وَلَمَّآ أَن جَآءَتْ رُسُلُنَا لُوطًا سِىٓءَ بِهِمْ وَضَاقَ بِهِمْ ذَرْعًا وَقَالُوا۟ لَا تَخَفْ وَلَا تَحْزَنْ ۖ إِنَّا مُنَجُّوكَ وَأَهْلَكَ إِلَّا ٱمْرَأَتَكَ كَانَتْ مِنَ ٱلْغَـٰبِرِينَ 33
Translations
And when Our messengers [i.e., angels] came to Lot, he was distressed for them and felt for them great discomfort. They said, "Fear not, nor grieve. Indeed, we will save you and your family, except your wife; she is to be of those who remain behind.
Transliteration
Wa-lammā an jāat rusulunā Lūṭan sī'a bihim wa-ḍāqa bihim dharʿan wa-qālū lā takhaf wa-lā taḥzan innā munajjūka wa-ahlaka illā imraataka kānat min al-ghābirin
Tafsir (Explanation)
When the angels arrived at Lūt's home, he felt distressed and anxious about their safety, fearing his people's wickedness. However, the angels reassured him, promising to deliver him and his family to safety, with the exception of his wife who would remain behind with those who disbelieved. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir emphasize that Lūt's initial anxiety stemmed from genuine concern for his guests and knowledge of his people's depravity, yet the angels' promise reflects divine protection for the believers.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the narrative of Lūt (Lot) in Surah Al-'Ankabut, which recounts his preaching to his people and their rejection of his message. The broader context discusses trials of prophets and believers; this specific verse details the moment of deliverance when angels came to execute Allah's judgment against the people of Lūt.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Muslim records that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) mentioned Lūt among the messengers who faced severe trials from their peoples. Additionally, the Quran references this event in Surah Hūd (11:77-83) with similar details, demonstrating the consistency of Lūt's narrative across revelations.
Themes
Key Lesson
Even when facing overwhelming danger and anxiety, trust in Allah's promise brings solace and deliverance to the faithful. The believers must understand that separation from those who reject truth may be necessary for salvation, emphasizing the primacy of faith over familial ties.