PROPHET YAQUB'S HEARTFELT REFUSAL: A FATHER'S INSTINCTUAL PROTECTION

By Olayiwola Ibrahim // In a dramatic turn of events, Prophet Yaqub’s sons approached their father, seeking permission to take their younger brother, Prophet Yusuf, out with them.

Renowned Islamic scholar, educationist, and preacher, Sheikh Imran Abdul Majeed Eleha, sheds light on the significance of Prophet Yaqub’s refusal.

According to Sheikh Eleha, Prophet Yaqub’s instincts as a father and a prophet kicked in, and he refused to let Yusuf go with them.

Prophet Yaqub’s refusal was not just driven by paternal instincts but also by his prophetic insight, Sheikh Eleha explains.

As a prophet, he was gifted with the ability to discern the intentions of others.

He sensed that something was amiss and that his sons’ intentions might not be pure.

Verse 13 of Suratul Yusuf reveals Prophet Yaqub’s concerns noting that indeed, it saddens me that you should take him away, and I fear lest a wolf should devour him while you are careless of him.

Sheikh Eleha emphasizes that this incident highlights the importance of parental intuition and the need for parents to trust their instincts when it comes to their children’s well-being.

Prophet Yaqub’s story serves as a reminder to parents to be vigilant and proactive in protecting their children from harm.

However, the brothers’ intentions were far from pure. Verse 9 of Suratul Yusuf exposes their sinister plot stating that Slay Yusuf or cast him out to some other land, so that your father’s attention may be exclusively for you.

The brothers’ envy had reached a boiling point, leading them to conspire against their own flesh and blood.

Not all the brothers were in agreement with the plan, however. Verse 10 reports that one of the brothers, believed to be Prophet Yusuf’s full brother, Benjamin’s brother, spoke out against the plot, Slay not Yusuf, but if ye must do something, throw him down to the bottom of a well.

This brother’s plea for mercy highlights the moral dilemma faced by the family.

As the story unfolds, the consequences of the brothers’ actions will become clear. Prophet Yaqub’s heartfelt refusal serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of trusting one’s instincts and protecting those we love.