Dhul-Qarnayn.
The Fourth Test in Surah Al-Kahf: The Test of Power
Every Friday, millions of Muslims recite Surah Al-Kahf.
Its final story is about Dhul-Qarnayn—a ruler whom Allah blessed with power, resources, and the means to accomplish great things.
But the Qur’an doesn’t tell us much about who he was.
Instead, it teaches us how a believer should use power.
On his first journey, Allah gave him a choice in dealing with a people. Dhul-Qarnayn declared that those who committed injustice would face justice, while those who believed and did righteous deeds would be treated with kindness.
Justice and mercy.
On his second journey, he reached another people living under very different circumstances. The Qur’an gives few details, reminding us that Allah fully knew their condition. Even with great authority, Dhul-Qarnayn acted according to Allah’s guidance, not his own desires.
Wisdom and restraint.
On his third journey, he met a people living in fear of Gog and Magog, who were spreading corruption in the land. They offered him payment to build a barrier.
He refused their wealth.
Instead, he said that what Allah had given him was better. He asked the people to work alongside him, and together—with Allah’s help—they built a mighty barrier to protect the community.
Service, not exploitation.
Then came the most remarkable moment.
After completing one of history’s greatest engineering achievements, Dhul-Qarnayn didn’t boast. He didn’t claim credit. He simply said:
“This is a mercy from my Lord.” (Qur’an 18:98)
Then he reminded everyone that when Allah’s promise comes, even this mighty barrier will crumble.
Even the greatest achievements of this world are temporary.
That is the message of Surah Al-Kahf.
Every generation is tested with power.
Some leaders become protectors, like Dhul-Qarnayn.
Others become oppressors, like Pharaoh and those who spread corruption and injustice.
History teaches us that no empire, no tyrant, and no unjust society lasts forever. Allah may grant them time, but no one escapes His justice.
Power is temporary.
Accountability is certain.
Whether you’re leading a nation, a company, a classroom, a family, or simply influencing others online, ask yourself:
Am I using what Allah has entrusted to me for justice, mercy, and the service of humanity—or for myself?
Surah Al-Kahf ends by reminding us that faith, wealth, knowledge, and power are all tests.
Our success is not measured by what we possess, but by how faithfully we use it before we return to Allah.
Because in the end, every kingdom will pass away.
Only what was done sincerely for Allah will remain.
This life is only a short journey. Wealth, power, knowledge, youth, and fame will all come to an end. What will remain are our faith, our sincerity, and our deeds.
May Allah make the Qur’an the light of our hearts, help us understand its guidance, protect us from every trial, especially the trial of the Dajjal, and grant us everlasting success in Jannah. Ameen.
Video-Dhul Qarnayn
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