Volume 10 Surah 12 - 15 - Enjoy Islam

Yūsuf (Joseph) | FROM PRISON TO PALACE
Thus the human element in the story becomes apparently clear. The story is not
told as a work of art and literature, but it is given as a lesson which believers may
learn. It tackles the question of faith and its advocacy. The artistic style of the sūrah
gives a colourful and vivid account of feelings and reactions as it tells of events in an
environment where varied influences and circumstances play parts that produce a
harmonious effect on the main characters.
Joseph’s imprisonment is over. His life now takes a different course, where the
trial is one of ease and comfort, not hardship.
A Great Turn in Joseph’s Fortunes
And the King said: ‘Bring him before me. I will choose him for my own.’ And when he
had spoken to him, the King said: ‘You shall henceforth be in a position of high
standing with us, invested with all trust.’ Joseph replied: ‘Give me charge of the storehouses
of the land. I am able to look after them with wisdom.’ Thus did We establish
Joseph in the land, free to do what he willed. We bestow Our mercy on whom We will,
and We never fail to give their reward to those who do good. But as for those who
believe in God and keep away from evil, the reward of the life to come is much better
indeed. (Verses 54-57)
The King established Joseph’s innocence. He also learnt how adept Joseph was in
the interpretation of dreams, and how wise he was when he requested an
investigation of the women’s behaviour. The King also learnt that Joseph was a man
of dignity. He did not rush to leave the prison and meet the King of Egypt. He took
the stand of an honourable man who had been wrongfully imprisoned. He wanted to
prove the falsehood of the accusation even before his release. He wanted to reestablish
his integrity and the truth of his faith before seeking any position of favour
with the King.
His dignified attitude as a man of integrity and wisdom earned hire the King’s
love and respect. Hence, the King ordered: “Bring him before me. I will choose him for
my own.” (Verse 54) He does not want him brought before him so that he can release
him, or just to know this learned interpreter of dreams, or to grant him audience and
tell him that he is pleased with him. He wants him brought to him so that he can
choose him for his own and make him a trusted advisor and even a friend.
There are those who are accused of no crime and have full freedom, who shed
their dignity at the feet of rulers. They put a leash around their own necks, eagerly
seeking a glimpse of satisfaction or a word of praise which keeps them as servants,
not trusted advisors. I wish to God that such people would read the Qur’ān and
Joseph’s story so that they would know that dignity and honour bring much more
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