Miracle
Zamzam water
The Story
Ismail (peace be upon him) was the firstborn son of Ibrahim through Hajar. As an infant, he was taken with his mother to the barren valley of Makkah by Allah's command.
When Hajar ran out of water, she ran between Safa and Marwa seven times looking for help. Allah caused the well of Zamzam to spring forth beneath baby Ismail's feet, a miracle that continues to this day.
As Ismail grew, Ibrahim visited them. When Ismail was old enough to work with his father, Allah commanded Ibrahim to sacrifice him. Both father and son submitted completely to Allah's will. At the moment of sacrifice, Allah ransomed Ismail with a ram.
Ibrahim and Ismail together rebuilt the Ka'bah, making du'a for their descendants. From Ismail came the Arab tribes, and through them, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. The rituals of Hajj commemorate the experiences of Ibrahim, Hajar, and Ismail.
Key Events
Left in Makkah
Brought to barren valley as infant
Zamzam
Well sprung from beneath his feet
The Sacrifice
Submitted to be sacrificed, ransomed by Allah
Built Ka'bah
Helped Ibrahim rebuild the Sacred House
Lessons from Ismail's Life
Trust in Allah provides from unexpected sources
Submission to Allah brings honor
Parents and children can work together for Allah
Small beginnings can lead to great legacies
Quran References
Building Ka'bah with Ibrahim
The sacrifice story
Praised for keeping promises