Introduction

Whenever I reflect on The Story of Prophet Yaqub (A.S.), I’m reminded of the profound strength hidden within patience and faith. His life wasn’t one of ease or luxury it was a journey marked by trials, separation, love, and unshakeable belief in Allah’s wisdom.

Prophet Yaqub (A.S.), known as Jacob in the Biblical tradition, was the son of Prophet Ishaq (A.S.) and the grandson of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.). He inherited not only their lineage but also their devotion to Allah. His story teaches me that true faith shines brightest when tested by loss and pain.

In this post, I’ll explore his life his family, his trials, his prophetic mission, and the timeless lessons his story continues to offer every  believer today.

The Early Life of Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)

Prophet Yaqub (A.S.) was born into a noble prophetic family. His father, Prophet Ishaq (A.S.), was the son of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.), the great patriarch known for his unwavering faith. From an early age, Yaqub (A.S.) was taught the message of Tawheed the oneness of Allah and the importance of righteousness and moral integrity.

He grew up with his twin brother, Esau (ʿEsaw), and from the beginning, their personalities were quite different. Yaqub (A.S.) was gentle, contemplative, and devoted to spiritual matters, while Esau was more drawn toward worldly pursuits. Through divine will, Yaqub (A.S.) was chosen as a Prophet a messenger destined to carry the torch of divine guidance.

Prophet Yaqub’s Family and His Role as a Father

Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)’s life is perhaps best remembered for his role as a father particularly his relationship with Prophet Yusuf (A.S.). Yaqub (A.S.) had twelve sons, who later became the ancestors of the Twelve Tribes of Israel.

But his love for Yusuf (A.S.) was special not out of favoritism, but because he saw in Yusuf the purity and light of prophethood. This affection, however, sparked jealousy among Yusuf’s brothers, setting the stage for one of the most emotional chapters in prophetic history.

When they plotted to get rid of Yusuf (A.S.) and returned with false tears and a blood-stained shirt, Yaqub (A.S.) felt the unbearable pain of separation. Yet, he said something truly remarkable:

“So patience is most fitting. And it is Allah Whose help is sought against what you describe.”
Surah Yusuf (12:18)

This verse shows his unshakable trust in Allah. Even in the face of grief that would break most hearts, Yaqub (A.S.) remained steadfast.

How Many Sons Did Prophet Yaqub (Jacob) عليه السلام Have?

Prophet Yaqub (عليه السلام), also known as Jacob, was a noble Prophet and the grandson of Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام). Allah ﷻ blessed him with twelve sons, who became the ancestors of the Twelve Tribes of Bani Isra’il (the Children of Israel). The Qur’an mentions them collectively as Asbāṭ — the tribes that descended from Yaqub’s lineage. Among his sons was Prophet Yusuf (عليه السلام), whose story is beautifully detailed in Surah Yusuf, revealing lessons of patience, trust, and divine wisdom. Allah says:

كُلٌّ آمَنَ بِاللَّهِ وَمَلَائِكَتِهِ وَكُتُبِهِ وَرُسُلِهِ لَا نُفَرِّقُ بَيْنَ أَحَدٍ مِّن رُّسُلِهِ
“They all believed in Allah, His angels, His books, and His messengers; We make no distinction between any of His messengers.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:285)

Through Yaqub’s twelve sons, Allah established a great lineage of Prophets and righteous people, showing that steadfast faith within a family can shape the destiny of entire generations.

The Trial of Separation A Father’s Endless Patience

The Qur’an paints one of the most moving portrayals of a father’s love and endurance. Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)’s patience during Yusuf’s disappearance is legendary.

He never gave up hope, even after years passed and his sight was lost from crying. He once said:

“I only complain of my suffering and my grief to Allah, and I know from Allah that which you do not know.”
Surah Yusuf (12:86)

These words remind me that patience (Sabr) is not the absence of sadness, but the presence of trust. Yaqub (A.S.) never despaired of Allah’s mercy he kept believing that one day, Allah would reunite him with his beloved son.

The Reunion Allah’s Promise Fulfilled

Years later, when Yusuf (A.S.) became a minister in Egypt and his brothers came to him unknowingly, destiny began to unfold. When Yusuf finally revealed himself and sent for his father, the moment of reunion was divine justice and mercy combined.

As the Qur’an beautifully narrates:

“Then when the bearer of good news came, he cast it over his face, and he became seeing once again.”
Surah Yusuf (12:96)

That moment, Yaqub (A.S.)’s patience was rewarded his faith vindicated, his sight restored, and his family reunited.

This reunion wasn’t just a family story it was the manifestation of Allah’s promise: that those who remain patient and trust in Him will never be forsaken.

The Legacy of Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)

Prophet Yaqub (A.S.) spent his life calling his people to worship Allah alone. He was a shepherd of souls and a father who nurtured a generation of future prophets. His descendants included Prophet Yusuf (A.S.), Prophet Musa (A.S.), Prophet Harun (A.S.), Prophet Dawud (A.S.), Prophet Sulaiman (A.S.), and many more.

Before his death, Yaqub (A.S.) gathered his children and reminded them to remain steadfast in faith:

“What will you worship after me?”
They said, “We will worship your God and the God of your fathers Ibrahim, Isma’il, and Ishaq one God. And to Him we submit.”
Surah Al-Baqarah (2:133)

This moment defines his legacy — a Prophet who ensured that his family continued the light of monotheism long after him.

Lessons I Learned from The Story of Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)

When I ponder his story, several timeless lessons emerge:

• Patience is the heart of faith. True sabr is trusting Allah even when you don’t see the outcome.

• Family is a divine trust. Yaqub (A.S.)’s compassion toward his children shows how love and guidance must coexist.

• Hope should never die. Even when life blinds us with grief, Allah’s mercy can restore what’s lost.

• Prophetic wisdom is generational. Faith is a heritage Yaqub (A.S.) ensured his children carried on the mission of truth.

• Grief does not negate faith. Crying, longing, or feeling pain doesn’t mean losing faith; it’s part of being human.

  FAQs About Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)

  • Who was Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)’s father?
    He was the son of Prophet Ishaq (A.S.) and the grandson of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.).

  • What was Prophet Yaqub (A.S.) known for?
    For his patience, faith, and deep devotion to Allah during times of hardship.

  • How many sons did Prophet Yaqub (A.S.) have?
    He had twelve sons who became the ancestors of the Twelve Tribes of Israel.

  • Who was Prophet Yusuf (A.S.) to Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)?
    Prophet Yusuf (A.S.) was his beloved son, and their story forms one of the most emotional narratives in the Qur’an.

  • What was the greatest test of Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)?
    The long separation from his son Yusuf (A.S.) and maintaining unwavering faith throughout.

  • Where is Prophet Yaqub (A.S.) buried?
    Islamic tradition says he is buried in Hebron (Al-Khalil, Palestine), near Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) and Ishaq (A.S.).

  • What lesson can we learn from his life?
    That true patience lies in trusting Allah even when every reason to hope seems gone.

  • Did Prophet Yaqub (A.S.) lose his eyesight?
    Yes, out of sorrow for Yusuf (A.S.), but Allah later restored his vision.

  • How did Allah reward Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)?
    By reuniting him with Yusuf (A.S.), restoring his sight, and making his lineage blessed with prophets.

  • What is the main moral of The Story of Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)?
    That faith and patience always lead to divine victory, even after years of trials.

    Conclusion

    Writing about The Story of Prophet Yaqub (A.S.) reminds me that patience isn’t passive — it’s active faith. It’s believing in Allah’s wisdom when you can’t see the end of your struggle.

    His life teaches that even the deepest sorrow can become a bridge to greater blessings. His story comforts every believer facing loss — reminding us that Allah never forgets those who endure with faith.

    Whenever I face hardship, I remember Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)’s words: “Indeed, I only complain of my grief to Allah.” That, to me, is the essence of surrender.

    Qur’anic References for The Story of Prophet Yaqub (A.S.)

    • Surah Yusuf (12:4–101) : The central narrative of Yaqub (A.S.) and Yusuf (A.S.)

    • Surah Al-Baqarah (2:132–133) : His advice to his sons before death

    • Surah Sad (38:45–46) : His chosen status among the righteous

    • Surah Maryam (19:49–50) : His lineage and divine blessing