وَٱذْكُرْ عَبْدَنَآ أَيُّوبَ إِذْ نَادَىٰ رَبَّهُۥٓ أَنِّى مَسَّنِىَ ٱلشَّيْطَـٰنُ بِنُصْبٍ وَعَذَابٍ 41
Translations
And remember Our servant Job, when he called to his Lord, "Indeed, Satan has touched me with hardship and torment."
Transliteration
Wa-dhkur 'abdana Ayyuba idh nada Rabbahu anni massani ash-shaytanu bi-nusbinw wa 'adhab
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah opens the mention of Prophet Ayub (Job), calling upon him to remember how he invoked his Lord, saying that Satan had afflicted him with tremendous hardship and torment. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain that 'nusbun' (نصب) refers to fatigue and exhaustion, while the 'adhab' (عذاب) encompasses both physical ailments and spiritual trials. The verse emphasizes Ayub's patient supplication despite severe afflictions, establishing him as an exemplary model of submission and reliance upon Allah during trials.
Revelation Context
This ayah occurs within Surah Sad, a Meccan chapter that emphasizes Allah's power and the patience of His servants. The broader context involves reminding the Messenger Muhammad and believers of stories of the prophets who endured great trials. Surah Sad (chapters 38-39) centers on monotheism, divine justice, and the steadfastness of believers, with Ayub's story serving as a paramount example of patient endurance.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Bukhari (3400): The Prophet Muhammad mentioned that Ayub was tested with loss of wealth and children, yet remained patient. Sahih Muslim also records traditions about Ayub's trials and his exemplary patience, emphasizing how he never complained to anyone except Allah.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that trials and afflictions are tests from Allah, and that turning to Him through sincere supplication—rather than despairing or blaming others—is the path to relief and spiritual strength. Ayub's example demonstrates that patient endurance coupled with unwavering faith in Allah's wisdom ultimately leads to divine mercy and restoration.