Prophet Adam (A.S) - The First Human and Prophet

Prophet Adam (peace be upon him) holds a unique and honored position in Islam as the first human being, the first prophet, and the father of all humanity. His story provides profound lessons about human creation, divine mercy, the reality of temptation, and the power of repentance. 

Who Is Adam (AS) 

Hazrat Adam is the first prophet of Allah. He is known as the Father of Humanity and all subsequent humans are referred to as the ‘children of Adam.’  He was not sent to Earth merely as a punishment for eating the forbidden fruit, but because it was always Allah’s plan for humans to inhabit, cultivate, and worship on Earth.

The Creation of Prophet Adam (A.S)

The creation of Adam marks the beginning of human existence and represents one of the most significant events in Islamic history. Allah created Adam with His own hands, blessed him with knowledge, and elevated him to a position of honor above the angels. This section explores the divine process of Adam's creation and the wisdom behind it.

Allah's Announcement to the Angels

The story begins with Allah's declaration to the angels about His intention to create a khalifah (vicegerent) on Earth:

"And (mention, O Muhammad), when your Lord said to the angels, 'Indeed, I will make upon the earth a successive authority.' They said, 'Will You place upon it one who causes corruption therein and sheds blood, while we declare Your praise and sanctify You?' Allah said, 'Indeed, I know that which you do not know.'" (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:30)

The angels questioned this decision not from disobedience but from genuine concern, having witnessed corruption from previous inhabitants. However, Allah's infinite wisdom transcended their understanding.

The Formation from Clay

Allah created Hazta Adam (A.S) from clay, molding him with His own hands in a unique and honored process unlike any other creation. The Quran describes the humble origins of human creation:

وَ لَقَدْ خَلَقْنَا الْاِنْسَانَ مِنْ صَلْصَالٍ مِّنْ حَمَاٍ مَّسْنُوْنٍ

"And We did certainly create man out of clay from an altered black mud." (Surah Al-Hijr 15:26)

This verse reveals that Hazrat Adam's physical body was formed from clay that had been altered and transformed over time. The use of clay serves as a powerful reminder of human humility and our origins from the earth. It teaches us that despite our honored status, we should never forget our humble beginning.

The creative process took place in stages. Allah fashioned Adam's body, giving it perfect proportions and form. The Quran uses the word "sawwaytuhu" (proportioned him), indicating that Allah perfected Adam's physical structure with precise balance and harmony.

After completing the physical form, Allah breathed His spirit into Adam, marking the moment when this clay figure transformed into a living, conscious being:

فَإِذَا سَوَّيْتُهُۥ وَنَفَخْتُ فِيهِ مِن رُّوحِى فَقَعُوا۟ لَهُۥ سَـٰجِدِينَ

“So when I have fashioned him and had a spirit of My Own  (creation) breathed into him, fall down in prostration to him.” (Surah Al-Hijr 15:29)

The breathing of Allah's spirit represents the divine element within humans, including our soul, consciousness, and spiritual capacity. This is what distinguishes humans from all other earthly creatures and elevates us above the rest of creation. 

The combination of earthly clay and divine spirit symbolizes human nature. We are physical beings with material needs, yet we possess spiritual consciousness and the ability to connect with our Creator. This dual nature is central to understanding our purpose and the tests we face in life.

If you want to learn prophet stories, join us to learn the Quran online. 

The Test of Knowledge– Hazrat Adam’s (AS) Superiority

One of the most remarkable aspects of Hazrat Adam's creation was his endowment with knowledge that surpassed even the angels. This divine gift established the intellectual and spiritual superiority of humans. It demonstrates why they were chosen as Allah's representatives on Earth. The teaching of names symbolizes humanity's unique capacity for learning, understanding, and communication.

The Divine Teaching of Names 

To demonstrate Hazrat Adam's unique capabilities, Allah taught him the names of all things:

وَعَلَّمَ ءَادَمَ ٱلْأَسْمَآءَ كُلَّهَا ثُمَّ عَرَضَهُمْ عَلَى ٱلْمَلَـٰٓئِكَةِ فَقَالَ أَنۢبِـُٔونِى بِأَسْمَآءِ هَـٰٓؤُلَآءِ إِن كُنتُمْ صَـٰدِقِينَ 

He taught Adam the names of all things, then He presented them to the angels and said, “Tell Me the names of these, if what you say is true? (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:31)

The Angels' Acknowledgment

Allah then presented these objects to the angels and asked them to name them. The angels humbly admitted their limited knowledge:

They said, 'Exalted are You; we have no knowledge except what You have taught us. Indeed, it is You who is the Knowing, the Wise. (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:32)

When Adam informed them of the names, it became clear that humans possess the capacity for knowledge and learning that makes them worthy of being Allah's representatives on Earth. 

The Command of Prostration and Iblis's Rebellion

After demonstrating Hazrat Adam's knowledge and capability, Allah commanded all the angels and Iblis to prostrate before Adam (AS) as a sign of honor and respect. While all angels obeyed, Iblis refused out of arrogance and jealousy, marking the beginning of eternal enmity between humans and Shaytan. 

This event reveals the destructive nature of pride and the importance of obedience to Allah. 

The Divine Order

Allah commanded the angels and Iblis to prostrate to Hazrat Adam as a gesture of honor:

"And (remember) when We said to the angels, “Prostrate before Adam,” so they all did—but not Iblis, who refused and acted arrogantly, becoming unfaithful.." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:34)

Iblis's Arrogance

Consumed by pride, Iblis refused to obey:

“Allah asked, “What prevented you from prostrating when I commanded you?” He replied, “I am better than he is: You created me from fire and him from clay.” (Surah Al-A'raf 7:12)

This refusal stemmed from a false sense of superiority. Iblis failed to recognize that true nobility lies in obedience to Allah, not in material composition.

The Curse and Expulsion

Due to his disobedience, Iblis was cursed and cast out of the divine presence. He became Satan (Shaytan). In his fury, he vowed to mislead Adam and his descendants, proving to Allah that humans were ungrateful and unworthy.

(Allah) said, 'Descend from Paradise, for it is not for you to be arrogant therein. So get out; indeed, you are of the debased. (Surah Al-A'raf 7:13)

Help your kids learn about the life of the Prophets

Life of Adam (AS) in Paradise

After his creation, Hazrat Adam was granted residence in Paradise where he lived in perfect bliss and tranquility. Allah created Hawwa (Eve) as his companion, establishing the first family unit and the institution of marriage. They were permitted to enjoy all the blessings of Paradise except for one forbidden tree, which served as a test of obedience and trust in divine wisdom.

The Creation of Hawwa (Eve)

Hazrat Adam (A.S) initially dwelled alone in Paradise, experiencing all its bounties. Loneliness is not befitting for human nature, as we are social beings created to share our lives with others. Therefore, Allah created Hawwa (Eve) from Adam as his life partner and companion.

"O mankind, fear your Lord, who created you from one soul and created from it its mate and dispersed from both of them many men and women." (Surah An-Nisa 4:1)

Islamic tradition mentions that Hawwa was created from Adam's rib. It symbolizes that the husband and wife relationship should be one of closeness, protection, and mutual support.

Together, Hazrat Adam and Hawwa dwelled in Paradise, enjoying its endless blessings and comfort. They had no worries about provision, shelter, or safety. Paradise was their home. It was filled with delights beyond imagination, and they lived in complete peace and harmony with one another and with their surroundings.

The Prohibition

Despite having access to everything in Paradise, Hazrat Adam and Hawwa were given one clear boundary:

وَقُلْنَا يَـٰٓـَٔادَمُ ٱسْكُنْ أَنتَ وَزَوْجُكَ ٱلْجَنَّةَ وَكُلَا مِنْهَا رَغَدًا حَيْثُ شِئْتُمَا وَلَا تَقْرَبَا هَـٰذِهِ ٱلشَّجَرَةَ فَتَكُونَا مِنَ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ

“We cautioned, “O Adam! Live with your wife in Paradise and eat as freely as you please, but do not approach this tree, or else you will be wrongdoers.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:35)

The tree itself was not evil. The prohibition was a test of obedience and trust in Allah's wisdom. The single prohibition among countless blessings also teaches us about gratitude and focus.

The First Sin– Deception and Disobedience

Despite the warning of not eating from the tree, Hazrat Adam and Hawwa fell victim to Shaytan's cunning deception. Through false promises and sworn oaths, Shaytan convinced them that eating from the forbidden tree would grant them immortality and angelic status. 

The Quran mentions that;

فَوَسْوَسَ لَهُمَا ٱلشَّيْطَـٰنُ لِيُبْدِىَ لَهُمَا مَا وُۥرِىَ عَنْهُمَا مِن سَوْءَٰتِهِمَا وَقَالَ مَا نَهَىٰكُمَا رَبُّكُمَا عَنْ هَـٰذِهِ ٱلشَّجَرَةِ إِلَّآ أَن تَكُونَا مَلَكَيْنِ أَوْ تَكُونَا مِنَ ٱلْخَـٰلِدِينَ

“Then Satan tempted them in order to expose what was hidden of their nakedness. He said, “Your Lord has forbidden this tree to you only to prevent you from becoming angels or immortals.” (Surah Al-A'raf 7:20)

Deceived by Shaytan's false promises, Hazrat Adam and Hawwa ate from the forbidden tree. Immediately upon eating the fruit, the veil of innocence was lifted. They became aware of their nakedness and began to cover themselves with the leaves of Paradise.

"So he made them fall, through deception. And when they tasted of the tree, their private parts became apparent to them, and they began to fasten together over themselves from the leaves of Paradise." (Surah Al-A'raf 7:22)

Their disobedience resulted from deception, not intentional rebellion, and they immediately felt shame and regret.

Repentance and Divine Mercy

The most beautiful chapter of Adam's story is his immediate turn to repentance after realizing his mistake. Hazrat Adam and Hawwa acknowledged their error, sought forgiveness with humility, and demonstrated complete trust in Allah's mercy. Their supplication became a model for all humanity, teaching us that the door of repentance is always open and that Allah's mercy encompasses all sins.

Immediate Recognition of Error

The moment Hazrat Adam and Hawwa realized their mistake, their reaction was completely different from that of Iblis. They immediately turned to Allah with sincere remorse. The Quran mentions the most beautiful dua of Adam (AS).

قَالَا رَبَّنَا ظَلَمْنَآ أَنفُسَنَا وَإِن لَّمْ تَغْفِرْ لَنَا وَتَرْحَمْنَا لَنَكُونَنَّ مِنَ ٱلْخَـٰسِرِينَ

They replied, “Our Lord! We have wronged ourselves. If You do not forgive us and have mercy on us, we will certainly be losers.” (Surah Al-A'raf 7:23)

Perhaps most importantly, their repentance was immediate. They did not wait, did not postpone, did not promise to repent later. The moment they realized their error, they turned to Allah. This urgency in seeking forgiveness is a crucial lesson for all believers.

Allah's Acceptance

Allah accepted their repentance. He forgave them completely. This established a timeless rule that human beings are prone to error, but the best of sinners are those who repent.

Allah's response to sincere repentance:

"Then Adam received from his Lord (some) words, and He accepted his repentance. Indeed, it is He who is the Accepting of repentance, the Merciful." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:37)

Hazrat Aadam Alaihis Salam’s Descent to Earth

After accepting their repentance, Allah decreed that Adam, Hawwa, and Shaytan would descend to Earth. This was not merely a punishment but the fulfillment of Allah's original plan for humanity. 

Earth was designated as the temporary home and testing ground for humans, where they would live, die, and eventually be resurrected for judgment. Along with this decree came Allah's promise of continuous guidance through prophets.

قَالَ ٱهْبِطُوا۟ بَعْضُكُمْ لِبَعْضٍ عَدُوٌّۭ ۖ وَلَكُمْ فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ مُسْتَقَرٌّۭ وَمَتَـٰعٌ إِلَىٰ حِينٍۢ

Allah said, “Descend as enemies to each other. You will find in the earth a residence and provision for your appointed stay.” (Surah Al-A'raf 7:24)

Earth as the Testing Ground

This descent was part of Allah's original plan, with Earth serving as the testing ground. The Quran states;

“He said, 'Therein you will live, and therein you will die, and from it you will be brought forth.” (Surah Al-A'raf 7:25)

The Promise of Guidance

Allah made a beautiful promise to humanity:

“We said, 'Go down from it, all of you. And when guidance comes to you from Me, whoever follows My guidance - there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:38)

This establishes that divine guidance would be sent through prophets, and those who follow it will find peace.

Adam (AS) as the First Prophet on the Earth 

Hazrat Adam (AS) was sent to the earth as the first prophet of Allah. He came with the knowledge of  Allah (Tawheed), language, and the skills necessary for survival.

On Earth, he was entrusted with teaching his children about monotheism, establishing worship, and building a righteous society based on divine principles. He set the foundation for all future prophetic missions and human civilization.

As the first prophet, Hazrat Adam (AS) was tasked with teaching his children about Allah, establishing worship, and laying the foundation for human civilization based on divine guidance. The Quran mentions:

"O children of Adam, We have bestowed upon you clothing to conceal your private parts and as adornment. But the clothing of righteousness - that is best." (Surah Al-A'raf 7:26)

This indicates Adam taught about modesty, dignity, and the superiority of spiritual values over material ones. 

Hazrat Adam’s life on Earth was difficult compared to Paradise. He had to till the soil, face the elements, and protect his family. Yet, he lived a life of submission to Allah, establishing the first laws and social codes. 

Prophet Adam Children

Prophet Adam and his wife Eve (Hawwa) had a large number of children, including many sons and daughters. While their total number is not specified, certain sources name only a few of their children, who play significant roles in religious narratives. 

Among the children, Qabil (Cain) and Habil (Abel) are prominent as their story appears in the Quran. Along with these, Shees is also mentioned in Islamic traditions through whom the lineage from Adam to Noah is traced.

The Story of Two Sons Of Adam (AS) Told in the Quran

The story of Habil and Qabil (known as Abel and Cain in the Bible) is recounted in the Quran in Surah Al-Ma'idah (Chapter 5, verses 27-31). While the Quran does not mention them by name, referring to them only as the "two sons of Adam," Islamic tradition identifies them as Qabil and Habil. 

• The Offering of Sacrifices: A dispute arose between the two sons of Adam, possibly concerning marriage arrangements (according to some traditional commentaries). To resolve the matter, they were each instructed by Allah to offer a sacrifice (Qurban).
• Acceptance and Rejection: Habil, a shepherd, offered the best of his flock with sincerity, and his sacrifice was accepted by Allah. Qabil, a farmer, offered poor-quality crops with a lack of sincerity, and his offering was rejected.
• The Threat and the Righteous Response: Overcome by envy and anger, Qabil threatened to kill his brother. Habil's response was one of piety and self-restraint. He reminded Qabil that Allah only accepts offerings from the righteous and that he would not raise a hand to kill his brother, for fear of Allah. Habil told Qabil that by committing murder, Qabil would bear the burden of both his sin and his brother's, thus becoming one of the inhabitants of the Fire (Hell).
• The Murder and Regret: Despite Habil's plea, Qabil murdered his brother, becoming one of the losers.
• The Crow's Lesson: Qabil regretted after the murder and did not know how to dispose of the body. Allah sent a crow that scratched the ground to show Qabil how to bury his brother's corpse. Seeing this, Qabil felt shame and remorse for his inability to even match the instinct of a crow. 

Prophet Adam Height

Prophet Adam was 60 cubits (about 90 feet or 30 meters) tall according to a Hadith of the holy Prophet (SAW). Hazrat Abu Huraira (RA) narrates that the Prophet (SAW) said: 

"Allah created Adam, making him 60 cubits tall”. (Sahih al-Bukhari 3326).

Some scholars interpret that it was the height of Adam (AS) in Paradise, and human size decreased after descending to Earth.

Key Lessons from Adam's Story

The story of Prophet Adam is rich with wisdom and guidance applicable to every generation. Each element of his story, from creation to repentance, contains profound lessons about human nature, divine mercy, the reality of temptation, and our purpose on Earth. These lessons help us navigate our own spiritual journey and understand our relationship with Allah.

Human Dignity and Purpose

Adam's creation demonstrates that humans are honored beings with knowledge, free will, and responsibility. We are purposefully created to serve as Allah's representatives on Earth.

The Danger of Pride

Iblis's downfall teaches that true superiority lies in obedience to Allah. Arrogance blinds us to truth and leads to destruction, while humility is a fundamental virtue.

Shaytan as Our Enemy

The Quran clearly establishes Shaytan as humanity's eternal enemy (Surah Fatir 35:6). We must remain vigilant against his whispers, seek refuge in Allah, and remember that he attacks through false promises.

The Power of Repentance

Hazrat Adam's immediate repentance teaches that no sin is too great for Allah's mercy. Sincere repentance is always accepted, and we should never despair of Allah's forgiveness.

The Test of Life

Adam's test in Paradise demonstrates that humans have free will, and with it comes responsibility. Life is a test of obedience, not merely pleasure and comfort.

Conclusion

The story of Prophet Adam (A.S) is a profound source of guidance for all humanity. It teaches us about our origins, our purpose, our weaknesses, and our potential. From his creation to his repentance, from Paradise to Earth, every aspect contains divine wisdom. As children of Adam, we inherit both his nobility and vulnerability. We possess the capacity for great knowledge and obedience, but also face constant temptation. The key to success lies in following Adam's example that when we make a mistake, we must immediately turn to Allah in sincere repentance, trusting in His infinite mercy.