The Prophet Ibrahim (AS), or Abraham, is one of the most important and beloved prophets of Allah (SWT) and is often referred to as the ‘Friend of Allah’ (Khalilullah). He was born in ancient Babylon (present-day Iraq) during a time when idol worship was very common. With his father being an idol maker.
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) rejected idolatry from a very young age and went on a path to discover Allah (SWT), the only God who created everything and was worthy of worship. Along this path, he faced countless challenges and trials, but he never gave up and followed his heart. His story presents us with many important lessons that teach us faith, submission, moral character, and, most importantly, unwavering devotion to Allah (SWT).
5 Lessons to Learn From the Story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS)
Here are five important lessons we can learn from Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) story:
1. Trust and Reliance on Allah (SWT)
The most important lesson we can learn from Prophet Ibrahim (AS) is to trust Allah's (SWT) plan and only ask for His help and guidance in difficult situations. When Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was thrown in the fire by his people for rejecting idol worship, he remained calm and trusted Allah (SWT) for protection, and Allah (SWT) made the fire cool and harmless. As the Quran mentions:
“We said, O fire, be coolness and safety upon Ibrahim.”
(Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:69)
This shows us that we should completely trust Allah (SWT) and ask him for guidance whenever we face hardships or encounter challenging situations. He oversees everything, and only he can provide us with relief.
As we live in an increasingly distracted world filled with numerous challenges to our faith, we must do our best to remain faithful to Allah (SWT), believe in his plans, and pray for his mercy.
2. Ask Questions
Islam encourages us to seek knowledge and learn new things that happen in our surroundings. Don’t draw conclusions without any evidence or proper answers. A key part of seeking knowledge is to ask questions so we can understand something we don’t know or if it doesn't make sense. As the Quran says:
“So ask the people of knowledge if you do not know.”
(Surah An-Nahl, 16:43)
The story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) is a great example of this principle. He questioned the practices and beliefs of his people, who worshipped the sun, moon, stars, and even the kings. These things did not make sense to him, so he sought the truth about Allah (SWT). The Quran beautifully describes his journey of questioning and reasoning:
“When the night covered him, he saw a star. He said, ‘This is my lord.’ But when it set, he said, ‘I do not like those that disappear.’”
(Surah Al-An’am, 6:76-79)
Prophet Ibrahim (AS) continued to reflect and question until he understood that only Allah (SWT) is the creator and sustainer of the universe. His example teaches us the importance of using reason and asking questions to find the truth.
3. Children Learn From Their Parents
As parents, we are responsible for the upbringing and well-being of our children. Children are a reflection of our actions and teachings. Being Muslims, we should always raise our children according to Islamic principles and lead as an example for them to follow.
We can take inspiration from Prophet Ibrahim (AS) when he was on his way to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) at Allah's command, Iblis (satan) then whispered to him to dissuade him. Then Prophet Ibrahim (AS) picked up seven stones and threw them at the Iblis while saying 'Bismillah' (in the name of Allah) and 'Allahu Akbar' (Allah is Greater).
However, Iblis returned again with a different whisper, and Prophet Ibrahim (AS) repeated the action. Lastly, Iblis came to Ismail (AS) with a whisper. As his father had done, Ismail (AS) picked up seven stones and threw them at Iblis while saying the same words.
Today Muslims perform this ritual during Hajj, and it is known as ‘Rami’, which symbolises the rejection of evil and submission to Allah's (AS) will. This story teaches Muslims the importance of leading by example. When parents demonstrate steadfast faith, obedience to Allah (AS), and resistance to evil, children will likely follow in their footsteps.
If you want to teach your children such inspiring stories of Prophets in a simple yet meaningful way, then visit the Riwaya Children's Book Section. We offer books on Prophet stories and other Islamic topics. These books are engaging and fun, making it easier for children to learn about Islamic teachings.
4. Dua (Prayer) is a Powerful Tool
Ibrahim (AS) prayed to Allah (SWT) to bless him with children. He continued to do so even when he and his wife reached old age, where it was impossible to have children. He never gave up and hoped that Allah (SWT) would listen and bless him. As the Quran mentions:
(Ibrahim said) My Lord, grant me [a child] from among the righteous. So We gave him good tidings of a forbearing boy."
(Surah As-Saffat, 37:100-101)
Ultimately Allah (SWT) listened to his dua and blessed him with two sons Ismail (AS) and later Ishaq (AS). Prophet Ibrahim (AS) expressed gratitude to Allah for granting him children despite his old age:
"Praise to Allah, who has granted to me in old age Ismail and Ishaq. Indeed, my Lord is the Hearer of supplication."
(Surah Ibrahim, 14:39)
This shows us that we should never stop praying to Allah (SWT) and ask him for things that we want dearly in life. Whatever we desire in life, we should persistently make dua for it while maintaining hope and belief that Allah (SWT) will answer and grant it to us. Who knows, he may even give you something better than what you asked for.
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5. Submitting to Allah (SWT) Commands
One of the best lessons we can learn from Prophet Ibrahim's (AS) story is to submit to Allah's (SWT) commands without any hesitation. When Allah (SWT) tested Ibrahim (AS) and asked him to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS), both father and son agreed to do so without any second thought, showing unwavering commitment to their faith.
“So when they had both submitted their wills (to Allah), and he laid him prostrate on his forehead, We called out to him: ‘O Ibrahim! You have fulfilled the vision.’”
(Surah As-Saffat, 37:103-105)
Although Allah (SWT) doesn’t ask us to make such monumental sacrifices today, Allah (SWT) still commands us to follow his teachings as laid out in the Quran and Hadith. This includes avoiding haram (forbidden) actions, fulfilling daily obligations like salah (prayers), fasting, and zakat, and constantly striving to avoid sins.
By living in accordance with Allah’s (SWT) commands, we strengthen our faith and become better individuals who contribute positively to our communities.
Conclusion
The life of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) is a timeless source of inspiration and guidance for Muslims. His unwavering faith, trust in Allah (SWT), and readiness to submit to His commands teach us how to navigate life with patience, obedience, and devotion. By implementing these lessons in our daily lives, we can strengthen our faith, grow closer to Allah (SWT), and strive to please Him.
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