This article is a brief comprehensive guide on Surah Maryam. It simply covers various topics. It Includes Surah Maryam Maksud, Asbab Al-Nuzul, time, place of revelation, interesting facts about Surah Maryam, and Surah Maryam Tafseer. It also includes the benefits and lessons of Surah Maryam.
What Is Surah Maryam?
Surah Maryam is one of the greatest Surahs in the Quran. It is a Makki Surah that comprises a number of great Quranic stories.
The stories of Surah Maryam teach the correct faith of a Muslim. They also show the Quran is authored by Allah (SWT) as no one could have known these stories at that place and time except The All-Knowing.
Surah Maryam comprises great lessons that are worth proper understanding. It has great benefits related to its recitation and reflection upon its meaning. There is no known authentic revelation supporting the claims of its benefits for pregnancy or marriage.
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What Is the Maksud of Surah Maryam?
Surah Maryam is one of the great Surahs of the Quran owing to its speech about the main attributes of Allah (SWT); mainly his Oneness. Surah Maryam teaches the Islamic Aqeedah (Faith) by narrating the stories of several prophets and messengers such as Zakariya, Yahya, Isa (Jesus), Moses, and Abraham.
Surah Maryam is named after Maryam; the mother of Isa (Jesus) peace be upon him. It narrates her story and Prophet Isa’s miraculous birth. It replies to those who accused Maryam of committing adultery. It also replies to those who claimed Jesus (PBUH) is God or the son of God in a set of beautiful, heart-touching verses.
Surah Maryam enriches people’s faith in the day of judgment by narrating the most highlighted events on that day and replying to its deniers.
Surah Maryam is ordered on the 19th in the Quran and consists of ninety-eight verses making it a relatively long Surah.
Surah Maryam Benefits:
Surah Maryam has many benefits owing to its moral lessons and the great stories involved. However, many people allegedly claim that Surah Maryam has benefits for marriage and pregnancy. We will discuss these claims in the following paragraphs.
1. The benefit of Surah Maryam Recitation
Surah Maryam is one of the great surahs of the Quran. The reward of its recitation is great as each letter is worth multiples of ten hasanats (credit for good deeds). The surah is relatively long and comprises more letters and hasanat respectively.
If you recite Surah Maryam with proper understanding and pondering, you will get much more hasanat. In addition, you will learn the lessons of Surah Maryam as we previously discussed.
2. Surah Maryam benefits in pregnancy
Surah Maryam’s benefit for pregnancy is actually not true. There is no authentic hadith or verse in the Quran that supports such a claim. A Muslim should be aware of his source of knowledge and practice.
3. Benefits of reciting surah maryam
The benefit of Surah Maryam for marriage is not authentic. Many people allegedly claim online that Surah Maryam is beneficial to marry whom you love if your family refuses. That is a false claim as there is no Quranic or authentic Sunnah evidence. Besides, it is forbidden in Islam to have haram love stories before marriage.
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What are the main points of Surah Maryam? (Lessons from Surah Maryam)
Surah Maryam offers profound insights into the core principles of the Islamic faith, emphasizing the oneness of Allah (SWT), the power of supplication, and the continuity of the prophetic message. The following lessons, elucidated through the narratives within Surah Maryam, serve as timeless guidance for believers
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Islam as the Universal Message of All Prophets: Surah Maryam unifies the teachings of various prophets, demonstrating that they all propagated the same message of Islam. From Jesus (PBUH), who is often mischaracterized as a divine figure, to other prophets, the Surah emphasizes that they all called people to the path of Islam.
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The Unwavering Oneness of Allah (SWT): The Surah unequivocally asserts that Allah (SWT) is one, without partners, sons, or spouses. This fundamental tenet of Islamic monotheism is reinforced throughout Surah Maryam, dispelling any misconceptions about the nature of the Divine.
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The Power of Prayer and Faith: Through the story of Prophet Zakariya (PBUH), the Surah illustrates how sincere supplication, coupled with unwavering faith, leads to the acceptance of prayers. This act of supplication is portrayed as a noble form of worship.
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Allah (SWT) as the Omnipotent and All-Powerful: Allah’s ability to fulfill seemingly impossible prayers, as seen in the case of Prophet Zakariya, underscores His limitless power. As stated in Surah Maryam, nothing can weaken His might or authority.
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Children as Divine Gifts: The Surah highlights the blessings of offspring, as exemplified by the righteous children bestowed upon Zakariya, Maryam, and Abraham (PBUT). These gifts are portrayed as divine favors to Allah’s devoted servants.
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Divine Guidance through Signs and Miracles: Allah’s continuous guidance is manifested through the miracles and signs sent to validate the prophethood of His messengers. The speaking of Jesus (PBUH) from the cradle serves as a profound example of this divine affirmation.
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The Importance of Individual Faith over Ancestral Beliefs: Abraham’s rejection of his father’s polytheism emphasizes the importance of personal conviction and the pursuit of truth. His respectful invitation to his father to embrace Islam illustrates the balance between familial loyalty and spiritual integrity.
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The Role of Women in the Divine Narrative: The Surah also acknowledges the significant roles played by women such as Maryam, who is honored for her piety and faith. Her story serves as an inspiration for both men and women in the pursuit of righteousness.
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A Call to Reflection and Wisdom: Surah Maryam invites believers to reflect on these lessons and apply them in their daily lives. It encourages wisdom, compassion, and steadfastness in the face of trials and tribulations.
By exploring these multifaceted lessons, Surah Maryam provides a comprehensive understanding of key Islamic principles. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding of the faith. Joining specialized courses, such as those offered by the Quran House Institute, can further enhance this exploration, providing professional guidance in the journey toward spiritual enlightenment.
When and Where Was Surah Maryam Revealed?
Surah Maryam was revealed in Makkah before Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) hijra to Madinah. It is a Makki Surah as Muslim scholars Suggested. This is supported by the fact that Surah Maryam’s main concern is Aqeedah’s ‘faith’.
The Meccan period was marked by intense opposition and persecution of the early Muslim community by the Quraysh, the ruling tribe of Mecca. The themes of Surah Maryam, which include the oneness of God (Tawhid), resurrection, compassion, and the stories of various prophets, are consistent with other Meccan Surahs. These themes were particularly relevant to the challenges faced by the early Muslim community in Mecca.
However, some scholars say two verses are Madani which are: verse 58 and verse 71.
Why was Surah Al Maryam revealed?
Surah Maryam was revealed to address certain concerns and convey specific messages to the Muslims. Here are the key reasons behind its revelation:
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Allah’s Care for Us: The Surah tells the story of Hazrat Maryam (A.S), who devoted her life to the worship of Allah. It narrates the miraculous birth of Hazrat Isa (A.S) and how Allah guided and supported Maryam during her pregnancy and childbirth.
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Allah’s Signals: It emphasizes that Allah can create signs and bless in unexpected ways, as seen in the way Hazrat Maryam’s pregnancy was explained.
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Rescue from Hard Times: The Surah illustrates that Allah never leaves His followers in difficult circumstances, as shown in the story of Hazrat Zakariya (A.S) and his wife, who were blessed with a child after a long wait.
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Allah is the Greatest: The Surah announces the blessings waiting for humans in Jannah and emphasizes the greatness of Allah.
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Women as Sacred Creatures: The selection of Hazrat Maryam for this noble assessment indicates that women are spiritual creatures of Allah and deserve respect.
In summary, Surah Maryam was revealed to prove the dignity and nobleness of Hazrat Maryam (A.S), to discuss life after death, to emphasize the rewards of being kind to humanity, and to explain the lifestyles of some important Prophets. It serves as a reminder of Allah’s care, the possibility of divine signals, rescue from hard times, the greatness of Allah, and the sacred nature of women.
Asbab Al-Nuzul of Surah Maryam:
Surah Maryam was revealed on several, separate occasions as it is relatively long. In the following paragraphs, we will discuss some of Surah Maryam Asbab al-nuzul.
1. The Late Coming of Angel Jibril
It happened that some people asked the prophet (PBUH) about the story of the cavemen and Dhi-Al-Karnayn (a righteous leader from the past). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) couldn’t reply except with a revelation from Allah (SWT). However, Angel Jibril didn’t descend with the revelation soon and prophet Muhammad (PBUH) waited for him for much time. When the Angel Jibril descended with the revelation.
Allah (SWT) revealed this verse: “[Gabriel said],1 “And we [angels] descend not except by the order of your Lord. To Him belongs that before us and that behind us and what is in between. And never is your Lord forgetful” (Quran 19:64)
2. Obayy Ibn Khalaf Disbelief
Obayy Ibn Khalaf was one of the Meccan polytheists who denied the Day of Judgment and resurrection. He rubbed worn-out bones between his hands and said to his companions in mockery: “Muhammad claims that we will be resurrected after death!”.
Allah (SWT) revealed: “Yet ˹some˺ people ask ˹mockingly˺, “After I die, will I really be raised to life again?” Then He (SWT) replied to them: “Do ˹such˺ people not remember that We created them before when they were nothing?” (Quran 19:66-67)
3. Al-Aas Ibn Wael Disbelief
Al-Aas Ibn-Wael was one of the most hostile disbelievers. He owed a Muslim an amount of money as a loan. Yet, he refused to return the money to the Muslim unless he disbelieves in Muhammad (PBUH).
The Quran narrated that he replied to the Muslims in Mockery that when he will be resurrected, he will have a lot of money and children.
Allah says in the Quran: “Then, have you seen he who disbelieved in Our verses and said, “I will surely be given wealth and children [in the next life]” Allah (SWT) replied saying: “Has he looked into the unseen or has he taken from the Most Merciful a promise?” (Quran 19:77-78)
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Interesting Facts About Surah Maryam
There are some interesting facts about Surah Maryam we will discuss in the following few paragraphs.
1. Surah Marriam Was Named After Lady Merry
Surah Maryam is the only Surah in the Quran named after a woman. This woman is Maryam the mother of Jesus (PBUH). You may be amazed to know there is no Surah called Jesus while there is a great Surah called Maryam.
This indicates a great mother brings up a great child by the will of Allah (SWT). This also shows the high status of Maryam in Islam, as she was praised in the Quran many times in Surah Al-Imran, Surah Anbyaa, and Surah Al-Tahreem. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said Maryam is one of the greatest women of all time. ( Sahih al-Bukhari 3769)
2. Surah Maryam Was Revealed in Makkah Where No Jews or Christians Existed
Surah Maryam narrates the story of Maryam and Jesus (PBUH) in specific detail. It was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Makkah where no Christians or Jews existed. Moreover, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was illiterate with no knowledge of the previous scriptures or other foreign languages. This is evidence of the divine source of the Quran.
The Surah does not just narrate the story of Maryam, Jesus, and other prophets (PBUT), but it also comments on the false beliefs of Jews and Christians and corrects them.
Surah Maryam Tafseer
Surah Maryam Tafseer is full of beautiful unique stories of prophets and messengers. These stories are fruitful and worth understanding and learning by heart. In this section, we will discuss the tafseer of Surahs by discussing the stories narrated and highlighting their most important aspects.
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The Story of Prophet Zakariya and Yahia in Surah Maryam Verses 1-15
The story of Prophets Zakariya and Yahya is the first story narrated in Surah Maryam. It starts with Zakariya (PBUH) supplicating to Allah (SWT) and performing prayers. He (PBUH) revealed his pain and spoke to Allah of his old age, weakness, and his wife’s sterility. He prayed to Allah in weakness to give him a righteous son who hears him.
Allah (SWT) immediately accepted his prayers and granted him a righteous child. Zakariya felt surprised at the power of Allah when Allah (SWT) told him it is not difficult for Allah as he created him while he was nothing!
The Story of Maryam and ‘Isa’ Jesus (PBUH) in Surah Maryam Verses 16-36
The story of Maryam and Jesus (PBUH) is the most famous one in Surah Maryam. It starts when Maryam took a veil and went away from people. An angel of Allah appeared to her in the figure of a human where she sought refuge from him out of her piety and bashfulness.
The angel reassured her saying he is a messenger of Allah to grant her a righteous child. Maryam felt amazed at how she could bear a child without marriage!
She became pregnant miraculously by the will of Allah (SWT) without any marriage or sexual relationship. When she gave birth to ‘Isa’ Jesus (PBUH), she went to people where they accused her of adultery. Allah (SWT) revealed her innocence and Isa’s miraculous birth by letting him speak as a neonate.
Isa (PBUH) said to them he is the servant of Allah who had given him the book and made him a prophet. Allah (SWT) comments on the story saying that this is Jesus who they claim he is a son of God! Allah (SWT) doesn’t bear children; he is far more glorious and dignified.
The Story of Prophet Abraham in Surah Maryam Verses 41-50
The story of Prophet Abraham (PBUH) is one of the most amazing stories in the Quran. Surah Maryam reveals how he disobeyed his father and refused polytheism and idols to worship Allah (SWT) alone without any partners. However, he was faithful and good to his father and he called him to monotheism in a set of beautiful phrases.
His father refused his call to Islam and threatened to harm him if he continued. Prophet Abraham replied: “peace upon you, I will ask Allah to forgive you”. It is worth mentioning Allah (SWT) then forbade asking forgiveness for polytheists in Surah Al-Mumtahanah.
Allah (SWT) granted prophet Abraham (PBUH) his sons Isaac and then Jacob and they and their descendants became prophets.
The Story of Other Prophets in Surah Maryam Verses 51-58
Allah (SWT) mentioned Prophet Moses, Haroon, Ishmael, and Idris and praised them all. Each of them has a specific virtue and Allah (SWT) chose him for a mighty purpose.
Allah’s Clarification of The True Aqeeda ‘Faith’ In Surah Maryam
Allah (SWT) clarified the true faith people should believe in. He (SWT) replied to those who accused Maryam of adultery (Jews) and those who claimed Jesus as a son of God (Christians).
Allah (SWT) narrated what will happen on the day of judgment and provided clear proof of it as we discussed in Surah Maryam Asbab al-nuzul. Surah Maryam is dedicated to discussing aspects of the Islamic monotheistic Aqeeda as does the rest of the Makki Surahs.
Learn To Memorize Surah Maryam
Learning to memorize Surah Maryam is super easy if you learn its stories by heart. It could be easier to divide the surah into a couple of stories and memorize them one by one. It would also help to read its Tafseer along with listening to the recitation of a sheik.
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