CHAPTER 11: HUD (HUD)

Introduction

The Surah consists of 123 verses. Verses 12, 17, and 114 were revealed in Medina, while the others were revealed in Mecca. The Surah is named as such because the life of Hud (a.s.) is narrated in verses 50-60. In addition to Hud, the stories of prophets such as Noah, Salih, Abraham, Lot, Shu’ayb, and Moses (a.s.) are also mentioned. (H. DONDUREN, 1/366)

Hadith: "Surah Hud and its sisters like al-Waqi'ah, al-Haqqah, al-Mursalat, an-Naba', and at-Takwir have made me grow old." (From Tirmidhi, O. CELIK, 2/533)

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

11/1-5 WORSHIP ALLAH ALONE

Translation

1- Elif. Lâm. Râ. (This is) a Book whose verses are perfected and then presented in detail from [one who is] Wise and Acquainted (Allah).

2- [Saying], "Worship not except Allah. (O My Prophet! Say:) Indeed, I am to you from Him a warner and a bringer of good tidings."

3- (O Mankind!) "And seek forgiveness of your Lord and then repent to Him, [and] He will let you enjoy a good provision for a specified term and give every doer of favor / good his favor / reward. But if you turn away (from faith), then indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a great Day."

4- (O Mankind!) To Allah is your return, and He is over all things competent.

5- (O Believers!) Unquestionably, they (the hypocrites and pagans, out of their hatred) fold up their chests to hide from him (the Messenger of Allah). Unquestionably, when they cover themselves with their garments, Allah knows what they conceal and what they declare. Indeed, He is Knowing of that within the breasts.

Commentary

(1) “Elif, lâm, râ. This is a Book whose verses are perfected and then presented in detail from [one who is] Wise and Acquainted (meaning Allah).” Perfected (muhkam) means it is far from any deficiency in every respect, has no possibility of being corrupted, and is extremely solid and orderly, or it contains sublime wisdom. (ELMALILI, 4/513) In the verses of this Book, rulings, stories, and advice are explicitly declared. Qur'anic verses are perfected in a sense; there is no question of deficiency, inconsistency, or weakness for them. Presented in detail (fussilat): It is divided into parts such as section by section, surah by surah, and verse by verse. (S. HAWWA, 7/17) This book was not produced by any human but was explained by Allah. The verses being made solid means they are free from corruption, deficiency, and contradiction in both wording and meaning. (QUR’AN WAY, 3/145)

The "explanation of verses" has been interpreted by commentators in three main ways: (a) The division of the Qur'an into suras, suras into verses, and verses into content covering rulings related to commands, prohibitions, halal, haram, reward, sin, punishment, and the like, as well as advice, stories, news, promises, and warnings. (b) The explanation of things that people need in their worldly and afterlife lives, such as halal and haram, in outline or detail as appropriate. (c) The fact that the Qur'anic verses were revealed in parts over twenty-three years according to needs. (From ELMALILI, QUR’AN WAY, 3/146)

(2) “Worship not except Allah.” The characteristics of the Holy Qur’an being perfected and explained in detail are for the purpose of realizing the goal of worshipping Almighty Allah. Seeking forgiveness and worship are inseparable things. The purpose of all legislative rulings, regulations, directives, and all kinds of manners in the Qur’an is worship. “And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” (Zariyat, 51/56; S. HAWWA, 7/20)

“Indeed, I am to you from Him a warner and a bringer of good tidings.” The fact that warning is mentioned before bringing good tidings in the verses is evidence that warning is a priority over good tidings for the heedless and the disbelievers. Indeed, the Messenger of Allah did this in the early periods of Islam. (..) The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) climbed the hill of Safa and said to the Quraysh, “I am the one who warns you before a severe punishment arrives.” When it comes to believers, bringing good tidings is prioritized. (S. HAWWA, 7/20, 21)

(3) “And seek forgiveness of your Lord and then repent to Him.” Hadith: “Repent to your Lord. I swear by Allah, I repent to my Lord a hundred times every day.” (From Muslim and Abu Dawud, S. HAWWA, 7/21) Hadith: “My heart also becomes occupied (with other things) sometimes. So much so that I seek forgiveness a hundred times a day.” (From Muslim and Abu Dawud, S. HAWWA, 7/21)

“May He give every possessor of virtue what he deserves.” Almighty Allah, in this verse, promises spiritual opportunities as well as material blessings to believers who live a lifestyle in accordance with His command—though not necessarily for every individual. Indeed, Allah the Almighty clearly states in the verse: “Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer—We will surely cause him to live a good life. And We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter] according to the best of what they used to do” (Nahl 16/97). It is understood from here that the happy lives of those who fulfill the requirements of taqwa and the conditions of repentance mean that the societies formed by such individuals will be happy and prosperous. Conversely, those who rebel against Allah and live in disbelief cannot benefit from life in a good way; even if they swim in material abundance, they cannot find peace and tranquility spiritually. In such a case, vice takes the place of virtue in the societies formed by these people, and morality, spirituality, and virtue can never be mentioned there. (M. DEMİRCI, 1/662)

Almighty Allah rewards those who believe and do righteous deeds with ten times (6/160), 700 times, or even more for their good deeds. (2/261). For those who commit sins, He only punishes them with the equivalent. (42/40). There is no portion to be given in the hereafter for those who die in disbelief and polytheism. (2/200, 3/77). Because they receive the reward for the good deeds they do in this world. (11/15, 46/20; I. KARAGOZ 3/393)

(4) The purpose of the “return to Allah” is the resurrection of people after the Doomsday, their gathering in the place of assembly (mahshar) and being held to account; as a result, the believers go to Paradise and the disbelievers go to Hell. (I. KARAGOZ 3/394)

(5) “Do you not see, they turn their chests to hide their enmity.” The pagans turning their backs on the Prophet (pbuh) is metaphorical, expressing that they do not accept the truths he brought from Allah and do not listen to this call. At the same time, it indicates that they have covered their minds and hearts with false beliefs and are therefore closed and insensitive to the truths. Indeed, such expressions are also used in the Holy Qur’an about the behavior of the disbelievers who did not accept Prophet Noah's call. (cf. Nuh 71/7; QUR’AN WAY, 3/147)

11/6-8 THE TRIAL OF MANKIND

Translation

6- And there is no creature moving on the earth but that its provision is upon Allah. (Allah) knows its dwelling place (on earth) and its place of storage (where it will be entrusted to the soil). All is in a clear Book (al-Lawh al-Mahfuz). [cf. 2/28; 6/59, 98; 29/17]

7- (O Mankind!) And it is He who created the heavens and the earth in six stages / periods—while His Throne was upon the water (the universe consisting of water, encompassing everything)—that He might test you as to which of you is best in deed. (O My Prophet!) And if you were to say to those who disbelieve, "Indeed, you will be resurrected after death," they would surely say, "This (Qur'an) is not but obvious magic (deception)." [cf. 18/7; 21/35; 41/11-12; 67/2]

8- (O My Prophet!) And if We should delay the punishment from them until a limited (short) time, they would surely say, "What detains it (why doesn't it come)?" Unquestionably, on the Day it comes to them, it will not be averted from them, and they will be enveloped by what they used to ridicule.

Commentary

(6) “There is no creature moving on the earth but that its provision is upon Allah.” The provision, strength, nourishment, and all necessary conditions and causes for the life of both humans and other living beings belong to Allah; they are from Him. The reaching of that provision to the creature, naturally or through will, is under the undertaking of Allah. (ELMALILI, 4/518)

“(Allah) knows its dwelling place and its place of storage.” He knows where it settles and where it stays as a trust. He knows where it stands and sits, as well as where it travels and roams. He knows the loins and the womb. He knows where it sleeps and where it will die. He provides its sustenance accordingly. (ELMALILI, 4/519) The "clear Book" refers to al-Lawh al-Mahfuz (the Preserved Tablet). (QUR’AN WAY, 3/148; ELMALILI, 4/519)

(7) “It is He who created the heavens and the earth in six stages.” “His Throne was upon the water.” This is evidence that the Throne (Arsh) and the water were created before the heavens and the earth. The Throne was above and the water was below. (S. HAWWA, 7/23, 24) Since the nature of the Throne and the content of the "water" mentioned here are not known, the phrase "Allah's Throne being upon the water" remains mutashabih (metaphorical/allegorical), and its exact meaning is not definitively known. (QUR’AN WAY, 3/149)

In this verse, the Lord mentioned creating the heavens and the earth in six days after creating water, the most essential substance for life. As ELMALILI stated, this refers to the initial creation. As the Prophet (pbuh) said: “Allah existed, and there was nothing with Him.” (Bukhari). When He willed to create the heavens and the earth, He commanded them, “Come, willingly or unwillingly.” They replied, “We come willingly” (Fussilat 41/11). Thus, it is understood that the expression “His Throne was upon water” is a metaphorical statement. Following the creation, He stated: “Then He established Himself above the Throne” (Araf 7/54), taking the administration of the universe under His disposal. (M. DEMİRCI, 1/666)

The concept of the Throne (Arsh) expresses loftiness and height. It is an entity that encompasses the entire universe, whose content human intellect cannot grasp, and below which lie the heavens, Paradise, the Sidra, and the Kursi. It is a metaphor for sovereignty, dominion, and power. “Allah's Throne” means His reign, authority, and absolute power. (I. KARAGOZ 3/398)

It is understood from the Qur’an that whatever is on earth was created for humans (2/29), everything in the heavens and earth was placed at human service (Jathiyah 45/13), and humans were created for worship (Zariyat 51/56). Thus, the universe was created to enable the worship of Allah. All beings besides humans also submit to the divine will in a sense. (QUR’AN WAY, 3/149)

Hadith: “Allah was, and there was nothing other than Him. His Throne was upon the water. He wrote everything in the Preserved Tablet. He created the heavens and the earth.” (Bukhari; I. KARAGOZ 3/399). Hadith: “Allah ordained the destinies of the creatures fifty thousand years before He created the heavens and the earth, and His Throne was upon the water.” (Muslim; I. KARAGOZ 3/399)

(8) “If We should delay the punishment from them until a limited time...” The pagans mocked the warnings by saying, “What detains it?” implying that if the warnings were true, they should have been punished already. The answer to them is: “Unquestionably, on the Day it comes to them, it will not be averted.” No one will be able to prevent or deflect it. The punishment they mocked will envelop them from all sides. (S. HAWWA, 7/25)

The Meccan pagans would mock news of the hereafter and the destruction of past nations, demanding the punishment come immediately. Some even said, “O Allah, if this Qur'an is the truth from You, then rain down upon us stones from the sky or bring us a painful punishment” (8/32). The reason it did not come immediately was explained as: “But Allah would not punish them while you, [O Muhammad], are among them” (8/33). This verse warns that once it arrives, it can never be removed. (I. KARAGOZ 3/401, 402)

11/9-11 TRIAL WITH BLESSINGS

 Translation

9- And if We give man a taste of mercy from Us (a blessing such as health and wealth) and then We withdraw it from him, indeed, he is (forgetting the previous blessings) despairing and ungrateful.

10- But if We give him a taste of favor (and ease) after adversity (and hardship) has touched him, he will surely say, "Evils have departed from me" (forgetting to be grateful). Indeed, he is exultant and boastful.

11- Except for those who are patient (through hardships) and do righteous deeds; those will have forgiveness and great reward.

Commentary

(9) “And if We give man a taste of mercy from Us (blessings such as health, security, high status, or wealth) and then We withdraw it from him, indeed, he is despairing and ungrateful.” He loses all hope for the future. He does not say, "Allah will give again." He also immediately forgets the past; he does not show gratitude by saying, "If He did not give today, He gave yesterday." He becomes completely ungrateful, even going so far as to deny all the blessings previously given. He falls into sin, and repenting or seeking forgiveness does not even occur to him. (ELMALILI, 4/527)

(10) “But if We give him a taste of favor after adversity has touched him.” For example, he recovers while sick, becomes rich while poor, gains strength while weak, or is reappointed to an important duty after being dismissed. (ELMALILI, 4/527) “He will surely say: ‘Evils have departed from me.’” He says calamities have moved away, but he does not give thanks or take a lesson. (S. HAWWA, 7/25)

“He is exultant and boastful.” He is joyful and spoiled. The fear of Allah does not even come to his mind. Instead of giving thanks, he shows off and becomes arrogant. (...) In short, man is never free from either blessings or difficulties in this world; he spends his life in abundance or deprivation. Sometimes he is tested with absence, and sometimes with abundance. By nature, a human takes pleasure from mercy and blessings and feels sorrow and pain due to their loss. (...) Conversely, when he tastes a blessing after experiencing deprivation and distress, he feels relieved as if he will never suffer again and as if that blessing were solely the result of his own labor and discovery; he becomes boastful and arrogant, confident in his future. The psychology of mocking the Qur’an and sacred things mentioned earlier is related to this state of mind. (ELMALILI, 4/527, 528)

Both situations are a separate good for the believer. As our Prophet (pbuh) stated, such a situation and such a double happiness are only possible for believers. (S. KUTUB, 6/45, 46)

Hadith: “The affair of the believer is amazing! The whole of his affairs are good for him. This is not the case for anyone except a believer. If something pleasing happens to him, he is grateful, and that is good for him. If something unpleasant happens to him, he is patient, and that is good for him.” (Muslim; O. CELIK, 2/541)

(11) “Except for those who are patient and do righteous deeds.” They do not lose hope or show ingratitude during times of trouble and distress. When they find relief after these difficult times have passed, they do not boast or go astray. Therefore, they become worthy of Allah’s favor and forgiveness: “For them there is forgiveness” for their sins “and a great reward,” which is Paradise. (S. HAWWA, 7/26)

11/12-14 THE QUR’AN CHALLENGES

Translation

12- (O My Messenger!) Then would you possibly desert some of what is revealed to you, and your chest be straitened by it because they (the idolaters) say, "Why was there not sent down to him a treasure or come with him an angel?" You are only a warner (against Allah’s punishment). And Allah is Disposer (Wakil) of all things (He will give them their punishment). [cf. 15/97-98; 25/7-8]

13- Or do they say, "He invented it"? (O My Prophet!) Say, "Then bring ten surahs like it that have been invented and call upon [for assistance] whomever you can besides Allah, if you should be truthful (in your claim)." [cf. 2/23-24; 10/38; 17/88]

14- (O Believers!) And if they (the pagans) do not respond to your [call], then know that it (the Qur’an) was revealed only by the knowledge (and permission) of Allah and that there is no deity except Him. Then, will you be Muslims (surrendering to Him)?

Commentary

(12) "Your chest be straitened by it." This means you might feel distressed while reciting and conveying some of the revealed verses to them. Indeed, the leaders of Mecca said, "If only these mountains of Mecca would turn into gold," while others said, "If only an angel would come with him to witness his prophethood so we could see it." But never be distressed and do not abandon [the message]. Recite and convey to them whatever is revealed to you. Do not give any importance to their idle talk. (ELMALILI, 4/528)

There is a great lesson in these commands for anyone who abandons the Book of Allah, in whole or in part, out of fear of "what will people say?" (S. HAWWA, 7/29)

"You are only a warner." Your only duty is to warn them and convey the message with the revelation that comes. Even if they reject or belittle your message, do not mind and do not grieve. You are not responsible for this. (S. HAWWA, 7/29)

"Allah is Disposer of all things." Rely on Him and trust Him in every matter. He protects you; if He wills, He can send a treasure or an angel. Indeed, later in the Battle of Badr, He sent not just one, but thousands of angels. (ELMALILI, 4/528)

(13) "Then bring ten surahs like it that have been invented." The pagans were asked by this verse to bring ten surahs. Since they were unable to do so, this challenge was reduced to a single surah in the verses of Baqara 2/23 and Yunus 10/35. When they were still unable to do it, they took up arms. But they were not successful in that either. (H. DONDUREN, 1/387)

Mislihi: Create ten invented surahs that are like it in beauty, fluency, wording, style, eloquence, and meaning. (S. HAWWA, 7/29)

(14) "Then know," O disbelievers, "that it (the Holy Qur’an) was revealed only with the knowledge of Allah." "Will you then be Muslims?" That is, surrender; enter into Islam. This is proof that accepting the miraculous nature (i'jaz) of the Holy Qur’an requires two things: First, the unification (tawhid) of Allah the Almighty, and second, surrender. This is what worship is. (S. HAWWA, 7/30)

The question "Will you then be Muslims?" is in the sense of a command, meaning "Become Muslims." Since they were unable to bring ten surahs and it became clear that the Qur’an is the word of Allah, it is necessary to accept the information given in the Qur’an and, in this context, to accept that Allah is the only deity, the Qur’an is the true book, Prophet Muhammad is the true prophet, and Islam is the true religion. (I. KARAGOZ 3/407)

11/15-17 THOSE WHO DESIRE THE WORLDLY LIFE AND ITS ADORNMENT

Translation

15- Whoever desires (only) the worldly life and its adornment (and sovereignty), We will give them full compensation for their deeds therein, and they will not be deprived therein of any right. [cf. 17/18-21; 42/20]

16- Those are the ones for whom there is not in the Hereafter but the Fire. And lost is what they did therein (good deeds in the world), and worthless is what they used to do.

17- Is one who is upon clear evidence from his Lord (the Qur'an) like those who desire only worldly blessings and do not believe? While Jibril recites the Qur'an from Allah (to Muhammad). And before it was the Scripture of Moses (the Torah) as a guide and a mercy (which foretold the coming of Muhammad as a prophet). These (Prophet and the believers) believe in the Qur'an (and for them is Paradise). But whoever disbelieves in it from the groups—the Fire is his promised destination. (O My Prophet!) So be not in doubt about it. Indeed, it is the truth from your Lord, but most of the people do not believe.

Commentary

(15) “Whoever desires the worldly life and its adornment, We will give them full compensation for their deeds therein.” That is, if they desire the things that beautify and adorn worldly life, such as health, security, abundance of provision, many children, leadership, and similar things, We give them the fruits of worldly life in full. (I. H. BURSEVI, 8/308)

“For them there is nothing in the Hereafter but the Fire” and “all they did there has gone to waste, and their works have become worthless.” This verse is about the disbelievers. The deeds of disbelievers, such as goodness, observing the rights of relatives, giving charity, building bridges, etc., are only acceptable if they become Muslims. Their punishment is not lightened because of these deeds. (I. H. BURSEVI, 8/309) There will be no reward for what they have done because, through their actions, they did not seek Allah's pleasure or the home of the Hereafter. What they wanted was the world, and their desires were given in full in the world. Essentially, there is no reward for a deed that is void (batil). These two verses are general for everyone who seeks the worldly life with their deeds; whether they are disbelievers or Muslims, the situation does not change. (S. HAWWA, 7/31)

“Is one who is upon clear evidence from his Lord like the others?” That is, can the person who possesses all these features of faith be similar to those spoiled and mocking disbelievers? (ELMALILI, 4/531) Can the one who wants the worldly life be like the one who is upon clear evidence from his Lord? Just as these people cannot be equal in terms of rank and position, those who are not upon evidence from their Lord cannot even be close to the others. There is a clear and distinct difference between the two groups. (S. HAWWA, 7/32)

(16) (...) For an act of worship to gain value in the sight of Allah, four conditions must be present together: (a) Faith, (b) Intention, (c) Sincerity (Ikhlas), (d) Compliance with the Qur'an and Sunnah. (...) If these four conditions are not found in any worship, that worship goes to waste and becomes invalid. (I. KARAGOZ 3/409)

(17) “A witness from Him follows it, and before it was the Book of Moses as a guide and a mercy.” The "witness following it" refers to the pure Sharias that Allah revealed to the prophets. The completer, organizer, and last of these Sharias is the Sharia of Muhammad (pbuh), and the Holy Qur'an has informed us of this Sharia. (S. HAWWA, 7/32)

“They believe in it; but whoever of the various groups disbelieves in it, the Fire is his destination.” The verse declares that those who deny our Prophet (pbuh) and the Holy Qur'an will definitely go to hell. Indeed, the Messenger of Allah clarified this issue as follows: “By Him in Whose Hand is the soul of Muhammad, any person from this Ummah—be they Jew or Christian—who hears of my prophethood and then dies without believing in the Qur'an sent with me, will certainly be among the people of Hell.” (From Muslim; O. CELIK, 2/545)

“Be not in doubt about it; it is a truth from your Lord, but most people do not believe.” Reason testifies in favor of this religion. The miraculous nature (i'jaz) of the Holy Qur'an testifies in favor of this religion. The revelations sent down before it testify in favor of this religion. In this case, only the wrongdoers, the arrogant, and the transgressors abandon believing in such a religion. (S. HAWWA, 7/33)

11/18-24 ARE THEY EVER EQUAL?

Translation

18- And who is more unjust than he who invents a lie against Allah? Those will be presented before their Lord, and the witnesses (the angels) will say, "These are the ones who lied against their Lord." Unquestionably, the curse of Allah is upon the wrongdoers.

19- Those (pagans) who avert [people] from the way of Allah and seek to make it [seem] deviant. And they are disbelievers in the Hereafter.

20- Those were not causing [Allah] failure on earth, nor did they have besides Allah any protectors. For them the punishment will be multiplied. They were unable to hear (the divine truths) and they did not see (the reality).

21- Those are the ones who have lost themselves, and lost from them is what they used to invent (as false deities).

22- Assuredly, it is they who, in the Hereafter, will be the greatest losers.

23- Indeed, those who have believed and done righteous deeds and humbled themselves to their Lord—those are the companions of Paradise; they will abide eternally therein.

24- The example of the two parties (the disbelievers and the believers) is like the blind and deaf, and the seeing and hearing. Are they equal in comparison? Then, will you not remember?

Commentary

(18) "Who could be more unjust than he who invents a lie against Allah?" The "question" in the verse is not for gaining information but for interrogation. Allah does not need to ask questions to gain information, for He knows everything people do: "And We shall certainly relate to them (their deeds) with knowledge, for We were never absent" (7/7). (I. KARAGOZ 3/412)

"They will be presented before their Lord, and the witnesses (the angels) will say: These are the ones who lied against their Lord." These wrongdoers will be brought before Allah in the Hereafter to account for the injustice they committed in the world. At that time, witnesses—namely angels, prophets, scholars, and righteous believers (cf. 16/84; 4/41)—will testify that they invented lies and slanders against Allah and will call for them to be cursed. For, in addition to their crimes, they tried to keep people away from the path of Allah, to show this straight path as crooked, and they denied the Hereafter. (QUR’AN WAY, 3/159, 160)

"And the witnesses say; These are the ones who invented lies against their Lord." That is, those among the angels and prophets who will testify will bear witness that these are the ones who slandered Allah by claiming He "took children or partners." (S. HAWWA, 7/38)

(19) "The pagans are those who prevent people from the way of Allah (Islam) and seek to make the way of Allah appear crooked." Making Islam appear crooked, disliking the rulings of the religion, and criticizing them constitutes disbelief. Accepting the existence of the Hereafter is an indispensable condition for being a believer. One who does not believe in the Hereafter becomes a disbeliever. (I. KARAGOZ 3/414)

(20) "They will not be able to cause [Allah] failure on earth." On the contrary, they are always under the crushing power of that Supreme Being, in His grasp and under His sovereignty. If He wills, He is capable of taking revenge on them in the worldly life even before the Hereafter. "They have no protectors besides Allah." They have no helpers to save them from Allah's punishment or to prevent it. No one will take it upon themselves to help them by befriending them or trying to protect them from Allah's penalty. However, He only willed to give them time and postpone their punishment until that day. (S. HAWWA, 7/39)

"Their punishment will be multiplied." They will face many calamities in this world; immorality will completely envelop society, and hearts that forget the purpose of creation and seek happiness only in matter will never find true peace. But the deniers will face the real punishment in the Hereafter, and no mercy will ever be shown to them. (M. KISA, 1/241)

(21) "Those are the ones who have lost themselves." Because they have been placed in a blazing fire where they will suffer. The heat of the burning punishment will never decrease even for the blink of an eye, nor will their torment be paused. "What they invented" refers to flashy words and falsehoods regarding beliefs and other matters. (S. HAWWA, 7/39)

(23) "Indeed, those who believe, do righteous deeds, and humble themselves to their Lord... They are the people of Paradise. They will abide there eternally." These are people who believe with their hearts and perform righteous deeds with their limbs, words, and actions. They perform good deeds both verbally and physically by obeying in faith and abandoning forbidden things (munkar). Because of this, they will be the heirs of countless blessings such as high mansions, lined-up thrones, gardens with tree branches brought near for gathering fruits, elevated couches, good and beautiful spouses, various fruits, foods they desire, and looking upon and seeing the Creator of the heavens and the earth. They will remain in these blessings forever. (S. HAWWA, 7/40)

(24) "The situation of these two groups is like the blind and deaf versus the seeing and hearing. Are they ever equal? Do you still not take a lesson?" The blind and deaf are the disbelievers, while the seeing and hearing are the believers. The reason for this comparison is that because the disbelievers do not look at the beings Allah created with an eye for taking a lesson and do not listen to the verses recited to them in order to reflect, their eyes have become like blind ones and their ears like deaf ones. (I. H. BURSEVI, 8/327)

11/25-36 NUH (A.S.) AND HIS PEOPLE

Translation

25- And We had certainly sent Nuh to his people, [saying], "Indeed, I am to you a clear warner (against the punishment).

26- That you not worship except Allah. Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a painful day."

27- So the eminent among those who disbelieved from his people said, "We do not see you but as a man like ourselves, and we do not see that any have followed you except our lowest (people) who are immature of opinion. And we do not see in you any merit over us; rather, we think you are liars."

28- He said, "O my people, have you considered: if I should be upon clear evidence from my Lord while He has given me mercy (prophethood) from Himself which has been made obscure to you, should we compel you to it while you are averse to it?"

29- "And O my people, I ask not of you for it any wealth. My reward is not but from Allah. And I am not one to drive away those who have believed. Indeed, they will meet their Lord, but I see that you are a people behaving ignorantly."

30- "And O my people, who would protect me from Allah if I drove them away? Then will you not remember?"

31- "And I do not say to you that I have the depositories [containing the provision] of Allah or that I know the unseen, nor do I say I am an angel, nor do I say of those upon whom your eyes look down that Allah will never grant them any good. Allah is most knowing of what is within their souls. Indeed, I would then be among the wrongdoers."

32- They said, "O Nuh, you have disputed with us and been frequent in dispute of us. So bring us what you threaten us with, if you should be of the truthful."

33- He said, "Allah will only bring it to you if He wills, and you will not cause [Him] failure."

34- "And my advice will not benefit you—although I wished to advise you—if Allah should intend to leave you in your deviation. He is your Lord, and to Him you will be returned."

35- Or do they say [about Prophet Muhammad], "He invented it"? Say, "If I have invented it, then upon me is [the consequence of] my crime; but I am innocent of what [crimes] you commit."

36- And it was revealed to Nuh that, "No one will believe from your people except those who have already believed, so do not be distressed by what they have been doing."

Commentary

(25) "And We had certainly sent Nuh to his people (as a prophet). (He said): 'Indeed, I am to you a clear warner (against the punishment).'" Prophet Nuh (a.s.) is the first of the five great prophets (Ulul 'Azm) from whom a firm covenant was taken (33/7, 46/35). He lived for 950 years and invited people to the religion of Allah (29/14). His idolatrous people did not accept his invitation and accused him of deviance (7/60). They threatened to stone him to death (26/116). He pleaded to Allah, saying, "I am overcome, so help me" (54/10), and prayed, "Save the believers." While those who boarded the ark were saved, the others drowned in the flood (26/117-120). (QUR’AN WAY, 3/163, 164)

(27) "So the eminent among those who disbelieved from his people... 'and we do not see that any have followed you except our lowest who followed you without thinking at the beginning.'" The reason they viewed the believers as "the lowest" was their poverty. According to them, honorable people were only those with status and wealth. (S. HAWWA, 7/47, from Nasafi) Honor was measured by wealth, the size of the tribe, and the number of men. (QUR’AN WAY, 3/165)

Mele’: This word in the Qur'an refers to the notables, the aristocracy, and the elite class. Throughout history, it is seen that the elite group always stood against the prophets. Usually holding the blessings of power, this group opposed the prophet to avoid losing their interests and belittled the faithful. (H. DONDUREN, 1/387) Most of those who believed in the prophets were slaves, the poor, and the oppressed, drawn by the promise of a just and egalitarian social order and eternal happiness in the afterlife. Because the mission undertaken by the prophets had a reformist character, it was not welcomed by privileged individuals. (QUR’AN WAY, 3/165)

"Rather, we think you are liars." What Prophet Nuh's people said is what disbelievers have said throughout all ages. They accuse the people of faith of vulgarity, narrow-mindedness, having no merit, and lying in their claim of devotion to Islam. (S. HAWWA, 7/47, 48)

(28) "Should we compel you to it while you are averse to it?" This question points out that there is no compulsion in religion and that the duty of the prophets is only to convey the message. Indeed, no prophet resorted to compulsion in religion. This is one of the proofs showing that they are true prophets. (QUR’AN WAY, 3/165, 166)

(29) "And I am not one to drive away those who have believed." Throughout history, the leaders of disbelieving societies have belittled the poor who followed the prophet. The prominent pagans during the time of the Prophet (pbuh) exhibited the same behavior toward the poor believers (En’am 6/52). (QUR’AN WAY, 3/166) In the sight of Allah, the value of people is not according to their wealth or status, but according to their faith, worship, and righteous deeds. Therefore, looking down on believers for being poor and driving them away is contrary to the true religion, sound reason, and human dignity. (I. KARAGOZ 3/422)

(31) "(If I drove them away just so you would believe), I would then surely be among the wrongdoers." With these words, Prophet Nuh taught a steadfast divine position; he taught us not to exchange believers for disbelievers and not to enter into bargaining on this issue, regardless of the status of the believers. This is a great lesson for those who call to the way of Allah (da'wah). Sometimes, those at the lowest level of society may accept the call. However, such people must be the most valuable people to the caller. He should not leave them and incline toward others. (S. HAWWA, 7/50, 51) According to the understanding of ignorant pagans, for someone to be a prophet, they must be rich, know the unseen (ghayb), and especially be an angel. Indeed, the pagans during the Prophet's (pbuh) time also asked him to turn a mountain into gold, find lost things, heal incurable patients, and bring down an angel from heaven to speak with them (En’am 6/50). (QUR’AN WAY, 3/167)

(34) "If Allah should intend to leave you in your deviation..." It is not correct to interpret this as "Allah leading people astray" by force. For Allah does not want anyone to be a disbeliever, deviant, or rebellious. This would be inconsistent with Almighty Allah inviting people to faith, worship, and obedience through prophets. (I. KARAGOZ 3/425)

(36) "So do not be distressed by what they have been doing." Although Prophet Nuh invited his people for a long time, very few believed. His people mocked him (claiming he gave up prophethood to become a carpenter), declared him insane, and threatened to stone him (Mu’minun 23/25, Shu’ara 26/116). Left with no choice, Prophet Nuh prayed to Allah for the destruction of the deniers (23/26, 26/117-118, 71/26-27). Almighty Allah accepted his prayer and informed his prophet that He would destroy all the deniers (21/76, 37/75). (QUR’AN WAY, 3/171)

11/37-49 THE FLOOD OF NUH

Translation

37- "And construct the ship under Our observation and Our inspiration and do not address Me concerning those who have wronged (for their salvation); indeed, they are [to be] drowned." [cf. 54/10; 71/26]

38- And he was constructing the ship, and whenever the eminent of his people passed by him, they ridiculed him. He said, "If you ridicule us, then we will ridicule you just as you ridicule.

39- And you are going to know who will get a punishment that will disgrace him and upon whom will descend an enduring punishment."

40- [So it was], until when Our command came and the oven gushed forth (water gushed from the earth), We said, "Load upon it of each [kind] two mates (male and female) and your family—except those about whom the word [of destruction] has preceded—and [also] those who have believed." And none had believed with him, except a few. [cf. 23/27; 26/119-121; 54/11-14]

41- And [Nuh] said, "Embark therein; in the name of Allah is its course and its anchorage. Indeed, my Lord is Forgiving and Merciful."

42- And it sailed with them through waves like mountains, and Nuh called to his son who was apart [from them], "O my son, come aboard with us and be not with the disbelievers."

43- [He] said, "I will take refuge on a mountain to protect me from the water." [Nuh] said, "There is no protector today from the decree of Allah, except for whom He gives mercy." And the waves came between them, and he was among the drowned.

44- And it was said, "O earth, swallow your water, and O sky, withhold [your rain]." And the water subsided, and the matter was accomplished, and the ship came to rest on the [mountain of] Judiyy. And it was said, "Away with the wrongdoing people."

45- And Nuh called to his Lord and said, "My Lord, indeed my son is of my family; and indeed, Your promise (to save my family) is true; and You are the most just of judges!" [cf. 69/11-12; 54/13-14; 95/8]

46- [Allah] said, "O Nuh, indeed he is not of your family (because of his disobedience); indeed, it is [a deed] other than righteous. So do not ask Me for that about which you have no knowledge. Indeed, I advise you lest you be among the ignorant."

47- [Nuh] said, "My Lord, I seek refuge in You from asking that of which I have no knowledge. And unless You forgive me and have mercy upon me, I will be among the losers."

48- It was said, "O Nuh, disembark in peace from Us and blessings upon you and upon nations [to descend] from those with you. But other nations We will grant enjoyment [for a time]; then there will touch them from Us a painful punishment."

49- That is from the news of the unseen which We reveal to you, [O Muhammad]. You knew it not, neither you nor your people, before this. So be patient; indeed, the [best] outcome is for the righteous (those who guard against evil).

Commentary

(40) “Until when Our command came and the oven gushed forth.” According to Ibn Abbas, the term tannur (oven) signifies the earth itself. Thus, the phrase implies the earth boiling over and water gushing forth (M. DEMİRCI, 1/683). The gates of heaven and earth were opened. Water erupted from the ground and poured from the sky. As described in Surah al-Qamar: "Then We opened the gates of the heavens with rain pouring down and caused the earth to burst with springs, so the waters met for a matter already predestined" (54/11-12). Allah commanded Nuh to take a pair of every animal, his family (except those who deserved drowning due to disbelief), and the other believers (QUR’AN WAY, 3/172).

"None had believed with him, except a few." Despite staying among them for 950 years (as mentioned in 29/14), only a very small group believed. There is no authentic report from the Prophet (pbuh) specifying the exact number of people on the ark (S. HAWWA, 7/54).

(41) "Embark therein; in the name of Allah is its course and its anchorage." This indicates the tradition (Sunnah) of all prophets to begin their tasks with the Basmalah. Thus, it is highly recommended in our Sharia to say Bismillah at the start of beneficial deeds (S. HAWWA, 7/60).

(43) "There is no protector today from the decree of Allah, except for whom He gives mercy." This suggests the flood was general/global, which is the popular view. Nuh’s prayer in Surah Nuh was: "My Lord, do not leave upon the earth from among the disbelievers a single inhabitant" (71/26). While there is debate on whether Nuh was sent to all humanity or just his tribe, it is certain the flood was comprehensive in the region where his people lived (ELMALILI, 4/540, 541).

(44) "And it was said: O earth, swallow your water..." The ship came to rest on Mount Judiyy. This mountain is located in Southeast Turkey, 32 km northeast of Cizre and 17 km from Şırnak. Historical evidence and reports support that this is the mountain mentioned in the verse (QUR’AN WAY, 3/173). The term "wrongdoers" (zalimun) indicates the reason for their destruction: polytheism (shirk) and rebellion against the prophet. The curse "Away with the wrongdoing people" signifies that Allah never accepts oppression and allows for the condemnation of oppressors (I. KARAGOZ 3/433).

(46) "O Nuh, indeed he is not of your family." This verse establishes that in Islam, being considered a family member requires unity in faith alongside blood or marital ties. Since Nuh’s son was a disbeliever, faith and disbelief could not unite (H. DONDUREN, 1/388).

(49) “...These are from the news of the unseen which We reveal to you.” This verse of evaluation and interpretation brings to light several purposes of the prophetic stories told in this surah. We can list these purposes as follows:

(1) There is a reality called "Revelation" (Wahi). The pagans deny this reality. The reason is that these stories of the prophets are a part of the realm of the "unseen" (ghayb). Neither our Prophet nor his kinsmen knew them before.

(2) The Islamic belief system has been the same and identical throughout history. This identity goes back to the period of Prophet Nuh, the second ancestor of humanity. Throughout this entire historical process, the same belief system appears before us. So much so that sometimes even the form of expression is almost the same.

(3) The deniers of the prophets have always repeated the same objections and the same accusations. However, many clear documents have refuted these objections and accusations. But these stale accusations and objections, which were proven to be groundless during the previous generation's period, are put on the market by the next generation as if they were new words.

(4) The good tidings and threats directed at people are realized point by point. Whatever the prophets say in their good tidings and threats comes out exactly. This story of the prophet we have read is one of the historical proofs of this reality.

(5) The prevailing laws of Almighty Allah do not change; they do not heed personal favor, they do not discriminate, and they do not show deviation. Always the "righteous" (muttaqun), those who guard against evil, reach the happy end.

(6) What the bond is that connects and integrates individuals and generations alike is emphasized. This bond is the bond of unity in faith. It is the bond that has connected all believers to the one Allah and the one Lord throughout history. For this bond to exist, all believers must unite and integrate under the exclusive and unrivaled sovereignty of Almighty Allah. (S. KUTUB, 6/82, 83)

11/50-60 PROPHET HUD (A.S.) AND THE PEOPLE OF ‘AD

Translation

50- And to ‘Ad [We sent] their brother Hud. He said, "O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him. You are not but inventors [of falsehood by associating partners with Him]."

51- "O my people, I do not ask you for it any reward. My reward is only from the One who created me. Then will you not reason?"

52- "And O my people, ask forgiveness of your Lord and then repent to Him. He will send [rain from] the sky upon you in abundance and add strength to your strength. And do not turn away as criminals." [cf. 71/11]

53- They said, "O Hud, you have not brought us a clear evidence, and we are not ones to leave our gods on your word, nor are we believers in you."

54-55- "We only say that some of our gods have possessed you with evil (insanity)." He said, "Indeed, I call Allah to witness, and you [too] bear witness that I am innocent of what you associate as partners [with Him] other than Him. So plot against me all together; then do not give me respite."

56- "Indeed, I have relied upon Allah, my Lord and your Lord. There is no creature but that He holds its forelock (taking it under His rule and control). Indeed, my Lord is on a path that is straight." [cf. 10/71]

57- "But if you turn away, then I have already conveyed to you that with which I was sent to you. My Lord will give succession to a people other than you, and you will not harm Him at all. Indeed my Lord is, over all things, Guardian."

58- And when Our command came, We saved Hud and those who believed with him, by mercy from Us; and We saved them from a very harsh punishment.

59- And that was ‘Ad, who rejected the signs of their Lord and disobeyed His messengers and followed the command of every obstinate tyrant.

60- And they were followed in this world with a curse and [also] on the Day of Resurrection. Unquestionably, ‘Ad disbelieved in their Lord; then away with ‘Ad, the people of Hud. [cf. 41/15-16; 69/6-7]

Commentary

(50) “And to ‘Ad (We sent) their brother Hud (as a prophet).” This tribe, which appeared on the stage of history after Prophet Nuh, was an Arab society living between Oman and Hadramut in Yemen. The Qur’an states that Prophet Hud was sent to a people living in the Ahqaf region. According to the Qur’an, they built a city called Iram and had magnificent palaces, vineyards, and gardens. However, they deviated from the right path, became idolaters, and were destroyed and erased from history because they did not listen to their prophet. (QUR’AN WAY, 3/177-178)

(51) “O my people! I do not ask you for it any reward.” We see this warning in almost every story of the prophets. Because sincerity, devotion (ikhlas), and truthfulness are the first conditions of prophethood and advice, and they are the most fundamental differences between truth (haqq) and falsehood (batil). (ELMALILI, 4/546)

(52) “O my people! Ask forgiveness of your Lord, then repent to Him, that He may send down upon you abundant mercy from the sky and add strength to your strength.” Hadith: “Whoever continues to ask for forgiveness, Allah will relieve him of every grief, show him a way out of every distress, and grant him provision from where he does not expect.”

An incident recorded by Nasafi: Al-Hasan (r), the son of Ali (r), went to see Mu'awiya. One of Mu'awiya's chamberlains said, "I cannot have children; teach me something." Al-Hasan told him to continue seeking forgiveness (istighfar). The man eventually had ten sons. Later, when Al-Hasan visited Mu'awiya again, he was asked why he recommended this. He replied, "Have you never heard Hud’s words ‘He will add strength to your strength’ (Verse 52) or Nuh’s words ‘He will help you with wealth and sons’ (Nuh 71/12)?" (S. HAWWA, 7/88, 89)

(53) “They said, ‘O Hud, you have not brought us a clear evidence (bayyinah).’” This is similar to how the Meccan pagans did not consider the verses revealed to the Messenger of Allah as evidence and said, “Why was not a sign sent down to him?” (Yunus 10/20) or “Why was a treasure not sent down to him, or an angel come with him?” (Hud 11/12). (ELMALILI, 4/547)

(56) “There is no moving creature but that my Lord holds its forelock.” That is, the destiny, life, and management of all of them are in His hand of power. All strings are in His hand. Everything is in His possession and under His disposal. (ELMALILI, 4/548) My Lord is on the straight path; everything He does is right. The meaning of “Allah’s path being a straight path” is that His judgments and disposals are completely correct, in accordance with justice, and far from oppression, error, or mistake. (I. KARAGOZ 3/443)

(58) “When Our command came (referring to the barren wind; Allah destroyed them such that no one remained), We saved Hud and the believers with him by a mercy from Us.” We protected them not by their deeds, but by Our grace, or we protected them thanks to the faith we bestowed upon them. (S. HAWWA, 7/75)

“And We saved them from a thick, harsh punishment.” The harsh punishment mentioned is the “samum” punishment, which was a rih-i sarsar (a freezing, howling storm). it demolished and dragged away their houses and property, sweeping everything away. (ELMALILI, 4/548) In the end, it laid the people out like uprooted palm trunks (Kamer 54/19-20; Haqqa 69/6-7). In the howling wind that lasted seven nights and eight days, magnificent palaces and mansions were leveled. (QUR’AN WAY, 3/179, 180)

Hadith: “The deeds of none of you can bring him into salvation.” The companions asked, “Even you, O Messenger of Allah?” The Prophet (pbuh) replied, “Yes, even me. Unless my Lord bestows His mercy and grace upon me.” (Ahmed; I. KARAGOZ 3/445)

11/61-68 PROPHET SALIH (A.S.) AND THE PEOPLE OF THAMUD

Translation

61- And to Thamud [We sent] their brother Salih. He said, "O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him. He has produced you from the earth and settled you in it to develop and inhabit it. So ask forgiveness of Him and then repent to Him. Indeed, my Lord is near and responsive." [cf. 26/146-158]

62- They said, "O Salih, you were among us one before this in whom hope was placed (as a good person). Do you forbid us to worship what our fathers worshipped? And indeed we are, about that to which you invite us, in disquieting doubt."

63- He said, "O my people, have you considered: if I should be upon clear evidence from my Lord and He has given me mercy (prophethood) from Himself, who would protect me from Allah if I disobeyed Him? So you would not increase me except in loss."

64- "And O my people, this is the she-camel of Allah—[she is] to you a sign (miracle). So let her feed upon Allah's earth and do not touch her with harm, or you will be taken by an impending punishment."

65- But they hamstrung her. So he said, "Enjoy yourselves in your homes for three days (as your end has come). That is a promise not to be denied."

66- So when Our command came, We saved Salih and those who believed with him, by mercy from Us, and [saved them] from the disgrace of that day. Indeed, it is your Lord who is the Powerful, the Exalted in Might.

67- And the shriek (awful cry) seized those who had wronged, and they became within their homes [corpses] fallen prone. [cf. 7/78]

68- As if they had never prospered therein. Unquestionably, Thamud disbelieved in their Lord; then away with Thamud.

Commentary

(61) “And to Thamud (We sent) their brother Salih. He said: O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him.” The people of Thamud were an ancient extinct Arab tribe who lived in al-Hijr, located between Syria and the Hejaz. Salih (a.s.) was from the lineage of Thamud and is believed to be the second prophet of Arab race after Hud (a.s.). (QUR’AN WAY, 3/182)

“(Only) worship Allah.” This call is the invitation of all Messengers from Adam to the last prophet Muhammad (pbuh). “Ask forgiveness of Him, then repent to Him.” We see that the path of all Messengers is one: Worship, seeking pardon, and asking for forgiveness. (S. HAWWA, 7/79)

While Prophet Nuh’s reminder came with advice, and Prophet Hud’s reminder was accompanied by a form of scolding, Prophet Salih’s reminder was presented alongside the mention of blessings. Each of these represents a path to be followed, and each has its own audience. No story is a mere repetition of another, for every nation has a distinct character and a different punishment. (S. HAWWA, 7/79)

(64) “O my people! This is the she-camel of Allah, given to you as a miracle. Let her graze on Allah's land. Do not harm her with evil intent, or an impending punishment will seize you.” The people of Thamud denied Salih (a.s.) (91/13-14) and said to him, “You are but of those bewitched. You are but a man like ourselves, so bring us a sign if you are of the truthful” (26/141, 153, 154). Upon this request, Salih (a.s.) prayed to Almighty Allah to grant him a miracle. Thereupon, Almighty Allah brought forth a she-camel from a large rock. Salih (a.s.) told his people that the miracle they requested was this she-camel coming out of stone and warned them not to harm her, otherwise Allah would punish and destroy them. (I. KARAGOZ 3/451)

“The shriek seized those who wronged.” In Surah al-A'raf, it was mentioned that they were seized by an earthquake. It appears (Allah knows best) that they were destroyed by both an earthquake and fainting shrieks. (S. HAWWA, 7/82) Instead of the word sayha (shriek), the word rajfa (earthquake/tremor) is used in Surah al-A'raf (7/78), from which it is understood that the disaster was an earthquake. (QUR’AN WAY, 3/183)

Thus, Prophet Salih’s people were destroyed by the sayha (shriek), Prophet Hud’s people by the storm, and Prophet Nuh’s people by the flood; their ends came. Ultimately, Nuh, Hud, and Salih were saved. This is the greatest lesson for those who invite to the worship of Allah and seek His forgiveness. (S. HAWWA, 7/82, 83)

11/69-76 ABRAHAM (A.S.) AND THE MESSENGERS OF ALLAH

Translation

69- And certainly did Our messengers (angels in human form) come to Abraham with good tidings (of a child); they said, "Peace." He said, "Peace," and did not delay in bringing [them] a roasted calf. [cf. 15/52-62; 51/26-27]

70- But when he saw their hands not reaching for it, he mistrusted them and felt from them apprehension. They said, "Fear not. We have been sent (as angels) to the people of Lot."

71- And his wife (Sarah) was standing by and she laughed (upon hearing she would have a child). Then We gave her good tidings (through those angels) of Isaac and after Isaac, (his grandson) Jacob. [cf. 19/49; 21/72]

72- She said, "Woe to me! Shall I give birth while I am an old woman and this, my husband, is an old man? Indeed, this is an amazing thing!"

73- They (the messenger angels) said, "Are you amazed at the decree of Allah? May the mercy of Allah and His blessings be upon you, people of the house. Indeed, He is Praiseworthy and Honorable."

74- And when the fright had left Abraham and the good tidings (regarding the child) had reached him, he began to argue with Our (messengers) concerning the people of Lot (asking for their forgiveness).

75- Indeed, Abraham was forbearing, deeply compassionate, and "one who turned to Allah" (munib).

76- (Our messengers said:) "O Abraham, give up this [argument]. Indeed, the command of your Lord has come, and indeed, there will reach them a punishment that cannot be averted."

Commentary

(69) "And certainly did Our messengers (angels) come to Abraham with good tidings (of a child) and said, 'Peace'." The messengers who came to Prophet Abraham were angels. According to Ibn Abbas, they were Gabriel (a.s.) and two other angels. Some suggest these two were Michael and Israfil (a.s.). They came to give Prophet Abraham and his wife Sarah the good news of a child named Isaac, and also to inform them of the destruction that would befall the people of Lot (a.s.). (H. DONDUREN, 1/388)

(71) "We gave her good tidings of Isaac, and after Isaac, Jacob." She (Sarah) had no children. Prophet Abraham (a.s.) had a son named Ishmael from his other wife. (...) This verse has been shown as evidence that the one commanded to be sacrificed was Prophet Ishmael, and it is stated that it was impossible for the one commanded to be sacrificed to be Prophet Isaac. Since the good news of his birth is given, and it is stated that Prophet Jacob would be born from him, how could Prophet Isaac be commanded to be sacrificed (slaughtered) before his promised son Jacob was even born? (S. HAWWA, 7/92)

"His wife (Sarah) was standing by, and she laughed." It is understood here that when the news arrived of visitors in human form, the household became uneasy; thus, the wife of Prophet Abraham (a.s.) came there to learn what the matter was. When she learned that the angels had come to punish the people of Prophet Lot, and not her own people, she felt relieved and pleased. (MAWDUDI, 2/383) (...) She laughed with joy because the fear had departed. Or, she laughed because a people who committed evil were to be destroyed, or because of the heedlessness of the people of Lot despite the approaching punishment. She was rewarded by being given the good news that she could give birth to a child despite her menstruation having ceased: "We gave her good tidings of Isaac..." (S. HAWWA, 7/92)

Qatada said that Prophet Abraham's wife laughed at the fact that the people of Lot were unaware of the punishment that was to befall them. (From Tabari; M. DEMİRCI, 1/699)

(74) "When the fright had left Abraham and the good tidings had reached him, he began to argue with Our messengers concerning the people of Lot." Prophet Lot was the son of Prophet Abraham's (a.s.) uncle, and they served as prophets during the same period. Prophet Lot was in the town of "Sedum" or "Sodom," where the people of Lot were located, four parasangs away from the town where Prophet Abraham was. Prophet Abraham, thinking that the coming punishment would also touch Prophet Lot and the believers, was pleading to Allah for the removal of the punishment. (H. DONDUREN, 1/389)

(75) "Indeed, Abraham was forbearing, deeply compassionate, and one who turned to Allah." In this verse, Prophet Abraham is praised with three attributes: Halim (good-natured), Evvah (kind-hearted/tender-hearted), and Munib (devoted to Allah). These attributes signify delicacy of heart, softness of heart, and mercy. (S. HAWWA, 7/93)

11/77-83 PROPHET LOT (A.S.) AND HIS PEOPLE

Translation

77- When Our messengers (in the form of young men) came to Lot, he was distressed for them and felt for them great discomfort (fearing his perverted people would harm them) and said, "This is a very trying day."

78- And his people came hastening to him (seeking perverted relations with his guests), and before they had been doing evil deeds. He said, "O my people, these (the girls of the city) are my daughters; they are purer for you (to marry). So f