Prophet Zakariya (peace be upon him) was a righteous and devout man who worshipped Allah sincerely. He was entrusted with caring for Lady Maryam (Mary, peace be upon her) in her place of worship since she was young. Whenever he visited her, he found good provisions with her for no apparent reason. When he asked her where it came from, she told him it was from Allah, who provides for whoever He wills without limit.

Zakariya marveled at this wondrous provision, and it reminded him that he himself had never been blessed with a child, despite his old age and his wife's frailty. He turned to Allah with a calm, humble prayer, asking to be granted a righteous child who would carry on goodness and worship after him, and who would be a joy to his heart in his old age.

Allah answered Zakariya's prayer and sent angels to give him the good news that Allah would bless him with a son named Yahya, who would be a righteous and blessed prophet. Zakariya was amazed at this wonderful news given his old age, so he asked his Lord for a sign to reassure his heart.

Allah made Zakariya's sign that he would not speak to people for three days except by gesture, even though he had no illness. During those days, he glorified and remembered Allah greatly in his heart, grateful for this tremendous blessing.

After a while, the good news came true, and Zakariya was blessed with his son Yahya (peace be upon him). His heart filled with joy and gratitude to Allah, who never turns away the prayer of His sincere servant, no matter how unlikely it may seem to others.

The story of Prophet Zakariya teaches children never to lose hope in Allah's mercy, and to keep praying with confidence and patience, for Allah is capable of all things no matter how difficult matters may appear.

The Lesson: Never lose hope in Allah's mercy — sincere, continuous prayer opens the doors of answered prayers.