Shu'ayb (Jethro)Khatib al-Anbiya (The Eloquent among the Prophets)

Also known as: Jethro (in Judeo-Christian tradition), Khatib al-Anbiya (Orator of the Prophets)

Nation / People

The people of Madyan (Midian) in the north-western Arabian Peninsula, and the people of al-Aykah

Period

After Musa's time in Madyan; father-in-law of Musa according to some narrations

Lifespan

Not specified

Burial Place

Madyan in north-western Arabia; his tomb is venerated near Tabuk in Saudi Arabia

Message

Honesty in all dealings, particularly in trade and commerce. His message that cheating in weights and measures is a major sin remains profoundly relevant. Justice in economic affairs is a pillar of an upright society.

Lineage

إبراهيم

Ibrahim

Ancestor

مدين

Madyan

Ancestor

يشجر

Yashjar

Grandfather

ميكائيل

Mikail

Father

شعيب

Shu'ayb (Jethro)

Prophet (peace be upon him)

Family

Family members named in the Quran and authentic Sunnah.

Daughters

His two daughters

The Quran (al-Qasas 28:23-27) mentions the two daughters of the man of Madyan without naming them; Musa married one. His identification with Shu'ayb comes from narrations.

Key Miracles

The earthquake (rajfah) and thunderous blast that destroyed Madyan when they persisted in their disbelief

Key Stories

Preached against cheating in trade and business transactions: 'Give full measure and weight'
His people were prosperous merchants but dishonest in their dealings
When they continued to reject him, a scorching heat wave preceded their punishment
A cloud appeared which the people thought would bring relief, but it became a canopy of fire
Said to be the father-in-law of Prophet Musa

Mentioned in the Quran

Surah Hud (11:84-95)Surah al-A'raf (7:85-93)Surah al-Shu'ara (26:176-191)

Special Characteristics

Called 'Khatib al-Anbiya' (the most eloquent among the Prophets) because of his great facility with speech and argumentation. He was particularly focused on correcting economic injustice and dishonest trade practices.

Key Stories

Preached against cheating in trade and business transactions: 'Give full measure and weight'

His people were prosperous merchants but dishonest in their dealings

When they continued to reject him, a scorching heat wave preceded their punishment

A cloud appeared which the people thought would bring relief, but it became a canopy of fire

Said to be the father-in-law of Prophet Musa