🧬 Background and Lineage
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Dhul-Kifl (ذو الكفل) |
| Meaning of Name | “The Possessor of the Kifl” (likely referring to a responsibility or a specific task) |
| Mentioned in | Surah Sad (38), Surah Al-Anbiyya (21) |
| Other Names | Some scholars associate him with the prophet Ezekiel (Uzayr) of the Bible, although this is debated. |
🌟 Role and Mission
Not much is known about the specific details of Dhul-Kifl’s (AS) life, but he is mentioned in the Qur’an in a few verses that praise his patience, integrity, and righteousness. He is believed to have been a just ruler or a prophet who was tasked with administering justice and guiding his people toward faith in Allah.
The Qur’an gives us a brief yet profound glimpse of his character and devotion:
“And [mention] Dhul-Kifl, who was patient. And We took him as an example for the children of Israel.”
[Surah Sad 38:48]
“And We gave him good in this world and the Hereafter, for he was among the righteous.”
[Surah Al-Anbiyya 21:85]
🌿 His Character and Virtue
1. Patience (Ṣabr):
Dhul-Kifl (AS) is primarily praised for his patience. It is said that he endured many hardships and difficulties in his life with great fortitude and remained steadfast in his worship of Allah. His patience made him a role model for others, and he was a source of guidance for the people who faced trials and tribulations.
2. Righteousness and Justice:
Dhul-Kifl (AS) is often depicted as someone who upheld justice and integrity. He was a person who, despite the challenges of his life, continued to guide people toward the right path and uphold moral principles. His fairness in judgment and his strong adherence to justice are the qualities that earned him the respect of his community.
💡 The Mystery of His Mission
Though the Qur’an does not provide many details about the exact nature of Dhul-Kifl’s (AS) prophethood, scholars interpret that:
- He was possibly a judge or leader who was known for his fairness.
- He could have been a prophet sent to guide a specific people, or it is suggested that he might have carried out the responsibilities of earlier prophets, especially after they passed away.
There are also accounts that suggest Dhul-Kifl (AS) might have taken up the responsibilities of other prophets, particularly Prophet Ilyas (Elias) or Prophet Ayyūb (Job), due to his resemblance in handling great responsibility and maintaining patience.
📖 The Reward of Dhul-Kifl (AS)
The Qur’an mentions the reward that Dhul-Kifl (AS) received for his steadfastness, which indicates that he was not only a prophet but a model of piety and righteousness. He was given blessings both in this world and the Hereafter for his devotion and moral integrity.
“And We gave him good in this world and the Hereafter, for he was among the righteous.”
[Surah Al-Anbiyya 21:85]
This suggests that Dhul-Kifl (AS) was rewarded not only for his patience in life but also for his obedience to Allah’s commands and his service to the people.
🌟 Lessons from the Life of Dhul-Kifl (AS)
While the details of Dhul-Kifl’s (AS) life are limited, there are still important lessons that we can derive from his character:
- Patience in the Face of Trials: Dhul-Kifl (AS) teaches us the importance of patience (ṣabr) during times of hardship and adversity. His ability to endure great challenges with faith and perseverance is a virtue that is encouraged for all Muslims.
- Upholding Justice: Dhul-Kifl (AS) is a role model for anyone in a position of authority or leadership. His commitment to justice and fairness reminds us that we must act with integrity, particularly in situations where we are entrusted with the rights of others.
- Righteousness and Integrity: His life shows the significance of being upright and righteous, regardless of the circumstances. He did not compromise on his moral principles, even when faced with adversity.
- Humility: Despite being a person of high virtue and moral strength, Dhul-Kifl (AS) remained humble in his devotion to Allah, which is a key characteristic of every true believer.
🏛️ Summary of Prophet Dhul-Kifl (AS)
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Dhul-Kifl (ذو الكفل) |
| Mentioned in Qur’an | Surah Sad (38) and Al-Anbiyya (21) |
| Known For | Patience, righteousness, justice |
| Main Message | Upholding justice, being patient in trials, and living with integrity |
| Key Lessons | Patience in hardship, justice, steadfastness in worship, righteousness |
| Reward | Blessings in this world and the Hereafter for his steadfastness |
Dhul-Kifl (AS) is a model of patience and justice, even if the specifics of his mission are not fully clear. His story inspires believers to endure trials, live justly, and trust in Allah’s rewards for steadfastness and righteousness.
