Who is the Prophet Dhul-Kifl in the Quran?

Dhul-Kifl is an Islamic prophet mentioned twice in the Quran, in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:85) and Surah Sad (38:48). He is praised by Allah as being among the patient, the righteous, and the best of people, included in lists with other great prophets like Isma'il, Idris, and Al-Yasa.

What does the name Dhul-Kifl mean?

The name 'Dhul-Kifl' literally means 'Possessor of the Portion' or 'Possessor of the Pledge'. Scholars explain this could refer to his receiving a double portion of reward for his worship, or his taking on the responsibility (pledge) to guide his people with perfect justice and patience.

Is the Prophet Dhul-Kifl the same as Ezekiel?

Some classical and modern scholars have suggested Dhul-Kifl might be the Biblical prophet Ezekiel, but this is a matter of scholarly discussion and not definitively confirmed. The Quran does not provide a detailed narrative to confirm his identity, focusing instead on his exemplary character traits of patience and righteousness.

Dhul-Kifl in Islam: Quranic Paragon of Patience & Righteousness

Zul-kifl(mentioned passingly)

Explore Verses Related to Zul-kifl(mentioned passingly)

🕋Al-Anbya21:85

At a Glance

According to search-discovered classical Islamic scholarship, the Prophet Dhul-Kifl (ذُو الْكِفْل) is a figure of high honor mentioned briefly but significantly in the Quran. Though his detailed story is not narrated, his inclusion alongside esteemed prophets like Isma'il, Idris, and Al-Yasa serves as a divine testament to his lofty status. Ibn Kathir notes that this association is primary evidence of his prophethood. His title, 'Dhul-Kifl', is understood to mean 'Possessor of the Portion' or 'Possessor of the Pledge', signifying either a double reward for his devotion or his unwavering commitment to a responsibility he undertook. The two Quranic passages that mention him (21:85 and 38:48) unify around the core themes of his profound patience (Sabr) and his place among the righteous (Salihin) and the best (Akhyar), making him a powerful symbol of steadfastness and integrity in the Islamic tradition.

📖 Quranic Context

His brief mention is a mark of high divine honor, emphasizing the core prophetic qualities of patience (Sabr) and righteousness (Salah).

Praised by Allah and included in His mercy among the most elect prophets.

References: Mentioned by name in Surah Al-Anbiya (21:85) and Surah Sad (38:48).

💭 Theological Perspective

Represents the human potential for unwavering patience and fulfillment of pledges.

Embodies the principle of self-control and steadfastness in fulfilling responsibilities for the sake of Allah.

Serves as a role model whose character is highlighted for believers to emulate, even without a detailed narrative.

His story underscores that divine recognition is based on core virtues like patience, not the length of one's narrative.

📜 Hadith Perspective

While not extensively mentioned in major hadith collections, Isra'iliyyat (Judeo-Christian traditions) and reports from early Muslims (athar) offer narratives about his commitment to prayer, fasting, and judging without anger.

Fulfilling one's pledge (kifl)
Judging without anger
Patience in worship

The majority of classical commentators consider him a prophet due to his inclusion alongside other prophets in the Quranic lists.

💎 Deeper Insights

The story of Dhul-Kifl is a divine lesson in 'Spiritual Brevity'. Allah honors him in just two verses, teaching that a person's entire legacy can be distilled into core virtues like 'patience' and 'righteousness'. His high rank is established not by a long narrative of miracles or struggles, but by the weight and quality of his character.

— Ibn Kathir, Al-Tabari

Dhul-Kifl's very name, 'Possessor of the Pledge/Portion', functions as a continuous lesson. It implies that true honor comes from shouldering responsibility. Islamic tradition suggests he pledged to fast, pray, and judge without anger—a 'triple crown' of spiritual discipline. He didn't just have patience; he was the 'owner' of it, fulfilling his commitment perfectly.

— Classical Linguists, Al-Tabari