Kibr and Incident of Prophet Yusuf (a.s.)

Adopted from the book : "Pride" by : "Mujahidali A.R. Sheriff"

It has been reported that when Prophet Yusuf (a.s.) became the king of Egypt, his father, Prophet Ya’qoob (a.s.) decided to meet him. When he was still on his way to Egypt, Prophet Yusuf (a.s.) was informed about his father’s journey. He therefore mounted his horse and immediately left to receive him.

However, when he reached the place where his father was, Prophet Yusuf (a.s.) did not dismount out of respect for his father but remained seated on his horse. This act although unintentional and of an infallible Prophet, was frowned upon by Allah.

Angel Jibra’el was sent to inform Prophet Yusuf (a.s.) about Allah’s displeasure and that as a result of such a mistake, Allah (s.w.t.) would discontinue Prophethood in the offsprings of Prophet Yusuf (a.s.). Here, it is interesting to note that Almighty Allah does not only abhor pride in men, but also dislikes actions which resemble it. To Him whether the action is committed by an infallible Prophet or an ordinary man, it is not tolerable for surely Pride belongs to Him alone.

Imam Muhammad al-Baqir (a.s.) has said : "Pride is the veil of Allah, and the proud quarrels with Allah for His veil"

In other words, pride is a quality of Almighty Allah alone. Whoever is proud other than Him does not deserve and is therefore at war with Allah (s.w.t.)