Surah Al-An'am — Verse 85

Word Meanings:

• Zakariyya (Zechariah): A prophet of Allah, the father of Yahya (John the Baptist), known for his devotion and guardianship of Maryam (Mary).
• Yahya (John): The son of Zakariyya, a prophet known for his purity, wisdom, and asceticism.
• Isa (Jesus): The Messiah, son of Maryam, a prophet and messenger of Allah, born miraculously without a father.
• Ilyas (Elijah): A prophet sent to the people of Baalbek, known for his steadfastness in calling to monotheism.
• Al-Salihin (The Righteous): Those who are complete in faith, piety, and good deeds, chosen by Allah for His guidance.

Explanation of the Verse:

In this noble verse, Allah continues to mention the prophets He guided, following the mention of Ibrahim, Ishaq, Ya'qub, Nuh, Dawud, Sulayman, Ayyub, Yusuf, Musa, and Harun. Here, He specifically highlights Zakariyya, his son Yahya, Isa ibn Maryam, and Ilyas—all of whom were granted divine guidance and chosen for prophethood. These noble prophets were from the descendants of Harun ibn Imran, and each of them was among the righteous, meaning they were complete in their devotion to Allah, perfect in their obedience, and exemplary in their moral character.

Zakariyya was a devoted servant who cared for Maryam and supplicated to Allah for a righteous offspring, and Allah granted him Yahya, a pure and chaste prophet. Isa was the Messiah, born of the virgin Maryam, a sign for humanity, who spoke in the cradle and called his people to worship Allah alone. Ilyas was sent to his people to guide them away from idolatry and back to the worship of the One True God. All of them, despite the trials they faced, remained steadfast and were counted among the righteous—those whom Allah loved and honored.

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that righteousness is the highest station a servant can attain. These prophets were not distinguished by wealth, power, or lineage alone, but by their unwavering faith and obedience to Allah. Their lives inspire us to strive for righteousness in our own conduct, knowing that Allah’s guidance is granted to those who sincerely seek it. Let us reflect on their example and ask ourselves: are we among those who strive to be righteous in our words, actions, and intentions? The path of the righteous is open to all who turn to Allah with a sincere heart, for His mercy and guidance encompass those who seek Him. May we all be counted among the righteous on the Day when neither wealth nor children will avail, but only a sound heart brought to Allah.