Story of Prophet Yusuf (AS) Part-9

Moral Lessons from the Story of Prophet
Yusuf (AS)
Allah says the following about the story of
Prophet Yusuf (AS) in the Holy Qur'an:
We narrate unto you (O Muhammad) the most
excellent of the stories (by which) We have
revealed unto you this Qur'an; though before
this you were of the unaware ones (of its
details).
Surah Yusuf, 12:3
Indeed, the adventures and experiences of
Prophet Yusuf (AS), and his conduct
throughout his life, provide us with a wealth of
lessons and morals. Some things we may
learn from his life are:
1. The belief in the presence of Allah makes a
man's troubles easier for him to bear, and as
long as he keeps himself away from sins
despite temptations, he will ultimately be
successful. Prophet Yusuf (AS) taught us this
by his cheerful conduct throughout his
enslavement and imprisonment.
2. In all difficulties and hardships one should
seek only Allah's protection. Prophet Yusuf
(AS) showed his faith by seeking refuge from
Allah when faced with the evil intentions of
Zuleikha. He was thus saved from committing
a terrible sin.
3. One should always remain attached to
religion and should take every opportunity to
persuade others towards the right path.
Prophet Yusuf (AS) did not forsake his duty
even when in the prison, where he preached
against idol worship before interpreting the
dreams of his cell-mates.
4. Patience in the face of hardship is the best
of qualities and results in reward from Allah in
this life and the hereafter. Prophet Yusuf (AS)
remained calm and resigned to the Will of
Allah, despite being abandoned in the well by
his brothers.
He also bore the shame of being sold as a
slave patiently.
He also accepted his false imprisonment. In
return for his forbearance, Allah raised his
position till it was the highest in Egypt.
5. It is important to act in such a manner as
to preserve your honour and dignity, and these
qualities must always be safeguarded. Prophet
Yusuf (AS) taught us this valuable lesson
when he refused to accept his freedom from
prison until his innocence was proved to the
people.
Thus when he was finally released, he knew he
could come in front of the people with his
head held high and without any blemish on
his record.
6. Above all, this story teaches us that we
should forgive and forget the past. When
Prophet Yusuf's (AS) brothers came to him in
Egypt, they were in a pitiable condition and
would have been helpless against his great
power. If he had wished, Prophet Yusuf (AS)
could have severely punished them for the
heartless treatment they had given him.
Instead he forgave their errors and treated
them well.
We have listed only a few lessons above, and
there is a lot more that one can learn and
understand from the story of Prophet Yusuf
(AS).