
Allah subahaana wa ta’ala tells us:
We relate to you, [O Muhammad], the best of stories in what We have revealed to you of this Qur’an although you were, before it, among the unaware.
( Surah Yusuf : 3 )
What makes Surah Yusuf the best of stories? Let’s try to understand:
- Who’s telling the story? Allah ﷻ ! Is there any one truer than Him?
- It’s a true story based on facts.
- It’s in Arabic, which is the most powerful and moving language.
- It has everything a good story needs – it’s captivating, persuasive, has a strong theme, an appealing style, unforgettable characters
- It’s about one of the best people:
The people said, “O Allah’s Messenger ﷺ ! Who is the most honorable amongst the people (in Allah’s Sight)?” He said, “The most righteous amongst them.” They said, “We do not ask you, about this.” He said, “Then Yusuf, Allah’s Prophet, the son of Allah’s Prophet, the son of Allah’s Prophet the son of Allah’s Khalil (i.e. Ibrahim).”
[al-Bukhari]
- It has a purpose, which is to take a lesson.
- It covers many important topics including – the prophets, the righteous, sinners, angels, satans, kings, slaves, business, dreams, knowledge, men and women interactions, fiqh, politics, prison, patience, even gossip!