The Prophet’s Lineage and Significance
Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) is one of the revered prophets in Islam, known for his wisdom, devotion, and unique status among the prophets. His lineage traces back to Prophet Adam (Peace be upon him), as he is believed to be the great-grandson of Adam, through the lineage of Seth (Peace be upon him). Although the exact order of his prophethood relative to others is debated, many Islamic scholars, including Ibn Kathir, suggest that he succeeded Prophet Adam’s (Peace be upon him) son, Seth (Sheeth), as a leader and prophet.
The Quran provides us with a glimpse into the life and character of Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him):
- Surah Maryam (19:56-57): “And [mention] Idris in the Book. Indeed, he was a man of truth and a prophet. And We raised him to a high station.”
This verse highlights his elevated status and sincerity, affirming his profound influence and spiritual significance.
However, his prophetic status in Islam is not definitively confirmed. The details of his life come from older scriptures that have been distorted and corrupted. In Islamic tradition, it is allowed to read and learn about his story, provided that the lessons drawn do not contradict the teachings of the Qur’an. Still, we must be careful as it should not be regarded as truths or used on the basis of religious rulings.
What we can say about Prophet Idris (AS) is that he was the forefather of Prophet Nuh (AS). We are told in two separate verses the qualities Prophet Idris (AS) possessed that made his position elevated in the sight of Allah (SWT).
Qur’an Verses that mention Idris (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ):
“And [mention] Ishmael and Idrees and Dhul-Kifl; all were of the patient.”
— (Qur’an 21:85)
“Also mention in the Book the case of Idris: He was a man of truth (and sincerity), (and) a prophet: And We raised him to a lofty station.”
— (Qur’an 19:56-57)
A Man of Wisdom and Knowledge
Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) was known for his physical and intellectual attributes. He was a tall and handsome man, with a robust physique and a calm demeanor. His voice was gentle, and he possessed a deep sense of tranquility. Beyond his appearance, he was renowned for his intellectual curiosity. He contemplated the vast universe created by Allah, including the sky, the earth, the stars, and the clouds.
According to the Tafseer of Maariful Qur’an, Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) was the first to master the art of writing with a pen. His knowledge extended to astrology and mathematics, and he is credited with numerous inventions that benefitted humanity.
Birth and Prophetic Mission
Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) was born during the time of Prophet Adam (Peace be upon him). He was a follower of Sheeth (Peace be upon him) and took on the role of guiding the descendants of Adam after Sheeth’s passing. As a devout servant of Allah, Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) was chosen to be a prophet and a ruler over Adam’s progeny.
With the death of Sheeth (Peace be upon him), the followers of Qabil (Cain) began to stray from the righteous path. Corruption and sin spread rapidly, leading Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) to witness the decline of moral and spiritual values among his people.
The Dawn of a Prophet
As a child, Idris (AS) exhibited an extraordinary blend of intelligence and spirituality. His early years were marked by an insatiable curiosity about the world around him. Unlike other children, who were often content with the simplicity of their surroundings, Idris sought to understand the deeper truths of existence. He was captivated by the natural world—the stars that sparkled in the night sky, the changing seasons, and the intricate balance of life that unfolded before his eyes.
Idris’s (AS) parents, aware of their son’s exceptional nature, provided him with the best education available. His upbringing was a harmonious blend of spiritual training and intellectual development. He learned the sacred scriptures passed down from earlier prophets and immersed himself in the study of the natural sciences. His education was not confined to religious teachings alone but extended to astronomy, mathematics, and ethics. This comprehensive approach equipped Idris (AS) with a unique perspective that would later define his prophetic mission.
As he grew older, Idris’s (AS) wisdom became increasingly apparent. His insights into the natural world were not merely theoretical but practical. He observed the celestial bodies with keen interest, understanding their movements and patterns. His knowledge extended to the principles governing the natural order, reflecting a deep connection between divine wisdom and scientific inquiry. Idris’s (AS) ability to harmonize faith with reason set him apart from his contemporaries and prepared him for the significant role he was destined to play.
In the midst of a world that was gradually drifting away from the path of righteousness, Idris’s (AS) mission began to take shape. The teachings of earlier prophets had started to fade from collective memory, and society was veering towards ignorance and moral decay. It was in this context that Allah chose Idris (AS) to be a prophet, a beacon of divine guidance in a time of spiritual darkness.
The divine call came to Idris (AS) with clarity and purpose. Allah’s message was not merely a call to worship but an invitation to a deeper understanding of existence. Idris (AS) was entrusted with the responsibility of calling his people back to the worship of the one true God and guiding them towards a life of virtue and knowledge. His mission was to bridge the gap between faith and reason, to show that true wisdom comes from recognizing the harmony between the divine and the natural world.
Also read: The Story of Prophet Adam (AS)
Receiving this divine mandate, Idris (AS) embraced his role with unwavering conviction. He understood the challenges that lay ahead—opposition from entrenched leaders, resistance from those who preferred the status quo, and the general inertia of a society moving away from divine guidance. Yet, his resolve was steadfast. He was determined to bring his people back to the path of righteousness, using both his spiritual insight and intellectual prowess.
Idris’s (AS) sermons were characterized by a unique blend of eloquence and profundity. He spoke with authority, drawing upon his extensive knowledge of the natural world and the divine scriptures. His teachings were not just abstract concepts but practical guidelines for living a righteous life. He emphasized the importance of understanding the natural world as a reflection of divine wisdom, advocating for a holistic approach to faith that integrated knowledge and spirituality.
In his public addresses, Idris (AS) challenged the prevailing ignorance and superstitions that had taken root in society. He called for a return to the fundamental truths revealed by earlier prophets and urged his listeners to seek knowledge as a means of drawing closer to God. His message resonated with those who were disillusioned by the moral and spiritual decline around them, and he began to attract a following of individuals eager to embrace a higher understanding of life.
Despite his growing influence, Idris (AS) faced significant opposition. The established leaders of his time, who had built their power on the ignorance and superstitions of the masses, saw Idris’s message as a threat to their authority. They resisted his teachings, attempting to discredit him and undermine his efforts. Yet, Idris (AS) remained resolute, confident in the divine support that guided him.
The challenges Idris (AS) faced were not just external but internal as well. He grappled with the weight of his mission and the responsibility of guiding his people. His faith and intellect were his greatest assets, but they also came with the burden of ensuring that his teachings were both profound and accessible. Idris’s (AS) commitment to his mission was unwavering, and he approached each challenge with a blend of courage, wisdom, and humility.
As Idris (AS) continued his mission, his life became a testament to the power of divine guidance and the integration of faith with reason. His story is a reflection of the enduring human quest for knowledge and righteousness, a journey marked by perseverance in the face of adversity. The dawn of Prophet Idris (AS) was not just the beginning of a new chapter in religious history but a reminder of the timeless quest for understanding and spiritual enlightenment.
The Mission Unfolds
As Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) embarked on his divine mission, the world around him was rife with both promise and peril. His call to return to the worship of the one true God was not just a plea for religious renewal but a profound invitation to rediscover the harmony between faith and reason. In a time when ignorance and moral decay threatened to overshadow divine wisdom, Idris’s (AS) mission became a beacon of hope for those seeking enlightenment.
The Teachings of a Prophet
Prophet Idris’s (AS) teachings were revolutionary in their approach. He did not merely echo the messages of past prophets but expanded upon them, integrating his deep understanding of the natural world with divine revelations. His sermons were known for their clarity and depth, blending theological insights with scientific observations. Idris (AS) emphasized that the natural world was a manifestation of divine wisdom, and understanding it was a means of drawing closer to God.
His teachings covered a wide range of topics, from the principles of natural science to the ethical guidelines for personal conduct. Idris (AS) explained how the natural phenomena—such as the movements of celestial bodies, the cycles of the seasons, and the processes of life—were all part of a grand divine design. He urged his followers to study these phenomena not only to appreciate their beauty but to understand the divine wisdom behind them.
One of the most significant aspects of Idris’s (AS) teachings was his emphasis on the importance of knowledge. He believed that true faith was not blind but based on understanding and insight. Idris (AS) encouraged his followers to seek knowledge as a means of strengthening their faith and improving their lives. This approach was in stark contrast to the prevailing ignorance and superstition of his time, which often hindered intellectual and spiritual growth.
Idris’s (AS) teachings also included practical advice on how to live a righteous life. He stressed the importance of honesty, integrity, and compassion in personal and social interactions. His ethical guidelines were grounded in both divine commandments and rational principles, making them accessible and relevant to his followers. Idris’s (AS) message was clear: a righteous life was one that harmonized faith with reason, spirituality with practical conduct.
The Opposition and Trials
Despite the clarity and depth of Idris’s (AS) message, his mission was met with significant resistance. The entrenched leaders and powerful figures of his time saw his teachings as a threat to their authority and influence. They had built their status on the ignorance and superstitions of the masses and feared that Idris’s (AS) message would undermine their control.
The opposition to Idris’s (AS) teachings was multifaceted. Some leaders attempted to discredit him through misinformation and false accusations. They spread rumors and sowed discord among his followers, hoping to diminish his influence and undermine his credibility. Others resorted to more direct methods of resistance, attempting to silence Idris (AS) through intimidation and coercion.
Idris (AS) faced these challenges with unwavering resolve. His faith and conviction provided him with the strength to continue his mission despite the obstacles. He remained steadfast in his commitment to spreading divine wisdom and guiding his people. Idris’s (AS) perseverance in the face of adversity became a testament to the power of faith and the resilience of those who are guided by divine purpose.
The trials faced by Idris (AS) were not merely external but internal as well. As a prophet, he carried the immense responsibility of guiding his people and ensuring that his message was conveyed accurately and effectively. This burden was compounded by the personal sacrifices he had to make, including the emotional toll of facing opposition and the challenges of maintaining his own spiritual focus amid the pressures of his mission.
Building a Community of Believers
Despite the opposition, Prophet Idris (AS) succeeded in building a community of devoted followers. His teachings resonated with those who were seeking a deeper understanding of life and a return to the worship of the one true God. Idris’s (AS) followers were drawn not only by the clarity of his message but also by the sincerity of his character and the depth of his knowledge.
The community that Idris (AS) built was characterized by a strong sense of unity and purpose. His followers embraced his teachings and sought to apply them in their daily lives. They studied the natural world with a new perspective, seeing it as a reflection of divine wisdom. The community was marked by a renewed commitment to righteousness and a shared dedication to seeking knowledge and understanding.
Idris’s (AS) followers were not just passive recipients of his teachings but active participants in the mission. They engaged in discussions and debates, exploring the implications of Idris’s (AS) message and applying it to various aspects of their lives. This dynamic exchange of ideas and experiences contributed to the growth and development of the community.
The impact of Idris’s (AS) teachings extended beyond the immediate community. His message began to influence the broader society, challenging existing norms and encouraging a shift towards greater understanding and righteousness. The seeds of change planted by Idris’s (AS) teachings started to take root, gradually transforming the social and cultural landscape.
The Legacy of Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) and His Ascension
The Prophetic Mission and Its Impact
Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) was blessed with profound wisdom and was chosen by Allah to guide his people in a time of moral and spiritual decline. His mission was not merely to deliver divine messages but to establish a foundation of righteousness and knowledge among his people.
Teaching and Preaching
Prophet Idris’s (AS) teachings were deeply rooted in the worship of one God, the adherence to ethical conduct, and the pursuit of knowledge. His role as a prophet was to remind his people of the importance of monotheism and to guide them towards a path of righteousness. He emphasized the importance of justice, integrity, and compassion.
The Quran highlights the significance of Prophet Idris’s (AS) role in guiding his people:
- Surah Maryam (19:56-57): “And mention in the Book, Idris (AS). Indeed, he was a man of truth and a prophet. And We raised him to a high station.”
This verse illustrates the truthfulness and elevated status of Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him), affirming his high standing among the prophets.
Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) was also known for his profound knowledge and wisdom. He is credited with various scientific and practical advancements. According to Hadith, he was one of the first to study astronomy and mathematics. This knowledge was considered a form of divine blessing and was instrumental in the development of his people.
Ascension to the Heavens
Prophet Idris’s (AS) life took a unique turn when Allah decided to elevate him to the heavens. His ascension is mentioned in the Quran as a reward for his steadfastness and devotion. The account of his ascension is significant as it marks a unique aspect of his prophetic journey.
The Significance of His Ascension
Prophet Idris’s (AS) ascension is not just a remarkable event in his life but also a symbol of the spiritual reward for those who remain steadfast in their faith and good deeds. His ascension serves as an inspiration for believers, demonstrating that the path of righteousness and knowledge leads to ultimate divine reward.
Impact on His People and Legacy
Prophet Idris’s (AS) teachings and legacy had a lasting impact on his people. His emphasis on knowledge, justice, and piety left a profound imprint on the societies that followed. His contributions to various fields of knowledge, such as astronomy and mathematics, were revered and studied by later generations.
Lessons from the Life of Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him)
The story of Prophet Idris (Peace be upon him) offers numerous lessons for believers. His dedication to worship, his thirst for knowledge, and his unwavering faith in Allah are qualities that every Muslim should strive to emulate.
The Power of Worship: Idris was known for his devotion to worship. His life serves as a reminder of the power of worship in strengthening our connection with Allah and receiving His guidance.
The Importance of Knowledge: Idris was the first to write with a pen, emphasizing the value of knowledge and learning. In Islam, seeking knowledge is a duty, and Idris’s example highlights how knowledge can be a means of drawing closer to Allah.
Perseverance in Faith: Despite the challenges he faced, Idris remained committed to his mission. His life teaches us the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity, especially when it comes to upholding our faith.
The Reward for Righteousness: Idris’s ascension to the heavens is a reminder that Allah rewards those who are steadfast in their faith. His elevated status in the hereafter is a testament to the rewards of living a life devoted to Allah.
Trust in Allah’s Plan: Idris’s life and ascension demonstrate the importance of trusting in Allah’s plan. Even when faced with difficulties, Idris remained patient and trusted that Allah would guide him through.
