1. Quranic Perspective on Bibi Maryam Session One - Sura Aale Imran, 3:42-43 3:42-43 Questions for Reflection 1)What aspects of the spirituality of Maryam (a) are mentioned in these verses? 2)How has she been chosen over other women? 3)How would you define Spirituality?

2. Points to Ponder Talking with angels Repetition of the word اِصْطَفىكِ Difference between the two verses -42: three positions -43: three responsibilities Importance of the group مَعَ الرَّاكِعِيْنَ

3. Maryam (a) Mentioned 34 times in the Quran A sign of Allah An example for believing women Revered as a spiritual mother figure Compared to Bibi Fatima (a)

4. Outstanding Qualities of Maryam (a) -Chastity, 66: 11-12 Obedience, 66:12 -Truthfulness, 5:75 -Being purified by God, 3:42 (same ) -Being chosen by God above all women, -Being addressed by angels, 3:42 -Receiving food from God, 3:37 -Giving birth to Isa (a), 19:16-34 From: Mary, Jesus, and Christianity, An Islamic Perspective, By DR. Shomali

5. In the Bible Mathew 1 – announcement to Joseph Luke 1 – announcement to Mary Luke 1 – meeting of Mary with Elizabeth Luke 2 – Birth of Jesus Luke 1:27: Hail Mary, Full of Grace, the Lord is with thee! Blessed art thou among women!

6. What is Spirituality? An inner reality Spirituality = Connectedness To God, To People, To the Self, To Nature Spiritual Practices develop Spirituality