10 Beautiful Lessons Derived From the Exemplary Life of Prophet Ibrahim
And who turns away from the religion of Ibrâhîm (Abraham) (i.e. Islâmic Monotheism) except him who befools himself? Truly, We chose him in this world and verily, in the Hereafter he will be among the righteous. — Qur’an 2[Al-Baqarah]:130
The life of Prophet Ibrahim Alayhi Salam — also known as Abraham holds numerous lessons for today’s Muslims, reflecting themes of faith, obedience, perseverance, and compassion. These lessons are derived from his actions, teachings, supplications, and experiences as depicted in the Quran and Sunnah. For leading an illustrious life dedicated to the servitude of Allah, Allah honored him, elevated his status, and mentioned him as a worthy role model over seventy times in the Qur’an. This is why we love him and follow his way.
Every year in the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims celebrate and reflect on the life of Prophet Ibrahim -peace be upon him- and the significance of Eid ul Adha. This occasion is one of the most important in the Islamic calendar, commemorating the profound acts of faith and obedience demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim.
Prophet Ibrahim was born in a society where idol worship was prevalent. Despite being raised in such an environment, he remained an astute seeker of truth from a young age and a faithful monotheist. He questioned the logic of worshipping idols made of stone and wood, which neither hear, see, nor benefit their worshippers.
One of the most significant tests in Ibrahim’s life was the command to sacrifice his son, Ismail. In a dream, Allah instructed Ibrahim to offer his son as a sacrifice. Dreams of prophets are considered revelations, so Ibrahim understood this as a divine command. When Ibrahim informed Ismail of the dream, Ismail, displaying profound faith and obedience, encouraged his father to comply with Allah’s command.
As Ibrahim prepared to sacrifice his son, Allah intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. This event is commemorated during Eid ul Adha, symbolizing the importance of submission to Allah’s will and the spirit of sacrifice. As Ibrahim was about to carry out the sacrifice, Allah called out to him, affirming that he had fulfilled the vision. A ram was then provided as a substitute for Ismail.
Since we’re approaching another season of Eid-ul-Adha, it’s essential to remind ourselves about the significance of this practice. In this piece in sha Allah, we will explore ten lessons derived from Prophet Ibrahim and how these lessons can be applied to our lives in today’s fast-paced world.
- Unwavering Faith in Allah: Ibrahim’s life is a testament to unshakable faith. He never compromised his beliefs, even when he was pressured and tortured. In a modern world filled with distractions and numerous challenges to our faith, we must strive to maintain our belief in Allah, trust His plans, and hope for His mercy. Whether dealing with personal hardships or societal pressures, turning to Allah with complete trust is essential.
And who is better in religion than one who submits himself to Allāh while being a doer of good and following the religion of Abraham, inclining toward truth? And Allāh took Abraham as an intimate friend. — Qur’an 4[An-Nisa’]:125
2. Obedience and Submission to Allah: The story of Ibrahim and Ismail teaches us the importance of obeying Allah’s commands, even when it is tough. In our daily lives, we may face situations where following Islamic principles seems challenging. However, like Ibrahim, we must prioritize our obedience to Allah over all else, trusting that His commands are for our ultimate benefit.
When his Lord ordered him, “Submit to My Will,” he responded, “I submit to the Lord of all worlds.” — Qur’an 2[Al-Baqarah]:131
3. Sacrifice and Generosity: Eid ul Adha is a reminder of the spirit of sacrifice. While we may not be asked to make such a monumental sacrifice as Ibrahim, we are encouraged to give up our time, resources, and comforts for the sake of Allah and to benefit others. Acts of charity and generosity, especially towards those in need, are ways we can embody this spirit in our lives today.
My Lord! Bless me with righteous offspring. So We gave him the good news of a forbearing son. Then when the boy reached the age to work with him, Abraham said, “O my dear son! I have seen in a dream that I ˹must˺ sacrifice you. So tell me what you think.” He replied, “O my dear father! Do as you are commanded. Allah willing, you will find me steadfast.” — Qur’an 37[As-Saffat]100–102
4. Patience and Perseverance: Prophet Ibrahim’s patience during his many trials teaches us the virtue of perseverance. In our fast-paced world, cultivating patience helps us navigate challenges with grace and resilience. Life today is filled with instant gratification, making patience a rare but essential quality. Whether in our careers, relationships, or personal goals, patience allows us to endure setbacks and remain steadfast in our efforts, trusting that Allah’s timing is perfect.
We called out to him: “O Abraham! You have already fulfilled the vision.” Indeed, this is how We reward the good-doers. Verily, that indeed was a manifest trial. And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice — a ram. And blessed Abraham with honorable mention among later generations. “Peace be upon Abraham.” This is how We reward the good-doers. He was truly one of Our faithful servants. —Qur’an 37[As-Saffat]104–111
5. Family and Community Values: Ibrahim’s dedication to his family highlights the importance of strong family bonds and community support. He loved for his father to abandon idol worship, and he catered for his immediate family. He made several supplications for his upcoming descendants to be righteous and follow his path. Among his answered prayer was the coming of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Many of us are part of the answered dua’ of our father Ibrahim. Hence, fostering these values can help create a supportive and cohesive community. We should strive to strengthen our family ties and contribute positively to our communities, just as Prophet Ibrahim did.
Our Lord! Send amongst them a Messenger of their own (and indeed Allâh answered their invocation by sending Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), who shall recite unto them Your Verses and instruct them in the Book (this Qur’ân) and Al-Hikmah (full knowledge of the Islâmic laws and jurisprudence or wisdom or Prophethood), and purify them. Verily! You are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.” — Qur’an 2[Al-Baqarah]:129
6. Standing Against Injustice: Prophet Ibrahim was a messenger who dared to speak up against idolatry and falsehood even to his kith and kin. This teaches us the importance of standing up against injustice. Today, Muslims are encouraged to advocate for justice and truth, even if it means standing alone or facing opposition. Let’s keep speaking out against discrimination, supporting human rights, and promoting ethical practices. As Muslims, we should be at the forefront of advocating for justice and fairness in society.
And mention in the Book — the story of Abraham. Indeed, he was 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 in any way? 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 my father, do not worship [i.e., obey] Satan. Indeed Satan has ever been, to the Most Merciful, disobedient. _ Qur’an 19[Mar’yam]:41–44
7. Hospitality and Kindness: One time, two angels appeared to Prophet Ibrahim in human form. He did not know them, yet he welcomed them into his house and offered them a meal. This highlights the importance of kindness and generosity. In today’s fast-paced world, showing kindness, practicing hospitality by welcoming guests, helping neighbors, being kind to strangers, and being hospitable can significantly impact our relationships and communities.
And certainly did Our messengers [i.e., angels] come to Abraham with good tidings; they said, “Peace.” He said, “Peace,” and did not delay in bringing [them] a roasted calf. -Qur’an 11[Hud]:69
8. Propagation of Faith: Prophet Ibrahim wanted goodness for humanity, hence he called them to the worship of one true God and the abandonment of false deities. His commitment to spreading the message of monotheism and guiding others to the path of righteousness also led him to proclaim the Hajj rites. The lesson here for today’s Muslims is to engage in Dawah activities by inviting others to Islam with knowledge, wisdom, and good manners.
Our Lord! And make us submissive unto You and of our offspring a nation submissive unto You, and show us our Manâsik (all the ceremonies of pilgrimage — Hajjand ‘Umrah), and accept our repentance. Truly, You are the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful. — Qur’an 2[Al-Baqarah]:128
9. Reliance on Divine Help: Prophet Ibrahim’s trust in Allah’s help was unshakable. Thus, he relied solely upon Him in seeking assistance, during his times of need. When Ibrahim was thrown into the fire by his people, his reliance on Allah increased and the miracle that saved him underscores the importance of seeking divine support. As Muslims today, we should make Allah our utmost priority, a source of refuge and help in good times and bad times.
They said, ‘Burn him and avenge your gods if you are going to do the right thing’. We [Allāh] said, “O fire, be coolness and safety upon Abraham’’. And they wanted to harm him, but We made them the worst losers. — Qur’an 21[Al-Anbiya]:68–70
10. Continuous Prayer and Worship: Prophet Ibrahim was a man of action, a selfless leader who would not only do acts of worship alone. He also engaged his sons and household in these acts of righteousness. He established the Kaaba with his son Ismail as a place of worship to demonstrate the centrality of prayer and devotion in a Muslim’s life. A big lesson for us today is the significance of establishing regular prayer, supplication, and continuous worship to maintain a close relationship with Allah. Don’t do this selfishly alone, engage your spouse, children, siblings, loved ones, and parents in these acts of righteousness.
We made the House a resort and a sanctuary for people, saying, ‘Take the spot where Abraham stood as your place of prayer.’ We commanded Abraham and Ishmael: ‘Purify My House for those who walk round it, those who stay there, and those who bow and prostrate themselves in worship.’ — Qur’an 2[Al-Baqarah]:125
In conclusion, the life of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) offers us timeless lessons in faith, obedience, sacrifice, patience, family values, justice, and kindness. Eid ul Adha is not just a celebration galore, but a reminder of these profound lessons. Let us reflect on these teachings and strive to embody them in our daily lives. Let’s encourage each other to take these lessons to heart and find ways to apply them in our personal and community life. By doing so, we can honor the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim and live in a manner that is pleasing to Allah. May Allah bless us with the strength to follow His guidance and the wisdom to learn from the examples set by His prophets.
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Yaumul Jumah 8th Dhul Hijjah 1445H // Friday 14th June 2024
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