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Prophet Idris (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)
The Truthful and Patient Prophet Raised to a Lofty Station
Who Was Prophet Idris (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)?
Prophet Idris (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), known as Enoch in Biblical traditions, is recognised in Islam as one of the earliest prophets, following either Prophet Adam or his son, Prophet Shith (Sheeth). While only a few details are mentioned in the Qur’an about Idris (عليه السلام), what we do know portrays him as a man of great virtue, wisdom, and steadfastness.
Some Islamic historians—such as Ibn Kathir—note that Idris was among the descendants of Shith, and he took up the mantle of Prophethood and leadership over the righteous among the children of Adam after Shith passed away. Although many stories about Idris come from pre-Islamic texts, Islamic scholars have allowed their narration so long as they do not contradict Islamic principles or form the basis for rulings. They are taken as supplementary moral lessons, not core doctrine.
Mention of Prophet Idris in the Qur’an
The noble Qur’an refers to Prophet Idris in two significant passages. In Surah Maryam (19:56–57), Allah says:
“And mention in the Book Idris. Indeed, he was a man of truth and a prophet. And We raised him to a high station.”
In another place, in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:85), Allah says:
“And [mention] Ishmael and Idris and Dhul-Kifl; all were among those who observed patience.”
From these verses, we learn that Idris was not only a truthful and righteous prophet, but also someone who exercised immense patience. Allah honoured him by elevating him to a lofty position—both spiritually and, as many scholars interpret, physically, by raising him to the heavens.
His Appearance and Attributes
Prophet Idris (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) is described in traditional reports as a tall, handsome man with a broad chest and a soft-spoken, calm demeanour. He was deeply contemplative and would often ponder over the creation of Allah—reflecting upon the sky, the stars, the moon, the clouds, and the natural world around him. He was not only spiritually connected but also intellectually gifted.
According to Tafsir Ma’ariful Qur’an, Idris was the first human to write with a pen. He possessed knowledge of the stars and celestial movements and had a foundational understanding of mathematics. It is also said that he was the first to design and wear stitched clothing, replacing the primitive garments made from leaves or animal skins.
His Birth and Role as a Prophet
Idris was born during the lifetime of Prophet Adam (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and was raised among the followers of Shith. As generations passed, the children of Qabil (Cain) began falling into immorality, oppression, and disbelief. Corruption spread rapidly, and many people abandoned the teachings of their forefathers.
Witnessing this moral collapse, Idris (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) felt deeply disturbed and grieved for his people. As a sincere servant of Allah, he stood firm upon truth and guidance. Allah, seeing his sincerity and wisdom, chose him as a prophet and entrusted him with the duty of guiding mankind back to the path of righteousness.
The First Prophet to Wage Jihad Against Corruption
With corruption rampant, Allah commanded Idris to stand up against injustice and tyranny. He became the first Prophet in human history to be commanded to wage jihad—not a jihad of violence for personal gain, but a holy struggle to establish justice, truth, and divine order on Earth.
Idris (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) gathered a group of sincere followers and led them in battle against the corrupt followers of Qabil. With Allah’s help, Idris and his followers were victorious, and justice was once again restored, even if temporarily.
The Promise of Great Reward and His Ascension
A well-known narration, though derived from earlier scriptures and supported by some Islamic commentators, mentions a special promise from Allah to Idris. He was informed that he would receive the reward of every righteous deed performed by others, as long as he remained alive. This incredible news delighted Idris, and he gave thanks to Allah repeatedly.
However, Idris realised that his age was advancing, and he feared that his death would end the stream of good deeds being recorded for him. Thus, he approached a friend who was from among the angels, and asked if he could request a delay in his death.
The angel agreed to carry his request. Idris then rode on the angel’s wing and ascended through the heavens. When they reached the fourth heaven, they met the Angel of Death, who had been commanded by Allah to take Idris’s soul right there in the fourth heaven.
This event matches the verse, “And We raised him to a high station,” and was also confirmed by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ during his miraculous Mi‘raj (night journey). In a Sahih hadith recorded in Bukhari (7517) and At-Tirmidhi (3157), the Prophet ﷺ mentioned meeting Idris in the fourth heaven, further confirming his lofty status.
His Death and the Rise of Corruption Again
After the passing of Prophet Idris (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ), the world once again witnessed the rapid spread of corruption and immorality. Without a prophet to guide them, many of the people fell into shirk (polytheism). It was after several generations that Allah sent another great prophet—Nuh (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)—to confront the new wave of disbelief and save humanity from destruction.
The Wise Sayings of Prophet Idris (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ)
Several sayings are attributed to Prophet Idris (عليه السلام). While their chains are not fully verified, scholars mention them as moral wisdom passed down from early generations:
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“Blessed is the one who examines his deeds and sends them forward to intercede for him before his Lord.”
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“None shows gratitude for the blessings of Allah more than he who shares them with others.”
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“Do not be jealous of what others possess, for they will only enjoy it for a brief moment.”
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“Whoever indulges in excess will never find true benefit.”
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“True joy in life lies in the pursuit of wisdom.”
These profound statements reflect the spiritual clarity, humility, and insightful intellect of Prophet Idris (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ).
Timeless Lessons from His Life
The story of Prophet Idris teaches us numerous life lessons. It shows the value of seeking knowledge, maintaining truthfulness, and persevering with patience. It reminds us that even in times of widespread corruption, one individual, through Allah’s support, can restore justice and guide people back to the truth. His ascension reminds us that those who walk on the path of sincerity and righteousness will be elevated by Allah in ways beyond our imagination.
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