Is it true that Nabi Zakariyya (‘alayhis salam) was a carpenter?
Answer
Yes. Imam Muslim (rahimahullah) has recorded the following narration:
Sayyiduna Abu Hurayrah (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said:
“Zakariyya was a carpenter”
(Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2379)
‘Allamah Nawawi (rahimahullah) states that this Hadith proves the permissibility of manufacturing/workmanship and that carpentry is not contrary to chivalry. He also states that this Hadith explains the virtue of Zakariyya (‘alayhis salam) for he would eat through earning a livelihood which Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) termed as ‘the best thing a man can eat’.
(Sahih Muslim with commentary of ‘Allamah Nawawi, Hadith: 6112)
And Allah Ta’ala Knows best.
Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala
Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar
Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar