يوسف
Yusuf
Verses
111
Revelation
Makki
Period
Late Makkan
Surah No.
12 / 114
Surah Yusuf is unique in the Quran as it narrates a single story in its entirety, telling the life of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) from his childhood dream through his trials in the well and in prison, to his eventual rise to power in Egypt and reunion with his family. Allah describes it as "the best of stories." The surah was revealed at the "Year of Sorrow" to console the Prophet after the deaths of his wife Khadijah and uncle Abu Talib.
أسباب النزول
This surah was revealed in its entirety during the "Year of Sorrow" (approximately 619 CE), when the Prophet lost both his wife Khadijah and his uncle Abu Talib within a short period, and also faced intense rejection in Ta'if. The Jews of Madinah, through some Qurayshi visitors, suggested asking the Prophet about a man from their own scriptures (Yusuf), expecting him to fail. The complete and accurate narration that followed was itself proof of prophetic revelation.
“We relate to you the best of stories in what We have revealed to you of this Quran.”
This opening designation of Yusuf's story as "the best of stories" was itself revealed to encourage those undergoing trials, affirming that the Quran contains the finest example of divine consolation through narrative.
“Do not despair of relief from Allah. Indeed, no one despairs of relief from Allah except the disbelieving people.”
Ya'qub's words to his sons as they searched for Yusuf and Benyamin in Egypt. This verse is one of the most frequently cited in Islamic pastoral counselling, forbidding despair as a form of disbelief.
The Prophet said: "Teach this surah to your families, for it contains a lesson in patience for every Muslim who is burdened by jealousy and misfortune." It is recommended for those suffering grief to recite it.