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Stories of the Prophets · 16 of 25
ذُو الْكِفْل

Dhul-Kifl

A patient and righteous prophet
Ancient antiquity

Dhul-Kifl (peace be upon him) is mentioned in the Qur'an alongside Isma'il and Idris, all of whom were among the patient (21:85). Allah admitted them into His mercy, for they were among the righteous (21:86).

He is also named among Isma'il and Al-Yasa', all counted among the best of people, the chosen (38:48). Beyond these affirmations of his patience and righteousness, the Qur'an provides no detailed narrative of his life.

In keeping with authenticity, only what Allah has affirmed about him is retained: that he was patient, righteous, chosen, and among those admitted into Allah's mercy. Later stories that add detail to his life are unverified and are therefore omitted.

From the authentic Sunnah

Dhul-Kifl is named twice in the Quran among the patient and the righteous: "And [mention] Ismaʿil and Idris and Dhul-Kifl; all were of the patient" (21:85), and "remember Ismaʿil, al-Yasaʿ and Dhul-Kifl; all are among the outstanding" (38:48). Beyond this, no detailed story of his stands upon an authentic hadith, and scholars even differ over whether he was a prophet or a righteous man. On the way of the Salaf, we affirm what Allah affirmed — his patience and excellence — and leave what has no sound source, rather than fill the gap with unverified stories.

Key lessons

Quran references
Stories are drawn from the Quran and authentic hadith; unverified narrations (isra'iliyyat) and folk embellishments are avoided. For deeper study, consult the tafsir and a qualified scholar.

All prophets