Comprehensive Definition
Zakarīyāʾ (زكرياء), also known as Zacharias, is a revered prophet in Islamic tradition. He appears in the Qur’an as the father of John the Baptist (Yaḥyā), the husband of Hannah’s sister, and the uncle of the Virgin Mary (Maryam). Zakarīyāʾ is celebrated for his devout faith and miraculous story of fathering a son in old age. He regularly visited Mary and witnessed divine miracles, which inspired his own prayers for offspring.
Etymology
The name Zakarīyāʾ is derived from the Hebrew name Zechariah (זְכַרְיָה), which means “Yahweh remembers,” reflecting the themes of remembrance and divine mercy in his narrative.
Background
Zakarīyāʾ’s narrative is presented across various chapters in the Qur’an. His story instills lessons about unwavering faith, the power of prayer, and the miracles granted by God. Zakarīyāʾ’s role as a guardian of Mary, and his witnessing of divine provisions for her, motivate his own plea for a devout successor, resulting in the birth of Yaḥyā under miraculous circumstances.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
- Islamic Tradition: Zakarīyāʾ is prominently featured in the Qur’an and revered as a prophet who exhibited extraordinary faith.
- Christian Tradition: Known as Zechariah, he is similarly viewed in the Christian Bible as the father of John the Baptist.
- Judaic Tradition: In the Hebrew Bible, Zechariah is remembered as a prophet, though distinctions in narrative details exist compared to Islamic and Christian texts.
Similarities: Across these traditions, Zakarīyāʾ (or Zechariah) is associated with piety, the miraculous birth of his son, and his role as a prophet who enjoys a close relationship with God.
Differences: Variations include the specific nature of divine interventions and the details surrounding his son’s prophetic mission.
Synonyms
- Zechariah (alternate spelling in English)
- Zakariya (another transliteration variation)
Antonyms
As a revered prophet, explicit antonyms are not applicable. However, figures in defiance of God’s commandments collectively contrast with Zakarīyāʾ’s piety.
Related Terms with Definitions
- Yaḥyā (يحيى): John the Baptist, Zakarīyāʾ’s son, a prophet known for his asceticism and moral teachings.
- Maryam (مريم): The Virgin Mary, whom Zakarīyāʾ took under his guardianship.
Exciting Facts
- Divine Miracles: Zakarīyāʾ’s supplications led to the miraculous birth of Yaḥyā, despite his and his wife’s advanced age.
- Qur’anic Mention: Zakarīyāʾ is mentioned directly in the Qur’an, attesting to his prophetic mission and his significant role in early Islamic stories of faith.
Quotations from Notable Writers
- “So with goodly acceptance did her Lord accept her… and Zakarīyāʾ reared her…” - The Qur’an, 3:32
Quizzes with Explanations
Suggested Literature and Other Sources for Further Studies:
Books:
- “Stories of the Prophets” by Ibn Kathir
- “Qur’anic Stories: God’s Discovery of His Attributes” by Haleem Hassan
- “Islamic Theology and the Qur’an” by Ilham Hussain
Inspirational Farewell
“Always let faith guide your steps, for in the divine remembrance, extraordinary possibilities unfold.”
- Hakeem ibn Sa’id - October 3, 2023
