Zulkifli
In historical records and religious texts, figures of exceptional virtue and wisdom often appear, leaving a lasting impact on the collective consciousness. One of these figures, although less well-known, is Dhu al-Kifli. While his story may not be as prominent as some other prophets, Zulkifli's story resonates with profound moral lessons and unwavering determination, making it an essential part of the fabric of faith and resilience.
I. Zulkifli: Identity Revealed
In the complex fabric of Islamic history, Dhu al-Kifl is considered by some scholars to be the son of the venerable Prophet Ayyub (Job) - peace be upon him. His original name was Human, but his pivotal role in the divine story earned him the nickname “Dhu al-Kifli.” However, there is disagreement among scholars about his prophecy. While some affirm his status as a prophet, others consider him a good man of the lineage of Israel. His recognition in the Qur’an enhances his importance, as God praised him along with other patient prophets: “And Ishmael, and Elisha, and Yunus, and Lot, and each of them We preferred above the worlds.” [Qur’an 6:86]
secondly. The Mystery of Dhu al-Kifli: Written Absence and Moral Presence
Interestingly, while Dhu al-Kifl is acknowledged in the Qur’an, his prophetic mission, divine message, and the people to whom he was sent remained shrouded in mystery. Unlike other prophets whose narratives are extensively detailed, Dhu al-Kifli's story lacks detailed elucidation. The Qur’anic silence on these aspects calls for contemplation and reminds believers that moral lessons often go beyond the details of historical narratives.
Third. The Encounter with Satan: The Test of Virtue
Zulkifli's virtue and integrity were tested when he was approached by a cunning sheikh seeking justice from his people who had severely wronged him. Despite the man's convincing story of injustice, Zulkifli chose not to mediate directly but advised the man to return to his people. But Satan saw an opportunity to deceive. The man incited strife, which made Zulkifli blame for not resolving the conflict. Zulkifli knew of the harm, and stood firm in his position, refusing to compromise on his principles.
Fourthly. Dhulkifli's determination and divine intervention
The test continued when the old man returned and tried to trick Zulkifli again. This time he pretended to be dead and left a will stipulating that Zulkifli should marry his daughter. While Zulkifli married the woman, he remained steadfast, aware of the man's deceitful trick. God intervened, after knowing the virtue of Dhul-Kifl, to reveal the truth to people and exonerate him from false charges.
Fifth. The Legacy of Zulkifli: Virtue in Adversity
Zulkifli's tale serves as a beacon of virtue in the face of adversity. His consistency and moral clarity resonate across the centuries, reminding believers of the importance of resilience and integrity in times of adversity. While his story may lack the detailed accounts found in other prophetic stories, the essence of his character is deeply woven into the fabric of faith.
So Iblees made him say to the demons: You have to do so and so, so they became aware of that. So he said, “Leave me and him.” So he came to him in the form of a poor old man, and he came to him when he took his bed to the saying, and he did not sleep night and day, except for that sleep, so he knocked on the door. Zulkifl said: Who is this? He said: An oppressed old man. Zulkifli got up and opened the door. So the Sheikh began to tell him about a quarrel between him and his people, and what they did to him, and how they wronged him. Zulkifl said: If you go to the council, I will take your right to you
But Sheikh did not attend the Council. The council adjourned without attending Sheikh. The council was held the next day, but the Sheikh did not attend either. And when Zulkifli returned to his house with the woman to lie down, the Sheikh came to him and knocked on the door, and said: Who is this? The oppressed old sheikh said. It was opened to him and he said: Did I not tell you that if you sit, you will miss me? The Sheikh said: They are the most insidious people. If they know that you are sitting, they say to me: We give you your right, and if you stand up, they deny me.
Dhu al-Kifl said: Go now, and if I went to my seat, he missed me, so he missed the saying, so he went to his seat and waited for the sheikh, so he did not see him, and he fell asleep, so he said to some of his family: Do not let anyone approach this door until I sleep, for I have hard sleep. So the Sheikh came, and they prevented him from entering, so he said: I came to him yesterday, so I mentioned my matter to Dhu al-Kifl, and they said: No, by God, we have been commanded not to let anyone approach him. So the sheikh got up and walled up the wall and entered the house and knocked on the door from the inside. Zulkifl woke up and said to his family: Didn't I order you not to enter upon me? They said: We did not let anyone approach, so look where he entered
Zulkifli stood up to the door, and it was closed as he closed it. And if the man was with him in the house, he recognized him and said: Prepare God? He said: Yes, you appointed me in everything, so I did everything you see to make you angry
!So God called him Dhul-Kafl because he took care of an order and he fulfilled it
Conclusion:
Zulkifli, a man of virtue and determination, stands as a testament to his unwavering strength of character in the face of deception and adversity. His story, although ambiguous, offers profound moral lessons, teaching believers the importance of moral clarity, patience, and resilience in the face of challenges. In a world often marred by deception and falsehood, Zulkifli's story is a timeless reminder of the enduring power of truth and integrity, inspiring generations to uphold these virtues on their journey to faith and righteousness.