The only woman explicitly named in the Quran is Maryam (Mary).
Maryam's Unparalleled Significance in the Quran
Maryam, known in Christianity as Mary, holds a uniquely prominent position within the Islamic holy text. She is the singular woman who is identified by her proper name throughout the Quran. Her high status is further underscored by the Quran itself, which describes her as one of the greatest women of all time.
Her unique mention underscores her profound spiritual significance and extraordinary role in Islamic tradition as the mother of Prophet Isa (Jesus), who is also revered as a prophet in Islam.
Why Maryam is Uniquely Named
While many women play significant roles in the narratives of the Quran, their names are often not explicitly stated. These include:
- The wife of Pharaoh (traditionally identified as Asiya), who adopted Prophet Musa (Moses).
- The Queen of Sheba (traditionally identified as Bilqis), who famously interacted with Prophet Sulaiman (Solomon).
- The wives of various prophets, such as Sarah and Hagar (wives of Prophet Ibrahim), and the wives of Prophet Muhammad, such as Khadijah and Aisha, who are highly revered in Islamic tradition but are not named in the Quran itself.
Maryam's distinction of being the sole woman named highlights her unparalleled spiritual purity, devotion, and her pivotal role in the divine narrative, making her a central figure in Islamic scripture.
