Mary, known as Maryam in Arabic, is one of the most revered and honored women in Islam. She holds a unique and exalted position, being the mother of Prophet Jesus (Isa, Peace Be Upon Him). The Qur’an celebrates her piety, chastity, and devotion to God, making her a role model for all believers.
Key Beliefs About Mary in Islam:
- A Blessed and Chosen Woman:
- Mary is regarded as one of the greatest women in human history. The Qur’an explicitly states:
“And [mention] when the angels said, ‘O Mary, indeed Allah has chosen you and purified you and chosen you above the women of the worlds.'” (Surah Aal-E-Imran, 3:42).
- Mary is regarded as one of the greatest women in human history. The Qur’an explicitly states:
- Her Birth and Upbringing:
- Mary was born to a righteous family. Her mother, seeking a child dedicated to God’s service, prayed earnestly, and Mary was the answer to her prayers (Surah Aal-E-Imran, 3:35-36).
- She was entrusted to the care of Prophet Zechariah (Zakariya, PBUH) and raised in purity and devotion.
- Her Piety and Worship:
- Mary spent much of her life in prayer and worship, exemplifying submission and dedication to God.
- The Annunciation and Miraculous Conception:
- The Qur’an narrates that an angel (the Angel Gabriel) appeared to Mary, announcing she would give birth to a son, Jesus, despite being a virgin.
“She said, ‘How can I have a boy while no man has touched me and I have not been unchaste?’ He said, ‘Thus [it will be]; your Lord says, “It is easy for Me.”‘ “ (Surah Maryam, 19:20-21). - This miraculous conception is viewed as a sign of God’s infinite power.
- The Qur’an narrates that an angel (the Angel Gabriel) appeared to Mary, announcing she would give birth to a son, Jesus, despite being a virgin.
- Her Role as the Mother of Jesus:
- Mary gave birth to Jesus in a humble and miraculous manner. The Qur’an describes her struggles and divine support during childbirth under a palm tree (Surah Maryam, 19:22-26).
- She is praised for her unwavering faith and patience in the face of societal challenges.
Mary in the Qur’an:
- Mary is the only woman mentioned by name in the Qur’an, appearing in 34 verses across various chapters.
- A whole chapter, Surah Maryam (Chapter 19), is named after her, highlighting her significance.
Titles and Attributes:
- “Purified and Chosen”: Mary is described as one who was uniquely purified and elevated by God.
- “Mother of a Prophet”: Her role as the mother of Jesus (PBUH) emphasizes her importance in God’s plan for humanity.
Comparison with Christianity:
While Christians regard Mary as the mother of God (Theotokos), Muslims see her as the mother of Jesus, a human prophet. Despite these differences, Mary is deeply respected and cherished in both faiths.
Maryam serves as a symbol of faith, piety, and submission to God, inspiring millions of Muslims to strive for a closer connection to their Creator.