Prophet Idris (Enoch)

Who was Prophet Idris?

Idris was an early prophet of Allah, mentioned twice in the Quran with high praise. He lived in the early generations of humanity — many traditions place him between the time of Adam and Nuh — and is honoured as a man of truth (siddiq) and a prophet whom Allah raised to "a high station".

His Story

The Quran does not narrate a detailed story of Idris but distinguishes him with two brief, powerful descriptions. 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." And among the patient prophets: "And Ismail and Idris and Dhul-Kifl — all were of the patient. And We admitted them into Our mercy. Indeed, they were of the righteous." Islamic tradition associates Idris with various forms of knowledge and is rich with reports about his piety, though the most certain knowledge of him is what the Quran itself affirms: his truthfulness, his prophethood, his patience, and his elevated rank with Allah.

Idris in the Quran

• "And mention in the Book, Idris. Indeed, he was a man of truth and a prophet." (19:56)
• "And We raised him to a high station." (19:57)
• "And [mention] Ismail and Idris and Dhul-Kifl; all were of the patient." (21:85)

Lessons from His Life

Idris is honoured for being a siddiq — one of complete truthfulness — and for his patience, two qualities the Quran consistently links to the highest ranks. His being "raised to a high station" reminds the believer that true elevation is not worldly status but nearness to Allah, earned through sincerity, honesty, and steadfastness. Even where details are scarce, the Quran's praise itself is the lasting lesson.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Idris the same as Enoch?

Many scholars and traditions identify Idris with the biblical Enoch, an early righteous figure. However, the precise identification is not definitively established in the primary texts. What is certain is what the Quran states: that he was a truthful prophet of high rank.

What does "raised to a high station" mean?

Scholars have understood it in different ways — as an elevation of rank and honour with Allah, and in some reports as a literal raising to the heavens. The Quran's wording emphasises Idris's exalted standing before Allah, the fruit of his truthfulness and patience.