Who is Dhul-Qarnayn in Islam?

Dhul-Qarnayn (Arabic: ذو القرنين), meaning “The Two-Horned One,” is a significant figure mentioned in the Quran, renowned for his wisdom, justice, and leadership. His story is found in Surah Al-Kahf (Chapter 18, Verses 83–98), where he is described as a ruler who traveled extensively, bringing justice and protection to the people he encountered. While the Quran provides key insights into his character and mission, it does not explicitly identify him by name or historical background.

Dhul-Qarnayn in the Quran

The Quran introduces Dhul-Qarnayn in response to a question posed to Prophet Muhammad by the people of Mecca, likely at the suggestion of Jewish scholars. The story highlights his leadership, travels, and the construction of a great barrier to protect people from the attacks of Gog and Magog (Ya’juj and Ma’juj).

1. Introduction of Dhul-Qarnayn
   • “And they ask you about Dhul-Qarnayn. Say, ‘I will recite to you about him a report.’” (Quran 18:83)
   • This verse establishes Dhul-Qarnayn as a significant figure whose story contains lessons of faith, justice, and strength.
2. His Authority and Power
   • Allah granted Dhul-Qarnayn immense power and means to accomplish great tasks.
   • “Indeed, We established him upon the earth, and We gave him to everything a way.” (Quran 18:84)
3. His Three Journeys Dhul-Qarnayn undertook three significant journeys to different parts of the world:
   • Journey to the West:
     He traveled to the place where the sun appeared to set, encountering a people. Allah gave him the choice to punish or treat them kindly.
     • “He found it setting in a body of dark water, and he found near it a people…” (Quran 18:86)
   • Journey to the East:
     He reached the place where the sun rose and found a people who had no shelter from it.
     • “He found it rising on a people for whom We had not made against it any shield.” (Quran 18:90)
   • Journey to the Valley of Gog and Magog:
     He encountered a people who sought his help against the destructive forces of Ya’juj and Ma’juj. They requested that he build a barrier to protect them.
     • “They said, ‘O Dhul-Qarnayn, indeed Gog and Magog are [great] corrupters in the land. So may we assign for you an expenditure that you might make between us and them a barrier?’” (Quran 18:94)
4. The Construction of the Barrier
   • Dhul-Qarnayn constructed a massive barrier using iron and molten copper to seal the gap and protect the people from Gog and Magog.
   • “Bring me sheets of iron.” Then, when he had leveled [them] between the two mountain walls, he said, ‘Blow [with bellows].’” (Quran 18:96)
   • He acknowledged that the barrier was a mercy from Allah, but warned that it would be destroyed when Allah’s decree came to pass.
     • “This is a mercy from my Lord; but when the promise of my Lord comes, He will make it level, and ever is the promise of my Lord true.” (Quran 18:98)

Characteristics of Dhul-Qarnayn

1. Righteous Leadership
   • Dhul-Qarnayn exercised his power with justice, choosing to guide and protect the people he ruled over.
2. Faith in Allah
   • Despite his immense power, Dhul-Qarnayn acknowledged Allah as the ultimate source of authority and mercy.
3. Commitment to Justice
   • He treated people fairly, rewarding those who were righteous and warning those who were corrupt.
4. Practical Wisdom
   • His ability to construct a barrier against Gog and Magog demonstrates his intellect and resourcefulness.

Interpretations of Dhul-Qarnayn’s Identity

The Quran does not explicitly identify Dhul-Qarnayn, but scholars and historians have speculated about his identity, linking him to historical figures such as:

1. Alexander the Great
   • Some identify Dhul-Qarnayn with Alexander the Great due to his conquests and widespread influence. However, this theory is debated because Alexander’s historical record does not align entirely with the moral and monotheistic character of Dhul-Qarnayn.
2. Cyrus the Great
   • Others suggest he was Cyrus the Great, a Persian king known for his justice and respect for different cultures and religions. His reputation as a benevolent ruler fits some aspects of Dhul-Qarnayn’s narrative.
3. A Symbolic or Unknown Figure
   • Some scholars propose that Dhul-Qarnayn’s identity is intentionally left ambiguous, focusing instead on the lessons derived from his story rather than his historical background.

Lessons from Dhul-Qarnayn’s Story

1. The Responsibility of Power
   • Power and authority are tests from Allah, requiring justice, humility, and service to others.
2. Trust in Allah’s Guidance
   • Dhul-Qarnayn’s reliance on Allah reminds believers to seek divine guidance in all endeavors.
3. Protection Against Corruption
   • The construction of the barrier symbolizes the importance of proactive measures to prevent harm and maintain societal order.
4. Temporal Nature of Worldly Achievements
   • Despite his achievements, Dhul-Qarnayn recognized that everything is subject to Allah’s will and that worldly accomplishments are temporary.
5. Unity and Cooperation
   • Dhul-Qarnayn’s collaboration with the people in building the barrier highlights the importance of collective effort for the greater good.

Dhul-Qarnayn’s Legacy in Islam

Dhul-Qarnayn is remembered as a righteous and just ruler who used his God-given abilities to benefit humanity. His story serves as a reminder of the importance of humility, justice, and reliance on Allah in positions of power and influence.

Conclusion

Dhul-Qarnayn is a revered figure in Islam whose story conveys profound lessons on leadership, justice, and the proper use of power. While his exact identity remains uncertain, his example inspires believers to act with wisdom, fairness, and humility, recognizing that all strength and authority ultimately belong to Allah. His narrative in the Quran encourages Muslims to strive for justice, protect others from harm, and trust in Allah’s divine plan.

Written by AI.  A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.