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Prophet Ismail (AS) was a man of incredible faith, strength, and humility. As the son of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Hajar (AS), he grew up in extraordinary circumstances. His early life was shaped by trials that tested his family’s trust in Allah. From being left in the barren deserts of Arabia as a baby to later helping his father build the Kaaba, his story is filled with examples of courage and submission to Allah’s will.
Prophet Ismail (AS) was also a messenger of Allah. He was sent to guide his people in Arabia, teaching them to worship Allah alone. He didn’t just preach; he lived a life that reflected his message. His patience, humility, and hard work showed what it truly means to trust Allah in every situation.
His life is a source of inspiration for Muslims today. It teaches us how to stay strong in tough times, value family, and live with purpose. Let’s explore five powerful lessons from his life that we can apply to our own.
The upbringing of Prophet Ismail (AS) was profoundly shaped by his parents, Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Hajar (AS), both of whom were models of faith and perseverance. Despite the challenges they faced, they instilled in Ismail (AS) a deep sense of trust in Allah.
Hajar (AS) was left alone with her infant son in the barren desert of Makkah under Allah’s command. When Prophet Ibrahim (AS) departed, she asked him,
“Has Allah commanded you to do this?” When he affirmed, she replied, “Then He will not abandon us.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 3364)
This unwavering faith in Allah set the foundation for Prophet Ismail’s (AS) own trust in Allah’s plan.
Parents today can draw immense inspiration from this. A strong Islamic upbringing creates a nurturing environment for children, equipping them with the resilience to face life’s challenges. Teaching children to rely on Allah and to stay steadfast during trials fosters a legacy of faith that can endure generations.
Instilling Islamic values in children can feel challenging, but with the right tools, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. Explore Riwaya's collection of engaging Islamic toys, activity sets, and room décor designed to nurture your child’s values in a playful and encouraging way.
One of the most memorable incidents in the life of Prophet Ismail (AS) was the discovery of Zamzam water.
When Hajar (AS) and her infant son Ismail (AS) were left in the barren desert, Hajar desperately searched for water, running between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times. After her seventh attempt, she heard a voice and saw an angel at the site where the well of Zamzam now exists.
The angel struck the ground, causing water to gush forth, providing much-needed relief for Hajar (AS) and Ismail (AS). This event highlights Hajar's perseverance, trust in Allah, and the divine blessing of Zamzam water, which holds immense significance in Islam.
This event teaches us that even in the direst situations, patience and reliance on Allah can lead to unimaginable blessings. Allah states in the Quran:
“Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.”
(Surah Ash-Sharh, 94:6)
Both Hajar (AS) and Ismail (AS) demonstrated sabr (patience) during their hardship and were rewarded in a way that benefits humanity to this day. For modern Muslims, this lesson emphasises the importance of staying patient and being grateful for the blessings that follow challenges, no matter how overwhelming the situation may seem.
Prophet Ismail (AS) was not only a prophet but also a leader among his people. Despite his elevated status, he exhibited humility and kindness, characteristics that made him beloved by his community.
A prime example of his humility can be seen in his willingness to assist his father, Prophet Ibrahim (AS), in constructing the Kaaba. Together, they laid the foundation of this sacred structure, a cornerstone of Islamic worship. The Quran beautifully captures their humble supplication during the construction:
“Our Lord, accept [this] from us. Indeed You are the Hearing, the Knowing.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:127)
This demonstrates that even in moments of greatness, Prophet Ismail (AS) remained grounded and devoted to Allah. True leadership is not about seeking power or recognition but about serving others and maintaining humility. This lesson resonates today, reminding us to lead with compassion and selflessness in our families, workplaces, and communities.
Prophet Ismail (AS) was known for his dedication to honest labour and his modest lifestyle. He worked as a shepherd, a profession often associated with Prophets. This work required patience, responsibility, and humility, qualities that shaped his character and prepared him for his role as a prophet and a leader.
Through his example, Prophet Ismail (AS) teaches us the value of hard work and living a simple life. In today’s materialistic world, this serves as a reminder that true fulfilment lies in simplicity and dedication to one’s responsibilities. Allah emphasises the importance of honest labour in the Quran:
“And that there is not for man except that [good] for which he strives.”
(Surah An-Najm, 53:39)
Simplicity aligns with Islamic values, fostering gratitude and contentment. Muslims can embrace this lesson by finding dignity in work and striving to live modestly, prioritising spiritual growth over worldly gains.
Perhaps the most profound lesson from Prophet Ismail’s (AS) life is his complete trust in Allah’s decree, even when faced with the ultimate test. When Prophet Ibrahim (AS) informed him of the divine command to sacrifice him, Ismail (AS) responded with unwavering faith:
“O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast.”
(Surah As-Saffat, 37:102)
This submission to Allah’s will illustrates the pinnacle of tawakkul (reliance on Allah). Prophet Ismail (AS) trusted that whatever Allah ordained was for the best, even if it was beyond human comprehension.
As Ibrahim (AS) prepared to carry out the sacrifice, an angel appeared and stopped him at the last moment. Allah, in His infinite mercy, intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed in Ismail’s (AS) place. This act of mercy not only saved Ismail (AS) but also demonstrated Allah’s compassion and reward for those who submit to His will wholeheartedly.
The event is commemorated annually during Eid-ul-Adha when Muslims around the world perform the act of animal sacrifice as a symbol of their willingness to submit to Allah’s will, just as Ibrahim (AS) and Ismail (AS) did.
For modern Muslims, this teaches the importance of trusting Allah’s wisdom in moments of uncertainty or difficulty. Whether it’s a personal challenge, a professional setback, or a family crisis, putting faith in Allah’s plan brings peace and strength to navigate life’s trials.
The life of Prophet Ismail (AS) is a treasure trove of lessons for Muslims of all ages. His unwavering faith, patience in adversity, humility as a leader, and devotion to family serve as timeless examples of how to live a life that pleases Allah.
Reflecting on his life encourages us to embody these qualities in our daily lives. Whether through nurturing a strong Islamic foundation in our families, remaining patient and grateful during trials, or trusting Allah’s plan in moments of uncertainty, Prophet Ismail’s (AS) legacy continues to inspire and guide us.
May we all strive to follow his example and earn the pleasure of Allah in this life and the hereafter. Ameen.
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