وَٱذْكُرْ إِسْمَـٰعِيلَ وَٱلْيَسَعَ وَذَا ٱلْكِفْلِ ۖ وَكُلٌّ مِّنَ ٱلْأَخْيَارِ 48
Translations
And remember Ishmael, Elisha and Dhul-Kifl, and all are among the outstanding.
Transliteration
Wa-dhkur Isma'ila wa-al-Yasa'a wa-dha al-kifl wa-kullun mina al-akhyar
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah commands the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to remember and mention Ishmael, Elisha (Al-Yasa'), and Dhul-Kifl, all of whom are described as being among the righteous and excellent servants of Allah. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, these three prophets are being recalled for their exemplary patience, righteousness, and steadfastness in conveying the message of Allah, serving as inspirational figures for the believers. The phrase 'kulun mina al-akhyar' (all of them are from the best/most excellent) emphasizes their elevated spiritual status and moral excellence.
Revelation Context
Surah Sad is a Meccan surah that addresses the disbelievers' denial and mockery of the Prophet Muhammad. This ayah appears within a section (verses 45-48) where Allah mentions several prophets of the past to remind the Prophet of his noble lineage and to console him through the examples of previous messengers who faced similar trials. The context reinforces that the Prophet is not alone in his mission.
Related Hadiths
Hadith in Sunan Ibn Majah and other sources mentions that Ishmael was promised to be among the best of the prophets for his patience and steadfastness. Additionally, the general hadith in Sahih Bukhari (4:55:619) emphasizes the excellence of the prophets and their role as guides for humanity.
Themes
Key Lesson
By recalling the exemplary character and steadfastness of previous prophets, believers are encouraged to maintain their own moral integrity and trust in Allah's plan during times of adversity. The emphasis on these prophets being among 'the best' reminds us that true excellence lies in righteousness and devotion to Allah, not worldly status or power.