Which prophet was entrusted with the care of Maryam?

Zakariyya was the prophet entrusted with the care of Maryam. In Islamic tradition, Zakariyya (Zechariah) became Maryam’s guardian after she was dedicated to worship and placed under the care of the sanctuary.

The Qur’an describes Maryam being raised in a good manner and placed under Zakariyya’s guardianship. Whenever he entered her chamber, he found provisions with her, prompting him to ask where they came from. She answered that they came from God. This scene emphasizes Maryam’s piety and Zakariyya’s recognition of her exceptional spiritual status.

Zakariyya is also important because he was the father of Yahya, known in the Bible as John the Baptist. His concern for Maryam’s devotion and the miraculous provisions he witnessed helped frame his own prayer for a righteous heir despite his old age. God answered that prayer with the birth of Yahya.

Readers sometimes confuse Zakariyya with Yahya because they are father and son, or with Isa, who was Maryam’s son. The key relationship is guardian and ward: Zakariyya cared for Maryam before the birth of Isa.