Reports on Dhul-Qarnayn

Mujahid reports from Sayyiduna Abdullah bin Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) that Dhu al-Qarnayn was a prophet.

Mujahid reports through another chain that he said: He was the king of the whole earth.

Sayyiduna Abu al-Tufayl (may Allah be pleased with him) reports from Sayyiduna Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) that he said: He was a righteous man. He showed sincerity toward Allah, and Allah took him by the hand. He was struck on the right side of his head and he died, and Allah gave him life. Then he was struck on the left side of his head and he died, and Allah again gave him life. And there is one like him among you.

Sayyiduna Abu al-Tufayl (may Allah be pleased with him) reports through another chain that Sayyiduna Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) was asked about Dhu al-Qarnayn, and he said: He was neither a prophet nor a king, but he was a righteous servant who was sincere toward Allah, so Allah dealt sincerely with him. He called his people to Allah and was struck on the right side of his head and he died, and Allah brought him back to life. Then he again called his people to Allah and was struck a second time on the left side of his head and he died again, and Allah brought him back to life again. For this reason he became known by the name "Dhu al-Qarnayn."

Habib bin Himaz said: Sayyiduna Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) was asked: "How did Dhu al-Qarnayn reach the east and the west?" He said: "The clouds were made subject to him, light was spread out for him, and means were made ample for him." Then he said: "Shall I tell you more?" The man said: "No, that is enough."

Mujahid said: Only four have been kings of the whole earth, two Muslims and two disbelievers. The Muslims are Sulayman bin Dawud and Dhu al-Qarnayn, and the disbelievers are Bukht Nasr and the one who disputed with Ibrahim (peace be upon him) about his Lord.