Idris (Enoch) (pbuh)

The Prophets of Allah
based on the narrations by Ibn Kathir

The Story of Idris (Enoch)

Allah has praised Idris (Enoch), describing him as being a prophet and truthful: «And mention in the Book (the Qur'an) Idris. Verily! He was a man of truth, (and) a prophet. And We raised him to a high station.» Surah 19: 56.57

Idris (Enoch) was born and raised in Babylon following the teachings and religion of Prophet Adam and his son Shiith (Seth). Idris (Enoch) was the fifth generation of the Prophet Adam. He called the people back to his forefathers' religion, but only a few listened to him, while the majority turned away.

Prophet Idris (Enoch) and his followers left Babylon for Egypt. There he carried on his mission, calling people to what is just and fair, teaching them certain prayers and instructing them to fast on certain days and to give a portion of their wealth to the poor.

He was the first of the Children of Adam to be given prophethood after Adam and Shiith (Seth) (PBUT). It is reported that he was the first to invent the basic form of writing. Some of his wise sayings are:

"Happy is he who looks at his own deeds and appoints them as pleaders to his Lord."

"None can show better gratitude for Allah's favors than he who shares them with others."

"Do not envy people for what they have, as they will only enjoy it for a short while."

"He who indulges in excess will not benefit from it." 

"The real joy of life is to have wisdom."