وَلَقَدْ جَآءَتْ رُسُلُنَآ إِبْرَٰهِيمَ بِٱلْبُشْرَىٰ قَالُوا۟ سَلَـٰمًا ۖ قَالَ سَلَـٰمٌ ۖ فَمَا لَبِثَ أَن جَآءَ بِعِجْلٍ حَنِيذٍ 69
Translations
And certainly did Our messengers [i.e., angels] come to Abraham with good tidings; they said, "Peace." He said, "Peace," and did not delay in bringing [them] a roasted calf.
Transliteration
Wa laqad jā'at rusulunā Ibrāhīma bil-bushrā qālū salāman qāla salāmun fa-mā labitha an jā'a bi-'ijlin hanīdh
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes the arrival of the angels (Allah's messengers) to Prophet Ibrahim with glad tidings of the birth of Isaac. Ibrahim greeted them with 'peace be upon you,' and they reciprocated. He then hastened to prepare a roasted calf for them as an act of hospitality, demonstrating his generosity and respect for guests. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, the 'hanīdh' (roasted calf) was cooked in the fire until it was tender and perfectly prepared, reflecting Ibrahim's eagerness to honor his visitors.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Hud's narrative about Prophet Ibrahim's encounter with the angels who came to deliver the good news of his son Isaac (Ishaq) and to inform him of Allah's judgment upon the people of Lot. The surah is Meccan, focusing on themes of prophethood, patience, and divine mercy. This scene exemplifies Ibrahim's character as a righteous and hospitable servant of Allah.
Related Hadiths
Sunan Ibn Majah reports that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'The best food is that which is offered with the most generous heart.' This principle aligns with Ibrahim's immediate and wholehearted preparation of food for his guests. Additionally, traditions emphasize that hospitality is a commendable Islamic virtue exemplified by Ibrahim.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers to demonstrate warmth, generosity, and respect toward guests, following the noble example of Prophet Ibrahim. It reminds us that true faith manifests through practical virtues—Ibrahim did not merely greet the angels verbally but immediately acted with generous hospitality, showing that sincerity in faith requires corresponding action.