Prophet Jacob (Yaqub) – Peace Be Upon Him
Prophet Jacob, known as Yaqub bin Isaac bin Ibrahim, was the son of Rebekah, the daughter of Bethuel, a descendant of Nahor. This lineage signifies that she was Jacob’s first cousin. In the Holy Quran, Jacob is referred to by the name Israel. Allah – the Exalted – mentions him in the Quran, praising his righteous actions, beneficial knowledge, wisdom, strength in worship, penetrating insight, and the Prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him – also honored him with commendations.
A Glimpse into the Life of Prophet Jacob
The life of Prophet Jacob is partially chronicled in the revered book, “Al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya.” It recounts that Jacob resided in Haran for a significant portion of his life and married two sisters, the daughters of his maternal uncle. According to their laws, this union was permissible. His wives were Leah and Rachel, from whom he had children. Rachel bore him Joseph and Benjamin, while Leah gave birth to Reuben, Levi, Simeon, Issachar, Judah, and Zebulun. Jacob did not remain in Haran for long; his stay was approximately twenty years before he returned to Palestine, passing through several settlements along the way.
Throughout his life, Jacob – peace be upon him – dedicated himself to calling his people to monotheism and devotion to Allah – the Exalted. He lived as a loyal servant, striving to raise his children with utmost care. He guided them through the complexities of life, leaving no stone unturned in steering them towards success in both this world and the Hereafter. Among the values he instilled in them were reliance on Allah, maintaining good thoughts about Him, and fostering a sense of hope and optimism in life. One of his significant legacies was advising them to remain steadfast in their obedience to Allah and uphold their faith until the end of their days.
The Death of Jacob (Peace Be Upon Him)
Prophet Jacob – peace be upon him – passed away at a venerable age, having lived over one hundred years. He expressed the desire to be buried in the tomb of his father Isaac and grandfather Abraham. His son, Joseph – peace be upon him – honored his father’s wish by transporting him to Hebron, where he was laid to rest in the Cave of Machpelah in Hebron, Palestine, alongside his ancestors.