كَذَّبَتْ ثَمُودُ ٱلْمُرْسَلِينَ 141
Translations
Thamūd denied the messengers
Transliteration
Kadhdhbat Thamodu al-Mursalin
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah declares that the people of Thamud rejected and denied the messengers sent to them, particularly the Prophet Salih (peace be upon him). According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this rejection was not due to lack of clarity in the message, but rather their arrogance, disbelief, and stubbornness in clinging to their idolatrous practices. The verb 'kadhdhaba' (denied/rejected) emphasizes their deliberate and persistent rejection despite the clear signs and miracles presented to them.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in Surah Ash-Shu'ara, which is a Meccan surah focused on refuting the objections of the Meccan disbelievers by presenting historical examples of previous nations who rejected their prophets. The mention of Thamud's rejection of Salih serves as a warning to the Quraysh, demonstrating the consequences of denying divine messengers. This ayah introduces the narrative of Thamud's destruction as a cautionary tale for those who reject prophethood.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentioned Thamud's destruction in multiple contexts. In Sahih Bukhari, it is reported that the Prophet warned against following the path of those destroyed nations, including Thamud. Additionally, in Sunan Ibn Majah, there are reports about the Prophet's admonitions regarding the fate of Thamud as a sign of Allah's punishment for those who reject His messengers.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah reminds believers that rejecting divine guidance and the messengers of Allah brings severe consequences, as exemplified by the destruction of Thamud. It serves as a timeless warning that no nation, regardless of its strength or prosperity, can escape the justice of Allah when they persistently deny His truth.