Who was the most beautiful prophet in Islam?

Answered by Tom Adger

In Islam, it is believed that all prophets were blessed with various virtues and qualities by Allah. While the beauty of the prophets is not explicitly ranked or compared in Islamic teachings, there are certain narrations and opinions that suggest the extraordinary physical beauty of certain prophets.

One such prophet often mentioned for his exceptional beauty is the Prophet Joseph (Yusuf in Arabic). The Qur’an itself describes him as being endowed with “beauty and comeliness” (Quran 12:31). The narrative of Joseph and his beauty is further elaborated in the works of Islamic scholars and commentators.

For instance, Muhammad at-Ṭabari, a renowned scholar and historian, provides a detailed commentary on the story of Joseph in his famous work, “The History of al-Ṭabari.” In his chapter on Joseph, he relays the opinions of other well-known scholars, who suggest that Joseph and his mother Rahyl possessed a beauty that surpassed that of any other human being.

It is important to note that the concept of beauty is subjective, and what is considered beautiful can vary from person to person. However, in the context of the narrative of Joseph, his exceptional beauty is emphasized to highlight his unique qualities and to illustrate the trials he faced due to his attractiveness.

It is worth mentioning that beauty in Islamic teachings is not solely focused on physical appearance but also encompasses moral and spiritual beauty. Prophets are revered for their character, piety, and adherence to the teachings of Allah. Their beauty is seen as a reflection of their inner virtues and righteousness.

While there is no definitive ranking or comparison of the beauty of prophets in Islam, the narrative of Joseph highlights his exceptional physical attractiveness. However, it is essential to remember that beauty in Islamic teachings extends beyond physical appearance, encompassing moral and spiritual qualities as well.