The Prophet Al-Yasa (AS) is mentioned in the Quran amongst the list of the rightly guided prophets. He was continuing the mission of Prophet Ilyas (as) as his successor to bring Bani Isra’il back towards the worship of only Allah.
He lived in prosperity, but also inspiritual decay, and despite the luxurious life that his people lead, they were not able to keep their belief.
Allah mentions him in the Quran:
“And remember Ishmael, Al-Yasa, and Dhul-Kifl; and all were among the best.”
(Surah Sad 38:48)
His Early Life and Prophethood
The Prophet Al-Yasa (AS) was born into a pious family and was being guided by the Prophet Ilyas AS from a young age. He as one of the true believers at that time when Bani Isra’il had gone into idol worship and corruption.
- He adhered to Prophet Ilyas (AS) being young and absorbed the teaching of Tawheed (monotheism).
- As Prophet Ilyas (AS) was approaching the end of his journey, he appointed Al-Yasa (AS) to continue guiding the people.
- Allah had made him a prophet and burdened him with wisdom and miracles.
His Mission: Upholding Faith and Justice
Prophet Al-Yasa (AS) was the next leader of Bani Isra’ail upon the passing of Prophet Ilyas (AS). While his predecessor experienced intense rejection, Al-Yasa (AS) served during a period of relative peace and prosperity.
But his people were in a weak state of Iman, and he had to keep reminding them of their promise with Allah.
- He taught them not to practice idolatry and to worship only Allah.
- He administered justice, protecting the weak and poor.
- He called to mind previous punishments meted out to those who rejected Allah’s messengers.
And still, his people were spiritually lethargic, following the truth but attached to worldly pleasures.
His Miracles and Divine Support
Although the Quran does not specifically mention miracles when describing Prophet Al-Yasa (AS), he is believed, as his mentor Prophet Ilyas (AS), to have been awarded healing powers and divine help to overcome tyrants.
- By Allah’s mercy, he healed the sick.
- He led the people in wisdom and justice.
- He kept faith in an age of material distraction.
Under his leadership, there were divine blessings in the land, and as long as people obeyed Allah, justice and prosperity were ensured.
The Decline of Bani Isra’il After His Death
Bani Isra’il continued in their disobedience after the passing of prophet Al-Yasa (AS), who were steadfast on their mission.
- They were arrogant, thinking their wealth would last forever.
- They resumed idol worship, dismissing the admonitions of past Prophets.
- They were corrupted, and it caused their society to decline.
And when they ceased following Allah’s guidance, they were finally left to be overrun by the foreign nations, an outgrowth of the degradation of their moral and spiritual fabric.
His Legacy and Mention in the Quran
Prophet Al-Yasa (AS) is mentioned twice in the Quran as one of Allah’s righteous and honored messengers:
“And We gave him Ishaq and Ya’qub and guided them all. And We guided Nuh before; and among his descendants, Dawud, Sulaiman, Ayyub, Yusuf, Musa, and Harun. And thus do We reward the doers of good. And Zakariya, Yahya, Isa, and Ilyas—each was of the righteous. And Ismail, Al-Yasa, Yunus, and Lut, and all of them We preferred over the worlds.”
(Surah Al-An’am 6:84-86)
“And remember Ishmael, Al-Yasa, and Dhul-Kifl; and all were among the best.”
(Surah Sad 38:48)
These verses confirm that Prophet Al-Yasa (AS) was among the most righteous and honored messengers of Allah, and his faith and perseverance remain an example for all believers.
Lessons from the Life of Prophet Al-Yasa (AS)
- Faith must be upheld even in the good times .
- Without righteousness, material success is meaningless.
- A true leader upholds justice and fairness.
- Ignoring divine guidance leads to downfall.
Conclusion
Prophet Al-Yasa (AS) was devoted prophet and a righteous leader who continued the mission of Prophet Ilyas (AS). He kept his time righteous and faithful but his people turned back to wickedness after his death.His story teaches us that faith should never end, and that true success is not the wealth of money but obedience to Allah. May peace be upon Prophet Al-Yasa (AS) and all the prophets of Allah. Ameen
