Abraham, a figure of immense historical and religious significance, is known as the patriarch of the three major monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Believed to have lived around the early second millennium BCE, Abraham’s life story is chronicled primarily in the book of Genesis in the Hebrew Bible, the Old Testament of the Christian Bible, and the Quran. According to biblical and Quranic narratives, Abraham was born in the city of Ur in Mesopotamia, present-day Iraq. He is described as the son of Terah, a descendant of Shem, one of Noah’s sons. Abraham’s journey begins with his migration, along with his father, wife Sarah, and nephew Lot, from Ur to Haran. Subsequently, he receives a divine call urging him to leave his homeland and travel to the land of Canaan, which is promised to him and his descendants.

Central to Abraham’s story is his covenant with God, wherein he is promised numerous descendants and the land of Canaan as an inheritance. Despite facing various trials and tribulations, including famine, conflicts, and familial challenges, Abraham remains steadfast in his faith and commitment to God. He is portrayed as a paragon of obedience and trust in the divine will. One of the most well-known episodes in Abraham’s life is the near-sacrifice of his son, Isaac. According to the biblical account, God tests Abraham’s faith by commanding him to offer Isaac as a burnt offering. Without hesitation, Abraham prepares to comply with God’s command, but at the last moment, an angel intervenes, sparing Isaac’s life and affirming Abraham’s faithfulness.

Abraham is revered as a model of hospitality and generosity, exemplified by his welcoming of three strangers who visit him at Mamre. This hospitality is rewarded when the visitors, who are angels in disguise, announce the miraculous birth of Isaac to the elderly Sarah. In addition to Isaac, Abraham is said to have fathered other children, including Ishmael, through his concubine Hagar, and several sons through his second wife, Keturah. Ishmael is regarded as the ancestor of the Arab people, while Isaac is considered the progenitor of the Israelites.

Abraham’s significance extends beyond his role as a patriarch. He is also revered as a prophet in Islam, where he is known as Ibrahim. Islamic tradition emphasizes Abraham’s monotheism and his unwavering commitment to Allah. The annual pilgrimage to Mecca, known as Hajj, commemorates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmael in obedience to God’s command, as believed by Muslims. Abraham’s legacy reverberates throughout history and continues to shape the beliefs and practices of millions of people worldwide. His unwavering faith, righteousness, and obedience to the divine serve as an enduring example of devotion and piety. Whether as the father of nations, the recipient of divine promises, or the exemplar of hospitality, Abraham remains an iconic figure whose influence transcends religious boundaries.