The Story of Prophet Idris (AS)

Long ago, in a time shrouded in the mists of history, there lived a man of unparalleled wisdom, devotion, and virtue for his time. His name was Idris (AS), a prophet sent by Allah to guide humanity. Idris (AS) is revered in Islam as a man of truth and sincerity, and his life offers valuable lessons of perseverance, knowledge, and faith.

Idris (AS) in the Quran

The Quran mentions Idris (AS) in two verses, highlighting his status as a prophet and a man of righteousness. Allah says: "And mention Idris in the Book. Indeed, he was a man of truth and a prophet. And We raised him to a high station." (Surah Maryam, 19:56-57) This high station granted to Idris (AS) is interpreted by scholars as either a place in Paradise or a figurative reference to his elevated spiritual status. Additionally, Allah praises Idris (AS) in another verse: "And Ishmael, Idris, and Dhul-Kifl; all were of the patient. And We admitted them into Our mercy. Indeed, they were of the righteous." (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:85-86) These verses paint a picture of a man beloved by Allah, known for his patience and righteousness. But what do we know about his life beyond these verses?

His Lineage and Time

According to Islamic tradition, Idris (AS) was born in Babylon, in present-day Iraq, a few generations after Prophet Adam (AS). He was the great-grandson of Adam (AS) through the lineage of Seth (AS). Historical accounts place him as one of the early prophets sent by Allah, living during an era when humanity had begun to stray from the straight path. The name Idris is believed to derive from the Arabic root d-r-s, meaning "to study" or "to learn." True to his name, Idris (AS) was known for his love of knowledge and wisdom. It is said that he was the first person to write with a pen and to study astronomy, mathematics, and other sciences. Ibn Kathir, in his book Stories of the Prophets, notes that Idris (AS) was the first prophet after Adam (AS) to receive prophethood and the responsibility of guiding humanity.

The Character of Idris (AS)

Idris (AS) was known for his devotion to worship. It is said he divided his time into two parts: one for worshiping Allah and the other for imparting knowledge to his people. His days were filled with prayer, fasting, and reflection, and his nights were dedicated to pondering the creation of Allah. He preached the oneness of Allah and warned his people against idolatry and immorality. Many of his followers heeded his message, but there were also those who rejected him. Despite the challenges, Idris (AS) remained steadfast, relying on Allah for strength.

The Invention of Writing and Other Contributions

Islamic tradition attributes several firsts to Idris (AS). He is believed to have been the first person to write with a pen, a gift of immense importance in the spread of knowledge and civilization. Ibn Kathir mentions: "He was the first to write with a pen. He was born during the lifetime of Adam, and his father was Yared, or Jared, and his mother was Baraka. He was the first to invent the art of sewing and tailoring and wore sewn clothes. He was the first to look at the movements of the stars and deduce the course of action from them." His contributions to tailoring were symbolic, as they reflected his ability to transform raw materials into something useful and beautiful. This invention is a metaphor for his role as a prophet—shaping and guiding his people towards the path of righteousness.

Idris (AS) and the Angel

One of the most remarkable events in the story of Idris (AS) is his ascension to the heavens, an honor given to him by Allah. The story, as narrated in tafsir, begins with a conversation between Idris and the Angel of Death. Idris (AS) had been informed by Allah of the immense reward for his good deeds. Filled with gratitude, he asked Allah to allow him to live longer so that he could continue worshiping and earning reward. According to one narration, Idris (AS) requested the Angel of Death to take him to the heavens to speak with the angels and extend his lifespan. The Angel of Death agreed and carried Idris (AS) to the heavens. Upon reaching the fourth heaven, they encountered the Angel of Paradise, who conveyed Allah’s message: "Indeed, We have already decreed your death, and it shall occur here." Thus, Idris (AS) passed away in the heavens, and his soul was raised to an exalted station. This story is supported by the Quran, where Allah says: "And We raised him to a high station." (Surah Maryam, 19:57)

Lessons from the Life of Idris (AS)

Pursuit of Knowledge Idris (AS) exemplified the value of seeking knowledge. His contributions to writing, astronomy, and tailoring remind us of the importance of intellectual and practical pursuits in improving ourselves and our communities. Steadfastness in Faith Despite facing opposition, Idris (AS) never wavered in his mission. His patience and reliance on Allah are examples for all believers. Worship and Devotion Idris (AS) balanced his life between worship and guiding his people, showing the importance of dedicating time to Allah while fulfilling our responsibilities to others. The story of Prophet Idris (AS) is a testament to the virtues of knowledge, devotion, and perseverance. His life offers timeless lessons for those who seek to follow the straight path and contribute positively to the world. Allah raised him to a high station, and his legacy endures as an example for all believers. As Allah says in the Quran: "And We admitted them into Our mercy. Indeed, they were of the righteous." (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:86) May we strive to embody the qualities of patience, righteousness, and devotion exemplified by Prophet Idris (AS) and all the prophets who came to guide humanity.