As an expert in religious studies and comparative theology, I have spent considerable time examining the narratives and traditions surrounding key figures in both Christianity and Islam. One such figure is Mary, who holds a significant place in both faiths. The question of the name of Mary's mother is an interesting one, as it touches upon the intersection of religious texts, traditions, and scholarly interpretations.
In Christianity, the name of Mary's mother is commonly known as Saint Anne. Saint Anne is a figure who is venerated within certain Christian denominations, particularly in the Eastern Orthodox Church and among some Catholics. She is often depicted in art and is associated with various feast days, though her existence is not universally accepted among all Christian traditions. The name "Anne" is derived from the Hebrew name "Hannah," which means "grace" or "favor."
In Islamic tradition, the story of Mary (known as Maryam in Arabic) is told in the Quran, and while her father is mentioned, her mother's name is not explicitly stated. However, there are scholarly discussions and historical accounts that attempt to fill in this gap. According to al-Tabari, a prominent historian and scholar of Islam, Mary's mother is named Hannah, which aligns with the Christian tradition of Saint Anne. This connection suggests a continuity between the two faiths in terms of the lineage of Mary.
It is important to note that the Quran does not provide a detailed account of Mary's life before her miraculous conception of Jesus (known as Isa in Islam). The focus in the Quranic narrative is on Mary's piety, her seclusion in the temple, and her immaculate conception of Jesus. The Quranic story emphasizes Mary's role as a chosen servant of God and the mother of a prophet, rather than providing a comprehensive biography.
The naming of Mary's mother as Hannah in Islamic tradition, as per al-Tabari, is significant because it shows a convergence with the Christian tradition. This is not uncommon, as both religions share many commonalities, including a belief in the same prophets and a shared reverence for Mary. However, it is also important to recognize that there are differences in the way each faith approaches the figure of Mary and her family.
In conclusion, while the Quran does not explicitly name Mary's mother, scholarly works and historical accounts within Islamic tradition, such as those by al-Tabari, suggest that her name is Hannah, which is the same as Saint Anne in Christian tradition. This provides an interesting point of connection between the two faiths and offers a deeper understanding of the shared heritage and respect for Mary as a figure of spiritual significance.
read more >>

Saint AnneThe birth of Mary is narrated in the Quran with references to her father as well as her mother. Mary's father is called Imran. He is the equivalent of Joachim in Christian tradition. Her mother, according to al-Tabari, is called Hannah, which is the same name as in Christian tradition (Saint Anne).read more >>