The History of Prophet Ibrahim A.S

Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) son of Azer also known as “Khalilullah” meaning “the friend of Allah.” He was born near Babylon, Iraq. Ibrahim’s father was a highly skilled sculptor, specializing in the art of creating idols meticulously from stone and wood. During Prophet Ibrahim’s (A.S) era, idolatry was common, and it was a prevalent tradition among the people.

Nimrod was the king of the Babylonian kingdom during that era. Namrod had a dream in which he saw a star rising, casting its light upon the sun and the moon, causing darkness. Frightened by this dream, Namrod summoned astrologers, and they informed him that a child was about to be born whose hands would bring an end to his throne and kingdom. In response, Namrod ordered the killing of every single boy born in his kingdom And his workers began carrying out the gruesome task of killing newborn boys in every town.

When Prophet Ibrahim (A.S)’s mother heard of this matter, she went into the cave at the time of delivery, and it was within the confines of this cave that Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) came into the world. After Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) was born, his mother visited the cave daily to feed him. He grew so rapidly that within weeks, he resembled a child of months, and within a month, he appeared as if a year had passed.

When Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) began speaking, he asked his mother about his God. She replied, “I am, as God is the one nurturing.” He inquired again, “Who is your God?” She responded, “Your father. He then once more inquired about his father’s God, and she said that Namrod. He further asked about Namrod’s God, to which she replied that she didn’t know and left.

After Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) emerged from the cave, he persisted in denouncing idol worship and engaging in disputes against idolatry. He observed the stars at night and declared them as his God. However, the stars disappeared then he reconsidered, stating he couldn’t befriend something that disappears. Witnessing the shining moon, he proclaimed it as his God, but when it set, he affirmed that he would follow the straight path shown by his God. At sunrise, he acknowledged the sun as his God due to its size, but at sunset, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) declared, “O my nation, I am fed up with whatever you associate with God. I have turned my face towards the being from all directions who is the creator of the sky and earth, and on whose command and law all creations are running. I am not among those who associate with Him.”

When Namrod knows all these conditions, he calls Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) into his court. Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) reaches without any fear. When people go in front of Namrod, they bow down, but Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) does not do this. He has no fear of Namrod. After seeing this, Namrod gets extremely angry and asks why he does not bow down in front of him. Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) fearlessly replies that he cannot bow down in front of anyone else but Allah.

Namrod then asks, “What is your praise of your Lord?” Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) responds, “My Lord is the one who gives life and death.” Namrod claimed that he also has the power to do the same. Namrood convened the prisoners, one under a death sentence and the other serving a life term. He carried out the execution of the condemned prisoner and granted release to the one serving a life sentence. Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) did not intend for this, but Namrod was foolish.

Ibrahim (A.S) says, “My God makes the sun rise from the east; if you have control, make it rise from the west.” Namrod got astonished and has no answer for this. This incident leads some people to embrace Islam.

Once, Ibrahim (A.S) had a competition with Namrood. Namrood said, ‘If your Lord has the power to bring the dead back to life, then show me how He does it.’ Ibrahim (A.S) pleaded with God, ‘Please show me how to bring the dead back to life.’ Then Allah said, ‘Do you not have trust? How can I bring the dead back to life?’ Ibrahim (A.S) replied, ‘Yes, indeed, but this will convince my heart.’ Then Allah ordered to bring four birds, train them to come to you, then cut them into pieces, and scatter them on different hilltops. Then call them back, and they will fly to you in haste. And so, you will know that Allah is Almighty, All-Wise. By this, Ibrahim (A.S) did the same, and when he called the birds, they came flying.

One day, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) said to his father, ‘What are the idols that you worship and prostrate to day and night?’ His father replied, ‘They are our lords, and I saw our forefathers worship them.’ Ibrahim (A.S) said, ‘No, they don’t have ears or eyes, and they neither bring you profit nor harm.’ Ibrahim (A.S) continued, ‘You and your forefathers are in clear disobedience.’ His father said, ‘Are you fed up with our gods? You will definitely be punished.’

Ibrahim (A.S) cursed the peoples. Then Allah said to Ibrahim (A.S) that I am more merciful to My people than you are. Allah said, “We raise the status of whom We want. Surely, Allah is All-Wise, All-Knowing.”

Here is the Quranic ayah (6:80):

“And his people argued with him. He responded, Are you arguing with me about Allah, while He has guided me? I am not afraid of whatever ˹idols˺ you associate with Him—˹none can harm me,˺ unless my Lord so wills. My Lord encompasses everything in ˹His˺ knowledge. Will you not be mindful?“

However, Ibrahim (A.S) tried a lot to understand his father, as mentioned in the Quran:

“O Prophet, the story of˺ Abraham. He was surely a man of truth and a prophet. Remember˺ when he said to his father, ‘O dear father! Why do you worship what can neither hear nor see, nor benefit you at all? O dear father! I have certainly received some knowledge which you have not received, so follow me and I will guide you to the Straight Path. O dear father! Do not worship Satan. Surely Satan is ever rebellious against the Most Compassionate. O dear father! I truly fear that you will be touched by torment from the Most Compassionate and become Satan’s companion ˹in Hell˺.’ He threatened, ‘How dare you reject my idols, O Abraham! If you do not desist, I will certainly stone you ˹to death˺. So be gone from me for a long time!’ Abraham responded, ‘Peace be upon you! I will pray to my Lord for your forgiveness. He has truly been Most Gracious to me. As I distance myself from ˹all of˺ you and from whatever you invoke besides Allah, I will ˹continue to˺ call upon my Lord ˹alone˺, trusting that I will never be disappointed in invoking my Lord.'” (19:41-48)

Ibrahim (A.S) tried extensively to understand his father and the people, but they did not comprehend, to the extent that “The time for the grand fair has arrived. Then the father said to Ibrahim (A.S), ‘Tomorrow is our celebration. In the forest, there will be a fair. After coming back from the fair, we will eat the blessed food. Come with us and see the cheerfulness of the fair and then observe the ornamentation of idols. When you see this, you will not stay yourself away from worship.'”

Ibrahim (A.S) said, “I am ill and can’t come,” as he intended to destroy their idols. Later, he entered the chamber where the sizable idols were positioned, he grabbed an axe, started breaking down the idols, and crushed them and then affixed the axe onto the shoulder of the large idol. Upon the return of the people, inquiries arose regarding the culprit behind the act. Some asserted that Ibrahim had mentioned reorganising the idols. This led to the labelling of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) as a criminal. Ibrahim (A.S) said, “Ask the large idol; it did this.”

Ibrahim (A.S) wanted to show that these idols cannot speak, hoping people would be convinced and embrace Islam. He insisted to ask the idols who crushed them, and people understood that Ibrahim (A.S) had done this. Ibrahim (A.S) said, “As you know, they can’t even speak. You worship what can’t speak, not give you profits and loss. Shame on you and whatever you worship instead of Allah! Do you not have any sense?”

The people of the nation did not answer and due to ignorance, said, “Burn him (Ibrahim A.S) and help our lords.”

After an infidel consultation, they decided to burn Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) to safeguard the respect of their lords. They dug a big well, added woods, and set it ablaze. The fire was so intense that birds could not fly above it. The plan involved seating Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) in the crane and lowering him into the fire. Upon organizing the crane and placing Ibrahim in it, they proceeded to toss him into the flames. When the people were about to cast him into the fire using the crane, the angels sought to help Ibrahim (A.S), he asserted, “Allah is enough for me. He sees me, and His sufficiency is ample for me.” Subsequently, Allah directly commanded the fire to cool for Ibrahim (A.S).

Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) endured the flames for an impressive span of approximately 40-50 days, yet not a single strand of his hair was touched by the fire. He (A.S) regarded this period as a good phase of his life. While perspiring, the noble angel Jibrael (A.S) graciously attended to him, wiping away his sweat.

When Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) descended into the fire, an angel caught him by the arms, gently seated him at his position. The angel named Rizwan adorned him with a precious garment. The vicinity is adorned with lush greenery, featuring a gentle cascade of a flowing waterfall. Angel Israfel (A.S) provided delectable meals both in the morning and at night. During this period, tranquility prevailed, and no negative thoughts clouded the serene environment.

After seven days in the fire, Namrood feared about the consequences of Prophet Ibrahim’s (A.S) survival through divine intervention, Namrood discussed his concerns with his companions. Seeking reassurance, they consoled him, suggesting that even if a flint were present in that fire, it would also be consumed.

During Prophet Ibrahim’s (A.S) time in the fire, the disbelieving minister observed and took pleasure in the spectacle. However, a spark from the fire flew onto his thumb, and burned him like cotton.

After enduring the flames for a period of 40-50 days, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) emerged from the fire and offered counsel to Namrood and his companions. Namrood sought an extension, but his minister pointed out, Throughout your life, you have been devoted to divine matters, but now you are taking time that’s a shame and disgrace. Ultimately, Namrood declined Prophet Ibrahim’s counsel, asserting his willingness to sacrifice thousands of cows, goats, and camels for the satisfaction of his lord. In response, Ibrahim (A.S) emphasized the futility of sacrifice without faith and warned of impending hellfire for Namrood.

Ibrahim (A.S) conveyed that he was sent by God as a messenger to advise peoples. A miraculous demonstration awaited Namrood, urging him to accept Islam. Ibrahim warned that even a small army under God’s command could overpower Namrood. However, Namrood challenged the existence of any king other than himself and dared Ibrahim to summon an army.

Ibrahim (A.S) prayed to Allah, asking him to send His army. Suddenly, a swarm of mosquitoes arrived, casting darkness upon the sun. Namrood said to beat the drum, but the mosquito’s buzzing induced lost consciousness, terrorizing both young and old. A peculiar mosquito entered in his nose and started consuming his mind. In a fit of madness, Namrood beat his head with a hammer or against the wall after 40 days leading to his demise.

Then, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) decided to turn to the city of Hajan, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S)’s uncle resided as a wealthy individual. Sarah, his daughter, was married to Prophet Ibrahim (A.S), and substantial wealth and possessions were bestowed upon them. The purpose behind to marry daughter was that Ibrahim (A.S) renounce Islam. However, Sarah embraced Islam, and Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) left the city in distress due to his uncle.

Upon settling in the western outskirts of Palestine, then under the rule of Kanaan, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) journeyed to Nablus (Shechem), encountering a tyrant king. This ruler had a nefarious practice of killing husbands and taking their wives. To protect Sarah, Ibrahim (A.S) claimed her as his sister, emphasizing their religious bond.

When Sarah was presented to the king, he was captivated by her beauty. Unfortunately, he entertained inappropriate thoughts, but in accordance with divine intervention, he was immediately incapacitated. Recognizing his error, he sought forgiveness from God and humbly requested prayers from Sarah. Despite experiencing this correction, he once again harbored improper intentions, resulting in another divine intervention that left him incapacitated. Undeterred, he persisted in seeking forgiveness through prayers, attempting three times with ill intentions until he became spiritually insensitive. Ultimately, he realized that Sarah was a virtuous servant of God. Allah lifted the veil between Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) and Sarah, allowing Ibrahim (A.S) to witness their interactions. This keeps the purity of Ibrahim’s heart, free from any doubt. The daughter of the king, Hagar, was later sent to serve alongside Sarah.

The king, recognizing the virtues of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S), summoned him and generously bestowed upon him a multitude of gifts, including livestock such as cows, buffaloes, donkeys, camels, and both male and female servants. With great respect, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) accepted these gifts and departed. Subsequently, Sarah facilitated the marriage of Hagar with Prophet Ibrahim (A.S).

Upon his return from Egypt, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) chose to settle in Palestine. In line with the propagation of Islam, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) dispatched Prophet Loot (A.S) to Sodom and various other cities to spread the teachings of Islam.

Sarah and Prophet Ibrahim (A.S), desiring a child, fervently prayed to Allah, and their supplication was graciously answered as the gift of Prophet Ismail (A.S) given through Hagar. The descendants of Prophet Ismail (A.S) were destined to become the forebears of the Arab population, as ordained by Allah.

In obedience to Allah’s command, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) was instructed to take Hagar and Prophet Ismail (A.S) to Makkah. Following divine guidance, he did the same and left them with a water bottle and some dates beneath a tree. As Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) turned to depart, Hagar sought assurance, questioning if he followed Allah’s directive. His affirmative response reassured her, and she placed her trust in Allah’s plan, expressing, “If Allah has commanded, He will take care of us, and it will be sufficient.”

With that conviction, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) began to leave but discreetly observed his family from a distance behind a rock. Concealed, he prayed to Allah, entreating, “Our Lord, I have settled some of my descendants in an uncultivated valley near Your sacred House, our Lord, that they may establish prayer. So make hearts among the people incline toward them and provide for them from the fruits that they might be grateful.”

Hagar, facing a challenging situation in accordance with Allah’s command, fervently prayed, “O Lord, I find myself in this circumstance by Your divine order. Be my ally, O Merciful One, in the company of this elderly woman.” At that time, Prophet Ismail (A.S) was a few months old.

Initially she had water and dates, time passed swiftly. However, as their provisions dwindled and Hagar’s chest ceased to yield milk, Prophet Ismail (A.S) became thirsty. Overwhelmed with concern, Hagar ascended the restless Safa mountain, anxiously scanning the surroundings for any sign of water, while keeping a watchful eye on Prophet Ismail (A.S).

Unfortunately, there was no indication of water on Safa mountain. Filled with grief, Hagar descended and hastened towards the nearby Marwa mountain, climbing swiftly. Fearful that her child might be taken by a wild animal, she descended to the valley floor from the mountain. At this point, she slowed down, allowing a clear view of the child from the mountain’s vantage point. Though she looked around, no water source was in sight. She retraced her steps to Safa mountain, repeating this heartfelt journey seven times, frantically searching for water and ensuring the safety of her beloved child.

During the Hajj pilgrimage, it is a sacred ritual to traverse between Safa and Marwa seven times, commemorating the anguish experienced by Hagar. This act serves as a profound demonstration of humility and a display of oneself before Allah to seek His blessings. In the seventh round, as Hagar stood on the mountain, a reassuring voice echoed from nature, calming her fears. Upon returning to her child, she witnessed a miraculous event— the infant Ismail scraped the ground with his feet and water springing out, a waterfall emerging beside him. Overjoyed, she gathered mud and stones to create a basin-like structure. The water, miraculously, never ceased, allowing her to quench her thirst and fill her bottle.

According to Ibn Kathir’s description, when Hagar heard the comforting sound and approached her child, she beheld Angel Jibrael (A.S) standing beside a waterfall named Ab-e-Zamzam. Inquisitive, he asked Sarah about her identity. She identified herself as the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) and the mother of his child. Jibrael (A.S) questioned her about the one to whom she had been entrusted in the desert, and she responded, “Allah.” In response, Jibrael (A.S) assured her that Allah is sufficient. With a strike of Angel Jibrael (A.S)’s heel, the waterfall, known as Zamzam, began to flow. After the angel brought solace to Hagar, assuring her of Allah’s divine plan, she was informed that the child, Prophet Ismail (A.S) with Prophet Ibrahim (A.S), would one day contribute to the construction of Allah’s House. Allah  not forsake the inhabitants of his sacred place.

A caravan named Jurhum Sani from Yemen observed birds flying in the vicinity, deducing that where birds were present, water might be found. Upon sending a man to investigate, he discovered a women and her child sitting near a miraculously flowing waterfall. The caravan, amazed by this phenomenon, sought permission from Hagra to stay there. The people of Jurhum Sani settled in the area, and over time, the population grew. What was initially a small village expanded as more individuals arrived. Prophet Ismail (A.S) learned Arabic from the new inhabitants, enriching his knowledge and connecting with the community.

Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W.W) said that Allah bless Hagar, emphasizing that if she hadn’t created the basin, the Zamzam water would have flowed limitlessly.

While Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) resided in Palestine, he would occasionally visit Hagar and his son, Prophet Ismail (A.S). During one of these visits, Allah bestowed upon Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) the divine command to construct the Kaaba. In obedience to this command, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) consulted with Angel Jibrael (A.S), and together, father and son undertook the monumental task of building the Kaaba.

The foundation of the Kaaba was initially laid by Prophet Adam (A.S). Guided by angels, he marked the sacred point as per Allah’s instructions. However, over thousands of years and the passage of time, this point got obscured, and the Kaaba’s foundation became a mound resembling an inflated terrain. Through revelation, Allah informed Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) of the precise location. With the assistance of Prophet Ismail (A.S), Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) excavated and established the sacred site as directed by Allah.

Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) erected the Kaaba, using a stone as his foundation, and both that stone and the Hajre Aswad originally brought by Prophet Adam (A.S) from paradise. The imprint of Prophet Ibrahim’s (A.S) foot remains on that stone.

As the construction of the Kaaba reached the height of Adam, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) directed Prophet Ismail (A.S) to bring a rock and stand on it to complete the wall. When Prophet Ismail (A.S) went in search of the rock, Angel Jibrael (A.S) guided him to the location where the rocks were embedded in the ground. Confirming the spot, Jibrael (A.S) instructed him on where to place the Hajre Aswad, marking the starting point of the circumambulation around the Kaaba.

As the walls of the Kaaba extended, the stone bearing Prophet Ibrahim’s (A.S) footprints also lengthened. The Hajre Aswad had a brilliant shine. Subsequently, the call to perform Hajj was extended to the people of the world.

According to a Hadith, the Hajre Aswad was originally white, but over time and due to the sins of people and the kisses it received, it acquired a black hue. On the Day of Judgment, Hajre Aswad will be endowed with the ability to speak and see. It will bear witness to those individuals who performed Hajj, kissed it, and fervently prayed with loud voices. This sacred stone will testify to the devotion and prayers of the pilgrims.