Prophet Dhul-Kifl

Who is Dhul-Kifl?

Dhul-Kifl (Arabic ذو الكفل, "the one of the double portion" or "the guarantor") is a prophet mentioned twice in the Quran, always among the ranks of the patient and righteous. His story is not narrated in detail in the Quran, and scholars have differed about his identity — the most widespread view is that he is the biblical Ezekiel (Hebrew Yechezqel), while some early scholars considered him a son or contemporary of the Prophet Ilyas (Elijah), and a minority regard him as a righteous man rather than a prophet.

Quranic Mentions

Dhul-Kifl is mentioned in two verses, both listing him alongside great prophets to indicate his high station:

• "And [mention] Ismail, Idris, and Dhul-Kifl — all were of the patient. And We admitted them into Our mercy; indeed, they were of the righteous." (Al-Anbiya 21:85-86)
• "And remember Ismail, Al-Yasa, and Dhul-Kifl — all are among the outstanding." (Sad 38:48)

The Story Behind His Name

Classical commentators like Ibn Kathir relate a widely known story that gives him his title: an aged prophet asked his people who would guarantee to keep three practices — fasting daily, praying at night, and never becoming angry. One young man agreed, honoured his pledge faithfully in the face of tests from Satan, and was given the name Dhul-Kifl — "the one who took the guarantee". This story is not in the Quran itself; scholars regard it as an isra'iliyyat (Israelite tradition) that may be believed if it does not contradict Islamic teachings.

Identification with Ezekiel

Many classical scholars, including at-Tabari and Ibn Kathir, identify Dhul-Kifl with the biblical prophet Ezekiel — a prophet of the Children of Israel during the Babylonian exile who received visions of the throne of God and the resurrection of the dry bones. This identification rests on the parallel qualities of patience, guardianship of his people, and the placement of his name among Israelite prophets in the Quranic listings.

Lessons from His Story

• Patience under trial — the Quran twice mentions him among the patient, indicating that steadfastness in faith was his defining virtue.
• Keeping promises — even where the traditional story is disputed, its lesson of taking a spiritual commitment seriously remains valuable.
• Divine mercy — the Quran assures us Allah admitted him "into Our mercy" — a fruit of righteous action open to all who follow his path.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dhul-Kifl definitely the same person as Ezekiel?

The majority of classical scholars accept this identification, but it is not decisively established. The Quran does not name him "Ezekiel" and the details of his life are not given. Believing either view is permissible; the essential belief is that he was a righteous prophet honoured by Allah.

Where is his tomb?

A tomb attributed to Dhul-Kifl is located in the town of Al-Kifl in Iraq (near Babylon), which fits the traditional identification with Ezekiel during the Babylonian exile. Authenticating the exact grave sites of prophets is generally uncertain, so the honour is symbolic rather than verified.