Prophet Al-Yasa (Elisha)

Who is Al-Yasa?

Al-Yasa (Arabic اليسع) is a prophet of the Children of Israel mentioned twice in the Quran, both times listed among the greatest prophets to affirm his exalted station. Classical Islamic scholarship — including at-Tabari and Ibn Kathir — identifies him with the biblical Elisha (Hebrew Elisha), the disciple, successor and companion of the Prophet Ilyas (Elijah).

Quranic Mentions

Al-Yasa is mentioned in two places, in both instances honoured alongside a series of prophets:

• "And [We guided] Ismail, Al-Yasa, Yunus, and Lut — and all of them We favoured over the worlds." (Al-An'am 6:86-87)
• "And remember Ismail, Al-Yasa, and Dhul-Kifl — all are among the outstanding." (Sad 38:48)

His Story in Islamic Tradition

Islamic tradition — drawing on both Quranic hints and classical commentary — describes Al-Yasa as a young man who followed the Prophet Ilyas (Elijah) when Ilyas was pursued by a tyrannical king. Al-Yasa became the disciple of Ilyas, learning from him and inheriting his prophetic mission upon Ilyas's ascent. He continued calling the Children of Israel to worship the One God, warning them against idolatry and the worship of the Canaanite god Baal that Ilyas had confronted.

The biblical account of Elisha — well known to Jewish and Christian readers — includes his miraculous healing of Naaman the Syrian, the multiplication of oil for the widow, and other signs of Allah's power at his hand. Islamic scholars accept these accounts as broadly consistent with the honour the Quran gives him but do not consider them binding revelation.

Why is He Called 'Al-Yasa'?

The Arabic name Al-Yasa transliterates the Hebrew Elisha, meaning "God is salvation". Some early Arab commentators wondered whether his name should read "Elisha son of Akhtub", making him distinct from the "Elisha" figure of Ilyas's time, but the mainstream tradition accepts them as the same prophet.

Lessons from His Story

• Discipleship — Al-Yasa learned from Ilyas before assuming his own prophetic mission, a model of humility and learning from teachers.
• Continuity of prophethood — Allah does not leave His guidance unfinished; when one prophet passes, another rises to preserve the message.
• Standing against idolatry — like Ilyas before him, Al-Yasa upheld pure monotheism against a society drifting to false gods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Al-Yasa really the biblical Elisha?

The identification is accepted by most classical Sunni scholars, but the Quran itself does not offer biographical detail. Believing either that he is the Elisha of the Hebrew Bible or a distinct Israelite prophet is permitted; the essential belief is that he was a true prophet honoured by Allah.

Where is his tomb?

Various sites — including one in the region of Homs in Syria — are traditionally attributed to Al-Yasa. As with other early prophets, the exact location cannot be verified with certainty; the honour is symbolic.