Was there a direct kinship between Prophet Zechariah and Mary, and what does the term 'guarantor' encompass?

Zakariya (peace be upon him) was either the husband of Maryam’s sister or her maternal aunt. It was also said that he was one of her paternal cousins. He took her in, meaning he embraced her and took charge of her affairs and upbringing. He facilitated the means for her acceptance and associated her with the righteous. The rabbis vied for her guardianship after her father’s death, and they cast lots for her, whereupon Zakariya (peace be upon him) won.