THE HOLY QUR’AAN SPEAKS HUMILITY IN EXALTATION

Lessons from the life of Joseph (Peace be upon him) Lessons from Chapter 12

The family of Jacob (pbuh) was thus re-united in the “house” of Joseph (pbuh) and all (father, mother and brothers) fell prostrate before him, in recognition of his supreme rank in Egypt. On such a wonderful occasion, in total humility, Joseph (pbuh) proclaims to his father, Jacob (pbuh) “O my father this is the interpretation of my earlier dream! It is my Lord (Creator) who made it a reality!” He then goes on to express gratitude to The Almighty “And definitely He has been good to me...” Then he enlists the gracious favours and bestowments of The Almighty upon him and does not dwell on any negative aspect from the past. The first things he mentions are that by Divine Providence he was brought out of prison and publicly proclaimed to be honest and virtuous and that his dear father was restored to him as well as his brothers who had persecuted him. However, he does not say anything against them personally and in his habit of having a positive outlook and interpreting things in a charitable light, he looks upon them as having been misled by “Satan” the power of Evil. Now that all is rectified by the Grace and Bounty of The Almighty, he renders due praise to Him beseeching Him to keep him steadfast on the path of faith for the rest of his life! The powerful lessons contained in the life history of Joseph (pbuh) and his family are indeed inspirational and motivational for all those who undertake a study of the history with an open heart and mind and sincerely reflect on each and every aspect. The turn of events, as time passed on, in the life of Joseph (pbuh) are amazing indeed and we can only conclude that it was Divine will and providence at play throughout – even when the outlook seemed most negative!

For further information on Islam please contact: Majlisul Ulama Zimbabwe, Publications Department, P.O. Box W93, Waterfalls, Harare

Tel: 0242- 614078 / 614004 e mail : majliszw@yahoo.com