Unveiling the Prophets: A Journey Through Surah Al-Anbiya

 

Surah Al-Anbiya, the 21st chapter of the Holy Quran, beautifully translates to “The Prophets.” This profound Meccan Surah, comprised of 112 verses, unveils a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration for Muslims.

A Clarion Call: The Oneness of Allah (SWT)

One of the Surah’s central themes is the unwavering emphasis on Tawhid (monotheism). From the outset, Allah (SWT) addresses the disbelievers of Mecca, questioning the very foundation of their mockery – the Day of Judgement (Quran 21:3-4). The Surah dismantles the prevalent polytheistic beliefs, reminding them of the absolute power and control of the one true God (Quran 21:21-22). Verses like:

With their hearts occupied (with evil things) those who do wrong, conceal their private counsels, (saying): “Is this (Muhammad SAW) more than a human being like you? Will you submit to magic while you see it?” (Quran 21:3)

He (Muhammad SAW) said: “My Lord knows (every) word (spoken) in the heavens and on earth. And He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.” (Quran 21:4)

Had there been therein (in the heavens and the earth) gods besides Allah, then verily both would have been ruined. Glorified be Allah, the Lord of the Throne, (High is He) above what they attribute to Him! (Quran 21:22)

and

He cannot be questioned as to what He does, while they will be questioned. (Quran 21:23)

serve as a powerful reminder of Allah’s (SWT) all-encompassing power and dominion over creation.

Messengers of Mercy: Narratives of Steadfast Faith

Surah Al-Anbiya then delves into the captivating narratives of various prophets chosen by Allah (SWT) to guide humanity. These accounts serve as a testament to the unwavering faith and resilience required to spread the message of Tawhid. We encounter the unwavering resolve of Noah (AS), who faced the rejection of his people despite years of dedicated preaching (Quran 21:33-39).

And He it is Who has created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon, each in an orbit floating. (Quran 21:33)

And We granted not to any human being immortality before you (O Muhammad SAW), then if you die, would they live forever? (Quran 21:34)

Everyone is going to taste death, and We shall make a trial of you with evil and with good, and to Us you will be returned. (Quran 21:35)

And when those who disbelieve (in the Oneness of Allah) see you (O Muhammad SAW), they take you not except for mockery (saying): “Is this the one who talks (badly) about your gods?” While they disbelieve at the mention of the Most Beneficent (Allah). [Tafsir. Al-Qurtubi]. (Quran 21:36)

Man is created of haste, I will show you My Ayat (torments, proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.).So ask Me not to hasten (them). (Quran 21:37)

And they say: “When will this promise (come to pass), if you are truthful.” (Quran 21:38)

If only those who disbelieved knew (the time) when they will not be able to ward off the Fire from their faces, nor from their backs; and they will not be helped. (Quran 21:39)

We witness the unwavering faith of Abraham (AS), who remained steadfast in his belief even when threatened with fire (Quran 21:51-56).

And indeed We bestowed aforetime on Ibrahim (Abraham) his (portion of) guidance, and We were Well-Acquainted with him (as to his Belief in the Oneness of Allah, etc.). (Quran 21:51)

When he said to his father and his people: “What are these images, to which you are devoted?” (Quran 21:52)

They said:”We found our fathers worshipping them.” (Quran 21:53)

He said: “Indeed you and your fathers have been in manifest error.” (Quran 21:54)

They said: “Have you brought us the truth, or are you one of those who play about?” (Quran 21:55)

He said: “Nay, your Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth, Who created them and of that I am one of the witnesses. (Quran 21:56)

The Surah recounts the stories of Moses (AS) confronting the tyrannical Pharaoh, David (AS) and Solomon (AS) receiving wisdom and judgement (Quran 21:78-82), and Jesus (AS) being a clear sign from Allah (SWT) (Quran 21:91).

And (remember) Dawud (David) and Sulaiman (Solomon), when they gave judgement in the case of the field in which the sheep of certain people had pastured at night and We were witness to their judgement. (Quran 21:78)

And We made Sulaiman (Solomon) to understand (the case), and to each of them We gave Hukman (right judgement of the affairs and Prophethood) and knowledge. And We subjected the mountains and the birds to glorify Our Praises along with Dawud (David), And it was We Who were the doers (of all these things). (Quran 21:79)

And We taught him the making of metal coats of mail (for battles), to protect you in your fighting. Are you then grateful? (Quran 21:80)

And to Sulaiman (Solomon) (We subjected) the wind strongly raging, running by his command towards the land which We had blessed. And of everything We are the All-Knower. (Quran 21:81)

And of the Shayatin (devils) (from the jinns) were some who dived for him, and did other work besides that; and it was We Who guarded them. (Quran 21:82)

And (remember) she who guarded her chastity [Virgin Maryam (Mary)], We breathed into (the sleeves of) her (shirt or garment) [through Our Ruh – Jibrael (Gabriel)], and We made her and her son [‘Iesa (Jesus)] a sign for Al-‘Alamin (the mankind and jinns). (Quran 21:91)

A Stark Reminder: The Inevitable Day of Reckoning

Surah Al-Anbiya also acts as a stark reminder of the inevitable Day of Judgement. Vivid descriptions of the Day of Reckoning are presented throughout the Surah, urging believers to prepare for the consequences of their actions (Quran 21:35-46). Verses like:

Everyone is going to taste death, and We shall make a trial of you with evil and with good, and to Us you will be returned. (Quran 21:35)

And when those who disbelieve (in the Oneness of Allah) see you (O Muhammad SAW), they take you not except for mockery (saying): “Is this the one who talks (badly) about your gods?” While they disbelieve at the mention of the Most Beneficent (Allah). [Tafsir. Al-Qurtubi]. (Quran 21:36)

and

They shall not hear the slightest sound of it (Hell), while they abide in that which their ownselves desire. (Quran 21:102)

serve as a powerful motivator for believers to lead righteous lives and hold fast to their faith.

Strength in the Face of Adversity: The Importance of Patience

One of the most valuable lessons gleaned from Surah Al-Anbiya is the importance of patience. The prophets (AS) faced immense persecution and hardship in their missions, yet they persevered with remarkable patience. The story of Job (AS), who endured immense personal suffering with unwavering faith (Quran 21:83-84), exemplifies the importance of this quality.

And (remember) Ayub (Job), when he cried to his Lord: “Verily, distress has seized me, and You are the Most Merciful of all those who show mercy.” (Quran 21:83)

So We answered his call, and We removed the distress that was on him, and We restored his family to him (that he had lost), and the like thereof along with them, as a mercy from Ourselves and a Reminder for all who worship Us. (Quran 21:84)

Muslims are encouraged to develop patience in their own lives, knowing that Allah (SWT) rewards those who remain steadfast through trials (Quran 21:35).

Following the Straight Path: Obedience and Righteousness

Surah Al-Anbiya emphasizes the importance of following the path laid out by Allah (SWT) and His messengers (AS). The Surah highlights the role of the prophets (AS) as guides and role models (Quran 21:85).

And (remember) Isma’il (Ishmael), and Idris (Enoch) and Dhul-Kifl (Isaiah), all were from among As-Sabirin (the patient ones, etc.). (Quran 21:85)

By studying their lives and teachings, Muslims gain a deeper understanding of how to live a righteous life according to Allah’s (SWT) will. For instance, the story of Abraham’s (AS) unwavering obedience to the command of sacrificing his son (Quran 21:51-56) serves as a powerful example of submitting to Allah’s (SWT) will, even when it appears incredibly difficult.

And indeed We bestowed aforetime on Ibrahim (Abraham) his (portion of) guidance, and We were Well-Acquainted with him (as to his Belief in the Oneness of Allah, etc.). (Quran 21:51)

When he said to his father and his people: “What are these images, to which you are devoted?” (Quran 21:52)

They said:”We found our fathers worshipping them.” (Quran 21:53)

He said: “Indeed you and your fathers have been in manifest error.” (Quran 21:54)

They said: “Have you brought us the truth, or are you one of those who play about?” (Quran 21:55)

He said: “Nay, your Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth, Who created them and of that I am one of the witnesses. (Quran 21:56)

However, it’s important to clarify the story of Abraham (AS) sacrificing his son. While the Surah mentions Abraham’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son in complete obedience to Allah (SWT), it doesn’t explicitly mention the son being Ishmael (AS). Islamic scholarship clarifies that the son was Ishmael (AS), but the Surah focuses on the message of unwavering faith and obedience.

Living by the Message: Practical Application

Surah Al-Anbiya doesn’t just present historical narratives; it offers practical guidance for Muslims in their daily lives. By following the teachings of the prophets (AS), Muslims can cultivate qualities like:

• Strong Tawhid: Unwavering belief in the oneness of Allah (SWT).
• Sabr (Patience): Enduring hardships with perseverance and trust in Allah’s (SWT) plan.
• Shukr (Gratitude): Expressing thankfulness for Allah’s (SWT) blessings.
• Taqwa (God-consciousness): Living a life mindful of Allah’s (SWT) presence and commandments.

These qualities form the bedrock of a righteous life according to the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Conclusion: A Source of Strength and Guidance

Surah Al-Anbiya is more than just a historical account of prophets (AS); it’s a powerful source of strength and guidance for Muslims. By studying this Surah, believers gain:

• A deeper understanding of Tawhid and the importance of worshipping one God.
• Strength and perseverance through the stories of the prophets (AS) who faced adversity with unwavering faith.
• A reminder of the Day of Judgement and the importance of living a righteous life.
• The value of patience and its role in overcoming challenges.
• Practical guidance on cultivating qualities essential for a life pleasing to Allah (SWT).

By delving deeper into Surah Al-Anbiya, Muslims can illuminate their path towards a life of faith, righteousness, and ultimately, success in the hereafter.