Jacob, the son of Isaac, also known as “Israel” which means “Servant of God,” was a prophet to his people. He was devout and was foretold by angels to his grandfather Abraham and his wife Sarah. He is also the father of Joseph.
His Life:
Jacob, the son of Isaac and grandson of Abraham, was known as Israel. He was a prophet to his people. God mentioned three parts of his story: the announcement of his birth, which was foretold by angels to his grandfather Abraham and grandmother Sarah; his advice at the time of his death; and his mention in the story of Joseph without directly naming him.
We understand the extent of his piety from the brief mention of his death. Death is a catastrophe that overwhelms a person, making them focus only on their own troubles. However, Jacob, even on his deathbed, did not forget to call upon his Lord. In Surah Al-Baqarah, God says:
“Or were you witnesses when death approached Jacob, when he said to his sons, ‘What will you worship after me?’ They said, ‘We will worship your God and the God of your fathers, Abraham, Ishmael, and Isaac—one God. And we are Muslims [in submission] to Him.’” (Al-Baqarah 2:133)
This scene between Jacob and his sons at the moment of death is profoundly significant. We are in front of a dying man. What is the issue that occupies his mind at the moment of death? What thoughts cross his mind as he prepares to slip into the throes of death? What crucial matter does he want to ensure before his death? What legacy does he want to leave for his children and grandchildren? What is the thing he wants to ensure reaches all people before his death? You will find the answer to all these questions in his question, “What will you worship after me?” This is what concerns him and troubles him in the throes of death—the issue of faith in God. It is the first and only issue, the true inheritance that is not eaten by moths or spoiled. It is the treasure and refuge.
The sons of Israel said, “We will worship your God and the God of your fathers, Abraham, Ishmael, and Isaac—one God. And we are Muslims [in submission] to Him.” The text is clear that they were sent on Islam. If they deviated from it, they would be out of God’s mercy. If they remained in it, they would attain mercy. Jacob died asking his sons about Islam and ensuring their faith. Before his death, he was severely tested with his son Joseph.
We will encounter scenes from the story of Jacob when we mention the story of his noble son, Prophet Joseph.
