15. Story of Prophet Yunus (AS)

Story of Prophet Yunus (AS)

 

Prophet Yunus (AS) was a messenger of Allah sent to guide his people. However, his story teaches us about patience, forgiveness, and Allah’s mercy.

 

Yunus (AS) and His People

Yunus (AS) preached to his people, urging them to worship Allah alone. But they refused to listen and continued to disobey Allah. Frustrated, Yunus (AS) left his people without Allah’s permission, believing they would never change.

 

The Ship and the Storm

Yunus (AS) traveled to a nearby coast and boarded a ship. As the ship sailed, a fierce storm came, tossing the boat wildly. The passengers realized the ship was too heavy and decided to throw one person overboard to save the rest. They drew lots, and Yunus (AS)’s name came up.

 

Swallowed by a Big Fish

Yunus (AS) was thrown into the sea, and Allah sent a big fish (or whale) to swallow him. Yunus (AS) was not harmed, but he found himself in the darkness inside the belly of the fish. Feeling regretful, he realized he should not have left his people without Allah’s command.

 

Yunus (AS)’s Dua

 

In the belly of the fish, Yunus (AS) prayed to Allah with a heartfelt dua:

 

 

لَّآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّآ أَنتَ سُبْحَـٰنَكَ إِنِّى كُنتُ مِنَ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ ٨٧

“La ilaha illa anta, subhanaka inni kuntu minaz-zalimeen.”

 

“There is no god ˹worthy of worship˺ except You. Glory be to You! I have certainly done wrong.”

 

He asked for Allah’s forgiveness and mercy. Allah, who is Most Merciful, accepted his prayer.

 

Returning to His People

After a few days, the fish swam to the shore and released Yunus (AS) safely. Allah forgave him and sent him back to his people. This time, Yunus (AS)’s people believed in Allah, and they repented for their past mistakes. Allah blessed them with His mercy.

 

✦ Lessons for Kids:  1. Patience is important. Even when things are hard, trust Allah’s plan.  2. Always turn to Allah. Prophet Yunus (AS)’s dua shows us how to seek forgiveness when we make mistakes.  3. Allah is Most Merciful. No matter what, Allah is ready to forgive when we sincerely repent.

 

 

REFERENCE:

Ibn Kathir, Stories of the Prophets;

Translated and adapted by Umme Abdul Rahman’

Graduate Alim/Alimah.

Founder & Director of imsjeddah.com.