قَالَ يَـٰقَوْمِ لَيْسَ بِى ضَلَـٰلَةٌ وَلَـٰكِنِّى رَسُولٌ مِّن رَّبِّ ٱلْعَـٰلَمِينَ 61
Translations
[Noah] said, "O my people, there is not error in me, but I am a messenger from the Lord of the worlds.
Transliteration
Qala ya qawmi laysa biyya dalalun wa lakinni rasulun mir rabbi al-alameen
Tafsir (Explanation)
Prophet Nuh (peace be upon him) responds to his people's accusation of being misguided (dall), clarifying that he is not astray but rather a Messenger sent by the Lord of all worlds. This statement emphasizes the divine authority behind Nuh's message and refutes the false claims of his opponents. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note that Nuh's declaration demonstrates his conviction in his prophetic mission despite centuries of rejection, establishing that the source of guidance is Allah alone, not human opinion.
Revelation Context
This ayah occurs within the narrative of Prophet Nuh's preaching to his people over 950 years, as mentioned in Surah Nuh 29:14. The broader context (7:59-64) presents Nuh's monotheistic message and his people's rejection, with this specific verse serving as Nuh's authoritative response to their ridicule and accusation that he was misguided.
Related Hadiths
The hadith in Sahih Bukhari (3439) where the Prophet Muhammad said, 'The most severe trial will be to the Messengers' relates thematically to the challenges Nuh faced in conveying his message despite opposition. Additionally, the Quran 23:23-29 provides the detailed account of Nuh's similar declaration to his people.
Themes
Key Lesson
Believers facing criticism or accusations should anchor themselves firmly in truth and divine purpose, recognizing that conviction comes from Allah's guidance, not from worldly approval. This teaches us that maintaining clarity about one's mission and source of authority provides spiritual strength against opposition and doubt.