Wisdom is not in the color of the skin, nor the strength of the limbs, but in the purity of heart and sincerity of speech.” – Story of Luqman (AS)
Introduction: A Man of Deep Wisdom, Not Prophethoo
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
Among the honored figures mentioned in the Qur’an, Luqman (AS) holds a unique place—not as a prophet, but as a wise man whom Allah granted immense understanding. He is mentioned twice in the Holy Qur’an, and an entire chapter, Surah Luqman, is named after him.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ once said, “Luqman was not a prophet, but he was a man with much contemplation and certainty in faith.” (Tafsir Ibn Kathir)
Born in Africa, Luqman (AS) was known to have dark skin, thick limbs, and a humble background. Despite being a servant in a household of Banu Israel, his wisdom and piety earned him freedom and everlasting honor.
The Source of His Wisdom
When asked how he attained such profound knowledge without formal education, Luqman (AS) humbly replied:
By always telling the truth, fulfilling people’s trust, and avoiding unnecessary speech.
His life was one of deep worship, mindfulness of Allah, and self-restraint. He was always engaged in dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and lived with unshakable faith.
Luqman’s Advice to His Son: 400 Prophets’ Teachings in Four Points
Luqman (AS) once told his son that he had served over 400 prophets and distilled their wisdom into four golden principles:
- Guard your heart during prayer.
- Avoid unlawful earnings in business.
- Protect your gaze in others’ homes.
- Restrain your tongue in conversation.
These teachings reflect both inward and outward discipline, forming a foundation for spiritual and social life.
The Qur’an’s Record of Luqman’s Advice
In Surah Luqman (31:13-19), Allah records Luqman’s beautiful counsel to his son:
Never associate partners with Allah (Shirk), for it is the greatest injustice.
Establish prayer, enjoin what is right, and forbid what is wrong.
Be patient in adversity.
Do not be arrogant or boastful in the land.
Lower your voice, for the harshest of voices is that of a donkey.
These verses encapsulate moral integrity, spiritual awareness, and social etiquette.
The River Challenge: A Lesson in Patience and Intelligence
One day, a rich man lost everything in a deceitful gambling match, where the winner demanded he drink an entire river or surrender his wealth and family. Desperate, the man sought Luqman’s help.
Luqman taught him to respond wisely:
“Tell the gambler: if I must drink the river’s water as it was yesterday, then bring back the evaporated portion. If I must drink all of today’s water, then block every stream feeding the river.”
The gambler was silenced. This tale not only saved the man but spread Luqman’s fame as a man of deep intellect and composure.
The Tongue and the Heart: Best and Worst Parts
When asked to serve the best parts of a sheep, Luqman (AS) offered the heart and tongue. On a second day, he was asked for the worst parts—and served the same.
Explaining, he said:
If the heart and tongue are pure, nothing is better. But if they are corrupted, nothing is worse.”
This highlights the profound Islamic teaching that true beauty and danger lie in inner character, not appearance.
Facing Injustice: The Garden Incident
Despite being mocked by fair-skinned servants, Luqman (AS) maintained patience and righteousness. When falsely accused of stealing fruits, he advised the master to test all workers by making them drink hot water and run.
Only Luqman (AS) endured—others vomited the fruits they had eaten. The truth was revealed, and his integrity shone.
The Bitter Melon Incident: Loyalty and Gratitude
Luqman’s master once offered him a bitter melon. Without flinching, Luqman (AS) ate and praised it. Shocked, the master asked why.
You have fed me sweet things all my life. Should I now complain about one bitter bite?”
This story embodies gratitude and patience—core traits of a believer.
Teaching His Son the Power of Discernment
In a powerful teaching moment, Luqman (AS) rode a donkey while his son walked. Onlookers criticized. Then the son rode and Luqman walked—again, criticism. Both rode, then neither rode—criticism followed.
Luqman said:
“No matter what you do, you cannot please everyone. So, follow Allah’s guidance and stay firm in what is right.”
The Three Golden Pieces of Advice Before his death, Luqman (AS) told his son:
- Never share all your secrets with your wife.
- Do not befriend a disbeliever.
- Never borrow from a corrupt person.
His son tested these by breaking all three—and suffered each consequence.
Final Words of Wisdom from Luqman (AS)
Walk humbly—pride belongs to Satan.
See the world as a place of worship, and fill it with good deeds.
Avoid oppressive rulers, or risk your faith.
Never oppress the weak when strong.
Always fear Allah and seek His forgiveness.
Guard your tongue, respect elders, and show kindness to the young.
Do not be greedy, and beware of greedy people.
Prepare for the Hereafter as if your next breath may be your last.
Sleep is the sister of death, and waking is a reminder of resurrection.”
Conclusion: The Everlasting Relevance of Luqman’s Lessons
The stories and wisdom of Luqman (AS) transcend time, culture, and geography. They speak to our inner selves, calling for humility, patience, and sincerity. In an age of confusion and noise, his quiet strength and divine wisdom continue to inspire hearts across the world.
Let us reflect, apply, and teach these timeless lessons to our children and communities.
“Whoever is granted wisdom has truly been given a great bounty.” Surah Al-Baqarah : Verse 269
References:
The Qur’an – Surah Luqman (31:12–19)
Tafsir Ibn Kathir
Sahih Hadith (from Al-Bukhari, Al-Tirmidhi – various sources)
Stories of the Prophets – Ibn Kathir
Historical narrations (Tabari, Mas’udi)
