Islamic knowledge

Chapter 19/ Al Mariyam

Miraculous birth of Jesus summarized from Quranic chapter Mariyam

Audio link

https://notebooklm.google.com/notebook/0306a53c-46b1-4b6d-9bba-cc72e12f07d4/audio

Mesmerizing recitation and translation of the chapter:

https://surahquran.com/sorah-english-19.html

Surah Maryam (Chapter 19) in Tafheem-ul-Quran by Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi is a Meccan surah emphasizing Allah’s mercy, monotheism (Tawhid), prophethood, and the Hereafter. Below is a summary based on its key themes and narratives:

  1. Story of Prophet Zechariah (Zakariya) and John (Yahya) (Verses 1-15):
    Zechariah, an elderly prophet, prays for a righteous heir despite his and his wife’s old age and barrenness. Allah grants his supplication, promising a son, Yahya (John the Baptist), who will be pious and a prophet. As a sign, Zechariah is rendered speechless for three days but communicates through gestures. This narrative highlights Allah’s power to perform miracles and His mercy in answering prayers.
  2. Story of Mary (Maryam) and Jesus (Isa) (Verses 16-34):
    Mary, a chaste virgin, is chosen by Allah to give birth to Jesus miraculously without a father. She withdraws to a secluded place, where Angel Gabriel informs her of Allah’s decree. After giving birth under a palm tree, she faces societal accusations but is defended by the infant Jesus, who speaks miraculously, proclaiming his prophethood and devotion to Allah. This underscores the miraculous nature of Jesus’ birth and his role as a prophet, refuting claims of divinity while affirming monotheism.
  3. Mention of Other Prophets (Verses 35-58):
    The surah briefly recounts the stories of prophets like Abraham, Moses, Aaron, Ishmael, and Idris, emphasizing their righteousness, devotion to Allah, and role in guiding their people. Abraham’s dialogue with his father against idol-worship highlights the importance of Tawhid. These narratives connect the prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH) to the Abrahamic tradition, reinforcing Islam’s monotheistic roots.
  4. Condemnation of Disbelief and False Beliefs (Verses 59-82):
    The surah criticizes those who deviated from the path of the prophets, including sects among Jews and Christians who ascribed partners to Allah (e.g., claiming Jesus as God’s son). It warns of the consequences of disbelief and polytheism, stressing accountability in the Hereafter. The Day of Judgment is described, where the righteous will be rewarded, and the wicked will face regret.
  5. Exhortation to Monotheism and the Hereafter (Verses 83-98):
    The surah concludes by affirming Allah’s oneness and refuting the idea of Him having offspring. It warns disbelievers of Satan’s deception and emphasizes the inevitability of resurrection and judgment. Believers are encouraged to remain steadfast in worship and trust in Allah’s promise of victory for the truth. The surah also consoles the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) against the rejection of the Quraysh, reminding him of Allah’s support for earlier prophets.

Central Themes:

  • Allah’s Mercy and Power: Miraculous births (Yahya and Isa) demonstrate Allah’s ability to create beyond human limitations.
  • Monotheism (Tawhid): The surah refutes polytheistic beliefs, particularly about Jesus, and emphasizes worship of Allah alone.
  • Prophethood: It connects the missions of various prophets, affirming their shared message of submission to Allah.
  • Hereafter: The reality of resurrection, judgment, and accountability is a recurring theme, urging righteousness.
  • Consolation for the Prophet: The surah reassures Muhammad (PBUH) that, like earlier prophets, he will prevail despite opposition.

This summary draws from Tafheem-ul-Quran’s orthodox-modernist interpretation, which contextualizes the surah’s narratives within broader Islamic theology and history. For further details, refer to Maududi’s commentary on Tafheem-ul-Quran (available in English at englishtafsir.com).