Surah Maryam: Introduction
| Taught By Sh. Abdul Nasir Jangda
Bismillah
Allahuma Sali’Ala Muhammad
Background information pertaining to the Surah
- As soon as the message of Islam went public, the response was met with resentment and hostility. In this period of oppression and torture, the down trodden people of society (i.e, slaves, poor etc) did not have protection of a tribe or money by means of which they could get help.
- These Muslims took their need and situation to the Prophet (SAW). In one narration, Khabbab R.A complains saying, ‘When will the help of Allah (SWT) arrive?’ ‘When will we be saved from this situation?’ The Prophet (SAW) reprimands khabbab stating, “there were people before you who for the sake of their Emaan were skinned alive with iron combs..an axe would be placed on top of their head and they would be chopped in two and be burned alive. They endured through it all, so you have to be patient”.
- Although the prophet (SAW) encouraged these Muslims to be patient, he also understood their situation and thus decided for them to move to Abyssinia (Habasha). He hoped they would be welcomed there and be able to live peacefully.
- The first group that departed to Abyssinia consisted of eight men and three women. Some narrations state it was eleven men and three women.
- When the Quraysh came to know about their departure, they chased after them but they had already left before they could get to them.
- A council and convey which consisted of Amr Ibn Al as (who at the time was not Muslim) was appointed to go to the King of Abyssinia and convince him to hand over the runaway Muslims to them.
- The story is as follows:
“The Makkans sent two of their top people, Amr bin Al-as and Abdullah bin Abi Rabia, who took expensive gifts with them. They wanted to dazzle and bribe the Negus so that he would release these Muslims. The two Makkan envoys travelled to Abyssinia and spoke to the Negus. They explained that these Muslims had left the religion of their forefathers and they asked Negus to return them to the Makkans.
The king summoned the Muslims to the court and asked them to explain the teachings of their religion The Muslims were not scared of anything, they had the truth and they would stand by the truth. Ja‘far bin Abi Talib stood up and explained to the Negus about the situation of the Arabs before the divine guidance came from Allah. He said that in the past, they had been acting out of ignorance by worshipping Idols and carrying out many bad actions. They had neglected their responsibilities to their fellow man, neighbour and orphans. They had complete forsaken justice, compassion and charity. They had forgotten all the good characteristics of a human being such as truth, honesty and piety. They had neglected all forms of justice and the strongest oppressed and ruled over the weak.
Jafar then explained to the Negus about the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his pure message which invited mankind to worship only Allah and to leave all forms of idol worship. The Prophet (PBUH) had encouraged them to always speak the truth; to be faithful to their trusts and promises; to be merciful and just in their dealings with others and to respect the rights of their fellow human beings. The Prophet (pbuh) had also forbade them to speak evil of women and ordered them to look after the welfare of the orphans. He further explained that the prophet (pbuh) had ordered them to keep away from all evil acts and instead offer prayers, give charity, and to observe fasting.
Jafar told the Negus they had accepted this noble person as the Prophet of Allah and had followed his teachings. It was for this reason the Makkans had attacked and persecuted them and it was for this reason the Muslims had left Makkah. The Negus was satisfied with their answers.
The two envoys decided on a new plan. They went to the Negus saying that Muslims spoke ill of Jesus. The Negus called the Muslims and questioned them regarding what their religion said about Jesus. Jafar recited some verses of the Qu’ran from Surah Maryam, which teaches us about the miraculous birth of Jesus and the status of Jesus in Islam. The Negus was again impressed and was moved to tears that rolled down his cheeks. He knew in his heart that this was indeed the truth and was moved by the beautiful verses of the Qu’ran
The Negus exclaimed: “It seems as if these words and those which were revealed to Jesus are the rays of light which have radiated from the same source.” He then turned to the two envoys from Makkah and told them to leave; the Muslims could stay in Abyssinia as long as they wished. The gifts were returned to the two envoys and they were told to return to Makkah.” [Taken from: http://www.musalla.org/articles/Hijra_to_Abyssinia_(Ethiopia)34.html]
- This incident took place in the 6th year of Prophethood. Scholars observing this incident state that Surah Maryam was revealed during the 4thyear of Prophethood because for them to have recited passages from Surah Maryam in front of the Ruler showcases that it must have been revealed prior to their migration.
Objectives of Surah Maryam
- This Surah was a parting gift and provision for Muslims who were departing to the land of Christians.
- This tells us that the Qur’an is the ultimate provision for people in all situations and circumstances.
- Thus, it was revealed in the most perfect time.
- Furthermore, there is a clear consistency in Surah Maryam. You can split the Surah into 3 sections:
1) The first section speaks of Zakarriya (a.s) and the miraculous birth of his son Yahya (a.s) It also talks about the ultimate miracle of the birth of Esa (a.s)
2) The second section speaks of Ibraheem (a.s)
3) The third section gives a stern message to the Idolaters of Makkah.
- This is a beautiful layout. Why? Because, it first talks about Christians and last about mushrikoon but the consistency and segway is found in the middle. What’s the connection? Ibraheem (a.s). Even the Mushrikoon of Makkah held Ibraheem (a.s) in a high regard. They perceived him to be a man of great virtue and felt affinity towards him.
- Thus, Allah (SWT) is not only connecting the message buy by means of this (passages) stating that the message is universal.
- Additionally, the Surah mentions many prophets and tells that they preached tawheed, enjoined salah, zakah, and being good to parents. These are universal values. Through this, the Qur’an is sending a subtle message that the Prophet (SAW)’s message is not something out of the norm. It’s not radical nor does it go against the grain, so to speak, rather his message is consistent with the message sent throughout time to all the Prophets of every scripture.
- Another important objective of Surah Maryam is the importance of teaching the deen to one’s own children.
- Our concern is to pass the deen unto others so it carries on. The ultimate way to achieve that is through one’s own children.
- Investing into one’s own children is the best way to ensure the continuation of the deen.
- Just like we ensure protection, financial well being, good manners, social status and education, we should also invest in the deen for our children.
- In the beginning ayats, for example, Zakariyya (a.s) doesn’t just ask for a child but asks Allah (SWT) to make that child pleasing to Him (SWT). By doing so, he emphasizes the spiritual aspect of the child.
- We also find Isa (a.s) was taught tarbiya from his mother Maryam (a.s) who was an exceptional woman.
- This can also go in reverse as in the case of Ibraheem (a.s). A pious child is advising the parent in a respectful manner. ‘Ya Abbati’ – O My father.
Layout of the Surah
- 1 to 15 – Discusses Zakariyya (a.s) and the Birth of Yahya (a.s); the Miraculous birth of Isa (a.s)
- 16 to 25- Absolves Maryam (a.s) of any slander and blame; mentions here purity and virtue. Not only does it reprimand Slanderers but also those who took the miraculous birth too far. i.e, they declared him to be the son of Allah (Na’aoudbillah) so it refutes these people.
- Next ayah speaks about the Day of Judgment to warn these people that you might believe what you may, but know that you will be held accountable for your views.
- Next 9 to ten ayahs- Talks about Ibraheem (a.s) and his message of truth to his people and father.
- Next Ayahs – Consoling the Prophet (SAW) to be patient and too not be drastically impacted by the situation he’s in and that relief will surely come.
- Next – Harsh and direct message to Quraysh. The Mushrikoon of Makkah had a very distorted understating of the situation they were in. They thought they were in control and power at that time so they would surely be in control and in power in the hereafter as well. These were delusions they had and in these ayahs Allah rebukes them for it.
- Concludes – The surah concludes by consoling the Prophet (SAW) and the believers that the case is in fact opposite and although they are suffering and in misery now they will be in a better situation and will be the winners in the Hereafter.
Placement of Surah in the Mushaf and Consistency
- Many classical mufassiroon and many Sahabas hold the view that the Surahs as they are placed in the Qur’an as we know it today is a divine order.
- The Surah before Maryam is Surah Kahf. Surah Kahf talks about four key stories. It speaks of miraculous events and ones that defy logic. i.e sleeping in cave for 100 years.
- It also speaks of Musa (a.s), Khidr, DhulQarnain and then it goes right into Surah Maryam which states the ultimate Miracle and the most miraculous events on the face of the Earth – The Birth of Isa (a.s) without a father.
- There is a smooth transition from one miracle to another.
- Additionally in the end of Surah Kahf, the Quran states, “Say, “If the ocean were ink for the words of my Lord, the ocean would run out, before the words of my Lord run out, even if we double the ink supply.” “[18:109]
- The word used here is Kalimaat. Kalimat = praises, blessings, glorification. It is inclusive of anything that illustrates the greatness of Allah (SWT).
- Also not just one ocean, but anything that water can fill up. All oceans are included. All would be filled up before the words of Allah run out.
- In connection, Surah Maryam’s key discussion is what? It mentions Maryam (a.s) and the birth of Esa (a.s) and in Surah Al Emraan, Isa (a.s) is referred as Kalimah. Why? Because, he is the sign of the greatness of Allah (SWT).
- Additionally, in Surah Maryam, the beginning ayats state, ‘Abduhu-Zakariyya’. Abd meaning slave. We look at surah Kahf and what does it state, ‘Abdihil Kitaab”. Before that in surah Bani Israel, it states, ‘Asra bi abdihi’, so it’s a consistent theme throughout.
- In Surah Isra – Isra Wal Miraj, the abd is Muhammad (SAW)
- In Surah Kahf- Revelation of Quran, the abd is Muhammad (SAW)
- In Surah Maryam- Miracle of Yahya, the abd is Zakariyya (a.s)
Allahuma Taqabbal Minna Innaka Antas Samee’ul ‘Aleem!
Bismillah
Allahuma Sali’Ala Muhammad
Background information pertaining to the Surah
- As soon as the message of Islam went public, the response was met with resentment and hostility. In this period of oppression and torture, the down trodden people of society (i.e, slaves, poor etc) did not have protection of a tribe or money by means of which they could get help.
- These Muslims took their need and situation to the Prophet (SAW). In one narration, Khabbab R.A complains saying, ‘When will the help of Allah (SWT) arrive?’ ‘When will we be saved from this situation?’ The Prophet (SAW) reprimands khabbab stating, “there were people before you who for the sake of their Emaan were skinned alive with iron combs..an axe would be placed on top of their head and they would be chopped in two and be burned alive. They endured through it all, so you have to be patient”.
- Although the prophet (SAW) encouraged these Muslims to be patient, he also understood their situation and thus decided for them to move to Abyssinia (Habasha). He hoped they would be welcomed there and be able to live peacefully.
- The first group that departed to Abyssinia consisted of eight men and three women. Some narrations state it was eleven men and three women.
- When the Quraysh came to know about their departure, they chased after them but they had already left before they could get to them.
- A council and convey which consisted of Amr Ibn Al as (who at the time was not Muslim) was appointed to go to the King of Abyssinia and convince him to hand over the runaway Muslims to them.
- The story is as follows:
“The Makkans sent two of their top people, Amr bin Al-as and Abdullah bin Abi Rabia, who took expensive gifts with them. They wanted to dazzle and bribe the Negus so that he would release these Muslims. The two Makkan envoys travelled to Abyssinia and spoke to the Negus. They explained that these Muslims had left the religion of their forefathers and they asked Negus to return them to the Makkans.
The king summoned the Muslims to the court and asked them to explain the teachings of their religion The Muslims were not scared of anything, they had the truth and they would stand by the truth. Ja‘far bin Abi Talib stood up and explained to the Negus about the situation of the Arabs before the divine guidance came from Allah. He said that in the past, they had been acting out of ignorance by worshipping Idols and carrying out many bad actions. They had neglected their responsibilities to their fellow man, neighbour and orphans. They had complete forsaken justice, compassion and charity. They had forgotten all the good characteristics of a human being such as truth, honesty and piety. They had neglected all forms of justice and the strongest oppressed and ruled over the weak.
Jafar then explained to the Negus about the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his pure message which invited mankind to worship only Allah and to leave all forms of idol worship. The Prophet (PBUH) had encouraged them to always speak the truth; to be faithful to their trusts and promises; to be merciful and just in their dealings with others and to respect the rights of their fellow human beings. The Prophet (pbuh) had also forbade them to speak evil of women and ordered them to look after the welfare of the orphans. He further explained that the prophet (pbuh) had ordered them to keep away from all evil acts and instead offer prayers, give charity, and to observe fasting.
Jafar told the Negus they had accepted this noble person as the Prophet of Allah and had followed his teachings. It was for this reason the Makkans had attacked and persecuted them and it was for this reason the Muslims had left Makkah. The Negus was satisfied with their answers.
The two envoys decided on a new plan. They went to the Negus saying that Muslims spoke ill of Jesus. The Negus called the Muslims and questioned them regarding what their religion said about Jesus. Jafar recited some verses of the Qu’ran from Surah Maryam, which teaches us about the miraculous birth of Jesus and the status of Jesus in Islam. The Negus was again impressed and was moved to tears that rolled down his cheeks. He knew in his heart that this was indeed the truth and was moved by the beautiful verses of the Qu’ran
The Negus exclaimed: “It seems as if these words and those which were revealed to Jesus are the rays of light which have radiated from the same source.” He then turned to the two envoys from Makkah and told them to leave; the Muslims could stay in Abyssinia as long as they wished. The gifts were returned to the two envoys and they were told to return to Makkah.” [Taken from: http://www.musalla.org/articles/Hijra_to_Abyssinia_(Ethiopia)34.html]
- This incident took place in the 6th year of Prophethood. Scholars observing this incident state that Surah Maryam was revealed during the 4thyear of Prophethood because for them to have recited passages from Surah Maryam in front of the Ruler showcases that it must have been revealed prior to their migration.
Objectives of Surah Maryam
- This Surah was a parting gift and provision for Muslims who were departing to the land of Christians.
- This tells us that the Qur’an is the ultimate provision for people in all situations and circumstances.
- Thus, it was revealed in the most perfect time.
- Furthermore, there is a clear consistency in Surah Maryam. You can split the Surah into 3 sections:
1) The first section speaks of Zakarriya (a.s) and the miraculous birth of his son Yahya (a.s) It also talks about the ultimate miracle of the birth of Esa (a.s)
2) The second section speaks of Ibraheem (a.s)
3) The third section gives a stern message to the Idolaters of Makkah.
- This is a beautiful layout. Why? Because, it first talks about Christians and last about mushrikoon but the consistency and segway is found in the middle. What’s the connection? Ibraheem (a.s). Even the Mushrikoon of Makkah held Ibraheem (a.s) in a high regard. They perceived him to be a man of great virtue and felt affinity towards him.
- Thus, Allah (SWT) is not only connecting the message buy by means of this (passages) stating that the message is universal.
- Additionally, the Surah mentions many prophets and tells that they preached tawheed, enjoined salah, zakah, and being good to parents. These are universal values. Through this, the Qur’an is sending a subtle message that the Prophet (SAW)’s message is not something out of the norm. It’s not radical nor does it go against the grain, so to speak, rather his message is consistent with the message sent throughout time to all the Prophets of every scripture.
- Another important objective of Surah Maryam is the importance of teaching the deen to one’s own children.
- Our concern is to pass the deen unto others so it carries on. The ultimate way to achieve that is through one’s own children.
- Investing into one’s own children is the best way to ensure the continuation of the deen.
- Just like we ensure protection, financial well being, good manners, social status and education, we should also invest in the deen for our children.
- In the beginning ayats, for example, Zakariyya (a.s) doesn’t just ask for a child but asks Allah (SWT) to make that child pleasing to Him (SWT). By doing so, he emphasizes the spiritual aspect of the child.
- We also find Isa (a.s) was taught tarbiya from his mother Maryam (a.s) who was an exceptional woman.
- This can also go in reverse as in the case of Ibraheem (a.s). A pious child is advising the parent in a respectful manner. ‘Ya Abbati’ – O My father.
Layout of the Surah
- 1 to 15 – Discusses Zakariyya (a.s) and the Birth of Yahya (a.s); the Miraculous birth of Isa (a.s)
- 16 to 25- Absolves Maryam (a.s) of any slander and blame; mentions here purity and virtue. Not only does it reprimand Slanderers but also those who took the miraculous birth too far. i.e, they declared him to be the son of Allah (Na’aoudbillah) so it refutes these people.
- Next ayah speaks about the Day of Judgment to warn these people that you might believe what you may, but know that you will be held accountable for your views.
- Next 9 to ten ayahs- Talks about Ibraheem (a.s) and his message of truth to his people and father.
- Next Ayahs – Consoling the Prophet (SAW) to be patient and too not be drastically impacted by the situation he’s in and that relief will surely come.
- Next – Harsh and direct message to Quraysh. The Mushrikoon of Makkah had a very distorted understating of the situation they were in. They thought they were in control and power at that time so they would surely be in control and in power in the hereafter as well. These were delusions they had and in these ayahs Allah rebukes them for it.
- Concludes – The surah concludes by consoling the Prophet (SAW) and the believers that the case is in fact opposite and although they are suffering and in misery now they will be in a better situation and will be the winners in the Hereafter.
Placement of Surah in the Mushaf and Consistency
- Many classical mufassiroon and many Sahabas hold the view that the Surahs as they are placed in the Qur’an as we know it today is a divine order.
- The Surah before Maryam is Surah Kahf. Surah Kahf talks about four key stories. It speaks of miraculous events and ones that defy logic. i.e sleeping in cave for 100 years.
- It also speaks of Musa (a.s), Khidr, DhulQarnain and then it goes right into Surah Maryam which states the ultimate Miracle and the most miraculous events on the face of the Earth – The Birth of Isa (a.s) without a father.
- There is a smooth transition from one miracle to another.
- Additionally in the end of Surah Kahf, the Quran states, “Say, “If the ocean were ink for the words of my Lord, the ocean would run out, before the words of my Lord run out, even if we double the ink supply.” “[18:109]
- The word used here is Kalimaat. Kalimat = praises, blessings, glorification. It is inclusive of anything that illustrates the greatness of Allah (SWT).
- Also not just one ocean, but anything that water can fill up. All oceans are included. All would be filled up before the words of Allah run out.
- In connection, Surah Maryam’s key discussion is what? It mentions Maryam (a.s) and the birth of Esa (a.s) and in Surah Al Emraan, Isa (a.s) is referred as Kalimah. Why? Because, he is the sign of the greatness of Allah (SWT).
- Additionally, in Surah Maryam, the beginning ayats state, ‘Abduhu-Zakariyya’. Abd meaning slave. We look at surah Kahf and what does it state, ‘Abdihil Kitaab”. Before that in surah Bani Israel, it states, ‘Asra bi abdihi’, so it’s a consistent theme throughout.
- In Surah Isra – Isra Wal Miraj, the abd is Muhammad (SAW)
- In Surah Kahf- Revelation of Quran, the abd is Muhammad (SAW)
- In Surah Maryam- Miracle of Yahya, the abd is Zakariyya (a.s)
Allahuma Taqabbal Minna Innaka Antas Samee’ul ‘Aleem!