Among the righteous prophets mentioned in the Quran is a man known by a title that speaks volumes about his character: Dhul-Kifl. While his story is not detailed at length, his inclusion alongside great prophets like Ismail and Idris is a testament to his lofty status. His life is a powerful, focused lesson on the virtues of fulfilling one's commitments, patience, and the immense challenge of controlling anger.
The Man of the Pledge
The name "Dhul-Kifl" is often translated as "Possessor of the Portion," "The One of the Fold," or, most famously, "He of the Pledge." This title is linked to a well-known narration. An aging king (some scholars say it was Prophet Al-Yasa/Elisha) wished to delegate his authority. He gathered his people and asked, "Who will volunteer to take my place, on the condition that he fasts every day, prays every night, and never gets angry?"
The assembly was silent, for these were incredibly difficult conditions. But a young man stood up and said, "I will." The king asked again, and again the same young man was the only one to accept the heavy responsibility. For his willingness to take on this "kifl" (charge or portion), he became known as Dhul-Kifl.
The Test of Anger from Shaytan
Dhul-Kifl (AS) dutifully fulfilled his promise. He would tend to the affairs of his people during the day while fasting, and he would spend his nights in worship. He was known for never getting angry. This righteousness enraged Shaytan (Satan), who made it his personal mission to break the prophet's pledge. Shaytan sent his devils to provoke him, but they all failed.
Finally, Shaytan went himself, disguised as a poor, elderly man. He came to Dhul-Kifl's house at midday, the only time the prophet would take a short nap. When he was denied entry, he managed to get inside and woke the prophet, presenting a long, fabricated story about being wronged by his people. Dhul-Kifl patiently told him to come to the court. The old man claimed the people would not give him his due. Dhul-Kifl gave him a letter with his seal, but the man still made excuses.
Shaytan's goal was to frustrate Dhul-Kifl and make him angry before his nap was over. But Dhul-Kifl maintained his composure. When the old man failed to appear in court, Dhul-Kifl went searching for him himself. As he did, the old man, who was Shaytan, vanished. Dhul-Kifl realized it had been a plot to make him angry, and he had passed the test, solidifying his status as a man of his word.
Praise from the Lord of the Worlds
Allah Himself immortalizes the character of Dhul-Kifl in the Quran, placing him in the company of the most patient and righteous of prophets. This divine praise is the ultimate validation of his steadfastness.
"And [mention] Ismail, Idris, and Dhul-Kifl; all were of the patient. And We admitted them into Our mercy. Indeed, they were of the righteous."(Quran 21:85-86)
Being mentioned alongside prophets like Ismail (the patient sacrifice) and Idris (the ascended prophet) signifies Dhul-Kifl's immense spiritual rank. His core quality, patience, is highlighted as a key trait of the righteous servants of Allah.
Timeless Lessons from Dhul-Kifl's Life
Dhul-Kifl's entire legacy is built on fulfilling a difficult pledge. His story teaches us that a believer's word is their bond. We must strive to honor our commitments, whether they are made to Allah or to people, as it is a defining characteristic of faith.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "The strong man is not the one who can overpower others; rather, the strong man is the one who controls himself when he is angry." Dhul-Kifl is the perfect embodiment of this hadith. He shows that true strength lies in patient forbearance.
He did not seek leadership for power or prestige. He accepted it as a heavy responsibility with strict conditions for the sake of his community. This is a powerful lesson for anyone in a position of authority.
Shaytan's attempt on Dhul-Kifl was not to make him steal or commit a major sin, but to make him break a promise by losing his temper. This shows that the enemy of mankind often attacks our character flaws, knowing that a loss of self-control can lead to many other sins.
Share and Reflect
The story of Prophet Dhul-Kifl (alayhis salam) is a masterclass in integrity and self-control. How can we apply his example of managing anger and fulfilling promises in our daily lives? Share your thoughts below.
Support Our Mission
If you have benefited from this article, please consider supporting our work. Your donation helps us continue to produce and share authentic Islamic knowledge with the world. Every contribution, big or small, is a source of great reward.
Donate Now