Animals Mentioned in the Stories of the Quran
Several animals are referenced within the narratives of the Holy Quran, with some of the most notable examples detailed below:
The Wolf
The wolf is mentioned in the story of Prophet Joseph (Yusuf), wherein Jacob (Yaqub) expressed his fears for his son. He explained his reluctance to let Joseph accompany his brothers, stating: “And I fear that the wolf might eat him while you are unaware.” Later, the brothers used a similar excuse to justify Joseph’s absence, claiming: “O our father, we went racing and left Joseph with our belongings, and the wolf devoured him.” This indicated their misguided attempt to blame external circumstances for their failure to protect Joseph, despite their temporary neglect.
The Serpent
The serpent is described in three distinct ways within the context of Moses’ (Musa) story. Initially, it is referred to as a “serpent” when Moses throws it down: “And behold, it is a serpent.” This term encompasses all types of snakes, both large and small. However, at another point, it is described as a “small serpent” (jan) in the phrase: “as if it were a small serpent,” and in another instance, it is referred to as a “large serpent” (thu’ban): “And behold, it is a large snake.” This showcases the serpent’s combination of quick movement like a small snake and the substantial size of a large snake.
The Whale
The whale is referenced in two significant stories. The first is in the account of Prophet Jonah (Yunus): “And the whale swallowed him while he was blameworthy,” as he had left without seeking God’s permission. The second reference occurs in Moses’ quest for a sign that would lead him to the wise figure, Al-Khidr. The death of the whale, which leapt into the sea, served as the indicator he needed. Thus, he rejoiced when his companion said: “I forgot about the whale,” exclaiming: “That is what we were seeking,” since it marked the path to their intended goal.
The Monkey
The monkeys are mentioned in the story of the Sabbath-breakers who were instructed to observe the commandment of refraining from work on Saturdays: “So when they exceeded the limits of what they were prohibited, We said to them, ‘Become apes, despised.'” These individuals, who defied God’s commandments by engaging in fishing and disobeying the Sabbath, ultimately faced a transformation into monkeys as a consequence of their rebellion and continued disregard for divine law.
Animals Used as Metaphors for Exemplification
The eloquence of the Quran employs various animals for illustrative purposes, particularly using simile to comment on the conditions of specific creatures mentioned below:
The Donkey Burdened with Books
This metaphor is used to describe those who possess knowledge yet fail to benefit from it, as it is said: “The example of those who carry a burden of books but do not act upon them is like that of a donkey carrying books.” Thus, those who are held accountable to act on the commandments of their sacred texts but do not do so resemble a donkey burdened with books that it cannot comprehend or utilize.
The Panting Dog
Here, the Quran likens individuals who seek worldly gains through their knowledge to a dog: “The example of a dog is that if you drive it away, it pants, and if you leave it alone, it pants.” A scholar who resorts to his knowledge solely for material pursuits mirrors the behavior of a base dog, always panting regardless of its actual need for water. This simile illustrates a base existence, devoid of purpose or necessity, driven purely by animalistic instincts.
The Wild Donkeys Fleeing from the Lion
The Quran compares those who turn away from the teachings of its messages to wild donkeys: “As if they were wild donkeys fleeing from a lion.” This comparison illustrates how those who reject the Quran resemble wild donkeys fleeing in terror from a lion, illustrating the fearfulness and cowardice of those who turn away from divine guidance.
The Spider Constructing a Weak Nest
This analogy reflects individuals searching for security amidst life’s challenges, reminiscent of those who take refuge with unreliable allies: “The example of a spider weaving its web.” Such a web, frail and ineffective against the trials of life, symbolizes individuals whose reliance on weak foundations ultimately leaves them vulnerable and unprotected, as “the weakest of homes is undoubtedly the spider’s house.” This serves as a stark reminder of the futility in seeking refuge in unreliable sources.
Animals Mentioned for Lessons and Reflection
Among these are:
The Crow
The story of the crow illustrates how one human learned to bury his brother: “Then Allah sent a crow searching in the earth to show him how to cover the shame of his brother.” Reflecting on Allah’s wisdom in sending the crow, the term “crow” evokes themes of separation—estrangement from the brother, divine mercy, and familial bonds. The crow, being one of the pests that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) commanded to be killed, further symbolizes the notion of sin, fittingly representing the sinful act of murder.
The Hoopoe
The hoopoe is mentioned when Prophet Solomon (Sulaiman) was surveying his troops: “And he inspected the birds and said, ‘What is the matter that I do not see the hoopoe?'” After threatening punishment for its absence without clear justification, the hoopoe returned after a brief time to report that it had discovered news from the land of Sheba. This teaches us the importance of leadership, exercising authority judiciously, and recognizing valid excuses when warranted.