Prophet Dhul-Kifl (Ezekiel)

Prophet Dhul-Kifl is one of the righteous prophets mentioned in the Quran, praised for his patience, steadfastness, and dedication to worship. While his story is not elaborated in detail in Islamic sources, he is honored alongside other prophets as an example of righteousness and perseverance in faith. Most Islamic scholars identify him with the biblical prophet Ezekiel, who prophesied during the Babylonian exile.

Quranic Mentions

Surah Al-Anbiya (The Prophets)

Dhul-Kifl is mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-Anbiya:

"And [mention] Ishmael and Idris and Dhul-Kifl. All were of the patient ones. And We admitted them into Our mercy. Indeed, they were of the righteous." (Quran 21:85-86)

This verse places Dhul-Kifl among the patient prophets, emphasizing his virtue of patience (sabr) as one of his defining characteristics.

Surah Sad

He is also mentioned in Surah Sad:

"And remember Our servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob - those of strength and [religious] vision. Indeed, We chose them for an exclusive quality: remembrance of the home [of the Hereafter]. And indeed they are, to Us, among the chosen and outstanding. And remember Ishmael, Elisha, and Dhul-Kifl, and all are among the outstanding." (Quran 38:45-48)

This passage includes Dhul-Kifl among the outstanding prophets, highlighting his elevated status among Allah's chosen messengers.

Identity and Historical Context

Traditional Identification

Most classical Islamic scholars identify Dhul-Kifl with the biblical prophet Ezekiel. The name "Dhul-Kifl" literally means "the one with a portion" or "the one who took responsibility." He is traditionally held to have lived during the 6th century BCE, during the Babylonian exile, prophesying among the Israelites in Babylon. Alternative views exist as well: some scholars suggest he might be a different prophet not mentioned in biblical sources, a minority identify him with other biblical figures, and some interpretations focus on the spiritual meaning of his name rather than on his historical identity.

Historical Background

During the Babylonian exile period, the Israelites were exiled to Babylon after the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BCE, losing their homeland, temple, and traditional religious practices, and facing a spiritual crisis of questions about God's covenant and promises. Prophets provided guidance and hope during this difficult period. If Dhul-Kifl is identified with Ezekiel, his mission involved being called to prophecy among the exiles in Babylon, receiving elaborate visions of God's glory and future restoration, performing symbolic acts to convey divine messages, and prophesying about the eventual return and spiritual renewal of his people.

Characteristics and Virtues

Patience (Sabr)

The Quran specifically mentions Dhul-Kifl's patience as his primary virtue, describing him as one who remained faithful despite trials and difficulties, persevered in his prophetic mission, and maintained faith in divine wisdom and timing. This patience was manifested in his endurance of personal hardships with grace, his patient dealing with his people's struggles, his bearing of the responsibility of delivering divine messages, and his hope for eventual divine intervention.

Righteousness (Salah)

Dhul-Kifl exemplified moral excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards, dedicating himself to the worship and remembrance of Allah, advocating for justice and righteousness in society, and maintaining honesty and trustworthiness. In his religious observance he was regular in prayer and devotional practices, observed fasting as a form of spiritual discipline, was generous in helping those in need, and instructed others in religious and moral matters.

Dedication to Worship

His spiritual discipline included a consistent prayer schedule, voluntary night prayers, constant remembrance of Allah (dhikr), and contemplation of the divine attributes and creation. As a community leader he guided his people in religious observances, instructed them in ethical behavior, provided counsel during difficult times, and served as a model of righteous living.

Prophetic Mission and Message

Divine Calling

Dhul-Kifl was chosen by Allah for his prophetic mission, prepared through spiritual experiences and visions, sent to address the specific needs of his people, and entrusted with conveying universal principles of faith and morality. His prophetic responsibilities included delivering divine revelations to his people, providing spiritual and moral guidance, warning against disobedience and its consequences, and offering hope for divine mercy and eventual restoration.

Core Teachings

At the center of his message was monotheism (tawhid): he emphasized the oneness and uniqueness of Allah, condemned the worship of false gods, taught Allah's absolute authority, and explained the proper relationship between God and humanity. He also conveyed moral and ethical principles, advocating social and economic justice, emphasizing mercy and kindness toward others, promoting truthfulness in all dealings, and teaching individual and collective responsibility. In matters of spiritual development, he emphasized the importance of regular worship, taught spiritual and moral purification, advocated patience in facing life's challenges, and encouraged complete reliance on divine providence.

Community Impact

Dhul-Kifl contributed to a spiritual revival among his people, helping to renew their faith, restore proper religious observances, promote ethical behavior and social justice, and foster unity and cooperation. His influence extended to social transformation as well, as he advocated fair and just governance, promoted honest business practices, strengthened family and community bonds, and emphasized the importance of religious and moral education.

Legacy and Influence

Islamic Tradition

Within Islamic tradition, Dhul-Kifl holds an honored mention in the Quran and is included among the righteous prophets, drawing extensive commentary by Islamic scholars and standing as a model of patience and righteousness. In devotional practice he is mentioned in prayers and supplications, is a subject of spiritual contemplation, is used as an example in moral instruction, and features in stories told to encourage patience and devotion.

Theological Significance

Prophetic Qualities

Dhul-Kifl was selected by Allah for his prophetic mission, prepared through divine guidance, exemplified the highest moral standards, and provided leadership to his people. His prophetic virtues include the patience that the Quran emphasizes as his primary quality, his moral and spiritual righteousness, his dedication to worship and service, and his steadfast faith despite challenges.

Universal Message

His message conveyed timeless principles: belief in one God, ethical conduct in all aspects of life, growth in faith and righteousness, and fairness and compassion in society. These principles bear on the individual's relationship with Allah, the building of just and compassionate communities, ethical guidance, and dialogue between different faith traditions.

The Historical Context of Dhul-Kifl's Prophethood

The Babylonian Exile Period

The era in which Prophet Dhul-Kifl lived, traditionally identified as the Babylonian exile period of the 6th century BCE, was one of the most challenging times in the history of the Israelites. Understanding this historical context helps illuminate the significance of his prophetic mission and the virtues for which he is praised in the Quran.

The Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem in 586 BCE marked a catastrophic turning point for the Israelites. King Nebuchadnezzar II of Babylon destroyed the First Temple, the central place of worship and symbol of God's covenant with His people. The city's walls were torn down, its buildings burned, and its treasures looted. Most significantly, the Babylonians forcibly deported the majority of the population to Babylon, beginning what would become known as the Babylonian Captivity or Exile.

This exile represented not merely a physical displacement but a profound spiritual and existential crisis. The Israelites found themselves in a foreign land, separated from the holy city of Jerusalem and the Temple where they had worshiped for generations. They faced fundamental questions about their identity, their covenant with God, and the meaning of their suffering. Many wondered whether God had abandoned them or whether their faith had been misplaced.

In this context of displacement, confusion, and spiritual crisis, prophets like Dhul-Kifl played a crucial role. They provided spiritual guidance, maintained hope in divine promises, and helped their people understand their trials as part of a larger divine plan. The prophets reminded the exiles that God had not abandoned them and that their suffering had meaning and purpose within the framework of divine wisdom.

The Challenges of Exile

The Babylonian exile presented multiple layers of challenge that tested the faith and resilience of the Israelite community. Understanding these challenges helps us appreciate the significance of Dhul-Kifl's virtues of patience and steadfastness.

The physical hardships of exile were considerable. The Israelites had to adapt to a new environment, learn new customs, and find ways to survive in an unfamiliar land. Many were forced into labor, building the magnificent structures for which Babylon was famous. They had to learn the Babylonian language and navigate a complex social system in which they occupied a subordinate position as conquered people.

Beyond the physical challenges, the spiritual and psychological impact of exile was profound. The Israelites had to maintain their religious identity and practices in a land filled with temples to foreign gods and without access to their own Temple in Jerusalem. They faced constant pressure to assimilate into Babylonian culture and adopt Babylonian religious practices. The temptation to abandon their faith in the face of apparent divine abandonment must have been strong.

The social fabric of the community was also under strain. Traditional leadership structures had been disrupted, families had been separated, and the normal patterns of community life had been shattered. There were debates within the community about how to respond to their situation, with some advocating accommodation with Babylonian culture while others insisted on maintaining strict separation and traditional practices.

In this context, prophets like Dhul-Kifl provided essential leadership and guidance. They helped the community maintain its religious identity, offered hope for eventual restoration, and provided moral and spiritual direction during a time of profound uncertainty. Their patience and steadfastness in the face of these challenges made them models for their community and earned them the praise recorded in the Quran.

The Role of Prophets During Crisis

The prophetic role during times of crisis and upheaval has always been particularly important in the Abrahamic tradition. Prophets serve not only as conveyors of divine messages but also as spiritual anchors for their communities during times of trial and transformation.

During the Babylonian exile, prophets fulfilled multiple crucial functions. They interpreted the meaning of the exile, helping people understand their suffering not as divine abandonment but as part of a larger divine plan that included both judgment and eventual restoration. They maintained hope by prophesying about a future return to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the Temple. They provided practical guidance on how to maintain religious identity and practice in a foreign land. And they offered moral and spiritual counsel to individuals and families struggling with the challenges of exile.

Prophet Dhul-Kifl, in this context, exemplified the prophetic virtues of patience and steadfastness. His ability to maintain faith and continue his prophetic mission despite the difficulties of exile made him a model for his community. His dedication to worship, even in circumstances that made traditional worship difficult, demonstrated that true devotion to God transcends physical location and external circumstances.

The Quranic praise of Dhul-Kifl's patience takes on deeper meaning when understood in this historical context. His patience was not passive resignation but active perseverance in faith and prophetic duty despite overwhelming challenges. It was the patience of someone who maintained hope and continued to serve God and community even when circumstances seemed hopeless.

Dhul-Kifl in Islamic Scholarly Tradition

Classical Tafsir Interpretations

Islamic scholars throughout history have offered various interpretations and insights regarding Prophet Dhul-Kifl, drawing on Quranic verses, hadith traditions, and historical sources. These scholarly discussions have enriched our understanding of this prophet and his significance within the broader prophetic tradition.

The great classical commentator Ibn Kathir, in his renowned tafsir, discusses Dhul-Kifl in the context of the Quranic verses that mention him. He notes that while the Quran does not provide extensive details about Dhul-Kifl's life and mission, his inclusion among the righteous prophets indicates his elevated status and the importance of the virtues he exemplified. Ibn Kathir explores various scholarly opinions about Dhul-Kifl's identity, including the majority view that identifies him with the biblical prophet Ezekiel.

Al-Tabari, another foundational figure in Islamic exegesis, provides additional context and narrations related to Dhul-Kifl. He discusses the meaning of the name "Dhul-Kifl," explaining that it can be understood as "the one who took responsibility" or "the one who guaranteed." This interpretation suggests that Dhul-Kifl made certain commitments or took on specific responsibilities in his service to God and his community, which he fulfilled with complete dedication.

Al-Qurtubi, in his comprehensive tafsir, emphasizes the significance of Dhul-Kifl being mentioned alongside other great prophets like Ishmael and Idris. He notes that this association indicates Dhul-Kifl's high rank among the prophets and the particular importance of the virtue of patience (sabr) that all three prophets exemplified. Al-Qurtubi also discusses various scholarly opinions about the specific trials and challenges that tested Dhul-Kifl's patience.

The Meaning of the Name

The name "Dhul-Kifl" itself has been the subject of scholarly discussion and interpretation. Understanding the possible meanings of this name provides insight into the prophet's character and mission.

The most literal translation of "Dhul-Kifl" is "the one with a portion" or "the possessor of a portion." This could refer to a portion of prophetic responsibility, a share in divine blessings, or a specific role or mission that was assigned to him. Some scholars interpret it as indicating that Dhul-Kifl received a double portion of prophetic blessing or responsibility, similar to how the biblical prophet Elisha received a double portion of Elijah's spirit.

Another interpretation understands "kifl" in the sense of guarantee or surety. According to this view, Dhul-Kifl made certain commitments or guarantees regarding his service to God and his community, which he fulfilled completely. This interpretation emphasizes his reliability, trustworthiness, and dedication to his prophetic mission. It suggests that he took on specific responsibilities and carried them out with complete faithfulness, earning him divine praise and recognition.

Some scholars have also suggested that the name might relate to the concept of "kafala," which in Arabic can mean to take care of, to sponsor, or to take responsibility for someone or something. This interpretation would emphasize Dhul-Kifl's role as a caretaker and guide for his community, someone who took responsibility for their spiritual welfare and guidance during a difficult period.

Scholarly Debates and Discussions

Islamic scholars have engaged in various debates and discussions regarding Prophet Dhul-Kifl, reflecting the broader tradition of scholarly inquiry and interpretation within Islamic intellectual history.

One area of discussion concerns the precise identification of Dhul-Kifl with biblical figures. While the majority of scholars identify him with Ezekiel, some have suggested alternative identifications or have argued that he might be a prophet not mentioned in biblical sources. These discussions reflect the broader Islamic understanding that while the Quran mentions twenty-five prophets by name, there were many more prophets throughout history whose stories are not detailed in scripture.

Another topic of scholarly interest is the specific nature of the trials and challenges that tested Dhul-Kifl's patience. Some scholars have drawn on biblical accounts of Ezekiel's life and mission to understand these challenges, while others have focused on the general context of prophetic mission and the inherent difficulties of calling people to monotheism and righteousness.

Scholars have also discussed the relationship between Dhul-Kifl and other prophets mentioned in the same Quranic verses. The fact that he is mentioned alongside Ishmael and Idris in Surah Al-Anbiya, and with Ishmael and Elisha in Surah Sad, has led to discussions about the common characteristics and virtues that these prophets shared. This has enriched our understanding of the prophetic tradition and the qualities that define true prophetic leadership.

The Virtue of Patience in Islamic Spirituality

Sabr as a Central Islamic Virtue

The Quranic emphasis on Dhul-Kifl's patience (sabr) connects to one of the most important virtues in Islamic spirituality. Understanding the Islamic concept of patience helps us appreciate the significance of this quality in Dhul-Kifl's character and its relevance for contemporary believers.

In Islamic teaching, sabr is far more than passive endurance or resignation to fate. It is an active, dynamic virtue that involves maintaining faith and continuing to fulfill one's responsibilities despite difficulties and challenges. Sabr encompasses patience in the face of hardship, steadfastness in obedience to God, and restraint from prohibited actions even when tempted.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of patience and promises great rewards for those who practice it. Allah says, "Indeed, the patient will be given their reward without account" (Quran 39:10), indicating that the reward for patience is unlimited and beyond normal measure. The Quran also states, "And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient" (Quran 2:155), acknowledging that trials are inevitable but promising divine support for those who face them with patience.

Prophet Muhammad emphasized the importance of patience in numerous hadith. He taught that patience is a light that illuminates the believer's path, that it is half of faith, and that no one has been given a better or more abundant gift than patience. He also demonstrated patience throughout his own life, facing persecution, loss, and hardship with steadfast faith and continued dedication to his mission.

Types of Patience in Islamic Teaching

Islamic scholars have traditionally identified three main types of patience, all of which are relevant to understanding Dhul-Kifl's character and the broader Islamic concept of sabr.

The first type is patience in obedience to Allah. This involves consistently fulfilling religious obligations and performing good deeds even when it is difficult or inconvenient. It means maintaining regular prayer even when tired, fasting even when hungry, giving charity even when resources are limited, and generally persevering in worship and righteous action despite obstacles and challenges. This type of patience requires discipline, commitment, and a long-term perspective that values eternal rewards over temporary comfort.

The second type is patience in avoiding sin and disobedience. This involves restraining oneself from prohibited actions even when tempted, controlling one's desires and impulses, and maintaining moral integrity in the face of pressure to compromise. It requires strength of character, self-control, and a deep commitment to divine commandments. This type of patience is particularly challenging in environments where sin is normalized or encouraged, requiring believers to stand firm in their principles despite social pressure.

The third type is patience in facing trials and hardships. This involves maintaining faith and composure when confronted with difficulties, losses, illnesses, or other forms of suffering. It means accepting divine decree with grace, continuing to trust in God's wisdom and mercy, and not allowing hardship to shake one's faith or lead to despair. This type of patience requires deep trust in God, understanding of the temporary nature of worldly life, and hope in divine mercy and eventual relief.

Prophet Dhul-Kifl, praised in the Quran for his patience, likely exemplified all three types of sabr. He maintained his worship and prophetic mission despite difficulties (patience in obedience), resisted the temptations and pressures of his environment (patience in avoiding sin), and faced the trials of his time with steadfast faith (patience in hardship).

Patience and Trust in Divine Wisdom

The Islamic concept of patience is intimately connected to trust in divine wisdom and providence (tawakkul). True patience is not merely gritting one's teeth and enduring difficulty, but rather maintaining faith that God's plan is perfect even when we cannot understand it, and that every trial has meaning and purpose within the framework of divine wisdom.

This understanding of patience transforms how believers approach challenges and difficulties. Rather than viewing hardship as meaningless suffering or divine abandonment, patient believers see trials as opportunities for spiritual growth, tests of faith that can strengthen character, and means by which God purifies and elevates His servants. This perspective does not minimize the reality of suffering but provides a framework for understanding and responding to it in a spiritually productive way.

The Quran teaches that trials are an inevitable part of human existence and that they serve multiple purposes in the divine plan. They test and strengthen faith, distinguish the sincere believers from the hypocrites, develop character and resilience, expiate sins, and elevate spiritual rank. Understanding these purposes helps believers maintain patience during difficult times, knowing that their trials are not random or meaningless but part of a larger divine wisdom.

Prophet Dhul-Kifl's patience, understood in this context, was not passive resignation but active trust in God's wisdom and continued dedication to his prophetic mission despite challenges.

Interfaith Perspectives and Common Ground

Shared Prophetic Heritage

The identification of Dhul-Kifl with the biblical prophet Ezekiel highlights the shared prophetic heritage between Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. This common ground provides opportunities for interfaith understanding and dialogue, demonstrating that despite theological differences, the Abrahamic faiths share fundamental values and revere many of the same prophetic figures.

The Islamic reverence for prophets mentioned in Jewish and Christian scriptures reflects the Quranic teaching that all prophets brought essentially the same message of monotheism and moral conduct. The Quran states, "Say, [O believers], 'We have believed in Allah and what has been revealed to us and what has been revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the Descendants and what was given to Moses and Jesus and what was given to the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and we are Muslims [in submission] to Him'" (Quran 2:136).

This Islamic perspective on prophetic continuity provides a foundation for respectful interfaith dialogue. Muslims can engage with Jews and Christians in discussions about shared prophetic figures, exploring both commonalities and differences in how these figures are understood and commemorated in different traditions. Such dialogue can foster mutual understanding, reduce prejudice and misconceptions, and build bridges between communities.

The example of Prophet Dhul-Kifl, with his emphasis on patience, righteousness, and dedication to worship, represents values that are universally recognized and appreciated across religious traditions. These shared values provide common ground for interfaith cooperation on social and ethical issues, demonstrating that despite theological differences, people of different faiths can work together for the common good based on shared moral principles.

Universal Moral Principles

Beyond the specific religious context, the virtues exemplified by Prophet Dhul-Kifl represent universal moral principles that are relevant to all people, regardless of religious affiliation. Patience, dedication, moral integrity, and service to community are values recognized and appreciated across cultures and belief systems.

In an increasingly interconnected and diverse world, the ability to identify and build upon shared values is crucial for peaceful coexistence and cooperation. The example of prophetic figures like Dhul-Kifl, who are revered across religious traditions, demonstrates that despite differences in theology and practice, humanity shares fundamental moral intuitions and aspirations.

The patience exemplified by Dhul-Kifl is a virtue recognized in virtually all ethical and spiritual traditions. Whether understood in religious terms as trust in divine wisdom or in secular terms as resilience and perseverance, the ability to face challenges with grace and maintain one's principles despite difficulties is universally admired. This common appreciation for patience provides a basis for mutual respect and understanding across different worldviews.

Similarly, the dedication to worship and spiritual practice that characterized Dhul-Kifl's life reflects a universal human need for meaning, purpose, and connection to something greater than oneself. While different traditions express and fulfill this need in different ways, the underlying human impulse toward transcendence and spiritual development is common to all cultures and eras. Recognizing this shared human dimension can foster empathy and understanding across religious and cultural boundaries.

The emphasis on righteousness and moral excellence in Dhul-Kifl's character also reflects universal ethical principles. Honesty, justice, compassion, and integrity are values recognized and promoted in all major ethical and religious traditions. While specific applications and interpretations may vary, the fundamental commitment to moral goodness and ethical behavior represents common ground that can unite people of different backgrounds in pursuit of a more just and compassionate world.

Conclusion

Prophet Dhul-Kifl, though mentioned briefly in the Quran, represents important virtues that are essential for spiritual development and righteous living. His emphasis on patience, dedication to worship, and moral excellence provides timeless guidance for believers seeking to strengthen their faith and serve their communities.

The Quranic praise of Dhul-Kifl alongside other righteous prophets highlights the universal nature of prophetic virtues and the consistency of divine guidance throughout history. His example reminds us that righteousness is not merely about grand gestures but about consistent dedication to worship, patience in facing challenges, and commitment to moral excellence in daily life.

Understanding Dhul-Kifl's prophetic mission in its historical context enriches our appreciation of his virtues. The challenges of the Babylonian exile, with its physical hardships, spiritual crises, and social disruptions, tested the faith and resilience of the entire community. In this context, Dhul-Kifl's patience was not passive resignation but active perseverance in faith and prophetic duty. His dedication to worship demonstrated that true devotion transcends circumstances, and his moral excellence provided a model for his community during a time of profound uncertainty.

The Islamic scholarly tradition has enriched our understanding of Dhul-Kifl through centuries of commentary and interpretation. Classical scholars have explored the meaning of his name, discussed his identity and mission, and reflected on the significance of the virtues he exemplified. These scholarly discussions demonstrate the depth and richness of Islamic intellectual tradition and its ongoing engagement with Quranic teachings.

The virtue of patience that Dhul-Kifl exemplified is central to Islamic spirituality. In Islamic understanding, patience involves maintaining faith in divine wisdom, continuing to fulfill one's responsibilities despite difficulties, and trusting that trials have meaning and purpose within God's plan.

The identification of Dhul-Kifl with the biblical prophet Ezekiel also highlights the shared prophetic heritage between Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. This common ground reflects the fact that, despite theological differences, the Abrahamic faiths share fundamental values and revere many of the same prophetic figures. The moral principles associated with Dhul-Kifl—patience, dedication, integrity, and service—are recognized across religious and cultural boundaries.

The prophet's inclusion in the Quran, despite the brevity of his mention, underscores the Islamic principle that all prophets brought the same essential message of monotheism, moral conduct, and spiritual development. His example, whether understood through Islamic sources or biblical parallels, illustrates the Islamic view that prophetic standing is measured not by the length of one's story but by the depth of one's character and the sincerity of one's devotion to God.

References and Further Reading

Primary Islamic Sources

Quran, Surah Al-Anbiya (21:85–86) — "And [mention] Ishmael and Idris and Dhul-Kifl; all were of the patient. And We admitted them into Our mercy. Indeed, they were of the righteous."
Quran, Surah Sad (38:48) — "And remember Ishmael, Elisha, and Dhul-Kifl, and all are among the outstanding."
Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of the Stories of the Prophets — References to the prophets mentioned in the Quran.
Musnad Ahmad ibn Hanbal — Narrations regarding the identity and virtues of Dhul-Kifl.
Tafsir Ibn Abbas, commentary on Surah Al-Anbiya 21:85 — Discussion of Dhul-Kifl's identity and meaning of his name.

Classical Islamic Sources

Ibn Kathir, Ismail ibn Umar. Qisas al-Anbiya (Stories of the Prophets), Chapter on Dhul-Kifl. Beirut: Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, 2003. [Original c. 1370 CE]
Ibn Kathir, Ismail ibn Umar. Al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya (The Beginning and the End), Vol. 1. Beirut: Dar al-Fikr, 1986. [Original c. 1370 CE]
Al-Tabari, Muhammad ibn Jarir. Tarikh al-Rusul wa al-Muluk (History of the Prophets and Kings), Vol. 1. Cairo: Dar al-Ma'arif, 1960. [Original c. 915 CE]
Al-Tha'labi, Ahmad ibn Muhammad. Qisas al-Anbiya (Tales of the Prophets), section on Dhul-Kifl. Beirut: Dar al-Kutub al-Ilmiyyah, 2004. [Original c. 1035 CE]
Al-Qurtubi, Muhammad ibn Ahmad. Al-Jami' li Ahkam al-Quran, commentary on Surah Al-Anbiya 21:85–86. Cairo: Dar al-Kutub al-Misriyyah, 1964. [Original c. 1273 CE]
Al-Baghawi, Husayn ibn Masud. Ma'alim al-Tanzil, commentary on Dhul-Kifl verses. Riyadh: Dar Taybah, 1997. [Original c. 1122 CE]

Academic and Scholarly Sources

Wheeler, Brannon M. Prophets in the Quran: An Introduction to the Quran and Muslim Exegesis. London: Continuum, 2002.
Tottoli, Roberto. Biblical Prophets in the Quran and Muslim Literature. London: Routledge, 2002.
Thackston, Wheeler M., trans. The Tales of the Prophets of al-Kisa'i. Boston: Twayne Publishers, 1978.
Brinner, William M., trans. The History of al-Tabari, Vol. II: Prophets and Patriarchs. Albany: SUNY Press, 1987.
Schwarzbaum, Haim. Biblical and Extra-Biblical Legends in Islamic Folk-Literature. Walldorf-Hessen: Verlag für Orientkunde, 1982.
McAuliffe, Jane Dammen, ed. Encyclopaedia of the Quran, s.v. "Dhul-Kifl." Leiden: Brill, 2001.