Maryam (Mary)

Who was Maryam?

Maryam (Mary), the daughter of Imran, was the mother of the Prophet Isa (Jesus) and one of the greatest women in all of history. She holds a unique place in the Quran: she is the only woman mentioned by name, and an entire surah — Surah Maryam (chapter 19) — is named after her. Allah describes her as chosen, purified, and preferred above the women of the worlds.

Her Story

Maryam was dedicated to the worship of Allah by her mother before her birth and was raised in the sanctuary under the care of the Prophet Zakariya, who marvelled at the provision he found with her. Devoted and pure, she withdrew to devote herself to worship. There the angel Jibril appeared to her and announced that Allah would grant her a son, even though no man had touched her. She conceived Isa by Allah's command — "Be, and it is" — and withdrew to a far place, where she gave birth alone beside a palm tree in distress. When she returned to her people carrying the child, they accused her, but the infant Isa spoke from the cradle, declaring himself a servant and prophet of Allah and defending his mother's honour. Maryam bore extraordinary trial with patience, faith, and dignity.

Maryam in the Quran

• "O Maryam, indeed Allah has chosen you and purified you and chosen you above the women of the worlds." (3:42)
• "And [mention] she who guarded her chastity, so We blew into her of Our spirit and made her and her son a sign for the worlds." (21:91)
• "And Maryam, the daughter of Imran, who guarded her chastity... and she believed in the words of her Lord and His scriptures and was of the devoutly obedient." (66:12)

Her Virtues and Legacy

Maryam is the supreme example of chastity, devotion, and unwavering trust in Allah under the hardest of trials. The Prophet ﷺ named her among the best women ever to live, alongside Asiya, Khadija, and Fatima. Honoured by Muslims everywhere, she is a sign of Allah's power and a model of how faith and patience triumph over slander and difficulty. Her example shows that nearness to Allah is open to anyone who purifies their heart and devotes themselves to Him.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Maryam so honoured in Islam?

The Quran states that Allah chose her and purified her above the women of the worlds (3:42). She was granted the miraculous birth of Isa, defended by Allah against false accusations, and praised for her chastity, faith, and obedience. The Prophet ﷺ counted her among the greatest women of all time.

Is there a surah named after Maryam?

Yes. Surah Maryam (chapter 19) is named after her and recounts the story of her son's miraculous birth and her trial, as well as the stories of Zakariya, Yahya, and other prophets. She is the only woman mentioned by name anywhere in the Quran.