According to a saying attributed to Imam Ali (peace be upon him), the prophet who cried for 40 years was Prophet Yaqoob (Jacob).
The Grief of Prophet Yaqoob
Prophet Yaqoob (peace be upon him), known as Jacob in Western traditions, is a significant figure in Abrahamic religions. He is recognized for his unwavering faith and patience, even in the face of immense hardship.
One notable period of distress for Prophet Yaqoob occurred following the disappearance of his beloved son, Prophet Yousif (Joseph). Believing Yousif to be lost forever, Prophet Yaqoob endured profound grief.
Duration of Lamentation
A reference attributed to Imam Ali (peace be upon him) highlights the depth of Prophet Yaqoob's sorrow and its duration:
- Source: Imam Ali (peace be upon him)
- Statement: "(Prophet) Yaqoob cried for 40 years, even though Yousif was still alive..."
- Context: This statement emphasizes the intense and prolonged nature of Prophet Yaqoob's crying, noting that it persisted for four decades, despite his son Yousif still being alive (though separated from him and believed lost).
This period of intense grief and crying demonstrates Prophet Yaqoob's deep paternal love and his test of patience throughout this trial.
Key Details
Here is a summary of the information:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Prophet | Yaqoob (Jacob) |
| Duration of Crying | 40 Years |
| Reason (Primary) | Separation from son Yousif |
| Source Claiming Duration | Attributed to Imam Ali (as) |
Prophet Yaqoob's story is often cited as an example of steadfastness, trust in Divine Decree, and enduring hope during times of great sorrow. Despite the long separation and the intensity of his grief, his faith remained strong until he was eventually reunited with Prophet Yousif.
