Day: May 1, 2025

■ Why Did Prophet Isa (عليه السلام) Choose a Donkey for His Journey?

Prophet Isa (عليه السلام) once needed to travel, so he told two of his disciples (Hawariyyoon) to bring a donkey for the journey. They asked, “From where should we get one?” He said, “Just go.”

They entered a city and saw a donkey tied up. They stood near it. Its owner came and asked, “Why are you standing near my donkey?” They asked him, “Has anyone ever ridden this donkey before?” He said, “No.”

They replied, “We need this donkey for someone.” When they mentioned the name of Prophet Isa (عليه السلام), the man, who had heard of him, immediately handed over the donkey and said, “Take it.”

The disciples brought the donkey, and Prophet Isa (عليه السلام) rode on it, while the rest walked on foot.

Now the question arises: Why did Prophet Isa (عليه السلام) choose to ride a donkey when horses were also available at that time?

In inner spiritual understanding (Batin), the donkey is a symbol of the lower self (Nafs) and the whisperings of Shaytan. By riding the donkey, Prophet Isa (عليه السلام) was teaching his companions how to control their inner evils.

The disciples he wanted to spiritually save had inner struggles (Nafs and Shaytan), and he rode the donkey as a spiritual sign—to suppress those evil tendencies, so Shaytan wouldn’t disturb them.

In spiritual meaning, if a donkey becomes friendly with you, it may indicate that your inner self is influenced by Shaytan. But if the donkey runs away from you, it means your inner self is clean and normal.