Following the passing of Moses and Aaron, peace be upon them, Allah raised a noble, courageous, and deeply devoted prophet to lead the Children of Israel into the Promised Land: Joshua (Yusha’ ibn Nun), peace be upon him. He had previously served as the loyal attendant and closest student of Moses during the historic journey to Mount Sinai and the years of wandering.
The Faithful Attendant and Scholar
Long before his prophethood, Joshua’s name was eternally linked in Islamic tradition and scripture to the famous journey of Moses to meet the mysterious, wise sage Al-Khidr. As a young man, Joshua carried the provisions, walked closely beside Moses, and demonstrated unwavering loyalty, vigilance, and a profound thirst for divine knowledge.
Growing up under the direct mentorship of Moses, Joshua absorbed profound wisdom, military leadership, tactical brilliance, and absolute spiritual devotion to Allah. When Moses passed away, Allah officially commissioned Joshua with prophethood, entrusting him with the monumental task of leading the Israelite tribes across the Jordan River to reclaim the sacred land.
The Crossing of the Jordan River
Under Joshua’s command, the Children of Israel approached the swollen waters of the Jordan River during the flood season, which blocked their path into the land. Trusting completely in Allah’s command, Joshua led the believers forward.
As they stepped into the rushing waters, Allah performed a miraculous repeat of the parting of the Red Sea: the river waters parted, standing up in a heap far upstream, allowing the entire nation to cross safely across dry ground into the heart of the Promised Land.
The Siege of Jericho and the Standing Sun
Joshua led his people in a strategic and spiritual campaign to liberate the fortified city of Jericho, whose massive walls stood as a formidable barrier against them. Following divine instructions, they encircled the city while upholding absolute faith and discipline.
During one of the fierce battles fought to liberate the sacred territory from tyrannical occupants, the day began to wane toward sunset. Realizing that darkness would halt their victory and allow the enemy to escape, Joshua looked up at the sun and addressed it by the permission of Allah, commanding it to stand still so that justice could be fully established and the conquest completed. Allah answered his call, holding the sun in place until the victory was decisively secured.
Leadership, Justice, and Legacy
Once the campaign was successful, Joshua established a just society grounded strictly in the laws of the Torah. He served as both a spiritual guide and a wise political leader, ensuring that the people remained steadfast in their worship of the One True Allah and refrained from the corruption of surrounding pagan nations.
Joshua lived to a venerable age, guiding the Israelites with humility, strength, and righteousness until he passed away, leaving behind a legacy of absolute loyalty to Allah and heroic leadership.