Messengers in Islam

Islam teaches that throughout human history, Allah sent messengers to guide humanity toward the truth. These noble individuals carried divine messages and showed people how to live righteous lives. But, do you know how many prophets and messengers there are in Islam? 

Understanding the messengers in Islam is fundamental to Islamic faith, as belief in all prophets is one of the six pillars of Islamic belief (Iman). In this blog, we will explore the names of prophets and messengers mentioned in the Quran. 

Who Are Messengers in Islam

Messengers, known as Rasul in Arabic, are divinely chosen human beings sent by Allah to convey His guidance and a new divine law (Shariah) or scripture to a particular community. All messengers were human men, allowing them to serve as relatable role models for mankind.

Who Are Prophets in Islam

In Islam, prophets, known as "Nabi" in Arabic, are individuals chosen by Allah to receive divine guidance and share it with their people. They were exemplary human beings who demonstrated the highest moral character and unwavering devotion to Allah.

Difference Between Nabi (Prophet) and Rasul (Messenger)

All messengers are prophets, but prophets who brought new divine books or major reforms are specifically called messengers. The difference between Nabi (prophet) and Rasul (messenger) is:

• Nabi (Prophet): A Nabi is the divinely chosen individual who received divine revelation but was not necessarily commanded to deliver a new scripture or law (Sharia). Prophets reinforced existing messages and guided their communities.
• Rasul (Messenger): A messenger who received revelation along with a new scripture, law, or major mission. Messengers were sent to communities that had deviated significantly from the path or had no previous guidance.

How Many Messengers Are in Islam?

According to Islamic tradition, Allah sent 124,000 prophets to humanity throughout history. However, only 25 prophets are mentioned by name in the Quran and Hadith. Of these, five are known as the "Ulul Azm" (messengers of strong will) who brought major scriptures and endured great trials.

Total Messengers in Islam

While the exact number of messengers is not definitively specified, Islamic scholars generally recognize 313-315 messengers among the 124,000 prophets. The Quran specifically names 25 prophets and messengers.

List Of Prophets and Messengers in Islam

Twenty five prophets and messengers are mentioned in the Quran with names. These names are pronounced differently in other languages. Here are the names of prophets and messengers mentioned in the Quran. 

1. Hazrat Adam (A.S) (Adam)
2. Hazrat Idris  (A.S) (Enoch)
3. Hazrat Nuh (A.S)  (Noah)
4. Hazrat Hud (A.S) 
5. Hazrat Salih (A.S) 
6. Hazrat Ibrahim  (A.S) (Abraham)
7. Hazrat Lut  (A.S) (Lot)
8. Hazrat Ismail  (A.S) (Ishmael)
9. Hazrat Ishaq (A.S)  (Isaac)
10. Hazrat Yaqub (A.S)  (Jacob)
11. Hazrat Yusuf  (A.S) (Joseph)
12. Hazrat Ayyub (A.S)  (Job)
13. Hazrat Shuayb  (A.S) (Jethro)
14. Hazrat Musa  (A.S) (Moses)
15. Hazrat Harun  (A.S) (Aaron)
16. Hazrat Dhul-Kifl  (A.S) (Ezekiel)
17. Hazrat Dawud  (A.S) (David)
18. Hazrat Sulayman  (A.S) (Solomon)
19. Hazrat Ilyas  (A.S) (Elijah)
20. Hazrat Al-Yasa (A.S)  (Elisha)
21. Hazrat Yunus (A.S)  (Jonah)
22. Hazrat Zakariya  (A.S) (Zechariah)
23. Hazrat Yahya  (A.S) (John the Baptist)
24. Hazrat Isa (Jesus)
25. Hazrat Muhammad (peace be upon Him)

Who Was the First Messenger in Islam?

Adam (peace be upon him) is both the first human being and the first prophet of Allah on the earth. However, some scholars distinguish that Nuh (Noah) was the first messenger sent with a specific law after humanity had spread and divided.

Who Is the Last Messenger in Islam?

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the last and final messenger in Islam. The Quran refers to him as "Khatam an-Nabiyyin" (Seal of the Prophets), meaning no prophet or messenger will come after him. His message, the Quran, is preserved for all humanity until the Day of Judgment.

The Quran states:

مَا كَانَ مُحَمَّدٌ اَبَاۤ اَحَدٍ مِّنْ رِّجَالِكُمْ وَ لٰـكِنْ رَّسُوْلَ اللّٰهِ وَ خَاتَمَ النَّبِیّٖنَؕ

“Muḥammad is not the father of any of your men, but is the Messenger of Allah and the seal of the prophets.” (Surah Al-Ahzab:40)

Messengers of Islam and Their Books

Allah revealed the holy books to messengers so that they call people toward Allah. In Islam, belief in all the messengers of Allah and the divine books revealed to them is a fundamental article of faith. Many scriptures were sent, but only a few are mentioned by name in the Quran. 

The primary messengers and the holy books associated with them are:

• Tawrat (Torah)

The Torah (known as Tawrat) is a holy book revealed by Allah to the Prophet Musa (A.s) for the guidance of the Children of Israel. 

• Zabur (Psalm)

The Zabur is the holy book revealed to the Prophet Dawud (AS) (David). 

• Injil (Gospel)

The Injil is the divine scripture revealed to Hazrat Isa (Jesus)

• Quran 

The Holy Quran is the book of Allah, which was revealed to the holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Along with these four divine books, the other specific scripture mentioned by name in the Quran is the Suhuf Ibrahim (Scrolls of Abraham), given to the Prophet Ibrahim (A.S) (Abraham). 

These original scriptures contained Allah's guidance and commandments. Though the earlier scriptures were altered over time. The Quran remains preserved in its original form.

Learn about the stories of the Prophets with our online Islamic studies course. 

The Stories of Prophets

Prophet Adam (AS)

Hazrat Adam (AS) was the first human created by Allah from clay. He was honored above the angels through knowledge and divine care. Allah taught him the names of all things, a symbol of the intellect and superiority given to humanity. 

When Allah commanded the angels to bow to Adam, all obeyed except Iblis, who arrogantly refused and was expelled from Allah’s mercy.  Hazrat Adam (AS) was placed in Paradise with his wife Hawwa, where they lived peacefully until they were deceived by Iblis into eating from the forbidden tree. 

As a result, they were sent to Earth, yet Allah guided them on how to repent and reassured them that His guidance would come to mankind. Adam (AS) became the first prophet, teaching his children faith, worship, and morals. His story included the tragedy of his sons, in which Qabil killed his brother Habil, marking the beginning of human trials on Earth.

Prophet Nuh (AS)

Hazrat Nuh (AS) was sent to a stubborn and idol-worshipping nation that rejected every call to purity. For 950 years, he preached day and night, in public and private. He urged his people to worship Allah alone and seek forgiveness that would bring them prosperity. Despite his efforts, only a small group believed in him. 

Allah then commanded Hazrat Nuh (AS) to build a massive Ark on dry land, a task that caused the disbelievers to mock him. When the time came, the sky poured rain and the earth released water until the world was completely flooded. Hazrat Nuh (AS) and the believers boarded the Ark along with pairs of animals. Even his own son rejected faith and drowned, showing that lineage does not guarantee guidance. 

After the flood, the Ark settled on Mount Judi, and humanity continued with the righteous survivors.

Prophet Hud (AS)

Hazrat Hud (AS) was sent to the people of 'Aad, a powerful tribe known for their enormous bodies, advanced architecture, and prideful nature. They built lofty pillars and boasted about their unmatched strength. 

Hazrat Hud (AS) called them to worship Allah alone and abandon arrogance, warning them that their blessings would be removed if they continued in disbelief. They mocked him and demanded he bring the punishment he threatened. 

In response to their defiance, Allah sent a fierce, freezing windstorm that lasted seven nights and eight days, uprooting their structures and hurling them like hollow palm trunks. Hazrat Hud (AS) and the small group of believers were saved, and the mighty civilization of 'Aad vanished forever.

Prophet Saleh (AS)

Hazrat Saleh (AS) was sent to Thamud, a powerful nation and civilization that carved homes into mountains. They demanded that Hazrat Saleh (As) perform a miracle to prove His prophethood. Allah created a she-camel from within a solid rock. 

The camel was a sign of Allah’s mercy and had special conditions that it could drink from the well on certain days, and the people were forbidden from harming it. 

However, a group of arrogant leaders conspired and killed the camel. It provoked Hazrat Saleh’s warning that three days remained before punishment. After the three days had passed, a mighty blast and earthquake shook the land and destroyed the entire nation instantly. 

Hazrat Saleh (AS) and the believers were saved, leaving behind the silent stone homes that stand as signs even today.

Prophet Ibrahim (AS)

Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) was born into a society deeply involved in idol worship. From a young age, he questioned their practices and sought the truth. He confronted his father and people, proving the falsehood of their idols. 

In a famous event, he destroyed all the idols except one, forcing the people to admit that idols could not protect themselves, let alone others. Out of anger, the king Nimrod ordered that Ibrahim be burned alive. 

When he was thrown into a massive fire, the fire became cool by the command of Allah, and he emerged unharmed. Ibrahim continued to spread monotheism and migrated several times for the sake of Allah. Allah blessed him with two sons, Hazrat Ismail (AS) and Hazrat Ishaq (AS), both were prophets. 

With Hazrat Ismail (AS), he built the holy Kaaba in Makkah. Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) was also tested with the command to sacrifice his beloved son Hazrat Ismael (AS). His complete submission led Allah to replace the sacrifice with a ram. His entire life symbolized unwavering faith, sacrifice, and trust in Allah.

Prophet Ismail (AS)

Hazrat Ismail (AS) was the son of Ibrahim (AS) and was raised in the barren valley of Makkah after Ibrahim (AS) left him and his mother Hajar there by Allah’s command. Hajar’s desperate search for water between Safa and Marwa led to the miraculous appearance of the Zamzam spring. 

As he grew, Hazrat Ismail (AS) became known for his patience, truthfulness, and strength. When Ibrahim (AS) returned years later, Hazrat Ismail (AS) helped him build the Kaaba, which became the center of worship for generations. He called the Arabs to the worship of Allah and lived a life of obedience, sacrifice, and humility.

Prophet Ishaq (AS)

Hazrat Ishaq (AS) was born to Hazrat Ibrahim and Sarah in their old age, as glad tidings from the angels. He lived in Palestine and carried on the mission of his father, spreading monotheism among his people. 

He was blessed with righteous children, including Yaqub (AS), through whom came many prophets. Hazrat Ishaq’s leadership, teachings, and patience made him a respected prophet in the line of Banu Israel.

Prophet Yaqub (AS)

Hazrat Yaqub (AS) is also known as Israel. He was a Prophet of Allah whose descendants became the Children of Israel. He was known for his deep devotion to Allah and his gentle character.

He had twelve sons, and his love for his son Hazrat Yusuf (AS) caused jealousy among the brothers, leading to Yusuf being thrown into a well and sold into slavery. 

Hazrat Yaqub (AS) endured decades of separation from Hazrat Yusuf (AS) with unwavering patience. Even when blind from grief, he remained hopeful in Allah’s mercy. Eventually, he reunited with Hazrat Yusuf in Egypt, where he regained his sight and witnessed the fulfillment of Allah’s promise.

Prophet Yusuf (AS)

Hazrat Yusuf (AS) was the son of Yaqub (AS). he was blessed with beauty, wisdom, and purity. Betrayed by his brothers out of jealousy, he was thrown into a well and later sold into slavery in Egypt. 

He grew up in the house of a nobleman, where he was falsely accused by the nobleman’s wife and imprisoned despite his innocence. In prison, he interpreted dreams accurately and became known for his wisdom and righteousness. When the king had a troubling dream, Yusuf (AS) was called to interpret it, predicting years of famine. 

Impressed by him, the king freed him and appointed him to a high position, managing the country’s resources. Yusuf was eventually reunited with his family and forgave his brothers fully. His life reflects unmatched patience, purity, and reliance on Allah’s plan.

Prophet Musa (AS)

Hazrat Musa (AS) was born during a time when Pharaoh ordered the killing of newborn Israelite boys. His mother placed him in a basket in the Nile, where he was found and adopted by Pharaoh’s family. 

After accidentally killing a man in adulthood, Hazrat Musa (AS) fled to Madyan, where he lived for years before receiving prophethood at Mount Sinai and was given the book Torah. Allah gave him miracles, including his staff turning into a serpent and his hand shining with light. 

Hazrat Musa (AS) confronted Pharaoh and demanded that he free Banu Israel by the command of Allah. Despite signs and punishments, including blood, frogs, lice, locusts, and famine, Pharaoh remained arrogant. Eventually, Musa (AS) led the Israelites out of Egypt, and Allah split the sea for them while drowning Pharaoh and his army. 

He received the Torah and guided his people, though they repeatedly disobeyed. His story is one of courage, leadership, and faith.

Prophet Harun (AS)

Hazrat Harun (AS), the older brother of Musa (AS), was made a prophet to support him due to his eloquence. He accompanied Musa (AS) to confront Pharaoh and helped guide Banu Israel. 

During Hazrat Musa’s absence at Mount Sinai, Harun (AS) tried to stop the people from worshipping the golden calf, but remained patient until Hazrat Musa returned. He remained a respected and gentle leader throughout his life.

Prophet Dawud (AS)

Hazrat Dawud (AS) began as a young warrior who defeated the giant Jalut (Goliath), earning respect among his people. Allah granted him kingship and prophethood, along with the Zabur (Psalms). He had a beautiful voice and recited praises so melodiously that mountains and birds joined him. 

Hazrat Dawud (AS) ruled with justice and wisdom, establishing a strong kingdom. He was known for fasting every other day and praying intensely. His life combined power with deep humility.

Prophet Sulaiman (AS)

Hazrat Sulaiman (AS) was the son of Dawud and a beloved prophet of Allah. He was blessed with extraordinary gifts. Allah gave him control over the winds, jinn, and animals, and he understood their speech. 

He ruled the world with unmatched justice and wealth. One of his most famous stories includes his communication with the Hoopoe bird and the conversion of the Queen of Sheba after witnessing his wisdom and power. Despite his immense authority, Hazrat Sulaiman remained deeply humble and devoted to Allah.

Prophet Ayyub (AS)

Hazrat Ayyub (AS) was a wealthy, healthy, and respected prophet, but Allah tested him with severe illness, loss of wealth, and loss of family. Despite intense suffering, he never complained and remained patient, constantly remembering Allah. 

After years of trial, Allah cured him completely, restored his blessings, and doubled what he had lost. Ayyub’s story is the greatest example of patience and steadfastness in hardship.

Prophet Yunus (AS)

Hazrat Yunus (AS) was sent to a city that rejected his message. Out of frustration, he left before Allah permitted him. During his journey, a storm threatened the ship, and he was thrown into the sea, where he was swallowed by a giant fish or whale. 

Inside its belly, he repented sincerely with the famous dua: “There is no deity except You; glory be to You; indeed, I was among the wrongdoers.” Allah saved him and sent him back to his people, who ultimately believed and were spared punishment.

Prophet Zakariya (AS)

Hazrat Zakariya (AS) was a devoted prophet and guardian of Maryam (AS). He prayed to Allah for a child, even though he was very old and his wife was barren. Allah granted him a son, Yahya (AS), who would be a righteous prophet. Zakariya continued teaching his people until he was martyred by a corrupt nation that rejected the truth.

Prophet Yahya (AS)

Hazrat Yahya (AS) was the son of Hazrat Zakariya (AS).  He was sent to guide the Children of Israel back to Allah's commands and to prepare the way for the coming of his maternal cousin, Prophet Isa (Jesus) (AS). He was known for his purity and piety and was blessed with wisdom as a child. He called people to righteousness and rejected sin in all forms. 

He bravely confronted rulers when they violated Allah’s laws, which led to his martyrdom. His life showed courage, purity, and unwavering faith.

Prophet Isa (AS)

Hazrat Isa (AS) was born miraculously to Hazrat Maryam (AS) without a father. It was a sign of Allah’s power. He spoke as a newborn to defend his mother’s honor and performed many miracles by Allah’s permission, such as healing the blind and lepers, reviving the dead, and creating a bird from clay.

Hazrat Isa was given the book Injeel. He taught humility, worship, and obedience to Allah. When plots were made to kill him, Allah saved him and raised him to the heavens. Hazrat Isa was not crucified, and he will return before the Day of Judgment to restore justice.

Prophet Muhammad (SAW)

Hazrat Muhammad (SAW) is the final prophet of Allah. He was born in Makkah and known from childhood as Al-Amin (the trustworthy). At age 40, he received a revelation through Angel Jibril, beginning the Quran. 

He called people to worship Allah alone, uphold justice, free slaves, and show kindness. Due to persecution in Makkah, he eventually migrated to Madinah, where he established a peaceful and just society. 

He led battles when necessary, forgave enemies, and spread Islam across Arabia. His character was the Quran in practice. He was merciful, patient, honest, and wise. He completed the message of all the Prophets and left behind a timeless model for humanity.

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Names of Prophets and Messengers and Their Nations 

Allah sent prophets to every nation and community throughout history. The Quran states: "And We certainly sent into every nation a messenger, (saying), 'Worship Allah and avoid false gods'" (Quran 16:36).

Some prophets and their nations include:

• Hazrat Nuh A.S - sent to all humanity of his time
• Hazrat Hud A.S  - sent to the people of 'Ad 
• Hazrat Salih A.S  - sent to the Thamud 
• Hazrat Ibrahim A.S  - sent to Mesopotamia and the surrounding regions
• Hazrat Lut A.S  - sent to Sodom and Gomorrah
• Hazrat Shuayb A.S  - sent to the people of Madyan
• Hazrat Musa A.S  - sent primarily to the Children of Israel
• Hazrat Isa A.S  - sent to the Children of Israel
• Hazrat Muhammad  A.S - sent to all of humanity

Conclusion 

In Islam, messengers (Rasul) are individuals selected by Allah to convey His divine message and guidance to humanity. Belief in messengers is a fundamental article of faith for Muslims. Hazrat Adam (AS) was the first prophet of Allah, and Hazrat Muhammad is the last Prophet and Messenger of Allah.