Stories of the Prophets
"Never did We send a messenger or a prophet before you but when he desired, Satan cast suggestions into his desire; but Allah abolishes what Satan casts, then Allah establishes His revelations, and Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise."
— Surah Al-Hajj (22:52)
The Quran mentions 25 prophets by name, each carrying the message of monotheism to their respective communities, with unique trials and triumphs. Explore their stories in chronological order.
Adam (Nabi)آدم
Father of Mankind
Summary
The first human created by Allah, father of humanity, and the first prophet. His story includes creation, life in Paradise, his fall after being tempted by Shaytan (Satan), and his role as the first prophet on Earth.
Story
Allah created Adam with His hands from clay, and breathed into him His spirit. Adam was taught the names of all things and was honored with prostration from the angels, except Iblis (Satan) who refused out of pride. Adam and his wife Hawwa (Eve) lived in Paradise until Shaytan deceived them into eating from the forbidden tree. Upon their repentance, Allah taught Adam words of supplication and forgave them, but decreed they would live on Earth. Adam received revelation and taught his children about Allah, establishing the first human society based on divine guidance. He lived for approximately 1,000 years according to Islamic tradition.
Quranic References
Mentioned in many places including Surah Al-Baqarah 2:30-39, Al-A'raf 7:11-25
Lessons & Wisdom
The importance of repentance, human susceptibility to error despite high status, and Allah's mercy in guiding and forgiving His creation. Adam's story teaches humility, the dangers of pride (as shown by Iblis), and the honor bestowed on humans as Allah's vicegerents on Earth.
Idris (Nabi)إدريس
The Patient Teacher
Summary
Idris, believed to be Enoch in biblical tradition, lived between the times of Adam and Nuh (Noah). He was known for his wisdom, knowledge of science and mathematics, and his steadfast devotion to Allah.
Story
According to Islamic tradition, Idris was the first person after Adam to be given prophethood. He received thirty scrolls of revelation from Allah. Known for his exceptional piety and intellect, he invented writing and arithmetic, and made significant contributions to astronomy and medicine. The Quran states that Allah raised him to 'a high place,' which some scholars interpret as a reference to his exceptional spiritual status. Others understand it literally, suggesting Allah raised him to the heavens without death. He continued preaching Allah's message until the end of his time on earth.
Quranic References
Mentioned in Surah Maryam 19:56-57, Surah Al-Anbiya 21:85
Lessons & Wisdom
The pursuit of knowledge as a form of worship, combining spiritual devotion with intellectual contribution, and steadfastness in calling people to monotheism even when faced with difficulty.
Nuh (Rasool)نوح
The First Messenger of Strong Will
Summary
Nuh preached for 950 years, enduring mockery and persecution as he called his people to abandon idolatry. When only a few believed, Allah commanded him to build an ark before sending the great flood as punishment for disbelievers.
Story
Nuh was sent to his people at a time when they had abandoned the pure monotheism of Adam and turned to idol worship. For 950 years, he patiently called them to worship Allah alone, but was met with ridicule and rejection. Only a small number believed in his message. After exhausting all efforts to guide his people, Nuh prayed to Allah, who commanded him to build an ark. Allah revealed that a great flood would come to cleanse the earth of disbelievers. Nuh constructed the ark with divine guidance, and when the flood came, he boarded it with the believers and a pair of each animal. Even his own son refused to join, choosing to seek refuge on a mountain, and was among those who drowned. The waters eventually receded, and the ark settled on Mount Judi. Nuh and the believers then established a new community of monotheists.
Quranic References
His story appears in several chapters, particularly Surah Nuh (71) and Surah Hud 11:25-49
Lessons & Wisdom
Exemplary patience and persistence in the face of extraordinary hardship, the consequences of persistent disbelief and mockery of divine messages, and the saving power of faith during times of catastrophe. The story also teaches about Allah's mercy alongside His justice.
Hud (Rasool)هود
The Noble Caller
Summary
Hud was sent to the mighty tribe of 'Ad in southern Arabia, who were known for their impressive buildings and physical strength but had become arrogant and turned to idol worship. When they rejected his message, Allah destroyed them with a fierce wind.
Story
The people of 'Ad lived in elaborate dwellings carved from stone and prided themselves on their physical strength and architectural accomplishments. Hud, who was from among them, called his people to return to the worship of Allah alone and to abandon their arrogant and oppressive ways. He reminded them that their strength and prosperity were blessings from Allah that should inspire gratitude, not pride. Most of the people rejected his message, accusing him of foolishness and lying. Despite Hud's warnings, they challenged him to bring the punishment he threatened. Allah then sent a devastating windstorm that lasted for seven nights and eight days, destroying the disbelievers while Hud and his followers were saved.
Quranic References
Primarily in Surah Hud 11:50-60, Surah Al-A'raf 7:65-72, Surah Al-Shu'ara 26:123-140
Lessons & Wisdom
The dangers of pride and materialism, the false security of worldly power and achievements, and the importance of using Allah's blessings in obedience rather than transgression. The story warns against challenging divine punishment and demonstrates how quickly earthly might can be overcome.