Hazrat Yusuf (A.S.): A Prophet of Patience and Wisdom

Introduction

Hazrat Yusuf (A.S.), known as Joseph in the Bible, is one of the most revered prophets in Islam. He was the beloved son of Prophet Ya'qub (A.S.) and a great-grandson of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.). His story is uniquely narrated in a single chapter of the Quran (Surah Yusuf 12), described as "the best of stories."

Yusuf's (A.S.) life exemplifies patience in adversity, moral integrity when tempted, wisdom in leadership, and ultimate forgiveness. His journey from favored son to slave, prisoner to ruler, teaches profound spiritual and practical lessons relevant across time.

Islamic tradition holds that Yusuf (A.S.) was granted exceptional beauty and wisdom. His story contains elements of dreams and their interpretations, tests of character, and divine providence guiding events toward a greater purpose.

The Prophetic Dreams

As a young boy, Yusuf (A.S.) had a remarkable dream where eleven stars, the sun, and the moon were prostrating to him (Surah Yusuf 12:4). When he shared this with his father, Ya'qub (A.S.) recognized it as a divine vision but advised caution in sharing it with his brothers.

This dream foreshadowed Yusuf's future position of honor where even his family would show him respect. Ya'qub (A.S.) understood its significance but feared the jealousy it might provoke among Yusuf's ten older brothers from different mothers.

The Quran mentions that Ya'qub (A.S.) loved Yusuf (A.S.) dearly, which further fueled the brothers' resentment. Some scholars suggest Yusuf (A.S.) may have had additional dreams or signs, but the Quran focuses on this primary vision that set his destiny in motion.

Brothers' Jealousy and the Well

The brothers' jealousy reached a breaking point. They conspired to get rid of Yusuf (A.S.), initially planning to kill him but later deciding to throw him into a deep well (Surah Yusuf 12:8-10). They deceived their father by staining Yusuf's shirt with animal blood, claiming a wolf had devoured him.

Ya'qub (A.S.), though heartbroken, sensed their deception. The Quran describes his profound grief while maintaining remarkable patience (Surah Yusuf 12:18). Meanwhile, a passing caravan discovered Yusuf (A.S.) in the well and took him to Egypt to be sold as a slave.

This traumatic separation lasted many years. Islamic sources differ on Yusuf's age at this time (estimates range from 12 to 17), but agree this began his long test of patience and faith away from his family.

Egypt: Trial and Temptation

In Egypt, Yusuf (A.S.) was purchased by Aziz (a high-ranking official, possibly the treasurer). Recognizing Yusuf's potential, Aziz told his wife to treat him well, as he might benefit them or they might adopt him (Surah Yusuf 12:21).

When Yusuf (A.S.) reached maturity, Aziz's wife (traditionally called Zulaikha) tried to seduce him. The Quran vividly describes this moral test where Yusuf (A.S.) was inclined toward her but saw a clear sign from his Lord that strengthened his resolve (Surah Yusuf 12:24).

When the woman tore Yusuf's shirt from behind as he fled, and they encountered her husband at the door, she falsely accused Yusuf. A witness suggested examining the shirt - if torn from the front, Yusuf was the aggressor; if from behind, she was lying. The evidence proved Yusuf's innocence (Surah Yusuf 12:25-28).

Prison and Dream Interpretation

Despite his innocence, Yusuf (A.S.) was imprisoned to avoid scandal (Surah Yusuf 12:35). In prison, he demonstrated remarkable character - interpreting dreams for two fellow prisoners (a cupbearer and a baker) and calling them to worship Allah alone.

He accurately predicted the cupbearer's release and restoration to service, and the baker's execution (Surah Yusuf 12:36-42). Asking the cupbearer to mention him to the king, Yusuf (A.S.) remained patient when the man forgot, leading to several more years in prison.

This period showcases Yusuf's (A.S.) steadfastness in da'wah (inviting to God) even in adversity. The Quran emphasizes that he never lost hope in divine mercy, exemplifying true tawakkul (reliance on God).

Vindication and Rise to Power

When the Egyptian king had disturbing dreams (seven fat cows eaten by seven lean ones; seven green ears of corn and seven dry ones), the cupbearer finally remembered Yusuf's (A.S.) skill (Surah Yusuf 12:43-49). Summoned from prison, Yusuf interpreted these as seven years of abundance followed by seven of famine.

He proposed a detailed plan: store grain during plentiful years to distribute during scarcity. Impressed by his wisdom, the king appointed him as a high official (some traditions say vizier or treasurer). Yusuf (A.S.) requested control over storehouses, demonstrating both spiritual insight and administrative acumen.

This dramatic reversal - from prisoner to ruler - exemplifies divine justice. The Quran notes that Yusuf (A.S.) asked to be placed in a position of authority because he was "knowledgeable and trustworthy" (Surah Yusuf 12:55), highlighting qualifications for leadership in Islam.

Family Reunion and Forgiveness

When famine struck Canaan, Yusuf's brothers came to Egypt for provisions. Not recognizing him, they bowed before Yusuf (A.S.), fulfilling his childhood dream (Surah Yusuf 12:58-100). After testing their character through several visits (including detaining Benjamin with a "stolen" royal cup), Yusuf (A.S.) revealed his identity.

Rather than seeking revenge, he demonstrated remarkable compassion: "No blame will there be upon you today. Allah will forgive you" (Surah Yusuf 12:92). He asked them to bring his father's shirt to restore his eyesight (lost from crying over Yusuf), and the entire family reunited in Egypt.

This emotional reunion after decades apart shows Yusuf's (A.S.) complete forgiveness and Ya'qub's (A.S.) unwavering faith. The Quran portrays it as divine plan unfolding perfectly, with even the brothers acknowledging their past errors.

Timeless Lessons

Hazrat Yusuf's (A.S.) story offers profound guidance for all times:

• Patience in adversity: From the well to prison, Yusuf (A.S.) demonstrated sabr (patient perseverance) that was ultimately rewarded.
• Moral integrity: He resisted temptation when he could have justified compromise, showing taqwa (God-consciousness) in private and public.
• Wisdom in leadership: His economic planning saved nations, proving that faith and practical governance can coexist.
• Forgiveness: Power didn't corrupt Yusuf (A.S.); he transformed family trauma into reconciliation.
• Divine providence: Every hardship served a greater purpose, teaching tawakkul (trust in God's plan).

The Quran concludes this narrative by calling it "a story of the unseen which We reveal to you" (Surah Yusuf 12:102), affirming its spiritual significance beyond mere history.