The People of The Cave ( Al-Kahf )
Chapter 18 of the Holy Quran
Disclaimer : I’m neither a scholar of Islam, nor a student of Arabic. Following post serves as a personal reminder . To increase your knowledge, please look for authentic sources or trained religious scholars.
There are four parables set forth in Surah Al-Kahf, chapter 18 of the Holy Quran. These stories are about the following :
The people of the cave
Owners of the two gardens
Prophet Musa (A.S) & Khidr ( A.S.)
Dhul Qarnayn and Yajūj & Majūj
The Holy Quran presents parables as a means for people to understand .
The People of the Cave
It’s the story of Christian Youth who escaped the persecution of pagans & were put to sleep for 309 lunar years in a cave, protected by the will of Allah (swt). The exact number of the youth seeking refuge in the cave is only known to Allah (swt) & is not a matter of argumentation. They had a dog accompanying them. This story is a sign & a reminder that Allah (swt) can put his creation to sleep & wake them up or resurrect when he wills such as when the hour cometh .
Two Owners of the Garden
The second story is that of the two owners of the garden. The owner of one of these gardens claimed its his efforts and manpower that has caused him to prosper. He believed his garden would never perish & that humans will not be raised back again from dust. The other owner refused to take another partner besides Allah (swt); he was a monotheist.
The story of Prophet Musa ( A.S.) with Khidr (A.S.)
This surah or chapter also describes Prophet Musa ( A. S. ) journey with Khidr (A.S.) . Khidr (A.S) suggests that it will be difficult for Musa (A.S.) to be patient while accompanying him however Musa (A.S.) insists on being part of the sojourn .
During their journey Prophet Musa (A.S.) is unable to comprehend the wise Khidr (A.S.) actions & he’s requested by Khidr (A.S.) to be part ways. Khidr (A.S.) eplains his actions & the wisdom be stowed upon him by Almighty Allah (swt).
Dhul Qarnayn and Yajūj & Majūj
Fourth story is that of Dhul-Qarnayn and the tribes of Yajūj & Majūj, who are the troublemakers. People request Dhul-Qarnayn for his assistance to get rid of them . Dhul-Qarnayn builds a wall of molten iron & copper to imprison the troublemakers.
These stories remind us that Allah (swt) protects & guides those who he wills. Believers need not despair and there will be a judgement day when there will be an account of every action.
References : The Clear Quran ; read more at Quran.com .
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