Who is Elisha (Al-Yasa) in the Quran?

Al-Yasa, known as Elisha in the Bible, is a revered prophet in Islam mentioned in Quran 6:86 and 38:48. According to classical commentators, he was the spiritual successor to Prophet Ilyas (Elijah), continuing the mission to guide the Children of Israel back to the worship of one God.

What was the mission of Prophet Al-Yasa?

Prophet Al-Yasa's mission was to continue the work of Prophet Ilyas, calling the Children of Israel to abandon idol worship (like that of Baal) and return to pure monotheism. He reminded them of their covenant with Allah, taught them justice, and guided them with wisdom and perseverance.

Why is Prophet Elisha's story brief in the Quran?

The Quran mentions Al-Yasa (Elisha) briefly to establish his high honor and place him within the prophetic lineage, rather than to provide a detailed narrative. His inclusion in lists of esteemed prophets (6:86, 38:48) serves to confirm his status as one whom Allah 'preferred over the worlds,' emphasizing the continuity of divine guidance.

Elisha (Al-Yasa) in Islam: Quranic Prophet in the Divine Lineage

Elisha(mentioned passingly)

Explore Verses Related to Elisha(mentioned passingly)

🕋Al-An'am6:86

At a Glance

According to search-discovered classical Islamic scholarship, Al-Yasa' (اليسع), known in the Bible as Elisha, is a revered prophet of Allah whose high honor is affirmed in the Quran. Though his narrative is not detailed, his mention in Surah Al-An'am (6:86) and Surah Sad (38:48) places him among the most esteemed messengers, such as Ismail and Jonah, whom Allah 'preferred over the worlds.' Classical commentators like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir identify him as the spiritual successor to Prophet Ilyas (Elijah), entrusted with continuing the prophetic mission to guide the Children of Israel away from idolatry and back to pure monotheism. His inclusion in the Quran serves not to detail his life's events but to confirm his lofty spiritual status and to emphasize the unbroken chain of divine guidance sent to humanity. His legacy in Islam is one of unwavering faith, perseverance, and carrying the torch of righteousness.

📖 Quranic Context

Mentioned in the context of listing divinely guided and favored prophets, highlighting the continuity of God's message.

Honored as a chosen prophet of Allah, whom God 'preferred over the worlds' of his time.

References: Surah Al-An'am (6:86) and Surah Sad (38:48).

💭 Theological Perspective

A righteous human being chosen for prophethood to guide the Children of Israel.

He was a messenger of Allah tasked with calling the Children of Israel to obey God's laws and uphold monotheism.

His story serves as an example of steadfastness, righteousness, and commitment to the prophetic mission.

📜 Hadith Perspective

While not frequently mentioned in major hadith collections, classical tafsir (commentary) literature from scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari elaborates on his identity and mission based on Islamic tradition.

Islamic scholars unanimously agree he was a true prophet of Allah and the successor to Prophet Ilyas (Elijah).

💎 Deeper Insights

The 'passing mention' of Al-Yasa' in Quran 6:86 is a profound theological statement. By listing him alongside major prophets like Ismail and Jonah and declaring them all 'preferred over the worlds,' the Quran teaches that divine honor is not contingent on the length of one's story known to man, but on one's actual status with God. It is a lesson in humility and sincere service.

— Ibn Kathir, Al-Tabari

Al-Yasa' represents the vital principle of 'Tajdid' (renewal) within a single prophetic lineage. While Prophet Ilyas confronted the peak of his people's corruption, Al-Yasa's mission, as understood from tradition, was to renew and continue that call. This shows that the struggle for guidance requires not just confrontation but also patient continuation and building upon the foundations laid by predecessors.

— Islamic Historians