14. The Story of Prophet Dhul-Kifl (AS)
The Story of Dhul-Kifl (AS):
A Lesson in Patience and Responsibility
Once upon a time, there was a man named Dhul-Kifl (AS). He was known for being very patient, kind, and fair. Some scholars believe he was a prophet, while others say he was a righteous man who always did the right thing. His name, Dhul-Kifl, means “the one who takes responsibility.”
How Did He Get His Name?
A wise prophet, believed to be Hazrat Al-Yasa (AS), wanted to choose a leader to guide his people after him. He asked,
*“Who will take on these three responsibilities?
- Fasting every day,
- Praying all night,
- And never letting anger control them?”*
No one answered, except for a humble man. He said,
“I will do it.”
The prophet asked him again to make sure,
“Will you really fast every day, pray at night, and stay calm even when things get hard?”
The man replied,
“Yes, I will.”
The prophet chose him as the new leader and gave him the title Dhul-Kifl because he accepted this big responsibility.
The Test of Patience
When Dhul-Kifl (AS) became a leader, he ruled with justice and fairness. He kept his promises to fast, pray, and stay patient. But then, Iblees (Satan) decided to test him.
Iblees sent his followers to make Dhul-Kifl angry or make him break his promises, but they failed. Dhul-Kifl (AS) remained calm, patient, and kept praying to Allah.
Finally, Iblees himself disguised as an old, helpless man. He knocked on Dhul-Kifl’s door during his resting time and said,
“Oh kind leader, I need your help! My people have been unfair to me!”
Even though Dhul-Kifl (AS) was tired, he listened to the old man’s story. He said,
“Come to my court tomorrow, and I will make sure justice is done for you.”
But the next day, the man didn’t show up. Instead, he came again at night, disturbing Dhul-Kifl during his rest.
This happened several times. Dhul-Kifl (AS) realized this was not normal. One day, he told his family,
“Don’t let anyone disturb me while I rest today.”
But somehow, the old man still managed to sneak into his room. Dhul-Kifl (AS) asked,
“How did you get in? Are you Iblees?”
The man admitted,
“Yes, I am Satan. I wanted to make you angry and stop you from keeping your promises, but I failed.”
Why Is Dhul-Kifl Special?
Dhul-Kifl (AS) is remembered for his amazing patience and dedication to Allah. He:
- Never broke his promises.
- Was always fair and kind.
- Stayed calm, even when tested.
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✦ Lessons for Kids 1. Be Patient: No matter how hard things get, patience makes you stronger. 2. Keep Your Promises: Always do what you say you will do. 3. Stay Calm: Controlling your anger is a sign of strength. 4. Trust in Allah: Ask Allah for help in every situation, and He will guide you. |
Dhul-Kifl (AS) teaches us that with patience, trust in Allah, and kindness, we can overcome any test in life. Let’s try to be like him!
REFERENCE:
Ibn Kathir, Stories of the Prophets;
Translated and adapted by Umme Abdul Rahman’
Graduate Alim/Alimah.
Founder & Director of imsjeddah.com.