Surah al-Anbiya' (The Prophets ) 21 : 85

Explanatory Note

The sūrah then refers very briefly to three other prophets. Again with all three the quality of patience in adversity is highlighted. Ishmael showed his patience when he was required to submit himself for sacrifice, and he duly did so, saying to his father, Abraham: “Father, do as you are bidden. You will find me, if God so wills, among those who are patient in adversity.” (37: 102)

As for Idrīs, as we noted earlier, we know nothing about his time or where he lived. Some people suggest that he was Osiris, whom the Egyptians worshipped after his death and invented some legends concerning him. He is said to have been the first teacher of mankind, from whom farming and industry were learned. But we have no evidence to support this. We need only know that he was patient in some good way that merits a record in God’s book.

Dhu’l-Kifl is also unknown: we cannot determine when or where he lived. Perhaps he was one of the Israelite prophets, or among their most pious and God- fearing people. It is also said that before one of their prophets died, he guaranteed that he would take care of the Children of Israel, giving a warrant that he would spend the night in worship, fast during the day and not allow anger to take hold of him when he ruled in a dispute. He honoured all his commitments. It is said that he was called Dhu’l-Kifl because of this, since his name refers to such practices. But none of these details is supported by evidence. The Qur’ānic text here is sufficient to credit him with being patient in adversity, a highly rewarding quality.