Who Were the Prophets Before Muhammad?
This section lists the six main prophets before Muhammed. In Islam, like in other Abrahamic faiths (Judaism and Christianity), there is a shared reverence for many key figures, including numerous prophets who were chosen by Allah to guide humanity. The Qur’an states, “Of some messengers we have already told you the story; of others we have not; and to Moses God spoke direct.” (Qur’an 4:164), acknowledging the importance of these prophets in delivering Allah’s messages to people throughout history.
There were six key prophets before Muhammad, each of whom played a significant role in shaping the course of religious teachings and practices in Islam. While these prophets are also recognised in Judaism and Christianity, the Islamic perspective offers distinct details about their lives and contributions.
Adam: The First Human and Khalifah
Adam is regarded in Islam as the first human and the first prophet. He was created by Allah and given the honourable role of khalifah, a steward or vicegerent on Earth. As the first human, Adam’s actions set the precedent for all humanity, and Muslims learn from his example how to fulfil their role on Earth. Adam is believed to have been forgiven by Allah for his sin, which occurred when he and his wife Hawwa (Eve) ate from the forbidden tree in paradise.
Some Islamic traditions also hold that Adam was the builder of the first Ka’aba, the sacred structure in Makkah that Muslims now circle during Hajj. Adam’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of repentance and Allah’s mercy, showing that humans can always return to Allah with sincerity and humility.
Ibrahim: The Father of the Arab People
Ibrahim (known as Abraham in Christianity and Judaism) holds a significant place in Islamic tradition. He is regarded as the father of the Arab people, and his unwavering belief in the oneness of Allah made him a key figure in the Islamic faith. Ibrahim is most famous for rejecting the worship of idols, an act of profound faith in the one true God. This defiance of idol worship established him as a great role model for Muslims.
In addition to his rejection of idolatry, Ibrahim is also known for rebuilding the Ka’aba after the great flood. His willingness to sacrifice his son, Isma'il (Ishmael in Christianity and Judaism), in obedience to Allah’s command is another central aspect of his story. The willingness to sacrifice what one loves for the sake of Allah teaches Muslims that they must be prepared to submit to Allah’s will in all things.
Isma’il: The Son of Ibrahim
Isma’il, the son of Ibrahim, is a key figure in Islam and plays an important role in the history of Makkah and the Ka’aba. He is traditionally associated with the construction of the Ka’aba in Makkah, alongside his father Ibrahim. Isma’il is also recognised as a prophet who upheld his father’s legacy of monotheism and obedience to Allah.
In Islamic tradition, Isma’il is honoured as an ancestor of the Prophet Muhammad, linking the two through their shared devotion to Allah. Like his father, Isma’il’s life was marked by trials, which serve as an example for Muslims to remain steadfast in their faith.
Musa: The Prophet of the Israelites
Musa (known as Moses in Judaism and Christianity) is one of the most important prophets in Islam. He is particularly significant because he is believed to be the only prophet with whom Allah communicated directly. Musa is most famous for leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, a story that is central to both Jewish and Islamic traditions.
In Islam, Musa’s teachings emphasised the belief in the oneness of Allah and the need to obey His laws. He received the Tawrat (Torah) from Allah, which contains guidance for the followers of Islam. His story is an essential part of the Qur’an, and he is revered as a prophet who showed immense courage and faith in the face of adversity.
Dawud: The Brave and Wise King
Dawud (known as David in Christianity and Judaism) is remembered for his bravery and wisdom. He is most famous for his victory over the giant Goliath, which demonstrated his faith and trust in Allah. Dawud was also a king, and he is credited with receiving the Zabur (Psalms), a book of divine revelation. His story teaches Muslims the importance of justice, leadership, and humility.
Dawud is also an important figure in Islamic tradition because he is seen as a model of a ruler who is both courageous in battle and wise in governing. His example provides guidance for Muslims in leadership and making just decisions.
Isa: The Son of Mary
Isa (known as Jesus in Christianity) is a significant prophet in Islam, but with key differences in the way he is understood compared to Christian beliefs. Muslims revere Isa as the Son of Mary (Maryam), and his birth is considered one of the greatest miracles in Islam. However, unlike Christians, Muslims do not believe that Isa was the Son of God or that he was crucified.
According to Islamic teachings, Isa was a prophet sent to guide the Israelites and teach them about the oneness of Allah. He performed many miracles, including healing the sick and raising the dead, which confirmed his prophethood. However, Muslims believe that Isa was not crucified but was instead raised up by Allah, and he will return in the future to restore justice and defeat falsehood. This belief in Isa's return is one of the core tenets of Islamic eschatology.
The prophets of Islam play a crucial role in guiding humanity towards the worship of the one true God. Each of these six key figures—Adam, Ibrahim, Isma'il, Musa, Dawud, and Isa—provided essential teachings and acted as models for good conduct. While the stories of these prophets are shared across the Abrahamic faiths, Islam holds a unique perspective on each one, emphasising their role in calling people to worship Allah alone and live righteous lives. The final prophet, Muhammad, is seen as the culmination of this line of prophets, bringing the final and complete revelation to humanity through the Qur’an.