Dhul-Qarnayn: The Righteous Ruler in the Holy Quran

The Story of Dhul-Qarnayn (Zulqarnain) in Light of the Qur’an and Hadith

The story of Dhul-Qarnayn (Zulqarnain) is one of the most intriguing narratives in the Qur’an, mentioned in Surah Al-Kahf (18:83–101). Though his exact historical identity is not confirmed in the Qur’an or Hadith, his exploits, leadership, and righteousness serve as timeless lessons for believers.

Who Was Dhul-Qarnayn?

The Qur’an begins his story in Surah Al-Kahf, verse 83:

"And they ask you, [O Muhammad], about Dhul-Qarnayn. Say, 'I will recite to you about him a report.'" (Qur'an 18:83)

The name "Dhul-Qarnayn" literally means "the one with two horns." Scholars have debated the meaning—some suggesting it refers to his expansive kingdom reaching both the East and the West (two "horns" of the Earth), while others interpret it metaphorically, referring to his strength or dual rulership over different peoples.

Early Islamic scholars, such as Ibn Kathir and al-Tabari, cite reports suggesting that he might be Alexander the Great or Cyrus the Great, but the Qur’an does not name him explicitly, nor does it support the Greek polytheism associated with Alexander. Rather, it presents him as a righteous, just, and God-fearing king, which aligns more with a prophetic figure or a deeply pious leader.

His Journey: The West, The East, and the Barrier

Allah granted Dhul-Qarnayn authority, power, and knowledge. He traveled extensively, and the Qur’an highlights three of his major journeys:

1. Journey to the West

"So he followed a way. Until, when he reached the setting of the sun, he found it setting in a dark, muddy spring, and he found near it a people. We said, 'O Dhul-Qarnayn, either you punish [them] or else adopt among them [a way of] goodness.'" (Qur'an 18:85–86)

This verse emphasizes that he came across a people in the far West. The "sun setting in a muddy spring" is understood metaphorically—it appeared so from his perspective. Allah gave him the choice of punishing or showing mercy.

Dhul-Qarnayn responded with justice:

"As for one who wrongs, we will punish him. Then he will be returned to his Lord, and He will punish him with a terrible punishment. But as for one who believes and does righteousness—he will have a reward of Paradise..." (18:87–88)

This illustrates his fairness: punishing injustice but rewarding faith and righteousness.

2. Journey to the East

"Then he followed a way. Until, when he came to the rising of the sun, he found it rising on a people for whom We had not made against it any shield." (18:89–90)

He encountered another group who lived in primitive conditions, possibly without buildings or clothing to shield themselves from the sun. Again, he dealt with them wisely, though the Qur’an does not elaborate much more about this encounter.

3. Journey to the Barrier: Gog and Magog

This is the most famous part of Dhul-Qarnayn's story:

"Then he followed a way. Until, when he reached between two mountains, he found beside them a people who could hardly understand speech." (18:92–93)

These people sought Dhul-Qarnayn’s help against the destructive tribes of Ya’juj and Ma’juj (Gog and Magog):

"They said, 'O Dhul-Qarnayn, indeed Gog and Magog are [great] corrupters in the land. So may we assign for you an expenditure that you might make between us and them a barrier?'" (18:94)

Instead of demanding wealth, Dhul-Qarnayn asked for physical help:

"He said, 'That in which my Lord has established me is better [than what you offer], but assist me with strength; I will make between you and them a dam.'" (18:95)

Using iron and molten copper, he constructed an immense barrier between the mountains, strong enough to prevent Gog and Magog from climbing over or tunneling through.

"So they [Gog and Magog] were unable to pass over it, nor were they able to effect in it any penetration." (18:97)

Dhul-Qarnayn humbly attributed success to Allah:

"He said, 'This is a mercy from my Lord. But when the promise of my Lord comes, He will make it level, and the promise of my Lord is ever true.'" (18:98)

This implies that the barrier is temporary and will one day be destroyed—signaling the approaching Hour (Day of Judgment).

Gog and Magog in Hadith

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ mentioned Gog and Magog several times in Hadith. In one narration, he said:

"Woe to the Arabs because of an evil that has come near! Today a hole has been made in the wall of Gog and Magog like this," and he made a circle with his fingers. (Sahih al-Bukhari, 3346)

And in another narration:

"Gog and Magog are from among the children of Adam... and they will come out swarming from every hill." (Musnad Ahmad; classified as sahih)

According to authentic Hadiths, Ya’juj and Ma’juj will break free near the end of times, causing chaos and destruction. Their release is one of the major signs of the Day of Judgment.

Lessons from Dhul-Qarnayn’s Story

Leadership with Justice: He balanced power with mercy and ruled according to divine principles.

Humility: Despite his achievements, he attributed everything to Allah.

Public Service: He helped those in need without exploiting them.

Preparedness for the Future: His barrier was not eternal, reminding us that human efforts are temporary, and ultimate reliance must be on Allah.

Conclusion

The story of Dhul-Qarnayn in the Qur’an is not just historical—it is deeply moral and spiritual. It shows a leader who was both powerful and humble, wise and just, and fully aware of the temporary nature of worldly success. His dealings with diverse peoples and challenges emphasize the importance of justice, reliance on Allah, and preparation for the hereafter.

While the Qur’an leaves many of his personal details and identity ambiguous, it is clear that the moral of the story is what matters most: Power, when used justly and with the fear of Allah, can become a means of great good in the world.