Prophet Idris
إدريسعليه السلام
Known for his wisdom, piety, and patience. He was raised to a high station by Allah and is associated with early knowledge and writing.
A Prophet of Knowledge and Patience
Idris is mentioned twice in the Quran, praised for his truthfulness and patience. Many scholars identify him with the biblical Enoch. He is described as having been raised to a high station by Allah, which scholars interpret as either a high rank in paradise or being raised physically to the heavens.
وَاذْكُرْ فِي الْكِتَابِ إِدْرِيسَ ۚ إِنَّهُ كَانَ صِدِّيقًا نَّبِيًّا * وَرَفَعْنَاهُ مَكَانًا عَلِيًّا
“And mention in the Book, Idris. Indeed, he was a man of truth and a prophet. And We raised him to a high station.”
First to Write with a Pen
According to scholarly tradition, Idris was the first person to write with a pen and to sew clothing. He was also associated with astronomy and mathematics. He called his people to the worship of Allah and warned them against following their desires.
During the Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj), the Prophet ﷺ met Idris in the fourth heaven and greeted him.
Source: Bukhari 59:18, Muslim 1:321
His Place Among the Righteous
Allah lists Idris among the prophets He favored, alongside Ibrahim, Musa, and others. He is praised alongside Ismail and Dhul-Kifl for their patience and steadfastness.
وَإِسْمَاعِيلَ وَإِدْرِيسَ وَذَا الْكِفْلِ ۖ كُلٌّ مِّنَ الصَّابِرِينَ
“And [mention] Ismail, Idris, and Dhul-Kifl — all were of the patient.”
Key Lessons
- ◆Knowledge and learning are central to the prophetic tradition
- ◆Patience (sabr) is a defining quality of the righteous
- ◆Allah elevates those who are truthful and devout
References & Sources
- Quran: Surah Maryam (19:56-57), Al-Anbiya (21:85-86)
- Bukhari 59:18, Muslim 1:321 — Night Journey (Isra and Mi'raj)
- Ibn Kathir, Qasas al-Anbiya