should pray, as he did, for God to grant us a righteous waliyy—a successor, whether our own child or a student, who will carry on the torch of faith and goodness after we are gone.

57. Wuddā (وُدًّا) – Love

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Wuddā comes from a root that signifies love, affection, and friendship. It is a deep and abiding love. God’s name, Al-Wadūd, The Most Loving, comes from this root. Wuddā is the state of mutual love and affection.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In Surah Maryam, there is a beautiful promise made to the believers: “Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds, the Most Merciful will appoint for them love” (sayaj‘alu lahumu ar-raḥmānu wuddā). Commentators have interpreted this wuddā in several ways, all of which are considered valid. 1) God will place love for them in the hearts of the other believers and the righteous people on earth. 2) God Himself will love them and make them His beloved servants. 3) They will have a deep and abiding love for God. The promise is a comprehensive one of a state of mutual love between God and the believer, and among the believers themselves.

Thematic Context

The promise of wuddā is the ultimate spiritual reward mentioned in the surah for those who choose the path of faith. It is a manifestation of the mercy of Ar-Raḥmān. The theme is that the consequence of faith and righteousness is not just a future reward in Paradise, but a present spiritual reality of love and acceptance. This stands in stark contrast to the state of the disbelievers, who are in a state of contention (luddā) and enmity with God and the truth.

Modern & Comparative Lens

The concept of divine love and the idea that the goal of the spiritual path is to both love God and be loved by Him is a central theme in the mystical traditions of many religions. This verse is a cornerstone of the theology of divine love in Islam, particularly in Sufism. It teaches that the relationship between God and the believer is not just one of a master and a slave, but can ascend to the level of a deep and mutual love.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a source of immense hope and a powerful motivation for doing good deeds. It teaches us that the path to being loved—by God and by the good people around us—is through a combination of sincere faith and consistent righteous action. If we want to find true love and acceptance in our lives, this verse gives us the direct formula. We should purify our faith and strive to do good, with the hope that Ar-Raḥmān will bless us with His wuddā.

58. Yaḥyā (يَحْيَىٰ) – John

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The name Yaḥyā (John the Baptist) comes from the same root as the word for life (ḥayāh). His name literally means “he lives” or “he will live.” The name itself was a miracle, chosen and given by God, and was unprecedented. God says, “a name We have not assigned to anyone before.”

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

Yaḥyā is the miraculous son of Prophet Zakariyya. His birth is the first great sign in the surah. He is described in the most noble of terms: God gave him “wisdom while he was a boy,” and he was “compassionate from Us and pure, and he was God-fearing, and dutiful to his parents, and he was not an arrogant tyrant, a rebel.” He is a perfect model of prophetic character. God also bestows upon him a special “peace” (salām) on the day he was born, the day he dies, and the day he is raised alive.

Thematic Context

The story of the birth of Yaḥyā is the thematic prelude to the story of the birth of ‘Isa. It establishes the surah’s central theme of God’s power to create life in extraordinary ways. The birth of Yaḥyā from an extremely old man and a barren woman breaks the normal laws of biology. This “lesser” miracle prepares the reader’s mind to accept the even greater miracle of the virgin birth that follows. The perfect character of Yaḥyā also serves as a model of the righteous servant of God.

Modern & Comparative Lens

John the Baptist is a revered figure in both Christianity and Islam. The Quranic account of his birth is very similar to the narrative in the Gospel of Luke, featuring the announcement by an angel to an elderly Zechariah. The Quranic account, however, is unique in its emphasis on his divinely-chosen and unprecedented name, and its detailed description of his noble character. In both traditions, he is seen as the great prophet who prepared the way for Jesus.

Practical Reflection & Application

The character of Prophet Yaḥyā is a powerful role model, especially for the youth. The fact that he was given “wisdom while yet a boy” is an inspiration for young people to strive for knowledge and righteousness from an early age. His qualities—compassion, purity, God-consciousness, and dutifulness to parents—are a complete curriculum for the development of a beautiful and noble character that we should all strive to emulate.

59. Zakariyyā (زَكَرِيَّا) – Zechariah

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The name Zakariyyā (Zechariah) is of Hebrew origin, meaning “The Lord has remembered.” He was a prophet of the Children of Israel, a priest who was the guardian of the temple, and the custodian of Maryam (Mary).

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

The story of Zakariyyā‘s prayer opens Surah Maryam. He is portrayed as a venerable old man, physically weak but spiritually strong, who turns to his Lord with a secret and humble call for an heir. His prayer is a masterpiece of vulnerability, eloquence, and profound faith. He lays bare his weakness (“my bones have grown weak”), the impossibility of his situation (“my wife is barren”), and his deep spiritual longing for a righteous successor. His prayer is answered with the good news of his son, Yahya. His story is the first great demonstration of the surah’s theme of divine mercy.

Thematic Context

The story of Zakariyyā sets the thematic tone for the entire surah. It establishes the power of sincere prayer (du‘ā’), the reality of God’s mercy (raḥmah), and His ability to create life from seemingly impossible circumstances. His story serves as the perfect introduction to the even more miraculous story of Maryam and ‘Isa that follows. He is the archetype of the patient and hopeful servant whose quiet, secret prayer is heard and answered in the most beautiful of ways.

Modern & Comparative Lens

Zechariah is an honored figure in both the New Testament and the Qur’an. The narratives of his prayer and the annunciation of his son’s birth are very similar in both scriptures. The Quranic account is notable for its focus on the intimate and emotional texture of his prayer, quoting his beautiful and moving words directly. This makes his character deeply human and relatable.

Practical Reflection & Application

The prayer of Zakariyyā is a timeless model for how to approach God in our moments of need. It teaches us to be honest and vulnerable, to not be shy about our weaknesses, and to place our complete trust in God’s power when all worldly means seem to have failed. It is a profound lesson in the art of supplication. His story should inspire us to never give up hope and to keep calling upon our Lord, even for things that seem completely impossible.

60. Zakah (زَكَاة) – Purifying Alms

Linguistic Root & Etymology

The word Zakah comes from the root ز-ك-و (Z-K-W), which means to purify, to increase, or to be righteous. Zakah is the obligatory charity or purifying alms in Islam. It is so named because the act of giving a portion of one’s wealth to the poor is believed to both purify the rest of the wealth and the heart of the giver, and to cause the wealth to be blessed and to increase.

Classical Exegesis (Tafsir)

In his miraculous speech from the cradle, the infant ‘Isa lists the commands that God has given him. Immediately after mentioning the formal prayer (ṣalāh), he says, “and [He has commanded me with] zakah as long as I am alive.” Commentators have noted the significance of this. It shows that the core pillars of worship—the prayer to God and the charity to the needy—were a central part of the mission of Prophet ‘Isa, just as they are in the mission of Prophet Muhammad. It establishes the continuity of the core principles of the divine law.

Thematic Context

The mention of zakah is a key part of the surah’s theme of the unity of the prophetic message. The surah shows that all the prophets, from Ibrahim to ‘Isa, were commanded with the same foundational acts of worship. This refutes the idea that the message of ‘Isa was only about faith without law. His very first words from the cradle affirm his commitment to the core duties of both prayer and charity. This highlights that true faith must be accompanied by practical acts of worship and social responsibility.

Modern & Comparative Lens

Charity and care for the poor are central virtues in all major religions. The Islamic concept of zakah is unique in that it is not just a voluntary act of charity, but an obligatory, institutionalized pillar of the faith. It is considered the right of the poor in the wealth of the rich. ‘Isa’s mention of zakah in this verse is a powerful statement that this principle of social justice was a core part of his original teachings.

Practical Reflection & Application

This verse is a powerful reminder of the importance of zakah and charity in our own lives. It is not an optional extra; it is a fundamental part of our faith, commanded to all the prophets. We should be diligent in calculating and distributing our zakah, and we should be generous in our voluntary charity. The verse teaches us that our devotion to God (ṣalāh) is incomplete without our compassion for His creation (zakah). The two are inseparable wings of a living faith.