The story of Prophet Yusuf (يوسف), known as Joseph in English, is one of
the most detailed narratives in the Quran. It is found in Surah Yusuf (Chapter 12). The story of Prophet Yusuf is
significant for its emphasis on themes such as patience, virtue, trust in God,
and the ultimate triumph of righteousness. Here is a summarized version of the
story:
1. Early Life: Prophet Yusuf was the son of
Prophet Yaqub (Jacob) and a descendant of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). Yusuf's
father loved him dearly, which created jealousy among his older brothers.
Yusuf, known for his beauty and good character, had a special place in his
father's heart.
2. Yusuf's Dream: Yusuf had a dream where he saw
eleven stars, the sun, and the moon prostrating to him. When he shared this dream
with his father and brothers, it intensified their jealousy.
3. Betrayal and Sale into Slavery: Out of envy, Yusuf's brothers
plotted against him. They convinced their father to let Yusuf accompany them on
a journey, and once in a remote place, they threw him into a well. Later, they
lied to their father, presenting Yusuf's shirt stained with false blood,
implying that he had been attacked by a wolf. Meanwhile, Yusuf was discovered
by travelers and sold into slavery in Egypt.
4. Yusuf's Trials in Egypt: Yusuf faced various trials in
Egypt, including being falsely accused of wrongdoing. He maintained his piety
and patience throughout these challenges. Eventually, he caught the attention
of a high-ranking Egyptian official and was appointed to a prominent position
in the government.
5. The Wife of Aziz and Yusuf's
Imprisonment:
Yusuf's life took another turn when he resisted the advances of the wife of
Aziz (the official he served). Falsely accused of attempting to seduce her,
Yusuf was imprisoned. In prison, he interpreted the dreams of his fellow
inmates, showcasing his God-given gift.
6. Interpretation of Dreams for the King: Yusuf's reputation as an
interpreter of dreams reached the king of Egypt. When the king had a
puzzling dream, Yusuf was called upon to interpret it. He accurately
interpreted the dream, predicting seven years of abundance followed by seven
years of famine.
7. Reunion with His Brothers: During the famine, Yusuf's brothers
traveled to Egypt to buy food. They did not recognize Yusuf, who had now
become a powerful figure. Through a series of events, Yusuf revealed his
identity to them. He forgave his brothers for their past actions, and they were
reconciled.
8. Reunion with His Father: Yusuf invited his
family, including his father Yaqub, to Egypt, where they were reunited after
many years of separation. The family settled in Egypt, and Yusuf's dream of his
family prostrating to him was fulfilled, symbolizing their recognition of his
exalted position.
The story of Prophet Yusuf is often cited for its lessons on patience, forgiveness, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. It is a story that highlights the importance of trust in God's plan and the transformative power of patience and righteousness in the face of adversity.
