Shu'ayb

شعيب

Preacher of the Prophets

MessengerMentioned 11x in Quran

Era

Before Musa

Location

Midian (Northwest Arabia)

Nation

People of Midian

Age

Unknown

Quick summary

Miracle

Saved from earthquake

The Story

Shu'ayb (peace be upon him) was sent to the people of Midian, who were known for their dishonest business practices. They would cheat in measurements and weights, giving less than what was due.

Shu'ayb was known for his eloquence and is sometimes called "the preacher of the prophets." He called his people to worship Allah alone and to deal fairly in their transactions.

He said, "Give full measure and weight, and do not deprive people of their due. Do not spread corruption in the land after it has been set right."

The people of Midian rejected his message and continued their corrupt practices. They even threatened to stone him and expel him from their city.

Allah sent upon them a severe earthquake that destroyed them. Some sources also mention a day of unbearable heat followed by punishment. Shu'ayb and the believers were saved.

Shu'ayb's daughter later married Musa when he came to Midian.

Key Events

Sent to Midian

Called people to honest dealings

The Warning

Warned against cheating in trade

Rejection

Threatened with expulsion

Destruction

Earthquake destroyed the disbelievers

Lessons from Shu'ayb's Life

Business ethics are part of faith

Honesty in transactions is obligatory

Economic corruption destroys societies

Faith encompasses all aspects of life

Quran References

His call to Midian

“His call to Midian”

— Surah Al-A'raf•Ayah 85-93

Warning about weights and measures

“Warning about weights and measures”

— Surah Hud•Ayah 84-95

Called them to righteousness

“Called them to righteousness”

— Surah Ash-Shu'ara•Ayah 176-191

Prophetic Lineage

Father/Ancestor

Ibrahim

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