📜 Basic Information
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Zakariyyā (Zechariah) – عليه السلام |
| Mentioned In | Qur’an: Surah Āli ‘Imrān, Maryam, Al-Anbiyā’ |
| Lineage | From the family of Prophet Dāwūd (AS) |
| Mission | Prophet to the Children of Israel |
| Known For | His devotion, du‘ā’ for a child, and being father to Yaḥyā (John the Baptist) |
🕯️ Zakariyya’s Pious Life
Prophet Zakariyyā (AS) was a righteous man, known for his worship and dedication to Allah. He was also a caretaker of the temple (Bayt al-Maqdis / the sanctuary in Jerusalem), where he served faithfully. He was from a noble lineage and was also a guardian of Maryam (Mary) – عليه السلام when she was a child.
“Every time Zakariyyā entered upon her in the prayer chamber, he found with her provision…”
[Surah Āli ‘Imrān 3:37]
When he saw the miraculous sustenance Maryam received, it strengthened his own faith and inspired him to ask Allah for a child — even though he and his wife were very old and she was barren.
🤲 Zakariyya’s Heartfelt Du‘a’
In a private moment, Zakariyyā (AS) turned to Allah and made this gentle, humble du‘ā’:
“My Lord, indeed my bones have weakened, and my head has filled with white. But never have I been disappointed in my supplication to You, my Lord.”
[Surah Maryam 19:4]
He asked for a righteous son to carry on his mission and continue the call to Allah:
“Grant me from Yourself an heir. Who will inherit from me and inherit from the family of Ya‘qūb. And make him, my Lord, pleasing [to You].”
[Surah Maryam 19:5–6]
👶 The Miracle of Yahya (AS)
Allah answered his du‘ā’ in a miraculous way:
“O Zakariyyā, indeed We give you good news of a boy whose name will be Yaḥyā. We have not assigned to any before [this] name.”
[Surah Maryam 19:7]
Zakariyyā was shocked because of his and his wife’s old age, but Allah assured him:
“It is easy for Me…”
[Surah Maryam 19:9]
He was told to give thanks and was given a sign — that he would not speak to people for three nights, except through gestures, though he would remain in perfect health.
🕌 Zakariyyā’s Devotion Continues
He used those silent days in worship and remembrance of Allah. His gratitude and piety never faded. He raised Yaḥyā (AS) as a pure, obedient, and wise child, dedicated to serving the truth.
🕊️ His Martyrdom (According to Tradition)
Although not mentioned in the Qur’an, some historical and Biblical sources suggest that Zakariyyā (AS) was martyred by those who opposed his teachings. As with many prophets of Banu Isra’il, he faced rejection from corrupt rulers and people who had turned away from divine guidance.
Whether or not this detail is confirmed, the Qur’an honors him as a prophet of high character.
🌱 Lessons from the Life of Zakariyya (AS)
| Lesson | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Du‘ā’ is powerful at any age | Even when things seem impossible, Allah can make a way. |
| Never give up hope in Allah | Zakariyyā kept praying, trusting in Allah’s mercy. |
| Raise children in righteousness | His concern was not for status but for a child who would be pleasing to Allah. |
| Sincere worship brings blessings | His dedication was rewarded with one of the greatest sons in history. |
🏛️ Summary of Prophet Zakariyya (AS)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Role | Prophet to Banu Isra’il |
| Character | Gentle, humble, consistent in worship |
| Miracle | Granted a son (Yaḥyā) in old age |
| Famous Du‘ā’ | “My Lord, do not leave me childless…” |
| Legacy | Father of Yaḥyā (John), and guardian of Maryam |
| Mention in Qur’an | Repeatedly praised in Surah Āli ‘Imrān and Surah Maryam |
Prophet Zakariyyā (AS) is a shining example of hope, trust, and patience. His story is a reminder that Allah hears every whisper of our heart, and that even in the darkest moments, His mercy can shine through in miraculous ways.
