The Glad Tidings and the Miraculous Birth
Ishaq (Isaac) was the second son of Prophet Ibrahim, born to his first wife, Sarah. For many decades, Sarah had been barren and had lost all hope of having a child. When Ibrahim was around 100 years old and Sarah was 90, three angels in human form visited them with news of a son.
Sarah, hearing this, laughed in disbelief, questioning how an old woman and an old man could have a child. The angels replied: 'Do you wonder at the decree of Allah? May the mercy of Allah and His blessings be upon you.' Ishaq was born a year later, his name meaning 'laughter' in Hebrew, symbolizing the joy he brought to his elderly parents.
A Prophet of Wisdom and the Father of Israel
Ishaq was a Prophet of immense wisdom and gentleness. He was sent to guide the people of Canaan (Palestine) and to continue the monotheistic mission of his father. The Quran describes him as one of the 'chosen and outstanding' servants of Allah, a man of 'insight and strength.'
He married Rifqa (Rebekah) and was blessed with twin sons: Al-Ais (Esau) and Ya'qub (Jacob). Through Ishaq, the line of Prophethood continued for generations among the Children of Israel. His life was characterized by a steady, peaceful call to righteousness, ensuring that the light of truth was passed down through a noble lineage.
From the Holy Quran
وَامْرَأَتُهُ قَائِمَةٌ فَضَحِكَتْ فَبَشَّرْنَاهَا بِإِسْحَاقَ وَمِن وَرَاءإِسْحَاقَ يَعْقُوبَ
"And his wife was standing, and she smiled. Then We gave her good tidings of Isaac and after Isaac, Jacob."
— Surah Hud (71)