Which Prophet Wished for Death?
A question that may come to mind when reading some religious texts: Which prophet wished for death? According to authentic Islamic sources, the prophet who wished for death was Prophet Job (peace be upon him).
Prophet Job was tested with severe trials in his health, wealth, and family. He displayed exemplary patience and perseverance. His affliction lasted many years; some narrations say 18 years. Yet, he never complained or objected to Allah’s decree, and he remained constantly grateful, praising, and remembering Allah.
However, as the trial persisted, his body weakened, and he became unable to perform some acts of worship he had always diligently observed. In this context, Job’s wish for death was not a sign of despair or protest against God, but a fear that he might fail in his worship due to the severity of his condition. This understanding is important to avoid the misconception that prophets ever lose hope or defy God.
In Sahih Bukhari, Abu Huraira narrates that the Prophet (pbuh) said:
“While Job was bathing naked, locusts filled with gold fell on him. He brushed them onto his clothes and Allah said: ‘Job, have I not made you wealthy?’ Job replied: ‘Yes, my Lord, but without Your blessing, I have no benefit.’”
In another narration, Job’s trial became so severe that people abandoned him and cast him out of the town. His wife would bring him food and eventually said: “Job, if you call upon your Lord, you will be healed.” Job replied: “I have endured seventy years in comfort; shall I not endure seventy years in affliction?” Allah then revealed to him:
“Run with your foot to this cold bath and drink from it” (Sad: 42).
After he bathed, he was cured, and his family and children returned to him.
These narrations demonstrate the intensity of Job’s trial and his extraordinary patience. In some narrations, Job prayed for health—not for death itself—but to be able to worship Allah properly.
In conclusion, the prophet who wished for death was Prophet Job (peace be upon him). However, this wish was not due to despair, but out of fear of being unable to worship Allah fully. His patience remains a timeless example for all.
The story of Prophet Job teaches us great lessons in patience, acceptance of Allah’s decree, and the importance of prayer during trials. When asked which prophet wished for death, one should remember his immense patience and trust in Allah.
