08. The Story of Prophet Shu’ayb (AS)
The Story of Prophet Shu’ayb (AS)
A Prophet to the People of Madyan
Prophet Shu’ayb (AS) was sent to the people of Madyan, a prosperous community known for their trading. They were rich but also very corrupt. They cheated others in business, used false weights and measures, and were dishonest in their transactions. They also indulged in idolatry and sin.
Shu’ayb (AS) was a man of great wisdom and kindness. He called his people to worship Allah alone and to stop cheating and using dishonest measures. He urged them to be fair and just in their dealings and to treat each other with respect and kindness.
Shu’ayb (AS) Warns His People
Prophet Shu’ayb (AS) warned the people of Madyan about the consequences of their actions. He told them:
وَيَـٰقَوْمِ أَوْفُوا۟ ٱلْمِكْيَالَ وَٱلْمِيزَانَ بِٱلْقِسْطِ ۖ وَلَا تَبْخَسُوا۟ ٱلنَّاسَ أَشْيَآءَهُمْ وَلَا تَعْثَوْا۟ فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ مُفْسِدِينَ ٨٥
“O my people! Give full measure and weigh with justice. Do not defraud people of their property, nor go about spreading corruption in the land. (Quran 26:183)
He reminded them that Allah had sent him as a prophet to guide them to the straight path. He asked them to stop worshipping idols and to return to the worship of Allah alone. He also advised them to be honest in their trade and not to cheat others, as this was harming society and displeasing Allah.
However, just like the people of many other prophets, the people of Madyan rejected Prophet Shu’ayb’s message. They accused him of being a liar and refused to stop their evil practices. They even mocked him, saying that he was weak and couldn’t stop them from their ways.
The Punishment of the People of Madyan
Despite the constant warnings of Prophet Shu’ayb (AS), the people continued their sinful ways. They rejected the message of Allah and refused to repent. Allah then decided to punish them for their disobedience.
One day, the people of Madyan experienced a terrible punishment. A mighty earthquake shook the land, and a scorching hot wind from the sky struck them, destroying their homes and everything they had. The people who had rejected the message of Allah were completely wiped out.
The Safety of Prophet Shu’ayb (AS) and His Followers
Prophet Shu’ayb (AS) and the few followers who believed in him were saved from the punishment. They left the city, and Allah protected them from the disaster that befell the disbelievers. The fate of the people of Madyan serves as a lesson for us about the consequences of dishonesty and evil deeds.
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✦ Lessons from Prophet Shu’ayb (AS):
1. Honesty in Business: Prophet Shu’ayb (AS) taught the importance of honesty, especially in business dealings. Cheating and dishonesty lead to corruption and harm, both in this world and the hereafter. 2. Respect for Others: We must always treat others fairly and kindly, as Prophet Shu’ayb (AS) called his people to do. 3. The Consequences of Sin: Just like the people of Madyan, anyone who rejects Allah’s guidance and persists in sinful actions will face the consequences. 4. Patience and Perseverance: Prophet Shu’ayb (AS) showed patience and perseverance in delivering Allah’s message, despite the mockery and rejection from his people.
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The story of Prophet Shu’ayb (AS) reminds us to be honest, just, and respectful towards others, and to always follow Allah’s guidance in our lives.
REFERENCE:
Ibn Kathir, Stories of the Prophets;
Translated and adapted by Umme Abdul Rahman’
Graduate Alim/Alimah.
Founder & Director of imsjeddah.com.