Prophet Yusuf (Joseph)

Who was Prophet Yusuf?

Yusuf (Joseph) was a prophet of Allah and the son of the Prophet Yaqub (Jacob), son of Ishaq, son of Ibrahim. His remarkable life is recounted from beginning to end in Surah Yusuf (the 12th chapter of the Quran), which Allah describes as "the best of stories". It is a tale of betrayal, patience, temptation resisted, and ultimate triumph — all unfolding according to the wise plan of Allah.

His Story

As a boy, Yusuf saw a dream of eleven stars, the sun, and the moon prostrating to him. Out of envy, his brothers threw him into a well; he was sold into slavery and taken to Egypt. There, the wife of the Aziz tried to seduce him, but he refused, saying he sought refuge in Allah, and was imprisoned despite his innocence. In prison he interpreted dreams, and when he interpreted the king's dream of seven fat and seven lean cows, he was raised to a position of great authority over Egypt's storehouses. Years later, during famine, his brothers came seeking food and did not recognise him. In the end Yusuf revealed himself, forgave them with the words "No blame upon you today", and was reunited with his father — his childhood dream fulfilled.

Yusuf in the Quran

• "We relate to you the best of stories..." (12:3)
• "He said: My Lord, prison is more to my liking than that to which they invite me..." (12:33)
• "He said: No blame will there be upon you today. Allah will forgive you; He is the most merciful of the merciful." (12:92)

Lessons from His Life

Yusuf's story is a masterclass in patience (sabr), chastity (taqwa), and trust in Allah's decree. Wronged by his own family, enslaved, falsely accused, and imprisoned, he never abandoned his faith or his integrity, and Allah raised him to honour. His forgiveness of his brothers models the highest character. The Prophet ﷺ called him "the noble, son of the noble, son of the noble, son of the noble: Yusuf, son of Yaqub, son of Ishaq, son of Ibrahim" (Bukhari 3390).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Surah Yusuf called "the best of stories"?

Because it is the most complete and detailed narrative in the Quran, recounted in a single surah from start to finish, and because it weaves together so many timeless lessons — divine wisdom behind hardship, the reward of patience and chastity, the beauty of forgiveness, and the truth that Allah's plan always prevails.

Who was "the wife of the Aziz"?

She was the wife of the high official who bought Yusuf in Egypt; later tradition names her Zulaykha. Her attempt to seduce Yusuf, his refusal, and his choice of prison over sin form a central episode on guarding chastity and seeking refuge in Allah from temptation.