Introduction

Among the noble Prophets mentioned in the Qur’an, Prophet Zakariya (A.S.) stands out for his devotion, humility, and unshakable faith in Allah’s mercy. Despite his old age and his wife’s barrenness, his sincere dua was answered with a miraculous gift the birth of Prophet Yahya (A.S.).

Like Prophet Yunus (A.S.), who found hope in the depths of despair, Zakariya (A.S.) teaches us that when faith is pure and patience unbreakable, no prayer goes unheard by Allah.

A Life of Devotion and Service

Prophet Zakariya (A.S.) was a righteous man from the descendants of Prophet Dawud (A.S.). He served as a caretaker of Bayt al-Maqdis (Jerusalem’s holy sanctuary) and was known for his piety and guidance. His wife was a descendant of Prophet Harun (A.S.) and the aunt of Maryam (A.S.), the mother of Prophet Isa (A.S.).

Zakariya (A.S.) took it upon himself to care for Maryam (A.S.) after her parents passed away. Every time he visited her in her prayer chamber, he found her blessed with food that no one had provided. This constant miracle inspired him to turn to Allah with deep yearning and renewed faith.

The Dua of Prophet Zakariya (A.S.)

Witnessing Maryam’s blessings, Prophet Zakariya (A.S.) raised his hands in sincere supplication and made a heartfelt dua:

رَبِّ لَا تَذَرْنِي فَرْدًا وَأَنتَ خَيْرُ الْوَارِثِينَ
“My Lord, do not leave me alone [without an heir], while You are the best of inheritors.”
 (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:89)

Even though he was old and his wife was barren, Zakariya (A.S.) did not lose hope. His dua reflected his complete trust in Allah’s power to create from nothing. His story reminds us that no situation is ever hopeless when Allah’s mercy is sought with sincerity.

Glad Tidings of Prophet Yahya (A.S.)

Allah, in His infinite wisdom, accepted the prayer of Zakariya (A.S.) and sent the angels to give him the good news of a son Yahya (A.S.), a name that had never been given before.

“O Zakariya, indeed We give you good tidings of a boy whose name will be Yahya.”
(Surah Maryam, 19:7)

Overwhelmed by the miracle, Zakariya (A.S.) asked Allah how it could happen, given his frailty and his wife’s barrenness. Allah replied that such matters are easy for Him, for He creates whatever He wills.

To strengthen his faith, Zakariya (A.S.) was given a sign: he would not be able to speak to people for three days except through gestures. During this time, he praised Allah continuously in silence another lesson in gratitude and patience.

Prophet Zakariya’s Legacy and Example

Prophet Zakariya (A.S.) dedicated his life to worship and service. He embodied humility, obedience, and quiet perseverance. When Yahya (A.S.) was born, he raised him with wisdom and love, guiding him to live as a Prophet devoted to truth.

Sadly, both Zakariya (A.S.) and Yahya (A.S.) later faced opposition from the corrupt rulers of their time. Yet their faith remained steadfast, leaving behind a legacy of courage and righteousness that continues to inspire believers to this day.

Lessons from the Story of Prophet Zakariya (A.S.)

• Never Despair of Allah’s Mercy: Even when all worldly means are gone, Allah’s decree can bring miracles.

• Sincere Dua Changes Destiny: Every heartfelt prayer is heard, even if the answer comes after years.

• Faith and Patience Bring Reward: Zakariya (A.S.) teaches that patience in waiting is a form of worship.

• Trust Allah’s Timing: What seems delayed is often part of a greater divine plan.

• Gratitude in Silence: Remembering Allah quietly, as Zakariya (A.S.) did, nurtures inner peace and faith.

Qur’anic References

• Surah Al-Anbiya (21:89–90): Zakariya’s dua and Allah’s response

• Surah Maryam (19:2–15): The full story of his prayer and the birth of Yahya (A.S.)

• Surah Aal Imran (3:37–41): His care for Maryam and his miraculous glad tidings

Conclusion

The story of Prophet Zakariya (A.S.) is a beautiful reflection of faith, patience, and the power of sincere dua. It teaches us that Allah never forgets the believer who calls upon Him with trust and humility. Even when the world seems silent, Allah listens.

Just as Prophet Yunus (A.S.) was delivered from the depths of the sea through repentance, Prophet Zakariya (A.S.) was blessed in his old age through prayer—showing that Allah’s mercy knows no limits. His story continues to inspire believers to keep faith alive in every stage of life.