فَسَاهَمَ فَكَانَ مِنَ ٱلْمُدْحَضِينَ 141
Translations
And he drew lots and was among the losers.
Transliteration
Fasāhama fakāna mina al-mudhḥaḍīn
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Prophet Yunus (Jonah) casting lots with his fellow sailors to determine who should be thrown overboard to save the ship from sinking. He lost the draw and was cast into the sea, becoming one of those humiliated or overcome by circumstances. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this casting of lots was permitted in that era, and Yunus's submission to this outcome demonstrated his acceptance of Allah's decree, though he would later be swallowed by the whale and experience further trials before his eventual deliverance.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah As-Saffat's narrative about Yunus, which recounts his story from the Quran. The broader context of the surah is Meccan revelation emphasizing divine power and the consequences of defying Allah's messengers. This particular ayah sets the stage for Yunus's trial in the belly of the whale, illustrating how even prophets face severe tests from Allah.
Related Hadiths
The story of Yunus is referenced in various hadith collections regarding patience in trials. A relevant thematic hadith is from Sahih Muslim where the Prophet ﷺ said: 'No one should say I am better than Yunus ibn Matta,' acknowledging Yunus's virtue despite his moment of displeasure with Allah's decree.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that even prophets face severe trials and may experience humiliation or hardship as part of Allah's divine plan, yet such trials ultimately lead to deeper faith and closeness to the Divine. It reminds believers to accept Allah's decree with patience and recognize that apparent misfortune may conceal hidden wisdom and mercy.