وَٱتْلُ عَلَيْهِمْ نَبَأَ إِبْرَٰهِيمَ 69
Translations
And recite to them the news of Abraham,
Transliteration
Wa-athlu AAalayhim nabaa ibraheema
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah commands the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to recite to the disbelievers the story of Abraham, which serves as a powerful example of unwavering faith and monotheism. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note that this narrative is presented to the Quraysh as a mirror to reflect upon their own idolatry and rejection of tawhid (monotheism), since Abraham was from their own lineage and had rejected the false gods of his people. The story that follows demonstrates Abraham's intellectual and spiritual struggle against polytheism, making it a profound lesson in conviction and divine guidance.
Revelation Context
This ayah introduces a major narrative section within Surah Ash-Shu'ara, which is a Meccan chapter emphasizing the stories of the prophets as evidence against the deniers. The context is the ongoing conflict between the Prophet and the Quraysh, where Allah commands him to present these historical precedents to awaken their conscience and challenge their disbelief.
Related Hadiths
The Qur'an itself extensively details Abraham's story in subsequent ayahs (26:70-104). Additionally, Sahih Bukhari contains numerous hadiths about Ibrahim's virtue, including the hadith where the Prophet Muhammad mentions that Abraham is among the five greatest messengers alongside Noah, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad.
Themes
Key Lesson
By reflecting on Abraham's courageous stand against widespread idolatry in his own family and society, believers are encouraged to examine their own commitments to monotheism and to remain steadfast in faith despite social pressure. The narrative teaches that true conviction requires intellectual clarity and the courage to stand alone against falsehood, regardless of opposition.