Surah Yusuf — Verse 20

Word Meanings:

• Sharawhu (وَشَرَوْهُ): They sold him.
• Bakhs (بَخْس): Deficient, less than the true value; a price that was unfairly low.
• Darāhima maʿdūdah (دَرَاهِمَ مَعْدُودَةٍ): A few silver coins, counted out by number rather than weighed—indicating their small quantity.
• Az-Zāhidīn (الزَّاهِدِينَ): Those who are indifferent, showing no desire or attachment to something.

Tafsir (Explanation):

This verse takes us to a pivotal moment in the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph), peace be upon him. After his brothers had cast him into the well, a passing caravan drew him out and brought him to Egypt, where they put him up for sale. Allah tells us that they sold him "for a paltry price—a few dirhams—and they were among those who held him in low regard."

The price was *bakhs*—deficient, far below his true worth. It was not gold or dinars, but only a handful of silver dirhams, so few that they were counted by number rather than weighed. This shows how cheaply he was valued by those who sold him. They were *zāhidīn* in him—meaning they had no desire to keep him, no appreciation for his immense worth, and were eager to be rid of him quickly. Their only concern was to dispose of him and secure his removal from their lives, not to gain wealth from his sale.

Some commentators note that the buyers themselves were also indifferent to him, sensing he was not an ordinary slave and fearing complications from his family. Either way, the verse highlights the profound contrast between how people valued Yusuf and how Allah valued him. To the world, he was a bargain-priced commodity; to Allah, he was a chosen prophet and a vessel of divine wisdom.

There is a beautiful lesson here for every believer. The people of this world may undervalue you, dismiss your worth, or treat you as insignificant—just as Yusuf was sold for a few dirhams. But Allah’s estimation of you is what truly matters. He raised Yusuf from the depths of that dark well to the highest ranks of power and honor in Egypt. Never let the low opinions of others define your worth. Your value is determined by your Lord, and He sees what no one else can see—the potential, the sincerity, and the destiny He has written for you. Trust Him, and He will elevate you in ways you never imagined.