Prophet Yusuf

Yusuf (circa 1610 BC - 1500 BC?), (Arabic: يوسف, also Yousef, Yousuf, Youssef, Yussef, Yusef, Yossef, Yousov, Yousif or Yosef), is a Prophet in the Quran, the holy scripture of Islam. The name Yusuf is the Arabic variant form of Joseph from Jewish texts and the Christian Biblical traditions.

The complete narrative of Joseph is dedicated in one surah (chapter in the Quran), Sura Yusuf (chapter 12). However, it is recognized as one of the most detailed narratives in the Quran. The Quran depicts this story as the most beautiful of stories narrated in a stream of descriptive verses from beginning to end; its substance and form are equally coherent. It documents the implementation of Allah's rulings despite the challenges of human intervention.

PROPHET YUSUF'S CHILDHOOD (pbuh)

HIS CHILDHOOD DREAM

Prophet Yusuf (peace be upon him) had a dream when he was still a child and asked his father what it meant. His father, the Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) (Jacob from Biblical tradition), interpreted the dream and gave him glad tidings. He also warned Yusuf (pbuh) against telling his brothers about it. This event is described in the Quran:

When Yusuf told his father, "Father! I saw eleven bright stars, and the sun and moon as well. I saw them all prostrate in front of me." He said, "My son, don't tell your brothers your dream lest they devise some scheme to injure you, Satan is a clear-cut enemy to man. Accordingly your Lord will pick you out and teach you the true meaning of events and perfectly fulfill His blessing on you as well as on the family of Ya'qub as He fulfilled it perfectly before upon your forebears, Ibrahim and Ishaq. Most certainly your Lord is Knowing, Wise." (Quran 12: 4-6)

The reason why his father warned Yusuf (pbuh) not to tell his brothers about the dream lay in their behavior which failed to inspire any confidence. As a man of great wisdom and perception, Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) was aware that his sons possessed the kind of character that gave rise to strife and jealousy. Knowing them as well as he did, he guessed that they might well lay a trap for Yusuf (pbuh). For that reason Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) warned Yusuf (pbuh) of the enmity of Satan and recommended that he be on his guard.

THE TRAP SET FOR PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh) BY HIS BROTHERS

Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) was right to warn his son for the other brothers were jealous of him and his youngest brother. This envy burned so fiercely within them that it led them to lay a trap for Yusuf (pbuh). This is yet another indication that their behavior was far removed from the moral values of Islam and that they were failing to display the character of true monotheistic believers. The trap they had set and what they did to Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) are related in the Quran:

When they declared, "Why! Yusuf and his brother are dearer to our father than we are although we constitute a powerful group. Our father is clearly making a mistake. Kill Yusuf or expel him to some land so that your father will look to you alone and then you can be people who do right." (Quran 12: 8-9)

One of them said, "Do not take Yusuf's life but throw him to the bottom of the well, so that some travellers may discover him, if this is something that you have to do." (Quran 12: 10)

THE SLY PLAN OF THE BROTHERS

In the Quran, Allah reveals that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh)'s brothers set into motion cunning plan against him. In order to make their plan a reality they first asked their father, Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh), to send Yusuf (pbuh) along with them.   The set about convincing their father, even though they were aware that he distrusted them:

They said, "Our Father! What is wrong with you that you refuse to trust us with Yusuf when in truth we only wish him well? Why don't you send him out with us tomorrow so he can enjoy himself and play about? All of us will make sure that he is safe." (Quran 12: 11-12)

He said, "It grieves me to let him go with you I fear a wolf might come and eat him up while you are heedless, not attending him." They said, "If a wolf does come and eat him up when together we make up a powerful group in that case we would truly be in loss!" (Quran 12: 13-14)

It was because Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) did not trust his sons and guessed that they would wrong Yusuf (pbuh) that he expressed misgivings. He guessed that they would do harm to Yusuf (pbuh) and then come back to him after having prepared some form of excuse. They fiercely opposed this idea and tried to convince him that nothing of the sort would happen. This is another technique that people with mischief-making characters frequently resort to. In fact, their insincerity emerges in the next part of the story from the words they spoke:

That night they came back to their father in tears, saying, "Father, we went out to run a race and left Yusuf together with our things and then a wolf appeared and ate him up but you are never going to believe us now, not even though we really tell the truth." (Quran 12: 16-17)

THE BROTHERS PROVIDE FALSE EVIDENCE

Prophet Yusuf's (pbuh) brothers were, in fact, perfectly well aware that they were not in the least bit credible. That was why they produced false evidence which they hoped might make them seem more convincing. They covered Yusuf's shirt in blood and took it to their father trying to give the impression that he was actually dead.  This incident is an indication that those who lay traps for true believers are also capable of producing falsified evidence in furtherance of their goals. In light of the need to be aware of and prepared for such methods, it is crucial to examine the proposed "evidence" against oneself very carefully since Allah has stipulated:

You who believe! If a deviator brings you a report, "scrutinize it carefully"..... (Quran 49: 6)

However, Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) refused to believe his sons realizing what they were up expressing that it was all a lie which they had prepared:

They then produced his shirt with false blood on it. He said, "It is merely that your lower selves have suggested something to you which you did; ..." (Quran 12: 18)

Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) was aware that his sons had set a trap for Yusuf (pbuh). However, behaving with enormous tolerance and moderation, he sought help from Allah. The words he spoke to his sons exemplified what a God fearing and patient individual he was:

... [For me] beauty lies in showing steadfastness. It is Allah alone Who is my Help in face of the event that you describe. (Quran 12: 18)

PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh) IS THROWN INTO THE WELL

An important matter  that should be remembered is that  as we read about the events in the life of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) he was always aware that Allah was by his side at all times, even when his brothers were setting the trap for him. Allah reassured Prophet Yusuf (pbuh):

But when, in fact, they did go out with him and gathered all together and agreed to put him at the bottom of the well, We then revealed to him that: "You will inform them of this deed they perpetrate at a time when they are totally unaware." (Quran 12: 15)

PROPHET YUSUF'S ESCAPE FROM THE WELL

PROPHET YUSUF's NEW LIFE (pbuh)

The following verse informs us how Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) escaped from the well that his brothers had thrown him in:

Some travelers came that way and then dispatched their water-drawer who let his bucket down. He said, "Good news for me, I've found a boy!" They then hid him away among their goods. Allah knew very well what they were doing. They sold him for a pittance, a few small coins, considering him to be of little worth. (Quran 12: 19-20)

According to the Quran, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was found by slave traders and sold to an Egyptian. This is related as follows:

The Egyptian who had bought him told his wife, "Look after him with honour and respect. It's possible he will be of use to us or perhaps we might adopt him as a son." And thus We established Yusuf in the land to teach him the true meaning of events. Allah is in control of His affair. However, most of mankind do not know. (Quran 12: 21)

Allah ensured that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was protected, well cared for and allowed to grow up settled in Egypt by means of this Egyptian who bought him,  His purchaser entrusted him to his wife in a very kind and compassionate manner, advising her to take good care of him. They thought that Yusuf (pbuh) could be very useful to them and even thought of adopting him. This is further evidence of Allah's help, support, love and compassion for the Prophet Yusuf (pbuh). Allah rescued him from the perils of the well, settled him in a favorable place and made Egypt his home. All of these things were sanctifications from Allah.

Furthermore, Allah gave Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) knowledge, teaching him to interpret people's words. There is no doubt that this is a great ability and at the same time a wonderous blessing which Allah confers on such of His servants as He chooses.

HE IS SLANDERED WHEN HE REACHES MATURITY

Thus it was that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) began to live with the Egyptian, Aziz. As well as teaching him to interpret people's words.  Allah also gave him the aptitude for objective judgment and knowledge when he reached maturity. The judgment referred to in the relevant Quranic verse is the ability to reach a just decision compatible with the sacrosanct commandments of Allah. Knowledge, on the other hand, may be the knowledge of learning or the skill to perceive inner aspects of things, though Allah knows best, of course. These were all indications that Allah had singled Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) out for his upright behavior and consecrate him. This truth is described in the Quran as follows:

And then when he became a full-grown man, We gave him knowledge and right judgement too. That is how We reward all doers of good. (Quran 12: 22)

However, when Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) reached maturity, the lady of the house he lived in, Aziz's wife, wanted to seduce him. A suitable environment was prepared to that end as all the doors were tightly locked and an improper suggestion was made by her to the Prophet Yusuf (pbuh). His response in these difficult circumstances is a model of virtuous conduct for all believers to aspire to.  Although the woman desired him, he sought refuge in Allah rather than commit a sin which would violate Allah's decrees. He behaved in a civilized and restrained manner by reminding the woman of Aziz that he had been looked after and treated well. In this way, he made it completely clear that he would not commit any such act of disloyalty or disobedience to the household and above all, to Allah. Immediately after that he stated that the wrongdoers could not hope for salvation and that this would be cruel behavior. The Quran relates the episode as follows:

The woman whose house it was wanted to seduce him. She barred the doors and said, "Come over here!" He said, "Allah is my refuge! He is my Lord and has been good to me with where I live. Those who do wrong will surely not succeed." She wanted him and he would have wanted her, had he not seen the clear proof of his Lord. That happened so We might avert from him all evil and lust. He was Our chosen servant. (Quran 12: 23-24)

Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) knew that adultery was a sin in the sight of Allah. He avoided transgressing divine laws and tried to escape from the woman. The way in which that the Quranic verse indicates that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was confronted by sin contains a very important observation regarding this test of faith. It shares the notion that it is possible for a believer's inner self to turn towards the direction of something that is sinful and illicit. It is essential for the believer to refuse to submit to that desire and to demonstrate the determination to be committed to the limits Allah has set.  Mankind was created with the innate characteristic of desire, therefore there would have been no test had Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) had had no physical desires. The subsequent events are related in the following verses:

They raced to the door. She tore his shirt at the back. They met her husband by the door. She said, "How should a man whose intention was to harm your family be punished for what he did except with prison or painful punishment?" (Quran 12: 25)

Following this incident, the woman began slandering Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) despite his virtuous behavior and avoidance of adultery. Even though he was completely innocent, she told her husband, the vizier, that Yusuf (pbuh) had approached her with evil intentions and demanded that his supposed transgression result in that he either be thrown into prison or  suffer torture. This is a clear indication that the woman had no remorse for her actions or fear of Allah. She made false allegations and wanted him to be punished, despite his innocence. Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) responded in this way:

He said, "It was she who tried to seduce me." A witness from her people then declared, "If his shirt is torn in front, she speaks the truth and he has clearly told a shameless lie. If his shirt is torn at the back, then she has lied and he has clearly told the simple truth." (Quran 12: 26-27)

In this situation, the fact that the woman had torn the back of Prophet Yusuf's shirt is evidence that he had fled in the direction of the door, with the woman chasing after him. According to the following verses, the Prophet Yusuf's (pbuh) innocence had been proven:

He saw the shirt torn at the back and said, "The source of this is women's deviousness. Without a doubt your guile is very great. Yusuf, ignore all this, and you, my wife, should ask forgiveness for your evil act. There is no doubt that you are in the wrong." (Quran 12: 28-29)

Aziz realised that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was innocent and said that this was all a trick of his wife's. His words, as related in the above verses, are evidence that Aziz had more conscience than his wife. Yet the incident did not end there. The subsequent developments are related in the Quran:

Some city women said, "The governor"s wife solicited her slave. He's fired her heart with love. We see that she's the one to blame." (Quran 12: 30)

The incident spread among the women of the city. When Aziz's wife realized that she had become the target of gossip among the women she prepared a trap for them. Her aim was to show that she was not entirely to be blamed for succumbing to her immoral urges while in the company of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) because his physical attractiveness was extroadinary. Indeed, the other women were amazed at Prophet Yusuf's (pbuh) beauty:

But when she heard of their malicious talk, she sent for them and made a sumptuous meal and then she gave a knife to each of them. She said [to Yusuf], "Go out to them." When they saw him, they were amazed by him and cut their hands. They said, "Allah preserve us! This is no man. What can this be but a noble angel here!" (Quran 12: 31)

The physical beauty of Prophet Yusuf made the women invoke remembrance of Allah spontaneously in the face of such splendor. They were in such amazement that that they managed to cut their hands for they regarded his beauty as something heavenly claiming that he seemed to be  anangel.  Allah had hidden Prophet Yusuf's striking beauty when he was a child, thus protecting him. As time passedand Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) reached maturity, that beauty began to attract considerable attention. There is very great wisdom concealed within each one of these details. The continuation of the story reveals what took place next:

She said, "You see! It's him you blamed me for. I tried seducing him but he refused. If he does not do what I order him, he will be put in prison and brought low." (Quran 12: 32)

The woman openly confessed her guilt and admitted that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) had wanted to protect his chastity. Yet she she now repeated her lustful intentions openly  in front of a large group of people, commanding Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) to go along with her and threatened him with prison and public humiliation if he refused to comply.  This was a most depraved suggestion, and Aziz's wife had no compunction about repeating it in front of everyone present. This is proof both of her own lack of religious values and of the other women's looseness in religious matters.  This exemplifies just how cruel and bereft moral integrity can be when countered by the humble and just.  Maybe it was the confidence in her position in Egypt, in her wealth and the fact that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was her slave that impelled desire to commit sin.  In the same way, no devout being could embark on such a transgression while others stand by and watch idly. Moreover, the audience remained silent in the face of the threats uttered by the vizier's wife and turned a blind eye to these ugly actions and demands.

Another noteworthy element here is Prophet Yusuf's sincerity. He immediately sought refuge in Allah and sincerely opened his heart to Him and begged for help. Great sincerity and purity of heart are epitomized by his behavior:

He said, "My Lord, the prison is preferable to me than what they call on me to do. Unless You turn their guile away from me, it may well be that I will fall for them and so become a man of ignorance." His Lord replied to him and turned away from him their female guile and deviousness. He is the One Who Hears, the One Who Knows. (Quran 12: 33-34)

THE INNOCENT YUSUF (pbuh) IS THROWN INTO A DUNGEON

As we have already seen, the wife of Aziz admitted in front of the women of the city that it was she who had had designs to ensnare Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) and that he had rejected her.  Aziz was of the same opinion, reminding his wife that she was a sinner who needed to beg Allah for forgiveness. In other words, everyone who witnessed or heard about these events knew that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was innocent and a victim of the woman's scheming ways. Despite that however, they came to a decision devoid of all consciousness and threw Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) into a dungeon:

Then, after they had seen the Signs, they thought that they should still imprison him for a time. (Quran 12: 35)

YUSUF'S DAYS IN THE DUNGEON (pbuh) THE PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh) AND HIS CELLMATES

The Quran informs us that two other young men were thrown into the dungeon along with Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) and that they had asked him to interpret their dreams:

Two servants entered prison along with him. One said, "I dreamt that I was pressing grapes." The other said, "I dreamt I carried bread upon my head and birds were eating it. Tell us the true meaning of these dreams. We see that you're one of the righteous." (Quran 12: 36)

Allah had taught Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) to interpret people's words.  His cellmates asked him to interpret their dreams  and so Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) began to speak after they had made their request. As shown from the verses below Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) treadd a very intelligent path by  directing the flow of conversation in a direction he considered the most appropriate and dealt with what he regarded as the more important and pressing issues before moving on to the subjects that most interested them:

He said, "No meal to feed you will arrive before I have informed you what they mean. That is part of what my Lord taught me. For I have left the religion of a people who clearly have no faith in Allah and disbelieve about the world to come. I hold fast to the creed of my forebears Ibrahim and Ishaq and Ya'qub. We don't associate anything with Allah. And that is how Allah has favored us and all mankind, but most do not give thanks. My fellow-prisoners, are many lords better, or Allah, the only One, the Conqueror? What you serve apart from Him are only names which you and your forefathers have made up. There is no mandate for them from Allah. Allah alone is qualified to judge. His order is to worship none but Him. That is in truth the straight and upright religion, but most of mankind simply do not know. (Quran 12: 37-40)

As can be seen, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) told them of the oneness of Allah and the evils of polytheism. He explained the twisted nature of the system of ignorance in which they lived and recommended that they serve Allah alone.  While he spoke, he also gave examples of past Prophets, recalling how they had all been part of the same Divine religion.  He also asked questions to encourage the people he was speaking with to think. For example, he asked, "... are many lords better, or Allah, the only One, the Conqueror?" at the same time recalling Allah's name as the Conqueror. Thus he tried both to get them to think and to have awe of the glory of Allah.

He then recalled the idols that his listeners worshipped, saying that these were nothing but superstitions, false idols inherited from the time of their ancestors that lacked any evidence of authenticity. He explained that it was a sin to worship anything other than Allah and that most people were unaware of this and then invited them to the true path.

The steps taken by Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) illustrate the sound approach employed when conversing on matters of Islam.. Recognizing the opportunity that presented itself in their desire to raise the subject, he first explained what he wished to speak about in some detail. Having done this, he then moved on to answering their question regarding the interpretation of their dreams:

"My fellow-captives, one of you will serve his lord with wine, the other of you will be crucified and birds will eat his head. The thing you asked about is foreordained." He said to the one of them he knew was saved, "Please mention me when you are with your lord," but Satan made him forget to remind his lord, and so he stayed in prison for several years. (Quran 12: 41-42)

Careful attention shows that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) actually behaved rather intelligently. After speaking about the interpretation of their dreams, he told one of his two cellmates who would be saved to remind his lord about him. This was a very shrewd strategy intended to secure his release from the dungeon. Yet Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was also aware that there were limits to what he might achieve and that he would only leave the prison when Allah so willed.  In fact, as can be seen in the last part of the verses quoted above, Satan caused that individual to forget Prophet Yusuf (pbuh), who spent many long years incarcerated. However, the Prophet also knew that this was the most advantageous outcome. This was actually a test calling for patience and there is no doubt that spending long years in prison and even being forgotten would be very hard for most people. Yet Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) here confirms the superiority of his moral values and faith, greeting everything that happened to him with submission to the will of Allah.

THE PLOT AGAINST PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh) IS REVEALED

As related in the Quran, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) spent long years in the dungeon. One day, however, the ruler wished to have one of his dreams interpreted. The best-known seers and wise men in the country were summoned for the purpose. Yet they all said that the ruler's dream was very confused and were unable to interpret it. A short while after, however, one of Prophet Yusuf's former cellmates remembered him:

The King declared, "I dreamt of seven fat cows which seven thin ones ate and seven green ears of wheat and some others which were dry. O counselors! Explain my dream to me if you are those who can interpret visions!" They said, "A jumbled mass of mixed-up dreams! We do not know the meaning of such things." The one of them who had been saved then said, remembering after a period, "I will tell you what it signifies, so send me out." (Quran 12: 43-45)

It appears that events began to unfold in totally unexpected ways and that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh), who had been forgotten in the dungeon for so long, had finally been remembered. Prophet Yusuf's destiny was such that he would only be remembered after so many years had gone by, which is why events took the course they did. It was Allah who sent the ruler his apparently confused dream, inspired in him the desire to have it explained and did not allow anyone to interpret it satisfactorily causing the former prisoner to remember Prophet Yusuf (pbuh). Allah had determined all these things in advance. The Quran goes on to describe how events unfolded:

"O truthful Yusuf, tell us of seven fat cows which seven thin ones ate and seven green ears of wheat and some others which were dry so that I can return to them and let them know." (Quran 12: 46)

The way his cellmate addressed Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) is of particular interest, "O truthful Yusuf..."  It can be seen from this expression that people at that time easily perceived the uprightness, kind statureand pleasing manner of the true believer which characterized Prophet Yusuf (pbuh). Like every Prophet, Prophet Yusuf's (pbuh) behavior expressed his own certainty and inspired confidence in those who encountered him. His former cellmate was aware of his capacities and approached him because he recognized him as one who wastruthful and trustworthy. When they met, he asked for an interpretation of the ruler's dream. Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) provided an interpretation in these terms:

He said, "Sow for seven years in the normal way and leave that which you harvest in the ear except for a small amount from which you eat. Then after that seven hard years will arrive in which you can eat from what you set aside for them, except for a little which you store. Then after that another year will come in which the people will be helped by rain in plenty and when they once more will press." (Quran 12: 47-49)

When the ruler learned of how Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) had interpreted his dream he called him into his presence. The ruler's messenger came to Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) in the dungeon. In order for it to emerge that he had been thrown into prison and slandered although he was entirely guiltless, he wanted justice to emerge.  Thus, instead of obeying the summons at once, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) sent the messenger back to the ruler with a series of questions that would cause the matter of his imprisonment to be looked into again. He enquired after the women who had cut their hands, who were witnesses to Prophet Yusuf's innocence and to Aziz's wife's lack of chastity. They were all first-degree witnesses, although the kind of environment in which they could give evidence had not existed previously. For that reason, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) used this opportunity most wisely. The incident is described as follows:

The King said, "Bring him to me straight away!" But when the envoy came to him, he [Yusuf] said, "Go back to your master and enquire of him what happened about the women who cut their hands. My Lord has knowledge of their cunning guile." (Quran 12: 50)

In response to Prophet Yusuf's question, the ruler gathered the women together and asked for the truth regarding the matter of his imprisonment:

He said, "What was this past affair of yours when you solicited Yusuf?" Then they said "Allah forbid! We know no bad of him." The governor's wife then said, "The truth has now emerged. Indeed I tried to seduce him then and he has simply told the honest truth." (Quran 12: 51)

After so many years the truth finally emerged. It was realized that the women had set a trap for Yusuf (pbuh) and that he had acted with virtue in the face of the un-virtuous. However, even though his innocence was quite obvious, the years he had spent in prison,  were by no means a loss or misfortune. Allah had already planned every moment Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) experienced, a plan which contained great compassion.  The dungeon had served as a vehicle for Yusuf's spiritual education and a means for him to grow in depth and maturity. He drew close to Allah by means of his pleasing attitude and remembrance in that all troubles and difficulties in this world are recompensed in the hereafter. Allah promises those of his servants who are patient in the face of difficulties in this world, those who submit and are grateful to Him, even in the most difficult conditions, a pleasing life in the hereafter awaits for those who seek Allah's pleasure.

Furthermore, the time Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) spent in the dungeon was also a vehicle for another auspicious matter, since Allah had so ordered the political environment in Egypt that it became a means whereby he was able to come to power.

YUSUF'S TIME AS GOVERNOR IN EGYPT (pbuh)

PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh) IS GIVEN POWER AND INFLUENCE

After the ruler had learned the truth a new period began for Prophet Yusuf (pbuh). The ruler told his men to bring Yusuf (pbuh) to him, and when he arrived and he gave him an important position at his side, making him a trusted advisor. This is related as follows in the Quran:

The King said, "Bring him to me straight away! So I may draw him very close to me." When he had spoken with him, he declared, "Today you are trusted, established in our sight." He [Yusuf] said, "Entrust the country's stores to me. In truth I am a knowing guardian." And thus We established Yusuf in the land so he could live in any place he pleased. We grant Our grace to anyone We will and We do not allow to go to waste the wage of any people who do good. But the wages of the hereafter are the best for people who believe and fear their Lord. (Quran 12: 54-57)

PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh) AND HIS BROTHERS MEET AGAIN

Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) became entrusted with being responsib for the Egyptian Treasury. This role as an official dealing with the public allowed him to engage with people from all walks of life.  Ironically, it was this blessing which provided an opportunity to re-unite with his family.  For a short while later, those brothers who had thrown him into the well came to Egypt for reasons of trade and were brought into his presence but failed to recognize him. He, on the other hand, immediately recognized them and prepared a very approach. He offered them certain provisions and assured them of his generous hospitality, thus calculating that he would be able to influence them into doing what he wanted. That his true aim was actually to recover his younger brother can be seen from the following verses:

The brothers of Yusuf came into his presence and he knew them but they did not know him. Then, having supplied their needs, he said to them, "Bring me your brother, your father's youngest son. Do you not see that I dispense full measure and am the most hospitable of hosts? But if you do not bring him here to me, your measure from me then will be denied and you will not come near to me at all." Quran 12: 58-60)

THE BROTHERS MAKE A REQUEST OF THEIR FATHER

It is a well-known fact that one characteristic of ignorant people is their deep attachment to material things and the way they bow their heads to everyone and everything that can bring about advantages for them. Yusuf's brothers could not bear to think of losing the material possibilities he had set before them. As soon as they departed from Egypt they went to their father's side and asked him to allow their youngest brother to accompany them promising, as they had done with Prophet Yusuf (pubh),that they would protect him :

Then when they got back to their father's house, they said, "Father! Our measure has been denied. Please send our brother with us so we may obtain our measure. We will take care of him." (Quran 12: 63)

However, their father did not trust them:

He said, "How will my trusting him to your care be different from entrusting his brother before? The Best of Guardians, however, is Allah. He is the Most Merciful of the merciful." (Quran 12: 64)

Close inspection will reveal that both Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) and Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) generally remembered and praised Allah immediately after speaking. This is an example for believers, showing that they must remember Allah at all times and never forget Him.

However, the brothers of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) possessed a fierce longing for material gain. For this reason, they went to enormous lengths to talk their father around:

Then when they opened up their saddlebags and found their merchandise returned to them, they said, "Our father! What more could we ask! Here is our merchandise returned to us. We can provide our families with food, and guard our brother and get an extra load. That is an easy measure to obtain." (Quran 12: 65)

Since Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) did not trust his other sons he asked them to promise that they would bring their brother back:

He said, "I will not send him out with you until you make a covenant with Allah to bring him home unless you are overwhelmed." When they had made their covenant, he said, "Allah is Guardian over what we say." (Quran 12: 66)

The reminder issued by Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) that Allah was a witness to this contract and that he made Allah his Guardian are important examples of wisdom. This shows us that asking people who are weak in faith to swear on the name of Allah is an effective means of guiding them towards that which is better for them, this is because if they have even a little fear of Allah they will bear that in mind and lean towards behaving honestly.

PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh) MEETS HIS LITTLE BROTHER

The brothers of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) came to Egypt, bringing their youngest with them and again came into hispresence. Here, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) separated his little brother from the others and revealed his true identity:

Then when they entered into Yusuf's presence, he drew his brother close to him and said, "I am your brother. Do not be distressed concerning all the things they used to do." (Surah Yusuf: 69)

It appears from Prophet Yusuf's (pbuh) words that his brothers had been doing things to cause him difficulty and distress. This is yet another indication of the way their characters were far removed from religion.

After meeting his younger brother, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) made the rather shrewd move of calling him to his side. He thus rescued his little brother from the hardships which the other brothers were causing him. Prophet Yusuf's ingenuity is described in the following terms in the Quran:

Then when he had supplied them with their needs, he put the goblet in his brother's bag. A herald called out, "Caravan! You are thieves!" They turned to them and said, "What are you missing?" They said, "We're missing the goblet of the king. The man who brings it will get a camel's load. Regarding that I stand as guarantor." They said, "By Allah, you know we did not come to corrupt the land and that we are not thieves." They said, "What is the reparation for it if it in fact transpires that you are liars?" They said, "Its reparation shall be him in the saddlebags of whom it is discovered. With us that is how wrongdoers are repaid." He [Yusuf] started with their bags before his brother's and then produced it from his brother's bag. In that way We devised a cunning scheme for Yusuf. He could not have held his brother according to the statutes of the King-only because Allah had willed it so. We raise the rank of anyone We will. Over everyone with knowledge is a Knower. (Quran 12: 70-76)

Under the laws of Egypt, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) could not have kept his brother with him, yet he was able to do so thanks to the plan he set in motion. According to this plan, he concealed a goblet in his brother's belongings. One of his men then called out to them in such a manner as to place them into a psychological state of guilt and alarm. On top of that, it was declared that the bowl belonged to the ruler and that whoever found it would be given a full camel-load as a reward. The impression was thus created that this was a major incident, thereby preventing any suspicion that it was all a deliberate ploy.

Later still, he asked them what the punishment might be if the bowl were discovered to be in their possession. Under the law, the owner of the bag in which the bowl was found would be arrested and detained. Yet in order not to make it apparent that this was all a ploy, he did not look in his little brother's belongings first, but began searching the others' possessions.

When the bowl was found amongst their little brother's possessions, the others immediately accepted the situation, accused him of being a thief, and repeated an earlier calumny regarding Prophet Yusuf (pbuh):

They said, "If he steals now, his brother stole before."... (Quran 12: 77)

Yet his brothers actually knew full well that he would not steal, that he was an honest person. According to the moral standards set out in the Quran, believers must think well of one another and protect each other from slander. The fact that the brothers of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) did not defend their innocent younger brother and actually implicated the Prophet (pbuh) himself is an indication of their false and hypocritical natures.

Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) behaved with the greatest patience in the face of this situation:

They said, "If he steals now, his brother stole before." But Yusuf kept it to himself and still did not disclose it to them, saying, "The plight that you are in is worse than that. Allah knows best the matter you describe." (Quran 12: 77)

Prophet Yusuf's attitude here is an example of both submission to the will of Allah and of great aptitutde. Most ignorant people become annoyed whenever they hear the slightest word spoken against themselves and react in an emotional manner. Prophet Yusuf (pbuh), however, kept his thoughts concealed as the verses tell us.  In other words, he did not allow his innermost feelings to be sensed by others. The events which follow are related below:

They said, "Your Eminence! He has an old and venerable father, so take one of us instead of him. We see without a doubt that you are of the people who do good." He said, "Allah forbid that we should take anyone but him with whom our goods were found. In that case we would clearly be wrongdoers. "When they despaired of him, they went apart to talk alone. The eldest of them said, "You know full well your father had you make a covenant with Allah concerning this, and how before you failed him with Yusuf. I will not leave this land until I have permission from my father, or Allah decides about the case on my behalf. Truly He is the justest Judge of all." (Quran 12: 78-80)

The conversation between the brothers of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) is related in the Quran in these terms:

Return now to your father and say to him, "Your son stole, father. We can do no more than testify to what we know and we are not the guardians of the Unseen. Ask questions of the town in which we were and of the caravan in which we came for we are surely telling you the truth." He said, "It's merely that your lower selves suggested something to you which you did. But [for me] beauty lies in steadfastness. Perhaps Allah will bring them all together. He is indeed All-Knowing and All-Wise." (Quran 12: 81-83)

Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh), on the other hand, knew this secret, that is, that Allah created everything and made them favorable for believers. In fact, the most striking aspect of his attitude is the way that he does not link the events to material causes, does not think with a superficial logic of cause and effect and knows that everything is  under the control of Allah. This example shows that believers must never abandon their hope in Allah, no matter what happens, no matter how difficult the conditions. They must always be full of hope and call upon Allah for help.

However, Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) was in an interesting position. Despite knowing that Allah created everything, he did not hesitate to feel sorrow in regards to Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) and his brother.  So testing and difficult was the experience, in fact, that as revealed in the Quran, his eyes turned white from grief over Prophet Yusuf (pbuh), that is to say, he went blind. His sons warned him that he might fall sick because of the sorrow he felt, or even die:

He turned himself away from them and said, "What anguish is my sorrow for Yusuf!" And then his eyes turned white from hidden grief. They said, "By Allah, you will not ever cease to mention Yusuf, till you will be exhausted or will be ready to die!" He said, "I make complaint about my grief and sorrow to Allah alone because I know things from Allah you do not know." (Quran 12: 84-86)

It is indicated in these verses that sorrow can lead to serious illness. In fact, in many places in the Quran, Allah tells people not to feel sorrow or sadness. When that stricture is not adhered to, negative consequences can be seen at once. Apart from the psychological effects of sorrow it also brings with it serious physical consequences.

As the episode continues, Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) asked his sons to go and bring him news of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) and his brother:

"My sons! Seek news of Yusuf and his brother. Do not despair of solace from Allah. No one despairs of solace from Allah except for people who are disbelievers." (Quran 12: 87)

Worthy of note here is the fact that Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) was sure that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was still alive. The reason for that certainty may have been a special knowledge Allah imparted to him. As is revealed in the Quran, Allah is able to give his the Prophets and Messengers such things as powerful sensory perception, exceptional wisdom, consummate insight, superior foresight and the ability to see future events. For that reason it is necessary to rely on those to whom such knowledge is given andto trust in and abide by them.

Another fact emphasized in this verse is that believers must always be hopeful under all circumstances. Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) never lost hope that he would see Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) and his brother and he advised his sons never to abandon hope in Allah. Loss of hope in Allah is a state of mind fit for unbelievers, not the faithful.

PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh) IS RECOGNISED BY HIS BROTHERS

The Quran describes the meeting of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) with his brothers as follows:

So when they came into his presence, they said, "Your Eminence! Hardship has hit us and our families. We bring scant merchandise, but fill the measure for us generously. Allah always rewards a generous giver." (Quran 12: 88)

In the following verse Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) hinted at his own identity in the face of this request for help by his brothers, without taking any interest in what they said. This is how he enabled them to understand who he actually was:

He said, "Are you aware of what you did to Yusuf and his brother in ignorance?" They said, "Are you Yusuf?" He said, "I am indeed Yusuf, and this here is my brother. Allah has acted graciously to us. As for those who fear Allah and are steadfast, Allah does not allow to go to waste the wage of any people who do good." They said, "By Allah, Allah has favored you above us. Clearly we were in the wrong." (Quran 12: 89-91)

As can be seen from the statements in these verses, Prophet Yusuf's brothers managed to surmise that they were dealing with Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) himself, declaring their regret and the fact that they had committed an error. They accepted that Allah had singled Yusuf out (pbuh), and that Allah had chosen him over them. An important point is being emphasis here is that the power of choice belongs to Allah. This fact is also revealed in the Quran within the words, "Your Lord creates and chooses whatever He wills. The choice is not theirs..." (Quran 28: 68)

Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) gave his brothers the following reply:

He said, "No blame at all will fall on you. Today you have forgiveness from Allah. He is the Most Merciful of the merciful." (Quran 12: 92)

Despite the fact that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was in a position to have punished his brothers or treated them in an ill manner, he did not question them, but rather forgave them and said that he did not condemn them. In fact, he even asked Allah for forgiveness for them, reminding them that Allah was the Most Merciful of the merciful.

THE KNOWLEDGE OF PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh)

Following those words to his brothers, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) gave them his shirt, asking them to take it to their father:

"Go with this shirt of mine and cast it on my father's face and he will see again. Then come to me with all your families." And when the caravan went on its way, their father said, "I can smell Yusuf's scent! You probably think I have become senile." They said, "By Allah! Your mind is still astray." (Quran 12: 93-95)

In fact, after receiving the shirt, Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) reminded his family of the special knowledge Allah imparted to him:

But when the bringer of the good news came, he cast it on his face and sight returned. He said, "Did I not say to you before, I know things from Allah you do not know?" (Quran 12: 96)

As we have seen, the words previously spoken by Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) came to pass; when they wiped the shirt over their father's face his sickness left him and his eyes began to see again. He thus regained his health. In addition, Prophet Ya‘qub's (pbuh) words came true. He had seen and felt beforehand that he would see Yusuf again. This is a true indication that they both were servants possessed of special knowledge.

PROPHET YUSUF'S DREAM COMES TRUE (pbuh)

PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh) IS REUNITED WITH HIS FAMILY

When Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) received the news, along with the evidence to support that Yusuf (pbuh) was alive, the lie that his brothers had kept concealed for so long came to light. They had told their father that he had been killed and eaten by wolves, whereas Yusuf (pbuh) was actually still alive. When this emerged, his children begged Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) to forgive them:

They said, "Our father, may we be forgiven for all the many wrongs that we have done. We were indeed greatly mistaken men." He said, "I will ask my Lord to pardon you. He is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (Quran 12: 97-98)

The subsequent developments are related in the Quran in these terms:

Then when they entered into Yusuf's presence, he drew his parents close to him and said, "Enter Egypt safe and sound, if Allah wills." (Quran 12: 99)

The first thing Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) did when he met his family was to bring them close to him  and remind them that they were safe in his presence. It can be seen from this verse that embracing someone is a sincere expression of love. Reassuring someone that they are safe is a delicate gesture that allows them to relax. It must have been exceedingly reassuring for these people who had come on a long journey and experienced many vicissitudes to know that they were now comfortable and secure. This is exemplary behavior for believers to follow. Putting a guest, a stranger or someone under one's roof at ease by assuring them that they are free to enjoy the safety and comfort of one's land or home is a beautiful gesture to which attention is drawn in the Quran.

Neither were the hospitality and subtlety of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) limited to this. The respect that Yusuf (pbuh) showed his parents is described as follows in the Quran:

He raised his parents up onto the throne. They fell prostrate in front of him... (Quran 12: 100)

Sitting his mother and father on a throne is a delightful expression of respect. They were older than him and furthermore his father was a Prophet whom Allah had strengthened with knowledge. They displayed great humility in the face of Yusuf's respectful behavior (pbuh).

Careful examination reveals that despite the fact that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was their son and that they were much older than him, they treated him with great humility. It is stated in the verse that his family prostrated themselves before him. This must have been a widespread demonstration of respect according to the customs of the time; there is of course no implication of "worship" here. In this climate then, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) described everything that had befallen him and revealed the flawless workings of Allah's plan:

... "My father, truly this is now the interpretation of the dream I had. My Lord has made it all come true; and He was kind to me by letting me out of prison and brought you from the desert when Satan had caused dissent between me and my brothers. My Lord is kind to anyone He wills. He is indeed All-Knowing and All-Wise." (Quran 12: 100)

It will be recalled that Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) had dreamt of eleven stars, the sun and moon prostrating themselves before him. The fact that years later his position was such that his mother, father and brothers showed him great esteem and bowed down before him out of respect and the fact that his brothers in particular came into his presence when they had need of him was the fulfillment of that dream.

Further scrutiny again reveals that while Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was explaining all this, he called on Allah and praised His name, and he also explained that the events so far undergone by him and his family had all taken place as part of Allah's plan. This is the kind of exemplary understanding and speech that a believer should adopt.

Another characteristic of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) that is noteworthy here is the way in which he saw the positive side of everything and interpreted everything in a favorable manner. For example, he said that Allah had done him kindness and freed him from the dungeon. This is literally the kind of attitude befitting of a believer and proof that he looked at things with a positive and optimistic expectation. Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) thus made it clear that he was on the side of Allah and avoided any kind of speech or behavior that was negative or unappreciative of anything Allah creates. The fact that he said, "My Lord is kind to anyone He wills. He is indeed All-Knowing and All-Wise" is a demonstration of this. In this way, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) sets an example to all of the faithful.

CONCLUSION  

THE SINCERE PRAYER OF PROPHET YUSUF (pbuh)

Throughout this article we have discussed how exceedingly devoted to Allah Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was, how well protected he was by Him and how often he called upon and gave thanks to Him. This can be seen in the following verse in which Allah inspires him with the following words:

"My Lord, You have granted power to me on earth and taught me the true meaning of events. Originator of the heavens and earth, You are my Friend in this world and the Next. So take me as a Muslim at my death and join me to the people who are righteous." (Quran 12: 101)

As we have seen, Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) was aware that all the attributes he possessed, both the material benefits and his knowledge and reason, had been given to him by Allah. Those who deny true religion, on the other hand, believe that they acquire everything through their own efforts, thus magnifying themselves in their own eyes and displaying ingratitude for Allah's blessings.

Prophet Yusuf's prayer (pbuh) as recorded in the above verse is another expression of his faith and fear of Allah. Despite being a Prophet chosen by Allah, he wishes to die as a believer and join the community of the righteous. Nothing is taken for granted with respect to his position in the hereafter. He has a genuine fear of Allah and calls upon Him in his need.  Those who regard themselves as worthy of the entering Heaven, who claim that as beloved servants of Allah they will definitely be saved in the hereafter and who belittle other people in their pride, are in a heedless state. The true believer, on the other hand, is always submissive in the face of adversity, is always mindful of jeopardizing Allah's pleasure and acts with the humility this awareness brings with it.

The duty of every Muslim is to be a sincere, submissive, devout and humble believer, just like Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) and to pray with all sincerity, "So take me as a Muslim at my death and join me to the people who are righteous."

The story of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh) concludes with these words:

This is news of the Unseen which We reveal to you. You were not with them when they decided what to do and devised their scheme. (Quran 12: 102)

In revealing this information to us, Allah both teaches us important wisdom which we can use in our own lives and has also made it easier for us to take the Prophets of the past as role models by allowing us to become acquainted with them. With the exception of true dreams which, as we have seen from the evidence of Prophet Yusuf's own life, are not ordinary or everyday occurrences, we have no opportunity of actually seeing Prophet Yusuf (pbuh), Prophet Ya'qub (pbuh) or any other Prophet while we remain in this world. However, careful reading of the Quran and deep consideration of the lives of the Prophets, seeing the environment that they lived in and their exemplary behavior clearly in our mind' and striving to understand it may allow us to become acquainted with the Prophets and to make use of their superior perceptiveness, spirituality and nearness to Allah.

Never forget that in the present day, just like in the time of Prophet Yusuf (pbuh), there is a flawless Divine plan operating in every single event and that Allah creates everything that happens under His good auspices and wisdom. Do not forget that Allah has power over all things, and that He always helps those who have faith and are sincerely devoted to Him, who devoutly seek to serve Him and follow His Messenger (pbuh). He gives believers blessings at times when they are least expected and helps them in unforeseen ways. A human beings sole duty is to worship Allah on the basis of these truths and to live his life accordingly.

Source: http://www.harunyahya.com/ysf.php