The short answer
Abraham, Ibrahim in Arabic, is among the most important figures in the Qur’an. He is called the friend of God, described as neither Jew nor Christian but a pure monotheist who submitted to God, and remembered for smashing his people’s idols, surviving the fire, and being ready to sacrifice his son at God’s command. Muslims recall him in every formal prayer.
A little more context
With his son Ishmael he raised the foundations of the Ka‘bah, and the rites of Hajj re-enact episodes from his family’s story. Eid al-Adha commemorates his willingness to sacrifice. Islam, Judaism, and Christianity all look to Abraham, which is why they are often called the Abrahamic faiths, even though each tells his story in its own way.
Sources & further reading
- Qur’an 4:125 Abraham taken as a friend by God.
- Qur’an 3:67 Abraham as a pure monotheist who submitted.
- Qur’an 37:102-107 The sacrifice.
- Qur’an 2:127 Raising the foundations of the house.
Original introductory summary, not a direct scripture translation. Prepared 21 October 2026. Qualified human religious review is pending. About our editorial approach.