25 prophets mentioned by name in the Quran

In Islam, prophets and messengers are individuals chosen by Allah to convey His message and guidance to humanity. They are considered to be the best of Allah's creations and were sent to guide people towards the path of righteousness and salvation.

Prophets in Islam include Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Solomon, and Jesus, among others. The final and most important prophet in Islam is Muhammad (peace be upon him), who was sent as the last messenger to convey the final revelation from Allah, the Quran.

Prophets and messengers in Islam are believed to have been chosen by Allah based on their piety, righteousness, and dedication to the worship of Allah. They were granted miracles to demonstrate their prophethood and to help people believe in their message. Their role was to convey the message of Allah to their people and to guide them towards the truth, while also calling on them to turn away from sin and disobedience.

The stories of the prophets and messengers are an important part of Islamic teachings, as they serve as examples of righteous behavior and devotion to Allah. Muslims believe that following the guidance of the prophets and messengers is crucial for attaining salvation and eternal happiness in the hereafter.

According to Islamic tradition, there were roughly 314 Messengers and 124,000 Prophets. Among them, 314 Messengers obtained 314 sacred writings (books) from the same one God, and over the years, almost 124,000 prophets carried out their revelations.

Here are 25 prophets mentioned by name in the Quran:

Adam: Adam is considered the first prophet and the father of all human beings. He was created by Allah and was given knowledge and guidance from Him. His strength was his obedience to Allah and his contribution was his role as the first human being and the father of humanity.

Surah Al-A'raf, verse 23 in the Quran. The verse reads as follows:

"Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves, and if You do not forgive us and have mercy upon us, we will surely be among the losers."

This verse is part of the story of Adam and Eve in the Quran, where they disobeyed Allah's command and ate from the forbidden tree. After realizing their mistake, they turned to Allah in repentance and asked for His forgiveness. The verse shows the humility and sincerity of Adam and Eve, as they acknowledged their wrongdoing and sought forgiveness from Allah. It is a reminder for Muslims to always seek forgiveness and mercy from Allah, and to turn to Him in times of difficulty and hardship. Additionally, the verse highlights the importance of seeking forgiveness and mercy from Allah, as without it, one may be among the losers in the Hereafter. It encourages Muslims to strive towards righteousness and seek Allah's forgiveness and mercy in order to attain success in this life and the next.

Idris: Idris was a prophet who was known for his wisdom and knowledge. He was granted a high rank by Allah due to his steadfastness and devotion to Him. His strength was his wisdom and his contribution was his role as a teacher of knowledge and guidance.

Allah says in the Holy Qur’an:

“And mention Idris in the Book, surely he was a truthful man, a Prophet. And We raised him high in heaven. (19:57-58)

Nuh: Nuh was a prophet who preached to his people for over 950 years, calling them to the worship of one God and warning them of the consequences of their disobedience. His strength was his patience and perseverance in delivering Allah's message, and his contribution was his role as a warner to his people.

Ayah al-Qamar (The Moon) 54:10. Thereupon he called out to his Sustainer, “Verily, I am defeated; come Thou, then, to my succour!” So he cried out to his Lord, “I am helpless, so help ˹me˺!” So he called upon his Lord, "I am overwhelmed, [please] help me."

Hud: Hud was a prophet sent to the people of 'Ad, who were known for their strength and arrogance. He warned them of the consequences of their disobedience and called them to turn towards Allah. His strength was his courage in confronting a powerful and arrogant people, and his contribution was his role as a warner to his people.

Surah Hud - 1-123: He responded, “It is Allah Who can bring it upon you if He wills, and then you will have no escape!"

Saleh: Saleh was a prophet sent to the people of Thamud, who were known for their skill in carving homes in mountains. He warned them of the consequences of their disobedience and called them to turn towards Allah. His strength was his compassion for his people, and his contribution was his role as a warner to his people.

In Suratul-‘A^raf, in verse 73, we are told that God sent to the people of Thamud a Prophet called Salih who belonged to the tribe of Thamud. Salih told them, “O people worship Allah, there is no God but Him Who deserves to be worshiped.”

Ibrahim (Abraham): Ibrahim was a prophet who is highly regarded in Islam and is known for his unwavering faith and submission to Allah. He is considered the father of the monotheistic faiths and was tested by Allah with various trials, including being commanded to sacrifice his son. His strength was his unwavering faith and submission to Allah, and his contribution was his role as a model of faith and devotion.

Surah 'Ibrahim – Verse 37. “Our Lord! Verily I have settled (a part) of my offspring in a valley without cultivation near Your Sacred House, in order, Our Lord! that they may establish prayer; therefore, make the hearts of some people yearn towards them, and provide them with fruits so that they may be grateful.”

This verse is a supplication made by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to Allah, asking Him to bless his offspring who were living in a barren valley near the Sacred House (Kaaba) in Mecca. Ibrahim's main concern was that his offspring remain steadfast in their faith and establish regular prayer. He prayed to Allah to fill the hearts of some among men with love towards his offspring and to provide them with sustenance so that they could give thanks to Allah. The verse highlights the importance of establishing prayer and maintaining faith in Allah, even in difficult circumstances. It also emphasizes the importance of seeking Allah's blessings and guidance in all aspects of life. Muslims believe that Prophet Ibrahim is a role model for believers and that his supplication in this verse is a reminder of the importance of seeking Allah's protection and guidance in all aspects of life. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder for Muslims to establish prayer, seek Allah's guidance, and place their trust in Him in all circumstances. It also highlights the importance of gratitude and giving thanks to Allah for His blessings.

Lut (Lot): Lut was a prophet who was sent to the people of Sodom and Gomorrah, who were known for their immoral behavior. He warned them of the consequences of their disobedience and called them to turn towards Allah. His strength was his courage in standing up against the immoral behavior of his people, and his contribution was his role as a warner to his people.

” My Lord, Save me and my family from [the consequence of] what they do.” Surah Ash-Shuara, verse 169

Ismail (Ishmael): Ismail was a prophet and the first son of Ibrahim. He was a devoted servant of Allah and was known for his kindness and generosity towards others. His strength was his devotion to Allah and his kindness towards others, and his contribution was his role as a model of faith and compassion.

Ismail and his mother lived in Mecca while Ibrahim would sometimes visit them. When Ismail grew to be a fine young man, Ibrahim had a dream:

Surah Al-An'am, verse 7 in the Quran. The English translation of the verse is:

"And when he reached with him [the age of] exertion, he said, "O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I [must] sacrifice you, so see what you think." He said, "O my father, do as you are commanded. You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast."

This verse refers to the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Prophet Ismail (Ishmael). In the Islamic tradition, Prophet Ibrahim was commanded by Allah in a dream to sacrifice his beloved son as a test of his faith and devotion to Allah. Prophet Ibrahim, being a devoted servant of Allah, was ready to carry out the commandment, and asked his son for his opinion on the matter. Prophet Ismail, in response, showed complete submission and obedience to the will of Allah, and demonstrated his unwavering faith and steadfastness. He told his father to carry out the commandment of Allah and that he would be patient, if Allah willed it. This verse teaches Muslims about the importance of complete submission and obedience to the will of Allah, even in the most difficult and challenging circumstances. It also emphasizes the importance of trust and patience in Allah's plan and wisdom, even when it is difficult to comprehend. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder for Muslims to place their trust and reliance in Allah, and to follow His commandments with complete submission and obedience, even when it is difficult.

Ishaq (Isaac): Ishaq was a prophet and the son of Ibrahim. He was known for his patience and steadfastness in the face of adversity. His strength was his patience and his contribution was his role as a model of perseverance.

"Praise to Allāh, who has granted to me in old age Ishmael and Isaac. Indeed, my Lord is the Hearer of supplication." [Quran Surah Ibrahim, 14:39]

This verse is a supplication made by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) in which he praises Allah for granting him the gift of two sons, Prophet Ismail (Ishmael) and Prophet Isaac (Ishaq), despite his old age and the age of his wife Sarah. The verse emphasizes the power and mercy of Allah, and Ibrahim's gratitude and thankfulness to Him. The verse highlights the importance of gratitude and thankfulness to Allah for His blessings, and also emphasizes the importance of prayer. Muslims believe that Prophet Ibrahim is a role model for believers and that his supplication in this verse is a reminder of the importance of recognizing and appreciating the blessings that Allah bestows upon us. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder for Muslims to express their gratitude and thankfulness to Allah for His blessings, and to seek His guidance and support through prayer. It also emphasizes the power and mercy of Allah, and encourages believers to place their trust and reliance in Him.

Ya'qub (Jacob): Ya'qub was a prophet and the son of Ishaq. He was known for his wisdom and his devotion to Allah. His strength was his wisdom and his contribution was his role as a teacher of knowledge and guidance.

Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 133 in the Quran. The English translation of the verse is:

"Or were you witnesses when death approached Jacob? When he said to his sons, 'What will you worship after me?' They said, 'We will worship your God, the God of your fathers, Abraham, Ishmael, and Isaac, one God, and to Him we are Muslims.'"

This verse refers to a conversation between Prophet Jacob (Ya'qub) and his sons before his death. Jacob, also known as Israel in the Quran, asks his sons about their beliefs and who they will worship after his death. The sons respond by affirming their belief in one God, the God of their forefathers Abraham, Ishmael, and Isaac. They also declare their submission to God and their willingness to follow the path of Islam. The verse emphasizes the importance of monotheism and the belief in one God in Islam. It also highlights the continuity of the message of monotheism and submission to God throughout the generations of the prophets and their followers. Muslims believe that this verse serves as a reminder for believers to adhere to the teachings of monotheism and submission to God as taught by the prophets, including Prophet Jacob and his sons. It also emphasizes the importance of passing on these beliefs to future generations and maintaining a strong connection with the teachings of the Quran and the prophetic tradition. Overall, this verse emphasizes the importance of monotheism and submission to God in Islam, and highlights the continuity of these beliefs throughout the generations of the prophets and their followers.

Yusuf (Joseph): Yusuf was a prophet and the son of Ya'qub. He was known for his beauty and his intelligence, and was given the gift of interpreting dreams. He was wrongfully accused and imprisoned but remained patient and faithful to Allah. His strength was his patience and his contribution was his role as a model of forgiveness and patience.

Surah Yusuf, verse 86 in the Quran. The English translation of the verse is:

"[Joseph] said, 'I only complain of my suffering and my grief to Allah, and I know from Allah that which you do not know.'"

This verse is part of the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) and highlights his steadfastness and faith in Allah. In this particular verse, Prophet Yusuf is responding to his fellow prisoners who had asked him about the reason for his sadness and sorrow. Instead of complaining to them or seeking their help, Prophet Yusuf tells them that he only complains to Allah and seeks His help and guidance. The verse emphasizes the importance of placing one's trust and reliance in Allah and seeking His help and guidance in times of difficulty and hardship. It also highlights the importance of patience and steadfastness in the face of adversity. Muslims believe that this verse serves as a reminder for believers to turn to Allah in times of hardship and to place their trust and reliance in Him. It also encourages believers to seek solace in prayer and to maintain a strong connection with Allah. Overall, this verse emphasizes the power and importance of faith and trust in Allah, and serves as a reminder for Muslims to maintain a strong connection with Him in all aspects of their lives.

Shu'aib (Jethro): Shu'aib was a prophet who was sent to the people of Madyan, who were known for their dishonesty and injustice. He warned them of the consequences of their behavior and called them to turn towards Allah. His strength was his wisdom and his contribution was his role as a warner to his people.

Surah Al-A'raf, verse 89 in the Quran. The English translation of the verse is:

"We would have invented a lie against Allah if we returned to your religion after Allah had saved us from it. It is not for us to return to it unless Allah, our Lord, should will. Our Lord encompasses everything in knowledge. We put our trust in Allah. Our Lord, decide between us and our people in truth, and You are the best of decision makers."

This verse refers to a conversation between the Prophet Moses (Musa) and his people, the Children of Israel, who had turned away from the worship of Allah and had started worshipping a golden calf. Moses had admonished them for their wrongdoing and reminded them of the commandments of Allah. The verse contains their response, affirming their repentance and their determination to follow the true religion. The verse emphasizes the importance of sincerity and truthfulness in one's faith and worship. The Children of Israel acknowledge that they cannot invent a lie against Allah, and that they will only return to the true religion if Allah wills it. They also affirm their trust in Allah and their willingness to submit to His decision. Muslims believe that this verse serves as a reminder for believers to maintain sincerity and truthfulness in their faith and worship. It also emphasizes the importance of repentance and turning back to Allah in times of wrongdoing or error. The verse highlights the omniscience and ultimate authority of Allah in all matters, and encourages believers to put their trust in Him. Overall, this verse emphasizes the importance of sincerity, repentance, and trust in Allah in Islam, and serves as a reminder for believers to adhere to these principles in their daily lives.

Ayyub (Job): Ayyub was a prophet who was tested by Allah with various afflictions, including the loss of his wealth, health, and family. Despite his suffering, he remained patient and faithful to Allah. His strength was his patience and his contribution was his role as a model of patience and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Surah Al-Anbiya, verse 83 in the Quran. The English translation of the verse is:

"And [mention] Job, when he called to his Lord, "Indeed, adversity has touched me, and you are the Most Merciful of the merciful."

This verse mentions the Prophet Job (Ayub in Arabic) and his supplication to Allah during a time of great hardship and adversity. According to Islamic tradition, Job was a prophet who faced many trials and tribulations in his life, including losing his family, his wealth, and his health. The verse highlights Job's recognition of Allah's mercy, even in the midst of his suffering. Despite his difficult circumstances, he turns to Allah in prayer, acknowledging Him as the Most Merciful. This demonstrates Job's faith and trust in Allah, even in the face of great adversity. Muslims believe that this verse serves as a reminder for believers to turn to Allah in times of hardship and to seek His mercy and help. It also emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in Allah, even in difficult times. The verse highlights the ultimate power and mercy of Allah, and encourages believers to seek solace in Him during times of distress. Overall, this verse emphasizes the importance of prayer, faith, and trust in Allah in Islam, and serves as a reminder for believers to turn to Him in times of hardship and adversity.

Dhul-Kifl (Ezekiel): Dhul-Kifl is a prophet who is mentioned briefly in the Quran. Little is known about him, but he is considered a model of steadfastness and determination. His strength was his steadfastness and his contribution was his role as a model of determination.

Surah Al-Anbiya, verses 85-86 in the Quran. The English translation of the verses is:

"And [mention] Ishmael, and Idris, and Dhul-Kifl; all were of the patient. And We admitted them into Our mercy. Indeed, they were of the righteous."

These verses mention three prophets: Ishmael, Idris, and Dhul-Kifl. The verse praises their patience and righteousness, and states that Allah admitted them into His mercy. This highlights the importance of patience and righteousness in Islam, and emphasizes that those who embody these qualities will be rewarded with Allah's mercy.

Musa (Moses): Musa was a prophet who was sent to the Pharaoh of Egypt to deliver the message of Allah and to free the Children of Israel from slavery. He was given miracles such as the staff that turned into a serpent and the parting of the Red Sea. His strength was his determination and his contribution was his role as a leader and liberator of his people.

Surah Ta-Ha, verses 25-28 in the Quran. The English translation of the verses is:

"[Moses] said, "My Lord, expand for me my breast [with assurance] and ease for me my task and untie the knot from my tongue that they may understand my speech. And appoint for me a minister from my family - Aaron, my brother. Increase through him my strength and let him share my task that we may exalt You much and remember You much."

These verses describe the supplication of the Prophet Moses (Musa in Arabic) to Allah when he was asked to go to Pharaoh and deliver a message from Allah. Moses asks Allah to ease his task and to give him the ability to speak clearly and effectively so that his message will be understood. He also asks for the assistance of his brother Aaron in this task, so that they can work together to exalt and remember Allah. Muslims believe that this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of turning to Allah in times of need and difficulty, and seeking His help and assistance. It highlights the fact that even the prophets of Allah faced challenges and obstacles, and that they too turned to Allah for help and guidance. The supplication of Moses also emphasizes the importance of clear communication in conveying the message of Allah. Muslims believe that effective communication is an important aspect of delivering the message of Islam, and that this can be achieved through seeking Allah's help and guidance, as well as through learning and practicing effective communication skills. Overall, this verse emphasizes the importance of supplication, seeking Allah's help, and effective communication in Islam, and serves as a reminder for believers to strive for these qualities in their daily lives.

Harun (Aaron): Harun was a prophet and the brother of Musa. He was known for his eloquence and his ability to calm the people during times of conflict. He was also appointed as the high priest by Allah and helped to lead the Children of Israel during their journey in the wilderness. His strength was his leadership and his contribution was his role as a mediator and a guide for his people.

Prophet Harun (as), In An Effort To Save His People From Corruption, Reminded His People That Their Real God Was Allah Harun had earlier said to them, “My people! It is just a trial for you. Your Lord is the All-Merciful, so follow me and obey my command!” (Surah Ta Ha, 90)

Dawud (David): Dawud was a prophet and a king who was given the gift of a beautiful voice and the ability to inspire others through his singing and poetry. He was also known for his bravery and his victory over the giant Goliath. His strength was his creativity and his contribution was his role as a model of leadership and devotion to Allah.

Hazrat Abu Dardara relates that Hazrat Daud AS (David) who was foremost in worshipping God, used to recite this prayer for attaining the love of God:

“O Allah, I beg You for Your love and the love of one who loves You and such conduct as should lead me to Your love. O Allah, make Your love dearer to me than my soul and my family and my wealth and dearer than cold water.” (Source: Jami‘ al-Tirmidhi, Kitab al-Da‘wat)

Sulaiman (Solomon): Sulaiman was a prophet and a king who was given the gift of wisdom and the ability to communicate with animals. He was known for his justice and his building of the Temple in Jerusalem. His strength was his wisdom and his contribution was his role as a model of justice and wisdom.

“My Lord, enable me to be grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents and to do righteousness of which You approve. And admit me by Your mercy into [the ranks of] Your righteous servants.” [Surah Naml Ayat 19]

Ilyas (Elijah): Ilyas was a prophet who was known for his bravery and his struggle against the idol-worshippers of his time. He was also known for his miracles, including the bringing of rain during a time of drought. His strength was his bravery and his contribution was his role as a model of courage and determination.

In Surah As-Saffat, verses 123-124, it is mentioned that Prophet Ilyas was one of the righteous messengers: "And indeed, Ilyas was from among the messengers. When he said to his people, 'Will you not fear Allah?'"

Additionally, in Surah Al-Anbiya, verse 85, it is mentioned that Prophet Ilyas was one of the believers: "And Ishmael, and Elisha, and Jonah, and Lot - all [of them] We preferred over the worlds."

Al-Yasa' (Elisha): Al-Yasa' was a prophet who was known for his miracles, including the healing of the sick and the raising of the dead. He was also known for his wisdom and his teachings. His strength was his compassion and his contribution was his role as a model of healing and wisdom.

Alyasa is mentioned in Al-An'am 6:86 and Sad 38:48, along with Ismail:

"And Ismail and Alyasa and Yunus, and Lut; and each one We graced over the worlds." [Al-An'am 6:86] 

"And remember Our servants Ismail, Alyasa, and Dhul-Kifl, each of them truly good." [Sad 38:48] 

Yunus (Jonah): Yunus was a prophet who was sent to the people of Nineveh to warn them of their wrongdoing. He was known for his unwavering faith and his willingness to endure hardship for the sake of Allah. He was also swallowed by a whale as a test of his faith and was ultimately saved by Allah. His strength was his faith and his contribution was his role as a model of repentance and humility.

While in the whale’s belly, cramped within the lifeless void of darkness, Prophet Yunus a.s. reflected on the error in his ways and prayed to Allah s.w.t:

“And (remember) when the Man of the Whale stormed off (from his city) in a rage, thinking We would not restrain him. Then in the (veils of) darkness, he cried out, “There is no god (worthy of worship) except You. Glory be to You! I have certainly done wrong.” So We answered his prayer and rescued him from anguish. And so do We save the believers.” (Surah Al-Anbiyaa’, 21:87-88)

Zakariyya (Zechariah): Zakariyya was a prophet who was known for his devotion to Allah and his role as a caretaker of the Temple in Jerusalem. He was also the father of Yahya (John the Baptist) and was blessed with a son in his old age as a sign of Allah's mercy. His strength was his devotion to Allah and his contribution was his role as a model of faith and humility.

Prophet Zakariyya prayed: “My Lord, do not leave me alone [with no heir], while you are the best of inheritors.” [Surah Anbiya Ayat 89]

Yahya (John the Baptist): Yahya was a prophet who was known for his asceticism and his call for repentance. He was also a mentor to Isa (Jesus) and was given the gift of prophecy from Allah. His strength was his commitment to righteousness and his contribution was his role as a forerunner to Isa.

"Then the angels called to him as he stood praying in the sanctuary: That Allah gives you the good news of Yahya verifying a Word from Allah, and honorable and chaste and a prophet from among the good ones." [Quran 3:39]

Isa (Jesus): Isa was a prophet who was known for his miracles, including the healing of the sick and the raising of the dead. He was also known for his teachings of love, compassion, and forgiveness. He was sent as a messenger to the Children of Israel and his followers are known as Christians. His strength was his compassion and his contribution was his role as a model of love and forgiveness.

“O Allah , our Lord, send down to us a table spread (with food) from the heaven to be for us a festival for the first of us and the last of us and a sign from You; and provide for us sustenance,and You are the Best of providers.” [Surah Al-Maida ,verse 114]

This verse is a supplication made by Prophet Isa (Jesus) in the Quran, asking Allah to send down a table spread (with food) from heaven to be a festival for the people, and a sign from Allah. The supplication also asks Allah to provide for them, as He is the best of providers. Muslims believe that this verse highlights the importance of relying on Allah for sustenance and provision, and of being grateful for the blessings He bestows upon us. The supplication also demonstrates the concept of trust in Allah's divine plan and ability to provide for His creation. The phrase "maaidatan minas-samaa" (table spread from heaven) is understood to be a metaphor for the abundant blessings and sustenance that Allah provides for His creation, and is a reminder to be grateful for these blessings. The supplication also highlights the concept of unity and community, as it asks for the festival to be for both the first and last of us, emphasizing the importance of coming together as one community in the worship of Allah. Overall, this supplication serves as a reminder of the importance of relying on Allah for provision, being grateful for His blessings, and coming together as a community in the worship of Allah.

Muhammad (pbuh): Muhammad was the last prophet and messenger of Allah, who was sent to guide humanity to the path of righteousness and salvation. He was known for his character, his wisdom, and his leadership. He was also given the final revelation of the Quran and his teachings form the foundation of Islam. His strength was his unwavering commitment to Allah and his contribution was his role as a model of mercy, justice, and compassion.

In addition, in Surah Al-Ahzab, Verse 40, Allah commands the believers to remember Allah and mention Him abundantly, and to send blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad: "Muhammad is not the father of [any] one of your men, but [he is] the Messenger of Allah and last of the prophets. And ever is Allah , of all things, Knowing. O you who have believed, remember Allah with much remembrance and exalt Him morning and afternoon. It is He who confers blessing upon you, and His angels [ask Him to do so] that He may bring you out from darknesses into the light. And ever is He, to the believers, Merciful. Their greeting on the day they meet Him will be, "Peace." And He has prepared for them a noble reward."

Therefore, it is recommended for Muslims to send blessings and peace upon the Prophet Muhammad, as a way of showing love and respect for him and following the commandments of Allah in the Quran. Allah also confirms that Muhammad (pbuh) is the last of the Prophets in the above verse.

In summary, the stories of the prophets and messengers are an important part of Islamic teachings, as they serve as examples of righteous behavior and devotion to Allah. Muslims believe that following the guidance of the prophets and messengers is crucial for attaining salvation and eternal happiness in the hereafter.