The Story of Prophet Al-Yasa (Elisha)

Prophet Al-Yasa (known as Elisha in the Bible) is one of the lesser-known prophets mentioned in the Qur’an. Though not much detailed narrative is available about his life in the Islamic tradition, his mention in the Qur’an emphasizes his importance as a righteous servant of Allah. The Story of Prophet Al-Yasa is closely linked with that of Prophet Ilyas (Elijah), and both were active in guiding the people of Israel during times of moral and spiritual corruption.

The lessons from the story of Al-Yasa offer timeless guidance on faith, patience, leadership, and the role of prophets in calling people to the worship of one God.

Who Was Prophet Al-Yasa?

Prophet Al-Yasa (Elisha) was a prophet sent to the Children of Israel after the time of Prophet Ilyas (Elijah). He is believed to be the spiritual successor and disciple of Ilyas, continuing the prophetic mission of reforming the people who had strayed from monotheism.

In the Qur’an, Al-Yasa is mentioned by name twice:

Surah Al-An’am (6:86):

“And Ishmael, Elisha, Jonah and Lot – and all [of them] We preferred over the worlds.”
Surah Sad (38:48):

“And remember Ishmael, Elisha and Dhul-Kifl, and all are among the outstanding.”

These brief mentions indicate his elevated status as a prophet and a chosen servant of Allah.

The Story of Prophet Al-Yasa

During Al-Yasa’s time, the Israelites were divided. Many of them had fallen into idolatry, heavily influenced by the worship of Baal and other false gods introduced by corrupt rulers and foreign cultures. The spiritual and moral decay was rampant, and the message of monotheism was being ignored or actively resisted.

Prophet Ilyas had previously tried to reform the people, calling them back to the path of Allah. After his mission, Al-Yasa continued this effort with wisdom and perseverance.

His Mission

As a prophet, Al-Yasa’s core mission was to revive the belief in the One True God, enforce justice, and bring back moral discipline. He worked tirelessly to remind the Israelites of their covenant with Allah and the consequences of deviating from His path.

Although the Qur’an does not describe his miracles or specific teachings in detail, Islamic tradition and commentary (Tafsir) suggest that he was granted miracles by Allah, much like other prophets. These may have included healing the sick, reviving the faith of his people, and invoking divine intervention during times of difficulty.

Read about: the story of Prophet Dhul-Kifl

His Relationship With Prophet Ilyas

According to Islamic and Biblical traditions, Prophet Al-Yasa was the direct successor and close companion of Prophet Ilyas. When Ilyas’s time came to an end, he entrusted the mission of prophethood to Al-Yasa. The Qur’an does not give a detailed account of this transition, but many Islamic scholars agree that Al-Yasa was trained and mentored by Ilyas.

This succession highlights a pattern seen throughout prophetic history: the continuation of divine guidance through a chain of chosen messengers, each building upon the efforts of their predecessors.

His Leadership and Challenges

Al-Yasa faced immense challenges. His people had grown arrogant and self-indulgent. The ruling classes were unjust, and there was widespread spiritual decline. Despite the hostile environment, Al-Yasa maintained patience and commitment.

He preached against oppression, warned the people of divine punishment, and encouraged them to return to righteousness. His message was clear: salvation lies in worshiping Allah alone, being just, and caring for the weak and needy.

His Role in Biblical Tradition

In the Bible, Elisha (Al-Yasa) is more elaborately described. He is known as the disciple and successor of Elijah (Ilyas). He performed many miracles, including:

Healing the sick
Reviving the dead
Multiplying food
Parting the Jordan River

While the Qur’an does not confirm these specific miracles, Muslims believe in all prophets mentioned in previous scriptures, as long as their stories align with Islamic teachings and values.

Recommend: the story of Prophet Dawud

His Death and Legacy

The Qur’an does not detail the death of Prophet Al-Yasa, but Islamic scholars believe he lived a long life of service and eventually passed away peacefully. His grave is said to be located in several claimed locations, including Syria, Iraq, and Palestine, though there is no definitive historical evidence.

Al-Yasa left behind a legacy of perseverance, faith, and resistance to falsehood. His steadfastness in the face of adversity is a lesson for all believers.

Al-Yasa in Islamic Thought

Although not as prominent in narrative as other prophets like Musa (Moses) or Ibrahim (Abraham), Prophet Al-Yasa is deeply respected in Islam. The fact that Allah includes him among the favored and outstanding servants is enough to affirm his high rank.

Many scholars suggest that the brevity of his story in the Qur’an is intentional—to encourage Muslims to focus not just on stories, but also on the values and principles of the prophets.

Moral Lessons From the Story of Al-Yasa

The Value of Patience and Perseverance: Al-Yasa preached in a time of great moral decline but did not give up on his mission.
Mentorship and Succession: His relationship with Ilyas teaches the importance of preparing successors and continuity in leadership.
Standing Firm in Faith: Despite opposition, he maintained his commitment to monotheism and divine guidance.
Serving People with Compassion: As a prophet, his role was not just spiritual but social—reforming communities and aiding the weak.
Being Chosen Doesn’t Mean an Easy Life: Al-Yasa was divinely chosen, yet he faced hardships, showing that trials are a part of faith.

FAQs

How many times is Prophet Al-Yasa mentioned in the Qur'an?

Prophet Al-Yasa is mentioned by name twice in the Qur'an: in Surah Al-An’am (6:86) and Surah Sad (38:48).

Was Al-Yasa the son or student of Prophet Ilyas?

While not explicitly stated in the Qur'an, Islamic tradition and commentary suggest that Al-Yasa was a student and close companion of Prophet Ilyas.

What was Prophet Al-Yasa’s main mission?

His mission was to guide the Israelites back to monotheism, enforce justice, and revive moral and spiritual discipline.

Are there miracles associated with Al-Yasa in Islamic tradition?

Though the Qur'an does not detail his miracles, it is widely believed that he was granted miracles similar to those of other prophets, such as healing and divine signs.

Where is Prophet Al-Yasa buried?

There are several claimed burial sites for Al-Yasa, including locations in Syria, Iraq, and Palestine. However, none are definitively confirmed.

Conclusion

Prophet Al-Yasa (Elisha) may not have a long narrative in the Qur’an, but his presence is significant. He represents continuity, faith, and the determination to guide people even when society is in decline. His life teaches us that even when success seems distant, holding firmly to righteousness and trust in Allah can bring about transformation.

As a chosen prophet, Al-Yasa carried the torch of guidance, standing against idol worship, social injustice, and spiritual corruption. His story, though briefly mentioned, is a shining example of unwavering faith and leadership.