Prophet Zakariya (pbuh)

The Story of the Prophet Zakariya (pbuh)

Zakariya (pbuh) was a Prophet amongst Banu Israel. He worked as a carpenter and earned his livelihood for his family. His wife was al-Yashbi' who belonged to the family of Prophet Harun (pbuh).

They were the symbols of piety and righteousness. He was also the caretaker of Maryam (pbuh), the mother of Prophet 'Isa (pbuh). Maryam (pbuh) was the niece of his wife. Maryam (pbuh)'s mother had taken a vow during her pregnancy. She dedicating her unborn child in the service of Bait-ul Muqqadas. When Maryam (pbuh) was born she was given to her uncle, Zakariya (pbuh). Zakariya (pbuh) was also in charge of the rituals of worship as well as the upkeep of Bait-ul Muqqadas. When Maryam (pbuh) grew older, he allotted her a room inside the Mosque so that she could carry out her duties at all times.

As Zakariya (pbuh) grew older, he longed for an heir. His longing was not to satisfy his desire for a mere child. He wanted to have a son to maintain the religious activities. One night Zakariya (pbuh) stood in prayer. Praying for Allah to bless him with a good son. He knew that he was too old and his wife was barren and unable to raise a child, but he had full faith in Allah.

Allah revealed to Zakariya (pbuh) that he would have a son. His son would be a great Prophet and a leader, an example to all of mankind. He was to name his son, Yahya (pbuh). Never before him was there a person with this name. He would affirm the innocence of Maryam (pbuh). Shortly after the revelation Allah gave Zakariya (pbuh) his son, under the condition that he would be incapable of verbal communication with any one for a period of three days. Soon afterwards he had the son whom he named Yahya (pbuh), according to the Will of Allah.

Zakariya (pbuh) continued preaching the religion of Allah even in old age. The Israelites not only ignored the teachings of Zakariya (pbuh) but tortured him also. The Prophet Zakariya (pbuh) was put to death by the Israelites. Zakariya (pbuh) had taken shelter in a tree and the Jews began to saw that part of the tree. The Prophet Zakariya (pbuh) did not even sound a single cry as his body was cut into two pieces. May peace be upon Zakariya.