(Lessons 20'24)
Ibrahim (AS) was one of the greatest and most influential prophets. Allah bestowed the highest honour upon him by making him a 'leader for humanity' (4:125), and taking him as 'an intimate friend.' (4:125)
He was born about four thousand years ago in the thriving city of Ur, in modern'day Iraq. His community was deeply devoted to the worship of idols ' a concept he rejected at a very young age. He argued with his people regarding their erroneous beliefs, but after failing to convince them to serve the only God, he migrated to Palestine with his group of followers, including Lut (AS) who was his nephew. Ibrahim (AS) preached Allah’s word far and wide, laying the foundations of monotheism in various lands.
Ibrahim (AS) had two sons, both of whom were later appointed as prophets. His wife, Sarah (AS), gave birth to Ishaq (AS), from whom the tribe of Israel is descended. His second wife, Hajar (AS), gave birth to Ismail (AS) from whom many of the Arabs are descended. Ibrahim (AS) and Ismail (AS) constructed the Sacred House (Kaabah) in the valley of Makkah, and established the practice of the great annual pilgrimage (Hajj) ' a tradition continuing to this day.