Maryam — Chosen and Pure

A Special Beginning

Long ago, the wife of Imran made a sincere promise to Allah. She vowed that the child in her womb would be dedicated entirely to His service. When the baby was born, it was a girl, and she named her Maryam. Although she expected a boy for the temple service, Allah accepted her offering graciously. Maryam was placed under the kind care of Prophet Zakariyya peace be upon him.

Maryam grew up in a private prayer chamber called the Mihrab. She was a devout worshiper who spent her days and nights in prayer. A beautiful miracle occurred during this time: whenever Zakariyya peace be upon him entered her chamber, he found fresh, out-of-season fruits. When he asked where they came from, Maryam replied with firm faith that they were from Allah, for He provides for whom He wills without measure.

The Greatest News

One day, while Maryam was in seclusion, the Angel Jibril appeared to her in the form of a man. She was startled and sought refuge in Allah, showing her deep modesty and piety. Jibril comforted her, explaining that he was a messenger from her Lord sent to announce the gift of a righteous son. Maryam wondered how this could be, as no man had touched her.

The Angel explained that Allah only needs to say 'Be!' and it is. This was to be a sign for mankind and a mercy from Allah. Maryam accepted this decree with complete trust. While she is not classified as a Prophet in this book, she holds the highest rank among women, chosen by Allah above all others for her purity and devotion.

Strength in the Desert

When it was time for the baby to be born, Maryam went to a remote place near the trunk of a palm tree. She felt great pain and loneliness, wishing she could have been forgotten. However, Allah did not leave her alone. A voice called out to her, telling her not to grieve. A spring of water flowed beneath her feet by Allah's command, providing her with cool refreshment.

She was told to shake the trunk of the palm tree, and miraculously, fresh ripe dates fell down for her to eat. Allah commanded her to eat, drink, and be at peace. If she saw any person, she was instructed to remain silent and signal that she had taken a vow of fasting from speech. This shows how Allah provides comfort even in the hardest moments.

The Miracle of the Cradle

Maryam returned to her people carrying the infant Isa peace be upon him. They were shocked and began to question her character, as they did not know of the miracle. Keeping her promise to Allah, Maryam remained silent and simply pointed to the baby in her arms. The people were confused, asking how they could speak to an infant in a cradle.

Then, another miracle happened by Allah's permission. The baby Isa peace be upon him spoke clearly to the crowd. He declared that he was a servant of Allah, that Allah had given him the Scripture, and made him a Prophet. This miraculous speech instantly defended his mother’s honor and proved her purity to all who witnessed it.

A Legacy of Purity

The story of Maryam is one of incredible courage and unwavering faith. She stood alone against the judgments of the world, trusting only in Allah’s plan. The Qur'an honors her by naming an entire Surah after her, highlighting her as a role model for all believers, both men and women. Her life teaches us that true honor comes from obedience to Allah.

She is described as 'Siddiqah' (a woman of truth) because she believed in the words of her Lord and His scriptures. Even though her life was filled with difficult tests, her legacy remains as a shining example of modesty, prayer, and patience. She remains the only woman mentioned by name in the Qur'an, a testament to her unique and elevated station.