Page 239 - Mary: An Exemplary Muslim Woman

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ary was an exalted woman, one
praised by Allah and given the respon-
sibility of bringing the Prophet Jesus
(pbuh) into this world: "Mary, Allah
has chosen you and purified you. He
has chosen you over all other women"
(Surah Al 'Imran: 42). Allah made her a
role model for all future generations.
Allah also revealed the Prophet Jesus' (pbuh) closeness

to Him: "His name is the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, of
high esteem in this world and the Hereafter, and one of
those brought near" (Surah Al 'Imran: 45). With the phrase
"he was pleasing to his Lord" (Surah Maryam: 55), Allah
reveals His pleasure with the Prophet Ishmael (pbuh). He
praises the Prophet Enoch (pbuh) and reveals his high sta-
tus in His Presence: "Mention Enoch in the Book. He was
a true man and a Prophet. We raised him up to a high
place" (Surah Maryam: 56-57). Allah mentions the Prophet
Abraham (pbuh), the Prophet Isaac (pbuh), and the Prophet
Jacob (pbuh) as men of strength, foresight, and superiority:
"In Our eyes, they are among the best of chosen men"