Declaring and Conveying the Message of Islam

 

Tafsir of Surah Al-Hijr (The Rock) Ayah 90-99

The call for Islamic message was secret in the beginning for fear of the abuse of the disbelievers, who vehemently opposed it. They did their best to harass and annoy the believers. Then, Allah commanded His Prophet and Messenger Muhammad to openly declare his call for Islam no matter what circumstances and difficulties that he might encounter. Allah told Messenger Muhammad that He would deal with his opponents and punish them. 

It is as We have revealed to the dividers, [Q 15: 90] 

who have divided the Quran into parts [Q 15: 91] 

By your Lord, We shall surely question them all [Q 15: 92]

about what they used to do. [Q 15: 93]

Thus, proclaim what you have been commanded and turn away from the polytheists. [Q 15: 94] 

Indeed, We shall spare you the mockers, [Q 15: 95] 

who worship other gods besides Allah. They will surely come to know. [Q 15: 96] 

Indeed, We know that your heart is distressed by what they say.

[Q 15: 97]

Thus, glorify your Lord, praising Him, and be of those who prostrate. 

[Q 15: 98]

And worship your Lord until the Inevitable comes to you. [Q 15: 99] 

Relationship with the Previous Part

Surah al-Hijr mentions the stories of the people of Prophet Saleh. It also mentions that Allah commanded Messenger Muhammad to warn his people of punishment if they rejected to follow Islam. The conditions of the people of Prophet Saleh and Prophet Muhammad are similar to the conditions of earlier sects that turned a blind eye to the message of their Prophets and divided the revelation into parts. 

Tafsir 

It is as We revealed to the dividers, [Q 15: 90] 

who have divided the Quran into parts. [Q 15: 91]

The scholars have different opinions on the identity of those who divided the Scriptures into parts. Some scholars say that they are the Jews and Christians, who believe in some of the Quran and disbelieve in other parts. They mockingly divide the Quran into parts. So some of them say this surah belongs to me and another surah belongs to you. Therefore, they are called, the dividers. Another opinion states that the dividers are the Jews and Christians, who divide their Scriptures among themselves. Thus, some of them believe in some of the Scriptures, while others disbelieve in other parts. Other scholars maintain that the dividers refer to the people of Prophet Muhammad. They divide themselves into groups; each group sits at a particular place in Mecca, waiting for those who might come to the city. If someone comes, they will tell him that Messenger Muhammad is a poet, soothsayer, or a mad man in order not to believe in him [Tafsir al-Mawardi].  

After mentioning the opinions of the scholars on the meaning of the dividers, Imam Muhammad bin Jarir at-Tabari said, ‘Allah commanded Messenger Muhammad to warn his people, who divided the Quran into parts, and tell them that Allah sent him to warn them of severe torment that would befall them if they insisted on disbelief in Islam. It would befall them what befell to the dividers before them for their disbelief in Allah and His Messengers. The dividers may refer to the Jews and Christians because they divided the Scriptures of Allah into parts. The Jews believed in some of the Torah and disbelieved in other parts, and they disbelieved in the Gospel. Similarly, the Christians believed in some of the Gospel and disbelieved in other parts. Moreover, the dividers may refer to the people of the Prophet Muhammad. They were divided into groups in respect of their opinions on the Quran. Some of them said that it was poetry; others said that it was magic, and others said that it was stories of the ancient people. Furthermore, the dividers may refer to a group of the people of Prophet Saleh, who swore to kill him. There is no concrete evidence, supporting one of these opinions, and there is no authentic prophetic narration about this issue as well as there is no plausible supportive evidence. The apparent meaning of the ayah could refer to any one of the aforementioned groups. Therefore, it is obligatory to believe that the dividers refer to everyone, who divides the Book of Allah, by believing in some parts of it and disbelieving in other parts and any group that is divided concerning disobeying Allah among those whom Allah punished from the earlier nations [Tafsir al-Tabari].’ 

It is as We revealed to the dividers, who have divided the Quran into parts. [Q 15: 90- 91]

O Messenger Muhammad, We granted you the seven oft-repeated ayat and the Glorious Quran just as We revealed to the dividers among the people of the Scriptures. They divided their Scriptures into parts. They revealed some parts of it and hid others. They also divided the Quran into parts, believing in some of it and disbelieving in other parts.

By your Lord, We shall surely question them all [Q 15: 92]

about what they used to do. [Q 15: 93]

O Messenger Muhammad, by your Lord, Allah! We shall question the disbelievers about what they used to do in the worldly life. Their acts and statements were hideous. They disbelieved in Allah and His Messengers. Then We shall punish them severely. The questioning is for rebuke and reprimand. 

The Ayah is a consolation for Messenger Muhammad. It is also a threat to the disbelievers, warning them of severe torment if they insist on their disbelief in Allah and His Messenger. 

Abdul-Allah bin Mas’ud, may Allah be pleased with him, said, ‘By Allah, with whom there is no god! No one of you but will be alone with Allah on the Day of Judgment, just as you sit alone in a full moon night. Allah will say, ‘O son of Adam! What deceived you about Me! O son of Adam! What you did in respect of you learned? O son of Adam! What was your answer to the call of the Messengers?’ 

Abu al-Alya said, ‘All people will be asked about two things on the Day of Judgment. What they worshipped and what was their reply to the message of the Messengers.’ 

Then, Allah, Exalted be He, commanded Messenger Muhammad to keep on conveying Islam, declare it openly, and not worry about the disbelievers, as He would spare him their harm and plots.

Thus, proclaim what you have been commanded and turn away from the polytheists. [Q 15: 94] 

O Messenger Muhammad, proclaim the message of Islam, convey it publicly, and do not concern yourself about the disbelief and absurdity of the disbelievers. Confront the disbelievers. Indeed, Allah will protect you. 

Abdul-Allah bin Mas’ud, may Allah be pleased with him said, ‘Messenger Muhammad kept on conveying the message of Islam secretly until Allah revealed, [Thus, proclaim what you have been commanded and turn away from the polytheists.] [Tafsir ibn Kathir] 

 

Indeed, We shall spare you the mockers, [Q 15: 95] 

who worship other gods besides Allah. They will surely come to know. [Q 15: 96] 

O Messenger Muhammad, We shall spare you the mockers, who ridicule the message of Islam. Convey Islam publicly and do not fear anyone except Allah. We will protect you from your enemies. 

There are many narrations about the number, names of those who used to mock Messenger Muhammad, and how they did so. There is no need to specify particular names. The known fact about them is that they were powerful personalities because such people had the power to treat Messenger Muhammad in such a manner [Tafsir al-Razi].  

Besides mocking Messenger Muhammad, those disbelievers worshipped other gods besides Allah. On the Day of Judgment, they will come to know the evil consequences of their disbelief and mocking. They will suffer severe torment in Hell. 

Messenger Muhammad was a human being. He used to be distressed when he saw that people worshipped other gods besides Allah and mock the message of Islam.

Indeed, We know that your heart is distressed by what they say.

[Q 15: 97]

O Messenger Muhammad, We do indeed know that your heart is distressed by what the disbelievers say, e.g. their disbelief in Islam and their mockery. Do not make their reactions distract you from conveying Islam. Depend on Allah, who will take care of you and make you victorious. Seek His help and support when you are distressed. He will certainly support you.

 

Thus, glorify your Lord, praising Him, and be of those who prostrate. 

[Q 15: 98]

O Messenger Muhammad, when you are distressed by the abuse and mockery of the disbelievers, seek help and support from Allah. Glorify and praise Him and constantly pray to Him. 

The Ayah refers to the prayer by ‘be one of those who prostrate.’ Prostration is part of the prayer, but it is specifically mentioned because of its importance and virtue. 

Verily glorifying and praising Allah and constant prayers are the best cure for distress and sadness. 

And worship your Lord until the Inevitable comes to you. [Q 15: 99] 

O Messenger Muhammad, worship your Lord, Allah, as long as you are alive until death, which is an inevitable thing that will come to all human beings at the time that Allah appointed. 

Learned Lessons from Surah al-Hijr Ayah 90-99

• It is prohibited to differ about the Quran as the Jews and Christians differed about their Scriptures.

• On the Day of Judgment, people will be asked about and recompensed for what they did in the worldly life.

• The duty of Messenger Muhammad was to convey the message of Islam, warn the disbelievers, and give good news to the believers. 

• Allah protected Messenger Muhammad from the danger of the disbelievers.

• Glorifying and praising Allah are a cure for distressed hearts. 

• It is recommended to pray when facing problems and hardship. 

• The Muslim is required to worship Allah alone until he dies. 

Quran, English Translation, Surah al-Hijr

Quran, Tafsir ibn Kathir

Towards Understanding the Quran, Surah al-Hijr

Tafsir of Surah al-Hir Ayah: 1-9 No Punishment without Warning

Biography of Messenger Muhammad & Non-Violence [Part 1]

Role models are important for guiding, growing, and success of human beings. Messenger Muhammad [salla Allah alayhi wa-sallam] is the role model for the Muslims from whose biography they learn and apply the teachings of Islam. That is because Messenger Muhammad represents an embodiment of these teachings. Allah, says, interpretation of meaning, 

[Indeed, you have an excellent example in Allah’s Messenger for whoever hopes for Allah’s reward, the Last Day, and remembers Allah much. [Surah al-Ahzab: 21]

In an era in which accusing Islam and hence its messenger and followers of violence has wide currency, it is vital to highlight the non-violent practices the Messenger of Islam, Muhammad [salla Allah alayhi wa-sallam], applied in his life. 

In a world where dominance is for power, the powerful do what they want, and the law of the jungle is prevalent, it is obligatory to revive a concept more befitting to humanity; an ideal that elevates man to the horizons of dignity and nobility. It is the practice of non-violence guiding people to understanding instead of collision and respecting the rights of one another instead of tyrannizing one another.  

 Nonviolence refers to a general philosophy of refraining from violence based on moral, religious, or spiritual principles. Nonviolence refers specifically to the absence of violence and is always the choice to do no harm or the least harm, whereas passivity is the choice to do nothing. 

 Knowing and studying the Islamic perspective on non-violence in general, and nonviolence in the biography of the Messenger of Islam, Muhammad, is a crucial matter since there is a claim saying that Islam has spread by violence.

Therefore, it is worthwhile presenting how Messenger Muhammad practiced non-violence throughout his personal and public life. It is also a good idea to know how he applied the concept of non-violence when spreading Islam and dealing with his opponents and the enemies of Islam. However, it should be noted that the cause for shading light on this issue should not be a reaction to accusing Islam and its Messenger of practicing violence, as there are some incidents here and there that lead to the emergence of a phenomenon known as Islamophobia. This phenomenon has intensified more aftermath of 9/11 attacks in the U.S.A. Rather, this side in the biography of Messenger Muhammad is highlighted to unveil a sublime and bright page in his life. 

 Messenger Muhammad is a central personality in the life of every Muslim; he is the role model whose footsteps every Muslim aspires to imitate; he is the embodiment of human perfection. 

Messenger Muhammad used to follow and apply non-violent methods to achieve goals throughout his life as long as they do not violate any commands of Allah. Furthermore, he was able to overcome countless obstacles and difficulties by applying the proper method suitable to each situation he encountered, setting a map to follow for generations to come when dealing with countless circumstances. 

 Messenger Muhammad had a comprehensive, integrated, and understanding of how to build a nation as well as the utmost wisdom, and the greatest intelligence and knowledge of how to employ means in the best manner. These extra-ordinary characteristics enabled him, by the help of Allah, to instill concepts and perception about Allah, this life, and the Hereafter in his companions’ minds, and whoever deeply considers, learns from, and applies his methodology in whatever sphere of human’s activity. Indeed, the biography of Messenger Muhammad gives every generation what it needs in countless fields of life. Hence, let us present some pages of this noble biography showing examples of non-violent methods he used. 

It is easy to swim in the same direction of a river; however, it is difficult to swim in the opposite direction. If one’s goal is in the opposite direction of the river, he will patiently swim in this direction and will put up with whatever difficulty he may encounter. Likewise, changing an entire community, its belief, ethics, and thought, needs to adhere to non-violent practices patiently to achieve this goal. 

 Messenger Muhammad knew from the very beginning of his massage the nature of difficulties he might encounter throughout his mission when he went with his wife Khadija to her cousin Waraka bin Nawfal who told him, “I wish I would be alive when your people would drive you out of your city.” Messenger Muhammad said, “Will they drive me out?” Waraka replied, “Yes. No man preached a message similar to what you brought, but he was met with hostility.”  Thus, he prepared himself from the beginning of his mission to meet whatever difficulty patiently and non-violently. 

 In the beginning, Messenger Muhammad preached the message of Islam secretly for three years . This was a preparation stage, in which concentration was on building characters able to carry out the responsibility of conveying the message of Islam. This message demands having the utmost patience in dealing with its consequences. Allah says, interpretation of meaning, 

Stay patiently with those who worship their Lord in the morning and the evening, seeking His pleasure. Do not turn your eyes away from them, seeking the pleasure of the worldly life. Do not obey he whom We have made his heart heedless of Our remembrance, who follows his desire, and whose endeavor is fruitless. [Surah al-Kahf: 28]

This ayah draws a map for patient and non-violent conduct for everyone, in general, and those who assume positions of leadership, in particular, since their positions entail encountering situations, difficulties, and circumstances needing them to interact peacefully and open-mindedly with the situations, circumstances and the people involved. 

In this ayah, Allah commands Messenger Muhammad, the role model of the Muslims, to be patient with the flaws, mistakes, and frequent questions, even if they are incorrect, of his followers. Moreover, it instructs Messenger Muhammad to be patient if they were hesitant in carrying out his instructions. The ayah also guides him to diligently direct them to endure patiently whatever hardship they may face and that he should inform them that the task of conveying the message of Islam is difficult. 

This ayah also refers to some characteristics that those who adopt non-violent practice should have. They are patience, sincerity, resolution, determination, and persistent prayer to Allah for guidance and help, which all perfectly were exemplified in the personality of Messenger Muhammad.

Al-Hudaybiyah treaty took place in the month of dhi-al-Qa’da, 6 A.H. Messenger Muhammad announced that he would go to Mecca to perform Umra, thus, a great number of his companions, about 1400 of the Muslims, followed him. 

Reflection: Non-Violent Return

After living for almost six years in al-Madinah, Messenger Muhammad wished to visit Mecca, the place that witnessed the beginning of the message of Islam, and where he encountered painful, severe reactions from the disbelievers to the extent he was forced to leave it for fear of his life.  His purpose was to make Umra. Messenger Muhammad met the hostile, aggressive reaction of the disbelievers of Mecca with calmness and patience to the extent one wonders how he was able to react in such a manner. However, one should remember that Messenger Muhammad followed a road map that is drawn in the Qur’an by Allah, directing him to react patiently with whatever circumstances he might face when conveying the message of Islam. 

The following is an example of the hostility with which Messenger Muhammad was met in Mecca. Urwa bin az-Zubayr asked Abdul-Allah bin Umru about the severest aggression meted out against Messenger Muhammad by the disbelievers. He said I saw Uqba bin Mu’yt coming when Messenger Muhammad was praying. Uqba put his cloak around the neck of Messenger Muhammad and strangled him strongly. Thereupon, abu Bakr came and pushed him away from Messenger Muhammad. 

 Hostility, aggression, and antagonism were the memories that Messenger Muhammad had about the disbelievers of Mecca. The natural first reaction that a person, who faced such hostile treatment, would be violence and retaliation when an opportunity arises. However, this was not the choice of Messenger Muhammad. His choice was visiting the House of the One who entrusted him with conveying His message, Allah, and leaving behind every unpleasant memory.

Before reaching Mecca, Messenger Muhammad dispatched someone to find out the news of the people of Mecca. The man told him that they prepared an army to fight and prevent him from making the Umra. Thus, Messenger Muhammad, after consulting with his companions, took another rugged rocky route to avoid confrontation with the Meccans. When he and his companions reached a place called Thaniyat al-Marar, his she-camel, al-Qaswa’, stumbled and knelt down and was too stubborn to move. The companions of Messenger Muhammad tried their best to cause the she-camel to move but in vain. So, they said, “al-Qaswa’ has become stubborn!” Messenger Muhammad said, “’al-Qaswa’ has not become stubborn and it is not her habit, but it stopped her what stopped the elephant, i.e. Allah prevented her from entering Mecca as He prevented the elephant of Abraha from entering Mecca when it was brought to destroy al-Ka’ba.” Ad-Dawudi said, “When Messenger Muhammad saw that his she-camel knelt down and did not move, he knew that Allah wanted to turn them from fighting with the Meccans.”  Then he said, “By the name of Him in whose Hands my soul is, if they, the Meccans, asked me anything that would respect the ordinances of Allah, I would grant it to them.” Then, he rebuked the she-camel, and then she got up and moved. 

Messenger Muhammad Salla Allah Alayhi Wasallam & Great Moral Character

The Moral Character of Messenger Muhammad

Messenger Muhammad & Humbleness

Tafsir of Surah Al-Hijr Ayah 85- 89 Guidelines to Messenger Muhammad Salla Allah Alayhi wa-Sallam

 

Messenger Muhammad suffered from the abuse of disbelievers of Mecca. However, he did not meet their harassment and abuse in the same manner. Rather, he was extremely patient with them and treated them with the utmost forgiveness, hoping that they might reconsider their position and follow the right path that pleases Allah, Islam. The following part gives some guidelines to Messenger Muhammad. They constitute lasting instructions and lessons for his followers until the Day of Judgment. 

We have not created the heavens, the earth, and all that is between them but in conformity with the truth. Indeed, the Hour is coming. So pardon, with a gracious pardoning. [Q15:85]

Indeed, your Lord is the all-Creator, the all-Knowing. [Q 15:86] 

Indeed, We have given you the seven oft-repeated ayat and the Glorious Quran. [Q 15: 87] 

Do not look desirously at what We have given groups of them to enjoy, nor grieve for them. And be tenderly humble with the believers. [Q15:88]

Say, ‘Indeed, I am the clear warner.’ [Q 15:89]

 

Relationship with the Previous Part

The previous part mentions that Allah destroyed the disbelieving nations, who rejected to follow their messengers. Someone may say, ‘How could tormenting and destroying befit Allah, the Most Merciful? The reply to this inquiry is that Allah, Exalted be He, has created people to worship Him alone and obey His commands. If they refuse to worship Him and obey His commands, wisdom necessitates that they should be tormented and destroyed to purify the earth from the evildoers. 

Tafsir 

Allah, Exalted be He, directs people to reflect on aspects of His ability in the creation of the heavens, the earth, and all that is between them. He also directs them to ponder on the fact that the creation of this universe is in conformity with the truth, justice, and wisdom.  

We have not created the heavens, the earth, and all that is between them but in conformity with the truth. Indeed, the Hour is coming. So pardon, with a gracious pardoning. [Q15:85]

Allah has not created the heavens, the earth, and all that is between them but in conformity with the truth, which is completely free any falsehood.  Moreover, justice and wisdom are essential components on which the creation of this universe is based. 

[Indeed, the Hour is coming.]

The Hour refers to the Day of Judgment. Thus, the meaning is as follows: Indeed, the Day of Judgment is coming soon. On that day every person will take his rights, every wrongdoer will be punished for his sins, and every good doer will be rewarded for his righteousness. 

This is a threat to the oppressors and tyrants that no matter how long they may enjoy in the worldly life, oppress people, and disobey Allah, they will be recompensed for their deeds on the Day of Judgment. 

[So pardon, with a gracious pardoning.]

O Messenger Muhammad! The foundations of this universe are truthfulness, justice, and wisdom. The Day of Judgment is certainly coming. Thus, forgive graciously those who disbelieve in Islam without being grieved nor sad until Allah judges between you and them. 

This is a consolation to Messenger Muhammad. Allah commanded him to forgive his enemies with a gracious pardoning. A person who forgives people’s abuse is usually strong and enjoys sublime ethics. It is as if Allah is saying to Messenger Muhammad, ‘Forgive the disbelievers. You will certainly be victorious.’  

Forgiving people in a gracious manner is to meet their offense with forgiveness to attain a reward from Allah. Gracious forgiving is also free from grudge, malice, and verbal and non-verbal abuse.  

Indeed, your Lord is the all-Creator, the all-Knowing. [Q 15:86] 

Indeed, Allah, Exalted be He, has created all creatures. He fully knows everything about them. Allah’s knowledge is comprehensive and nothing of the affairs of His creation is hidden from Him. 

Allah knew that forgiving the disbelievers was the right course of conduct that Messenger Muhammad should adopt and that great results would stem from practicing it. Messenger Muhammad and his companions attained victory in later years, and some disbelieves embraced Islam and became supporting power for Islamic call after they were its sworn enemies.  

Then, Allah, Exalted be He, consoled Messenger Muhammad and reminded him of his bounty on him so that he would be assured. 

Indeed, We have given you the seven oft-repeated ayat and the Glorious Quran. [Q 15: 87] 

The seven oft-repeated Ayat refer to surah al-Fatihah. It was called so because it has seven ayat, and it is recited in every rak’a ‘a unit in the prayer.’

O Messenger! We have given you surah al-Fatihah, which contains seven ayat, and the Glorious Quran, which guides people to the right path. 

Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Messenger said, ‘The mother of the Quran, i.e. surah al-Fatihah, is the seven oft-repeated ayat that I have been given. [Tafsir at-Tabari]’

The scholars mention different interpretations for ‘the seven oft-repeated ayat’. Some scholars say that it refers to surah al-Fatihah, and others say that it refers to the seven longest surahs in the Quran. Other scholars say that it refers to the fact that seven types of meanings are in the Quran, i.e. commands, prohibition, giving good news, warning, presenting examples, mentioning bounties of Allah, and stories of the nations. Other scholars say that the entire Quran is oft-repeated ayat. 

After elaborately mentioning the statements of the scholars about the meaning of the seven oft-repeated ayat, Imam Muhammad bin Jarir at-Tabari said, ‘The most correct opinion is that the oft-repeated ayat refer to surah al-Fatihah because there is an authentic prophetic narration supporting it. Moreover, it is possible that ‘the seven oft-repeated ayat’ refers to the entire ayat of the Quran because stories and news are repeated therein. [Tafsir at-Tabari]’ 

Then, Allah, Exalted be He, prohibits the Muslims, represented in the personality of Messenger Muhammad from seeking desirously the pleasures of the worldly life. 

Do not look desirously at what We have given groups of them to enjoy, nor grieve for them. And be tenderly humble with the believers. [Q15:88]

O Messenger! Do not seek desirously the pleasures of the worldly that We have given some wealthy people, who do not believe in the Hereafter to enjoy them in the worldly life. Their final abode will be Hell. You will have what is better than that in the Hereafter. Moreover, We have honored you in the worldly life by giving you the seven oft-repeated ayat and the Glorious Quran. Do not grieve for their disbelief in Islam. Your duty is only to convey the message, and it is not to force them to embrace Islam. 

[And be tenderly humble with the believers.]

O Messenger! Be tenderly humble with the believers and make them close to you. Do not be harsh with them. 

[Do not look desirously at what We have given groups of them to enjoy.]

A literal translation of the ayat will be as follows: [Do not turn your eyes longingly to …] In fact, the eyes do not turn longingly, but rather the eyesight. However, the graphic style of the Quran depicts the eyes as if they were turning longingly to the pleasures of the worldly life. It is a funny picture when it is imagined. The intended meaning is that it is a commandment to Messenger Muhammad not to desirously seek the pleasures of the worldly life, which Allah has granted to some people to test them. It does not befit him to care about such pleasure, admire it, or wish for it. Indeed, it is a fleeting and passing thing. He has the everlasting truth, i.e. the seven oft-repeated ayat and the Glorious Quran. This remark is sufficient to contrast between the great truth, and immense bounty that Messenger Muhammad has, and the trivial enjoyment that glitters despite its insignificance. [Fi Zilal al-Quran Sayyid Qutub]

Say, ‘Indeed, I am the clear warner.’ [Q 15:89] 

O Messenger! Say to the disbelievers, ‘I am a warner, who clearly warn you of the torment and punishment of Allah that will befall you if you keep on disbelieving in Allah’s Oneness and disobey His commands.’ 

Abu Musa al-Asha’ry, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Messenger Muhammad said, ‘My example and the example of what Allah has sent me with is like a man, who came to his people. He said, ‘O my people! I have seen the enemy’s army with my own eyes. Indeed, I am the naked warner, so protect yourselves.’ Then, a group of his people obeyed him. They fled at night and proceed slowly, so they were saved. And another group of them disbelieved him, so they remained in their places until the morning. Thus, their enemy attacked them in the morning and destroyed them. That example is like a person who obeys me and follows what I have brought, and a person who disobeys me and disbelieves in the truth I have brought. [Sahih al-Bukhari]’

Learned Lessons from Surah al-Hijr ayah 85-89

• Allah, Exalted be He, has not created the creatures for nothing. Rather, He has created them to worship Him alone. 

• Gracious forgiveness is to forgive those who harm you without reproofing and without anger.

• Allah is all-Able and all-Knowing. Nothing of the affairs of the creatures is hidden from Him, Exalted be He.

• Allah’s bounty on Prophet and Messenger Muhammad is great. He has granted him the seven oft-repeated ayat, i.e. surah al-Fatihah, and the Glorious Quran. 

• The propagators to Islam should not seek desirously the enjoyments of the worldly life, as they are fleeting. What Allah has granted them, i.e. belief in Islam, knowledge, and righteousness, is better than the pleasures of the worldly life.

• It is recommended that the Muslim treat his fellows Muslims humbly and mercifully. 

• The duty of the Messenger Muhammad was only to convey the message of Islam to people, and warn them of the torment of Allah if they disobey him. Similarly, the duty of the propagators to Islam is to convey the message of Islam and warn people of Allah’s punishment if they disbelieve in Allah, Exalted be He. 

English Translation of Surah al-Hijr

Quran, Tafsir ibn Kathir, Surah al-Hijr

Toward Understanding the Quran, Surah al-Hijr

Introduction to Tafsir of Surah al-Hijr

Tafsir of Surah al-Hijr Ayah: 1-9 No Punishment without Warning

Tafsir of Surah Al-Hijr Ayah: 78 -84 Stories of the People of Prophet Shuaib and Saleh

Allah, Exalted be He, sent messengers to people to invite them to believe in Him, obey His commands, and avoid His prohibitions. The Quran mentions stories of the Prophets of Allah with their people so that the disbelievers know that the severe punishment of Allah will inevitably befall them if they keep on disobeying His commands and rejecting to follow the path that pleases Him.  

The people of the Wood were wrongdoers. [Q 15: 78] 

So We took revenge on them. And indeed both of them lie on a road, clearly visible.  [Q15: 79]

Indeed, the people of the Rocky Valley rejected the messengers. 

[Q 15: 80] 

We showed them Our proofs, but they turned away from them.

[Q 15: 81]  

They used to carve houses in the mountains, securely dwelling therein.

[Q 15: 82]

Then the Cry overtook them in the morning. [Q15: 83]

What they used to earn did not avail them. [Q 15: 84] 

Relationship with the Previous Part

Surah al-Hijr has mentioned three stories so far, namely, the story of the creation of Prophet Adam, and the story of Prophet Ibrahim and Lot. Then the surah mentions the story of the people of Prophet Shuaib and Saleh.

Tafsir

The people of the Wood were wrongdoers. [Q 15: 78] 

The people of the Wood were the people of Prophet Shuaib. They were called ‘the people of the Wood’ because they used to live in an area that had many thick trees with intertwined branches. 

Allah, Exalted be He, sent Prophet Shuaib to his people to invite them to worship Allah alone, and prohibit them from disobeying Him, cheating when selling by giving people less than their due, and practicing many other wicked deeds. 

Their dwellings were located in an area between al-Hejaz and ash-Sham. The people of Prophet Shuaib were wrongdoers. They disbelieved in Allah and refused to obey their prophet. 

So We took revenge on them. And indeed both of them lie on a road, clearly visible.  [Q15: 79]

Allah, Exalted be He, took revenge on the people of Prophet Shuaib because of their disbelief in Allah’s Oneness and wrongdoings. Their torment was that they suffered from extremely hot weather and they could not find shadow. Allah, Exalted be He, sent a cloud and then they sat under it to protect themselves from the extremely hot weather. Then Allah sent them a fire that burned them completely while they were sitting under that cloud. 

[And indeed both of them lie on a road, clearly visible.]  

The dwellings of the People of Lot and Shuaib lie in an area between al-Hejaz and ash-Sham along a road that people can see when traveling. 

Then the ayat mention the story of Prophet Saleh with his people. 

Indeed, the people of the Rocky Valley rejected the messengers. 

[Q 15: 80] 

The Rocky Valley is located between ash-Sham and al-Madinah. The people of Prophet Saleh used to live in that area, which was surrounded by rocks. This area is called Mada’in Saleh ‘the city of Saleh’ within al-Madinah region in al-Hejaz, Saudi Arabia. 

The ayah mentions that the people of Prophet Saleh rejected the messengers though they only rejected their Prophet Saleh. That is because disbelieving in one messenger is just like disbelieving in all the messengers since their messages are the same, namely, worshipping Allah alone and not worshipping other gods besides Him.

We showed them Our proofs, but they turned away from them.

[Q 15: 81]  

Allah, Exalted be He, showed the people of  Prophet Saleh clear proofs, denoting the truthfulness of their messenger and that Allah sent him to them. The proof that Allah gave the people of Prophet Saleh was the she-camel. It was a miracle. It miraculously came out of rock and its size and milk it produced were great.

[…but they turned away from them.]

The people of Prophet Saleh did not take heed of the proofs that Allah gave them and turned away from them, as well as they ignored the miracle of the she-camel.

Then the ayat mention some aspects of the civilization of the people of Prophet Saleh. 

They used to carve houses in the mountains, securely dwelling therein.

[Q 15: 82] 

The people of Prophet Saleh were so strong that they used to carve their houses in the mountains, where they securely lived. They did not fear that the ceilings of their houses might fall on them as they were built so masterfully as well as they did not fear from their enemies as they were fortified in their mountainous houses. 

Then the Cry overtook them in the morning. [Q15: 83]

Though the people of Saleh were strong and wealthy, they did not thank Allah for His blessings, disbelieved in their Prophet, and turned away from reflecting on the miracle that Allah granted them. Thus, Allah destroyed them by a fierce cry in the early morning. 

 What they used to earn did not avail them. [Q 15: 84] 

When the torment of Allah befell the people of Saleh, nothing benefited them. Neither their wealth nor their strong mountainous houses protect them from the punishment of Allah.  Indeed, everything in this life will perish. No protection avails but the protection of Allah. 

Abdul-Allah bin Umar, may Allah be pleased with them, said, ‘We passed by the Rocky Valley ‘the dwelling of the people of Saleh’ with Messenger Muhammad. The Messenger said, ‘Do not enter the houses of the people, who were transgressors except in a state of weeping lest it should befall you what befell them, namely, the torment of Allah.[Tafsir at-Tabari]’’  

Learned Lessons from Surah al-Hijr Ayah: 78-84

• Stories of the Prophets of Allah, the reactions of their people to their messages, and the torment befell them act as practical lessons for those who want to know the evil end of disobeying Allah and His messengers.

• Allah destroyed the people of Shuaib because they disbelieved in Allah and disobeyed their messenger.

• The punishment of Allah must be feared. 

• The remains of the cities of the people of Prophet Shuaib and Saleh still exist so that people may learn lessons from their evil end.

• Disbelief in one messenger of Allah is equal to disbelief in all messengers because their fundamental message is the same, namely, worshipping Allah alone and prohibiting worshipping other gods besides Allah.

• Wealth, strong bodies, and fortified castles will not avail when the punishment of Allah befalls the disbelievers. 

• It is not recommended to visit the remains of the people whom Allah punished. 

Quran, English Translation of Surah al-Hijr

Quran, Tafsir ibn Kathir, Surah al-Hijr

Towards Understanding the Quran, Surah al-Hijr

Tafsir of Surah Al-Hijr Ayah: 45 -50 The reward of the Righteous

Umm Haram bint Milhan

 

Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, said when Messenger Muhammad would go to Quba’, he used to visit Umm Haram bint Milhan and she used to offer him some food. She was the wife of Ubada bin as-Samit. One day Messenger Muhammad went to her house and she offered him some food. Then he slept and woke up smiling. She said, ‘O Messenger of Allah, what makes you laugh?’ He said, ‘I saw some people from my nation fighting for Allah’s sake in my dream and they were sailing on the sea like kings sitting on their thrones.’ She said, ‘Invoke Allah so that I may be one of them. So he prayed to Allah that she would be one of them. Then he lay his head and slept. Then he woke up smiling. She asked him, ‘O Messenger of Allah, what makes you laugh?’ He said, ‘I saw some people from my nation fighting for Allah’s sake in my dream and they were sailing on the sea like kings sitting on their thrones.’ She said, ‘Invoke Allah that I may be one of them.’ Messenger Muhammad said, ‘You are one of the first ones.’ Later on, Umm Haram bin Milhan traveled by sea during the reign of Muawiyah bin Sufyan. When she came ashore, she fell from her riding animal and died. [Sahih Muslim] 

The tomb of Umm Haram is in Larnaca, Cyprus and a mosque is built beside it. The mosque is known as Hala Sultan Tekke.

Tafsir of Surah Al-Hijr Ayah: 61-77 The Punishment of the People of Lot

 

 The transgressors and the wrongdoers are heedless. They do not think that they will be punished for their crimes and wrongdoings because of their complete indulgence in their whims, their belief that they will not be punished for their sins, and that they think that they can escape Allah’s punishment. They have such an attitude because of their weak understanding and because Satan deceives them. However, the punishment of Allah will inevitably take place no matter how long it may be late. This was the case of the people of Prophet Lot. They transgressed the limits set by Allah, disbelieved in their messenger, and insisted on disbelief. Therefore, Allah punished them severely. 

When the messengers came to the folk of Lot, [Q 15: 61]

 He said, ‘Indeed, you are an unfamiliar people. [Q 15: 62]

They said, ‘Nay, but we have brought you what they have been doubting. [Q 15:63] 

And we have brought you the truth and we are surely truthful. [Q 15: 64] 

Set forth with your family during the night and walk behind them. Let not any of you look back and go to where you are commanded.’ [Q15:65] 

We revealed to him this decree: ‘The last remnants of those people would be wiped out in the morning.’ [Q15:66]

The people of the city came rejoicing. [Q 15:67] 

He said, ‘Indeed, these are my guests. So do not disgrace me. [Q 15: 68] 

Fear Allah and do not humiliate me.’ [Q 15: 69] 

They said, ‘Have we not forbidden you to entertain anyone?’ [Q 15: 70]

He said, ‘These are my daughters to marry if you want to do so.’

[Q 15: 71] 

By your life, indeed they are wandering blindly in their heedlessness. [Q15: 72] 

Then the Cry overtook them at sunrise. [Q 15: 73] 

We turned it upside down and rained on them stones of baked clay. [Q15:74]

Indeed, in that are signs for those who discern. [Q 15: 75] 

Indeed, it is on a frequently trodden road. [Q 15: 76] 

Surely in that is a sign for the believers. [Q 15: 77]

Relationship with the Previous Part

After narrating what happened between Prophet Ibrahim and his angelic guests, the surah narrates what happened between the angels and Prophet Lot and what the end of his people was.  

Tafsir

When the messengers came to the folk of Lot, [Q 15: 61] 

He said, ‘Indeed, you are an unfamiliar people. [Q 15: 62]

After the angelic messengers gave Prophet Ibrahim the good news of the birth of a knowledgeable son and their destination, they left him and went to the city of Prophet Lot and his people. 

The angels reached Prophet Lot’s city. When he saw them, he told them that he was unfamiliar with them because he did not see them before as well as he did not know why they came. 

Prophet Lot might feel uneasiness when he saw the angels, as he knew the sexual deviation of his people, namely, they were homosexual. He might fear that if his people knew about his guests, they might attack them and he could not defend them. The Quran refers to the anxiety that Prophet Lot felt when the angelic guests visited him, i.e. surah Hud: 77.

They said, ‘Nay, but we have brought you what they have been doubting. [Q 15:63] 

And we have brought you the truth and we are surely truthful. [Q 15: 64] 

To relieve the fear of Prophet Lot, the angels told him that they did not come to annoy or hurt him. Rather, they came to implement the torment that his deviant people used to doubt and which he used to warn them about. The angels told Prophet Lot that they were truthful about what they told him.

The fact that the angels emphatically told Prophet Lot that they brought him the truth and that they were truthful gives the impression that he was extremely sad when he saw them lest his people might practice homosexual intercourse with his guests and that he could not defend them.

After reassuring Prophet Lot, the angels told him what Allah, Exalted be He, commanded them to inform him.

Set forth with your family during the night and walk behind them. Let not any of you look back and go to where you are commanded.’ [Q15:65] 

The angels told Prophet Lot that he should leave the city with his believing followers during the last part of the night. They commanded him to walk behind his followers so that he would be certain that none of them remained behind as well as he would fully take care of them. Moreover, the angels commanded Prophet Lot and his followers not to look back to see the torment that would befall the deviant disobedient people.  They were commanded not to look back when leaving the city because a person leaving his hometown usually looks back at it as if he is saying, ‘Goodbye.’

[…and go to where you are commanded.]

The angels instructed Prophet Lot and his followers to go to the place where they were commanded to go. It was said that they were commanded to go to ash-Sham. Jordan or Egypt. In fact, there is no authentic narration that informs about the place where Prophet Lot and his followers were commanded to go. 

We revealed to him this decree: ‘The last remnants of those people would be wiped out in the morning.’ [Q15:66]

  ‘We revealed to him this decree.’ refers to the command to destroy the people of Lot.  

Allah revealed to Prophet Lot that He decreed that the disbelievers among his people would be destroyed in the morning. The torment of Allah would wipe out them and no one of them would remain.  

The context of the surah mentions first the punishment that would befall the people of Prophet Lot and their annihilation. Then it continues mentioning what happened when the people of Prophet Lot saw his guests.

When the people of Prophet Lot heard about the coming of young handsome guests to Prophet Lot, they were greatly happy and excited about the enticing game they found.

The people of the city came rejoicing. [Q 15:67] 

‘The people of the city’ refers to the inhabitants of Sodom, the city of the people of Prophet Lot. When the people of Prophet Lot knew about the coming of young guests to the house of Prophet Lot, they went there rejoicing.

Their reaction indicates that they reached an extreme extent of corruption, depravation, and deviation. They reached such a very low degree of immorality that they did not go to commit abominable obscenity individually. Rather, they all went together, rejoicing as if they found unlosable spoils. 

What was the reason for their rejoice and going to the house of Prophet Lot? It was committing a repugnant obscenity that no community committed before them, namely, homosexual intercourse. Indeed, when human souls become dissolute, they publicly commit lewd acts just like animals. 

           Prophet Lot stood hopelessly before his people’s deviation, trying to protect his guests from their evils.

He said, ‘Indeed, these are my guests. So do not disgrace me.’ [Q 15: 68] 

Fear Allah and do not humiliate me.’ [Q 15: 69] 

The people of Lot came hurriedly to his house when they knew about his guests to commit homosexual intercourse with them. Thus, Prophet Lot said, ‘O my people! These are my guests whom I should protect. Go out of my house. Do not disgrace me by attempting to commit homosexual intercourse with them. Fear Allah and do not humiliate me, as I am unable to protect them. You know that the honor of the guest is part of the honor of his host. Fear Allah lest His punishment should befall you.’

Prophet Lot said, ‘my guests’ since he did not know that his guests were angels who came in the form of human beings. 

Instead of awakening traces of magnanimity in the souls of Lot’s people by his earnest appeal, they shamelessly reprimanded Prophet Lot for hosting those men. They reacted with him as if he was the criminal, who prepared the crime scene and forcefully drove them to commit it.  

They said, ‘Have we not forbidden you to entertain anyone?’ [Q 15: 70]

The interrogation is for criticism. Insolently, the people of Lot said, ‘Have we not forbidden you to entertain anyone in your house? Have we not forbidden you to prevent us from practicing sex with men? How do you dare to prevent us from what we want to do with your guests though you know what we want from them?’

Indeed, their reaction is the usual reaction of the tyrants everywhere throughout history.  They shamelessly blame the righteous for their upright conduct as if they were the wrongdoers. 

Though the statement of Lot’s people was heinous, he did not lose hope and tried his best to defend his guests and prevent them from practicing homosexual intercourse with his guests. 

He said, ‘These are my daughters to marry if you want to do so.’

[Q 15: 71] 

My daughters refer to married women and unmarried women, who are competent for marriage, in Lot’s tribe. Prophet Lot attributed the women to himself because every prophet is regarded as the father of his nation in respect of compassion and care. Some scholars say that Prophet Lot meant his daughters. Logically, his daughters would not be sufficient for a group of men, but the women of his tribe are many and would be sufficient for a group of men.

[…to marry if you want to do so.]

This statement of Prophet Lot implies that he doubted that his people would accept marriage to satisfy their sexual desire, as they were corrupt and deviant. They favored unlawful sexual intercourse over lawful sexual intercourse.  

When Prophet Lot saw the excitement of his people and their insistence on committing homosexual intercourse with his guests, he guided his people to what agrees with sound human nature. Thus, he offered them to marry women from his tribe, who are regarded as his daughters. 

By your life, indeed they are wandering blindly in their heedlessness. [Q15: 72] 

The address in the ayah is to Prophet Muhammad. ‘O honored Prophet! I ‘Allah’ swear by your life that the disbelievers among your people are wandering blindly in their heedlessness, just like the deviant, misguided people before them, such as the people of Prophet Lot.’

Abdul-Allah bin Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him, said, ‘Allah has not created a human being that is more honored by Him than Prophet Muhammad. I have never heard that Allah swore by the life of any person except by the life Prophet Muhammad. Allah, Exalted be He, said, ‘By your life, indeed they are wandering blindly in their heedlessness. [Q15: 72] 

The statement was addressed to the Prophet Muhammad amidst the story of Prophet Lot. It implied consolation to Messenger Muhammad to show him that admonition is useless with corrupt people. 

Then the story the people of Prophet Lot is concluded with mentioning their horrible end. 

Then the Cry overtook them at sunrise. [Q 15: 73]

 We turned it upside down and rained on them stones of baked clay. [Q15:74]

After Lot and his followers left their city, a horrible cry from heaven came. It annihilated the corrupt people at sunrise. Allah, the Able, turned upside down their city and rained on its deviant people stones of baked clay that destroyed them all.

We revealed to him this decree: ‘The last remnants of those people would be wiped out in the morning.’ [Q15:66] This Ayah mentions that the torment began to befall the people of Lot in the morning [Then the Cry overtook them at sunrise.] [Q 15: 73]  This ayah mentions that their destruction ended at sunrise. 

In sum, the torment of the people of Lot included a horrible cry that turned upside down their city and rain of stones of back clay.

Then the ayat mention some lessons from the story of Prophets Ibrahim and Lot. 

Indeed, in that are signs for those who discern. [Q 15: 75] 

Indeed, there are clear signs and proofs, denoting the excellent end of the obedient and horrible end of the disobedient deviant people, in the stories of Prophets Ibrahim and Lot for people who perceptively discern and ponder on facts and events. They use their contemplation to find out the right path and follow it. 

The ayah implies criticism to people who see signs and proofs, indicating the Oneness of Allah and His perfect ability, but they do not learn lessons from them because of their corrupt souls and heedless minds.

Indeed, it is on a frequently trodden road. [Q 15: 76] 

The city of Sodom where the people of Lot lived is located along a frequently trodden road between Hejaz and ash-Sham. 

The intended meaning is to remind the people of Prophet Muhammad, who used to pass by this destroyed city and every deviant people of the horrible end of the deviant corrupt people so that they stop disbelieving in Allah and they learn lessons from what happened to former disbelieving nations and embrace Islam.  

Surely in that is a sign for the believers. [Q 15: 77]

The ayah gives a general statement about what is mentioned in the previous part, namely, the stories of Prophet Ibrahim and Lot.

Indeed, what is mentioned earlier denotes the happy end of the believers and the evil end of the disbelievers for the truthful believers. They benefit from the lessons and admonitions.  

Learned Lessons from Surah al-Hijr Ayah 61-77

• Prophet Lot did not know that his guests were angels just as Prophet Ibrahim did not know their real identities. 

• It is not recommended to remain for a long time in a place where Allah destroyed the disbelieving nations. When passing by such places, one should hurry because they are places where the anger of Allah befell the disbelievers.

• Allah, Exalted be He, prohibited Prophet Lot and his followers from looking back to see the torment befalling their people so that they would not sympathize with them, hurry in their walk, and leave the city before morning.

• The insistence of the people of Lot on committing homosexual intercourse was conclusive proof of their disbelief, misguidance, and deviation.

• When Prophet Lot told his people to marry women from his tribe, he instructed them to practice lawful sexual relationship and avoid unlawful sexual relationship.

• Allah, Exalted be He, swore by the life of Prophet Muhammad. This indicates his great rank with Allah. 

• The punishment of the people of Lot was a horrible cry. It befell them at dawn, turning their city upside down and pelting rain of stones of baked clay on them. 

• The stories of Prophets Ibrahim and Lot have lessons and admonitions for people to reflect on the proofs and signs of Allah and learn from them. 

Quran, English Translation of Surah al-Hijr

Quran, Tafsir ibn Kathir, Surah al-Hijr

Tafsir Towards Understanding the Quran, Surah al-Hijr

Tafsir of Surah al-Hijr Ayah: 1-9 No Punishment without Warning

Tafsir of Surah Al-Hijr Ayah: 51- 60 The Story of the Guests of Prophet Ibrahim

 

         The prophets of Allah receive the revelation from Allah through the angel Gabriel, a truthful dream, or angels, who come to them in the form of human beings. The Prophet will know their true nature after some conversation. This variation is to help the prophet feel at ease with the divine revelation. 

Tell them about the guests of Ibrahim. [Q 15: 51] 

When they came to him, they said, ‘Peace be upon you.’ He said, ‘Indeed, we are afraid of you.’ [Q 15: 52] 

They said, ‘Do not be afraid. We bring you good news of a knowledgeable son.’ [Q 15: 53] 

He said, ‘Do you bring me good news though old age has come upon me? So what good news you are giving me!’ [Q 15: 54] 

They said, ‘We have given you good news of the truth. So do not be one of the despairing.’ [Q 15: 55] 

He said, ‘No one despairs of the mercy of His Lord but the misguided.’ [Q 15: 56]

He said, ‘What is the matter you have come for, O messenger?’ [Q15:57]

They said, ‘We have been sent to a sinful people, [Q 15:58]

except the family of Lot. Indeed, we will save them all, [Q15: 59]

but his wife, we have ordained that she would surely be of the doomed. [Q15: 60]

Relationship with the Previous Part

The beginning of the surah confirms prophet-hood. Then it mentions proofs denoting Allah’s Oneness, the occurrence of the Day of Judgment, and the conditions of righteous and the misguided people. Then the surah mentions some stories of Allah’s prophets to motivate the listeners to obey Allah and warn them of disobeying Him.

 

Tafsir

Tell them about the guests of Ibrahim. [Q 15: 51] 

O Messenger! Tell My slaves about the story of the guests of Ibrahim. Indeed, it is an amazing story, containing beneficial lessons. The guests of Prophet Ibrahim were angels. They visited him in the form of human beings.  

Then the ayat mention the conversation that took place between Prophet Ibrahim and his angelic guests. 

When they came to him, they said, ‘Peace be upon you.’ He said, ‘Indeed, we are afraid of you.’ [Q 15: 52] 

When the angelic guests came to Prophet Ibrahim, they saluted him saying ‘Peace be upon you.’  Prophet Ibrahim replied, saying, ‘Indeed, we are afraid of you.’ He used ‘we’ because he and his family were afraid of the guests.

Some reasons for the fear of Prophet Ibrahim were that the guests entered his house without asking for permission at the unusual time for a visit, and they did not eat from the food that he offered them. These reasons are mentioned in other surahs of the Quran. 

Then the ayat mention what the angelic guests said to Prophet Ibrahim to relieve his fear. 

They said, ‘Do not be afraid. We bring you good news of a knowledgeable son.’ [Q 15: 53] 

The angels said to Prophet Ibrahim that they came to give him the good news of the birth of a knowledgeable son, i.e. Isaac. The boy will be knowledgeable of the law of Allah, His commands, and prohibitions.  

He said, ‘Do you bring me good news though old age has come upon me? So what good news you are giving me!’ [Q 15: 54] 

Prophet Ibrahim was amazed at the news that he would have a son. He said to the angels ‘Do you bring me good news of the birth of a boy though I have reached old age. What good news you are giving me!’  

Prophet Ibrahim was amazed at the ability of Allah, as He would grant him and his wife a child though they were very old. Giving birth to children at such age is an unusual matter. Another reason for Prophet Ibrahim's amazement is that a person may keenly want something but he does not have it at the usual time for having it. Then after the passage of a long time, this person receives the good news that he would attain that thing. He would be extremely happy. He might be astonished to the extent that he might say strange things, or might repeatedly ask about the reality of the matter to hear the good news to enjoy it again and again.  

They said, ‘We have given you good news of the truth. So do not be one of the despairing.’ [Q 15: 55] 

The angels said to Prophet Ibrahim that they gave him the good news of a confirmed fact that would certainly take place, namely, Allah would give him a son though he and his wife reached very old age. They told him not to despair of the mercy of Allah, as nothing could stand before the ability of Allah, Exalted be He. 

The angels’ reply implied assurance to Prophet Ibrahim and emphasis of the good news of the birth of the knowledgeable boy. 

He said, ‘No one despairs of the mercy of His Lord but the misguided.’ [Q 15: 56]

Prophet Ibrahim said to the angels that no one despairs of the mercy of Allah but those who follow the path of misguidance. He did not despair of the mercy of Allah but the great good news of having a son at such a very old age made him amazed. 

He said, ‘What is the matter you have come for, O messenger?’ [Q15:57]

Then Prophet Ibrahim asked the angels about the reason for their visit. He said, ‘What is the matter you have come for other than giving me the good news of the birth of the son? 

He asked them because he understood from the circumstances of the situation that there was another reason for their visit. If giving the good news was the reason, then only one angel would be sufficient. However, they were a group of angels. Thus, he understood that there was another reason for their coming. 

Then the angels told Prophet Ibrahim about the reason for their coming.

They said, ‘We have been sent to a sinful people, [Q 15:58]

except the family of Lot. Indeed, we will save them all, [Q15: 59]

but his wife, we have ordained that she would surely be of the doomed. [Q15: 60]

The angels told Prophet Ibrahim that Allah sent them to an extremely misguided, corrupt, sinful people, namely, the people of Lot. They said that the followers of Prophet Lot, who believed in him and did not commit the heinous deeds of his people, were not from the misguided and corrupt people.

Allah, Exalted be He, sent the angels to destroy the people of Lot, except his family and the believers. However, Allah, Exalted be He, ordained that the wife of Lot would be excluded from his family, and remain with the doomed people. 

The angels said ‘we have ordained’ though Allah, Exalted be He, was the one who ordained the destruction of the sinful people among the people of Prophet Lot and his wife. That is because they had a high rank with Allah. It is as if an authorized person by the king says, ‘We have commanded to do so and so’ though the king was the one who commanded. 

Learned Lessons From Surah al-Hijr Ayah: 51-60

• It is an etiquette that a guest should greet his host. 

• Prophet Ibrahim was amazed at the good news of the birth of a knowledgeable son because he and his wife were very old, but he did not despair of the mercy of Allah.

• Allah is able. Even in the absence of the usual means of procreation, Allah can give offspring to whomever He wants of His slaves.

• It is prohibited to despair of the mercy of Allah. 

• The anger of Allah is severe. Destruction will befall the transgressors. 

• The wife of Prophet Lot was destroyed with the wrongdoers and her relationship to her husband did not avail her as she followed the path of misguidance.

Quran Tafsir of Surah al-Hijr, Tafsir ibn Kathir

Quran Tafsir of Surah al-Hijr, Tafsir Towards Understanding the Quran

English Translation of Surah al-Hijr

Tafsir of Surah al-Hijr Ayah: 1-9 No Punishment without Warning