Surah Yusuf

Surah Yusuf is the 12th chapter (Surah) of the Quran and has 111 Verses (Ayahs). It is preceded by surah Hud and followed by Ar-Radd Regarding the timing and contextual background of the supposed revelation.

Surah Yusuf was revealed toward the end of the Makkan period, which means it is believed to have been revealed in Mecca, instead of later in Medina. It is said to have been revealed in a single sitting and is unique in this respect. The text narrates the story of Yusuf (Joseph) who is considered a prophet in Islam, whose life and mission it recounts.

The main aim of the Surah Yusuf is to display the Power of Allah (swt) – He shows us through the events of Prophet Yusuf (as)’s life, that whatever He Wills will happen, no matter what we or others may try to do – “They planned and Allah (swt) [also] Planned, and Allah (swt) is the Best of Planners”.

The surah also teaches us about the importance of having faith in Allah (swt) – knowing that whatever He has Planned for us, is actually for our own good and if we are suffering then it has some sort of benefit to us even though we may not be able to see it at that moment – “And rely on Allah; and Allah is sufficient for a Protector”.

The importance of having the quality of virtue is emphasised through the character of Prophet Yusuf (as). Another lesson we learn from Surah Al Yusuf is that we will tested many times during our lives and that we will face difficulties and trials as well as moments of bliss and happiness and it is all part of our test and life on this earth – “Do men think that they will be left alone on saying, We believe, and not be tried?”

An important lesson to learn is about the importance of not giving into peer pressure when it involves going against the commands of Allah (swt) – for example when the brothers wanted to slay Prophet Yusuf (as), one brother refused to give in and suggested they just leave him at the bottom of the well instead – this saved Prophet Yusuf (as)’s life.