Lessons From Surah Yusuf summary

PART TEN

Prophet Yusuf (AS) Reveals His Identity

When they entered Yusuf’s presence, they pleaded, “O Chief Minister! We and our family have been touched with hardship, and we have brought only scant merchandise, but ‘please’ give us our supplies in full and be charitable to us. Indeed, Allah rewards the charitable.”

The brothers, having faced years of drought and poverty, returned to Egypt seeking help from Prophet Yusuf (AS). They were ashamed of their meagre goods and asked for compassion, calling attention to their economic hardship. Despite their low-quality merchandise, they requested full provisions and extra, appealing to Prophet Yusuf (AS) ’s generosity. They ended by reminding him of Allah (SWT) ’s reward for charity, knowing they desperately needed his help.

He asked, “Do you remember what you did to Yusuf and his brother in your ignorance?”

Prophet Yusuf (AS), in a surprising moment, revealed his true identity to his brothers, who had once betrayed him. He spoke indirectly to ease their guilt and gave them a chance to save face. His character shone through as he held no grudge despite his power. The timing of his revelation may have been guided by Allah or due to changes in leadership that allowed him to bring his family to safety. Overall, Prophet Yusuf (AS)’s story shows forgiveness and divine guidance shaping his actions.

They replied ‘in shock’, “Are you really Yusuf?” He said, “I am Yusuf, and here is my brother ‘BinyamÏn’! Allah has truly been gracious to us. Surely whoever is mindful ‘of Allah’ and patient, then certainly Allah never discounts the reward of the good-doers.”

In the story of Prophet Yusuf (AS), his humility shines through as he attributes all blessings to Allah (SWT), not himself. He teaches that patience (sabr) and mindfulness of Allah (SWT) (taqwa) lead to rewards. Despite trials, Prophet Yusuf (AS) remained steadfast, showing how trust in Allah (SWT) brings ultimate success. He encourages his brothers to reform and seek Allah (SWT) ’s guidance, emphasising that true fulfilment comes through faith and patience, not disobedience.

They admitted, “By Allah! Allah has truly preferred you over us, and we have surely been sinful.”

Prophet Yusuf (AS)’s advice had a powerful impact, leading his brothers to confess their wrongdoing, acknowledging, “By Allah (SWT)! Allah (SWT) has truly favoured you over us, and we have been sinful.” This statement, emphasised by “wa in,” shows their sincere admission of guilt. They took an oath, saying “Tallahi,” swearing to Allah (SWT) that they were at fault. This marked their first step towards seeking forgiveness and repentance.

Yusuf said, “There is no blame on you today. Allah will forgive you! He is the Most Merciful of the merciful!

The term “tathrib” means feeling guilty and reminded of one’s sins. In the story of Prophet Yusuf (AS), despite being wronged, he forgave his brothers completely, saying, “There is no blame on you.” This act teaches that forgiving others is crucial in Islam, as seeking forgiveness from Allah (SWT) also requires seeking forgiveness from those wronged. The Surah Yusuf was revealed during a difficult time for Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon Him), offering him comfort and guidance. When he later conquered Makkah, he forgave its people, echoing Prophet Yusuf (AS) ’s forgiveness of his brothers. This shows the importance of forgiveness and mercy in Islam, both towards Allah (SWT) and towards others.

Go with this shirt of mine and cast it over my father’s face, and he will regain his sight. Then come back to me with your whole family.”

In the story of Prophet Yusuf (AS), his shirt appears several times, each time with a significant role. First, his brothers deceive their father, showing a blood-stained shirt to fake Prophet Yusuf (AS)’s death. Later, a different incident with Prophet Yusuf (AS)’s shirt shows his innocence when falsely accused. Finally, Prophet Yusuf (AS)’s shirt miraculously heals his father’s blindness and confirms Prophet Yusuf (AS) is alive through its fragrance. Prophet Yusuf (AS) forgives his brothers and invites them and their families to live with him in Egypt, promising them a comfortable life.