Why does the Quran speak in detail about the story of Joseph?

The story of Prophet Joseph (peace be upon him) in the Holy Quran, renowned as 'Ahsan al-Qasas' (the best of stories), is not merely a historical narrative. Instead, it is a treasure trove of profound spiritual, ethical, and educational wisdom and lessons. The detailed and extensive recounting of this story in Surah Yusuf, which occupies almost an entire chapter, has several reasons, each highlighting the unique importance and position of this divine narrative in the Quranic message. Firstly and most importantly, it serves as a pedagogical and educational tool. The Quran itself states in Surah Yusuf, verse 3: "We relate to you, [O Muhammad], the best of stories in what We have revealed to you of this Qur'an, though you were before it among the unaware." This designation signifies that the story of Joseph stands out due to its comprehensiveness and perfection. The narrative beautifully illustrates the journey of a righteous individual from childhood and true dreams, through the envy and conspiracy of his brothers, being thrown into a well, sold into slavery, a divine test in the house of the Aziz of Egypt and false accusations, imprisonment, patience and perseverance in the face of hardships, and finally attaining a position of power and honor, fulfilling his dreams. These ups and downs offer immense lessons in patience (sabr), reliance on God (tawakkul), chastity, purity, combating the evil inclinations of the self (nafs al-ammarah), forgiveness, wisdom, and governance. It is a timeless guide for navigating life's challenges. Secondly, it emphasizes the concept of divine will and providence. Throughout the story, Joseph (peace be upon him), in the midst of extreme difficulties and despair, places his sole trust in God and never loses hope in His mercy. Being thrown into a well, sold into slavery, and imprisoned were all seemingly calamities that could have broken him. Yet, each tribulation served as a stepping stone towards the fulfillment of divine purpose. The story vividly demonstrates how God orchestrates events, even transforming human malice and conspiracy into good and benefit for His devoted servant. This aspect offers profound solace and hope to believers grappling with life's trials, assuring them that every dark night is followed by a dawn. Thirdly, it portrays various facets of human nature and divine ethics. The story of Joseph is a stage where human virtues and vices confront each other. The brothers' envy, their greed, women's cunning, deception, and falsehood are all dark aspects of human existence depicted in this narrative. Conversely, Joseph's (peace be upon him) patience, chastity, purity, wisdom, forgiveness, and magnanimity, along with Jacob's (peace be upon him) faith and reliance on God, represent the luminous and sublime dimensions of humanity. The story teaches individuals how to combat internal and external temptations and to tread the path of virtue. The climax of the story, Joseph's forgiveness towards his erring brothers, exemplifies the pinnacle of magnanimity and nobility of a divinely guided human being. This lesson is crucially important for family and social relationships, fostering a culture of peace and reconciliation. Fourthly, it served as a source of comfort and strength for Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions. During a time when the Prophet (PBUH) was facing severe persecution from the polytheists in Mecca and enduring numerous hardships and conspiracies, the revelation of Joseph's story offered immense spiritual reinforcement. The narrative of a prophet who, through patience and perseverance, rises from the depths of humiliation to the zenith of honor and power, reassured them that God's promise is true and that ease follows every hardship. This story taught the Prophet not to fear the schemes of enemies but to continue his mission with unwavering trust in God. Fifthly, it elucidates the importance of dream interpretation and divine knowledge. In this story, the dreams of Joseph (peace be upon him) and the King of Egypt play pivotal roles, and their interpretations mark turning points in Joseph's life and the lives of the people of Egypt. This highlights the significance and status of the science of dream interpretation as a divine gift, as well as the 'Ilm al-Ladunni' (divinely inspired knowledge) that God bestows upon His prophets and saints. In conclusion, the detailed narration of Joseph's story in the Quran is due to its comprehensive treatment of various aspects of human life, from individual and family trials to social and political challenges. Furthermore, it showcases God's infinite power in orchestrating affairs and the manifestation of profound moral virtues, making it a masterpiece of didactic and educational literature. This story is not merely for a specific era but for all times, and for every human being seeking guidance and perfection, it is replete with instructive and inspiring insights.