The Story of Prophet Idris: Legacy in Islam

Last Updated on April 17, 2025 by Arabian Tongue Team

The Story of Prophet Idris, known in the Bible as Enoch, is one of the earliest prophets mentioned in Islamic tradition. He is widely respected among Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike. Although the Qur’an does not offer an extensive narrative about his life, Islamic traditions and interpretations of historical texts provide a more detailed account of his mission, character, and legacy.

Idris (AS) is admired for his wisdom, patience, and his deep devotion to Allah. He was among the first to introduce writing, sciences, and astronomy to humanity, and he is believed to have lived during a time when moral corruption was on the rise. His story carries timeless lessons in perseverance, knowledge, and spiritual elevation.

Who Was Prophet Idris (AS)?

Prophet Idris (AS), also known as Enoch in Judeo-Christian traditions, is a revered prophet in Islam, mentioned in the Qur’an in several verses, including Surah Maryam (19:56-57) and Surah Al-Anbiya (21:85-86). He is known for his wisdom, piety, and dedication to spreading God’s message:

Genealogy and Early Life

Prophet Idris (AS) is believed to be a descendant of Prophet Adam (AS) through his son Seth (Shith). According to Islamic scholars, his full lineage is Idris ibn Yard ibn Mahla’il ibn Qinan ibn Anush ibn Sheeth ibn Adam. He was born during the lifetime of Prophet Adam (AS) and was the fifth generation from him.

The name “Idris” is said to come from the Arabic root word “d-r-s,” meaning to study or to learn. This reflects his scholarly nature and pursuit of divine knowledge.

His Role as a Prophet

Prophet Idris (AS) was sent by Allah to guide the prophet adam story (AS), who had started deviating from the righteous path. He called people to worship Allah alone, follow the truth, and abandon sin. He lived in Babylon initially, and when the corruption worsened, he migrated with some of his followers to Egypt where he continued spreading the message of monotheism.

Attributes and Contributions

Prophet Idris (AS) left a lasting legacy in both spiritual and intellectual realms. His emphasis on knowledge, wisdom, and divine truth influenced later generations

1. Wisdom and Knowledge

Idris (AS) is known as one of the wisest men of his time. Allah granted him immense knowledge, and he was the first man to use the pen. He taught people how to write, read, measure time, and understand astronomy. He is often considered the first person to invent writing, tailoring, and other forms of art and craftsmanship.

“And We raised him to a high station.”
— Surah Maryam (19:57)

This verse refers to the spiritual and possibly physical elevation of Idris (AS), which will be explored further below.

2. Patience and Righteousness

The Qur’an speaks highly of Idris (AS) in terms of his patience and truthfulness. In Surah Maryam, he is mentioned alongside other noble prophets:

“And mention Idris in the Book; surely he was a truthful man, a prophet.”
— Surah Maryam (19:56)

He endured difficulties and remained steadfast in his mission, calling people to virtue in the face of increasing immorality.

3. Innovations and Skills

Islamic traditions mention that Idris (AS) was the first human being to stitch clothes and wear tailored garments. Prior to that, people wore animal skins. He also introduced agriculture and the science of the stars and planets (astronomy). His forward-thinking and knowledge made him a key figure in the development of early civilization.

The Ascension of Idris (AS)

One of the most fascinating aspects of Idris’s (AS) story is his ascension to the heavens. According to Islamic tradition, Prophet Idris (AS) asked an angel to take him closer to the heavens so he could meet with the Angel of Death and know when he would die.

It is said that the angel took him through the different layers of the heavens, and when they reached the fourth heaven, the Angel of Death appeared and stated that Idris’s (AS) soul was destined to be taken precisely in that place. As a result, Idris (AS) passed away in the fourth heaven.

This miraculous journey is often interpreted as both a physical and spiritual elevation:

“And We raised him to a high station.”
— Surah Maryam (19:57)

Many Islamic scholars believe this verse signifies that Idris (AS) was honored by being taken to the heavens and that his status is greatly esteemed in the eyes of Allah.

Read more: who is the most mentioned prophet in the quran

Prophet Idris (AS) in the Bible

In the Bible, Idris (AS) is referred to as Enoch. The Book of Genesis says:

“Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.”
— Genesis 5:24

This aligns with the Islamic belief that he was taken up to the heavens rather than experiencing a typical earthly death. In both traditions, Enoch/Idris is viewed as a man of great faith and righteousness.

Key Lessons from the Life of Prophet Idris (AS)

1. The Value of Knowledge: Idris (AS) showed that seeking knowledge and teaching others is a form of worship. His innovations helped humanity evolve and reflect on the signs of Allah.

2. Patience in Adversity: Despite being surrounded by corruption, Idris (AS) remained firm in his mission and didn’t give up on his people. His patience is a model for all who work for truth and justice.

3. Spiritual Elevation is Possible: His ascension reminds believers that those who are truly righteous may be granted divine honor, in this world and the hereafter.

4. The Importance of Leading by Example: Idris (AS) was not just a preacher but also a practitioner. He exemplified what he taught and led with integrity.

FAQs

What is Prophet Idris (AS) known for?

He is known for being one of the earliest prophets, introducing writing, mathematics, astronomy, and tailoring. He is also remembered for his wisdom, patience, and ascension to the heavens.

Is Prophet Idris (AS) the same as Enoch in the Bible?

Yes, most Islamic scholars agree that Idris (AS) and Enoch are the same individuals described in different religious traditions.

What does the Qur’an say about Prophet Idris (AS)?

The Qur’an briefly mentions Idris (AS) in Surah Maryam and Surah Al-Anbiya, describing him as a truthful prophet whom Allah raised to a high station.

Where was Prophet Idris (AS) born?

Islamic traditions suggest that Idris (AS) was born in Babylon (modern-day Iraq), though some scholars also associate his later life with Egypt.

Is Idris (AS) still alive in heaven?

There is a difference of opinion. Some believe he is still alive, like Prophet Isa (AS), while others believe he passed away during his ascension and resides in the fourth heaven in soul form.

Conclusion

The story of Prophet Idris (AS) is a powerful example of knowledge, righteousness, and divine reward. Though the details of his life are not as widely narrated as other prophets, what we know speaks volumes about his character. He was a man ahead of his time — a teacher, thinker, and deeply spiritual guide.

His legacy teaches us the importance of spreading good, seeking knowledge, standing firm in faith, and maintaining patience in trials. Whether in the field of science, spirituality, or morality, Idris (AS) left a mark that resonates with believers to this day.