Introduction:
One of the most revered Prophets in Islam, Hazrat Ismail (A.S.) is renowned for his strong religious beliefs, submission to Allah, and contribution to Prophet Ibrahim’s (A.S.) legacy. Because of his association with two of Islam’s most significant events—the Qurbani (sacrifice) and the reconstruction of the Kaaba—his life serves as an inspiration to Muslims of all generations.
Birth: A Gift from Allah
After years of prayer and desire, Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) and Bibi Hajra (R.A.) welcomed Hazrat Ismail (A.S.) into the world. His miraculous birth served as a reminder of Allah’s kindness. “My Lord, grant me [a child] from among the righteous,” begged Hazrat Ibrahim (A.S.).
As-Saffat Surah, 37:100
Ismail, the future prophet and ancestor of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), was born as a result of Allah answering his supplication.
The Desert Test: Trust in Allah
Hazrat Ibrahim (A.S.) abandoned Bibi Hajra and infant Ismail in the Makkah desert as directed by Allah. Bibi Hajra ran between Safa and Marwah in quest of water. Then, by the grace of Allah, water from Zamzam began to flow from beneath Ismail’s feet. Sa’i and Zamzam are still essential components of the Hajj and Umrah today, honoring their faith and effort, and their miracle established the groundwork for Makkah.
The Greatest Sacrifice: A Test of Faith
Both father and son obeyed Allah without question when Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) saw in a dream that he had to sacrifice Hazrat Ismail (A.S.). Allah substituted a ram for Ismail as Ibrahim (A.S.) was about to do so. This act of obedience, which represents faith, submission, and sacrifice, is commemorated annually during Eid al-Adha.
Building the Kaaba: A Father-Son Mission
Later, Allah gave Ibrahim and Ismail (peace be upon them) the order to construct Makkah’s Kaaba, the world’s first house of worship.
They prayed as they lifted its foundations:
“Our Lord! Let us accept [this]. You truly are the All-Knowing and the All-Hearing.
(Al-Baqarah Surah, 2:127)
As a testament to their devotion, this Kaaba continues to serve as the focal point of the Hajj pilgrimage and the Qiblah (direction of prayer) for all Muslims.
Prophethood and Legacy
In Arabia, Hazrat Ismail (A.S.) rose to prominence as a prophet and was renowned for his honesty, endurance, and prayerfulness. As the prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) ancestor, he carried on the teachings of Tawheed by calling people to worship the one true God.
Lessons from the Life of Hazrat Ismail (A.S.)
Hazrat Ishmael (A.S.) shown unwavering devotion to worship, patience in the face of adversity, and profound regard for his father. His selfless legacy endures through Eid al-Adha and the Hajj.
Conclusion
Hazrat Ismail (A.S.) is a remarkable illustration of patience, trust, and submission to Allah. Through the Hajj, the Kaaba, Zamzam, and Eid al-Adha, his legacy endures. May Allah provide us the ability to sincerely believe and follow his way.
