Which prophet succeeded Musa (Moses) as the leader of the Israelites?

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The prophet who succeeded Musa (Moses) as leader of the Israelites was Yusha’ (Joshua), traditionally identified as Yusha ibn Nun.

In Islamic tradition, Yusha’ was Musa’s close attendant and later became a prophet and leader of the Israelites. The Qur’an does not name him directly, but many Muslim commentators identify him with the young companion who accompanied Musa during the journey connected with al-Khidr in Qur’an 18:60–65. Classical Islamic histories also associate him with the two faithful men who urged the Israelites to enter the Holy Land.

After Musa’s death, Yusha’ is traditionally said to have led the Israelites into Canaan. This corresponds to Joshua’s role in the Hebrew Bible, where he succeeds Moses and leads the people into the promised land. Islamic sources often use the Arabic form Yusha’ rather than the English form Joshua.

Harun (Aaron) is a frequent distractor because he was Musa’s brother and fellow prophet, but Harun died before Musa according to Islamic tradition. Dawud and Sulayman came later in Israelite history, long after Yusha’ became leader.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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