قَدۡ كَانَتۡ لَـكُمۡ اُسۡوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ فِىۡۤ اِبۡرٰهِيۡمَ وَالَّذِيۡنَ مَعَهٗۚ اِذۡ قَالُوۡا لِقَوۡمِهِمۡ اِنَّا بُرَءٰٓؤُا مِنۡكُمۡ وَمِمَّا تَعۡبُدُوۡنَ مِنۡ دُوۡنِ اللّٰهِ كَفَرۡنَا بِكُمۡ وَبَدَا بَيۡنَنَا وَبَيۡنَكُمُ الۡعَدَاوَةُ وَالۡبَغۡضَآءُ اَبَدًا حَتّٰى تُؤۡمِنُوۡا بِاللّٰهِ وَحۡدَهٗۤ اِلَّا قَوۡلَ اِبۡرٰهِيۡمَ لِاَبِيۡهِ لَاَسۡتَغۡفِرَنَّ لَـكَ وَمَاۤ اَمۡلِكُ لَـكَ مِنَ اللّٰهِ مِنۡ شَىۡءٍ ؕ رَبَّنَا عَلَيۡكَ تَوَكَّلۡنَا وَاِلَيۡكَ اَنَـبۡنَا وَاِلَيۡكَ الۡمَصِيۡرُ ٤ رَبَّنَا لَا تَجۡعَلۡنَا فِتۡنَةً لِّلَّذِيۡنَ كَفَرُوۡا وَاغۡفِرۡ لَـنَا رَبَّنَا ۚ اِنَّكَ اَنۡتَ الۡعَزِيۡزُ الۡحَكِيۡمُ ٥ لَقَدۡ كَانَ لَـكُمۡ فِيۡهِمۡ اُسۡوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ لِّمَنۡ كَانَ يَرۡجُوا اللّٰهَ وَالۡيَوۡمَ الۡاٰخِرَ ؕ وَمَنۡ يَّتَوَلَّ فَاِنَّ اللّٰهَ هُوَ الۡغَنِىُّ الۡحَمِيۡدُ ٦
You already have an excellent example in Abraham and those with him, when they said to their people, “We totally dissociate ourselves from you and ˹shun˺ whatever ˹idols˺ you worship besides Allah. We reject you. The enmity and hatred that has arisen between us and you will last until you believe in Allah alone.” The only exception is when Abraham said to his father, “I will seek forgiveness for you,˹” adding, “but˺ I cannot protect you from Allah at all.” ˹The believers prayed,˺ “Our Lord! In You we trust. And to You we ˹always˺ turn. And to You is the final return. Our Lord! Do not subject us to the persecution of the disbelievers. Forgive us, our Lord! You ˹alone˺ are truly the Almighty, All-Wise.” You certainly have an excellent example in them for whoever has hope in Allah and the Last Day. But whoever turns away, then surely Allah ˹alone˺ is the Self-Sufficient, Praiseworthy.
[Al-Quran 60:4-6, Translation: Dr Mustafa Khattab]
Surah al-Mumtahhina (the (woman) to be examined) begins with the command to the believers to not take Allah's enemies and their enemies as friends. The Surah reminds the believers of the excellent example they already have in Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) and those with him. The term اُسۡوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ occurs twice in this surah, and once in Surah al-Ahzaab (the confederates) where it states that in Allah's Messenger is an excellent example (Q33:21).
The term اُسۡوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ begins with the word اُسۡوَةٌ , which shares the root أ س و forming words meaning grieve.
Both Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) and Muhammad ﷺ strove for Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى , migrated, and fought many wars for Allah's Deen, eventually purifying Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى 's ancient house and the masjid around it.
The Quran highlights the essential qualities and events of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام)'s life, and terms it as the example of excellence (اُسۡوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ). The following are the ayaat in the order they appear in The Quran, so that some things from later on in his life are quoted before, and some earlier events of great significance are mentioned later on.
The proper noun ib'rāhīm (إِبْرَاهِيم) occurs 69 times in the Quran.
The first fifteen mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah al-Baqarah, and comes along with the mention of Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى 's house, and along with his prayer for a Messenger (Muhammad ﷺ) from his progeny, who are being settled in that land.
- Q2:124 Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) is tested because Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى is going to appoint him as an Imam.
- Q2:125 reminds of when The House (Kaaba) was appointed a place of return for the people and a sanctuary; we have been commanded to take the place Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) stood as the place to establish prayer.
- Q2:125 Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) and his son Ishmael (Ismail عليه السلام) were covenanted with purifying Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى 's House: for those who perform tawaaf, for those who stay for itekaaf, and for those who bow and prostrate.
- Q2:126 Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) prays for the security of the land and rizq of fruits for the believers who dwell there. Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى responds that He will grant even to the disbeliever, temporarily, but eventually the disbeliever will be forced into the punishment for the fire.
- Q2:127 reminds of when Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) was raising the foundation of the Kaaba, along with his son Ishmael (Ismail عليه السلام), and they were praying that this service be accepted of them. The next few ayaat quote their duas for themselves and their progeny: that they be muslims (submitting) to Allah, and from their progeny a Muslim Ummah (اُمَّةً مُّسۡلِمَةً) submitting to Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى , that they be shown their rites and rituals (وَاَرِنَا مَنَاسِكَنَا), and that their repentance be accepted (وَتُبۡ عَلَيۡنَا), because 'indeed You are the Accepter of Repentance, the Merciful (اِنَّكَ اَنۡتَ التَّوَّابُ الرَّحِيۡمُ )'. They pray that (رَبَّنَا وَابۡعَثۡ فِيۡهِمۡ رَسُوۡلًا مِّنۡهُمۡ يَتۡلُوۡا عَلَيۡهِمۡ اٰيٰتِكَ وَيُعَلِّمُهُمُ الۡكِتٰبَ وَالۡحِكۡمَةَ وَ يُزَكِّيۡهِمۡؕ اِنَّكَ اَنۡتَ الۡعَزِيۡزُ الۡحَكِيۡمُ ١٢٩) a Messenger be raised among them who will recite to them Allah's revelations, teach them The Book, and Wisdom, and do their tazkiya (purify their nafs (for growth)).
- Q2:130 asks: (وَمَنۡ يَّرۡغَبُ عَنۡ مِّلَّةِ اِبۡرٰهٖمَ اِلَّا مَنۡ سَفِهَ نَفۡسَهٗ ؕ وَلَقَدِ اصۡطَفَيۡنٰهُ فِى الدُّنۡيَا ۚ وَاِنَّهٗ فِى الۡاٰخِرَةِ لَمِنَ الصّٰلِحِيۡنَ ١٣٠) who would reject the faith of Abraham except who fools his own nafs? Allah chose him in this dunya (literally: the lowly), and in the hereafter he will among the reformed ones. Q2:131 informs that: (اِذۡ قَالَ لَهٗ رَبُّهٗۤ اَسۡلِمۡۙ قَالَ اَسۡلَمۡتُ لِرَبِّ الۡعٰلَمِيۡنَ ١٣١) when his Lord commanded him to submit, he submitted to the Lord of the Worlds.
- Q2:132 quotes the Will (وَصّٰى) of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) to his sons, and Jacob (Yaqub عليه السلام)'s as well: 'Allah has chosen you for His Deen, so do not die except as Muslims (يٰبَنِىَّ اِنَّ اللّٰهَ اصۡطَفٰى لَـكُمُ الدِّيۡنَ فَلَا تَمُوۡتُنَّ اِلَّا وَاَنۡـتُمۡ مُّسۡلِمُوۡنَؕ ١٣٢)'
- Q2:133 quotes the conversation between Jacob (Yaqub عليه السلام) and his sons at the time of his death when he asks them who they will worship after him. They reply that: 'We will worship your God and the God of your fathers, Abraham , Ishmael and Isaac: One God, and to Him we are Muslims'. The next ayat clarifies that they are an ummah that have passed away, for them what they earned, for us what we earn, and we will not be questioned about them.
- Q2:135 directs that when you are asked to become Jews or Christians, so as to be guided, reply that you follow the faith of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) who was a monotheist, not a polytheist (قُلۡ بَلۡ مِلَّةَ اِبۡرٰهٖمَ حَنِيۡفًا ؕ وَمَا كَانَ مِنَ الۡمُشۡرِكِيۡنَ ١٣٥).
- Q2:136 furthermore, say that: “We believe in Allah and what has been revealed to us; and what was revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and his descendants; and what was given to Moses, Jesus, and other prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them. And to Allah we all submit.”.
- Q2:140 refutes the claim that 'Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and his descendants were all Jews or Christians'. The ayat goes on to state: 'Say, “Who is more knowledgeable: you or Allah?” Who does more wrong than those who hide the testimony they received from Allah? And Allah is never unaware of what you do.' The next few Ruku discuss the qibla, and several other topics, till they reach the grand Ayat-ul-Kursi and the next two ayaat (Q2:255-257) .
- Q2:258 mentions the person who argued with Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) simply because Allah had granted him a kingdom.
- Q2:258 reminds when Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) said to him that my Lord grants life and death, he retorted that he also grants life and death.
- Q2:258 'Abraham challenged ˹him˺, “Allah causes the sun to rise from the east. So make it rise from the west.” And so the disbeliever was dumbstruck. And Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people.'
- Q2:260 mentions when Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) asked 'My Lord! Show me how you give life to the dead.” Allah responded, “Do you not believe?” Abraham replied, “Yes I do, but just so my heart can be reassured.” ' So Allah gave him some evidence.
The next seven mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah Aal-e-Imran:
- Q3:33 states that 'Indeed, Allāh chose Adam and Noah and the family of Abraham and the family of ʿImrān over the worlds -' the next ayat states: 'Descendants, some of them from others. And Allāh is Hearing and Knowing.' The surah goes on to relate the story of Mary (Maryam عليها السلام) daughter of Imran. She was chosen by Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى above all women to be the mother of Jesus (Isa عليه السلام). Surah Aal-e-Imran and Surah Maryam are two surahs which describe the miraculous pregnancy, and the birth of Jesus (Isa عليه السلام), and his mission.
- Q3:65 states that: 'O People of the Scripture, why do you argue about Abraham while the Torah and the Gospel were not revealed until after him? Then will you not reason?', and the next ayat goes on to state that: 'Here you are - those who have argued about that of which you have [some] knowledge, but why do you argue about that of which you have no knowledge? And Allāh knows, while you know not.'
- Q3:67 states that: 'Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian, but he was one inclining toward truth, a Muslim [submitting to Allāh]. And he was not of the polytheists.'
- Q3:68 states that: 'Indeed, the most worthy of Abraham among the people are those who followed him [in submission to Allāh] and this prophet [i.e., Muḥammad (ﷺ)] and those who believe [in his message]. And Allāh is the Ally of the believers.'
- Q3:84 directs the believers to state: 'Say, "We have believed in Allāh and in what was revealed to us and what was revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, and the Descendants [al-Asbāṭ], and in what was given to Moses and Jesus and to the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and we are Muslims [submitting] to Him."'
- Q3:95 states that: 'Say, "Allāh has told the truth. So follow the religion of Abraham, inclining toward truth; and he was not of the polytheists."' The next ayat mentions that the first house established for mankind was at Bakkah (Makkah), flourishing / full of blessings, and guidance for the worlds.
- Q3:97 states that: 'In it are clear signs [such as] the standing place of Abraham. And whoever enters it [i.e., the Ḥaram] shall be safe. And [due] to Allāh from the people is a pilgrimage to the House - for whoever is able to find thereto a way. But whoever disbelieves [i.e., refuses] - then indeed, Allāh is free from need of the worlds.'
The next four mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah an-Nisa. The very first ayat of the surah commands mankind to keep their duty towards Allah, and to keep their duty as regards the womb.
- Q4:54 states that: 'Or do they envy people for what Allāh has given them of His bounty? But We had already given the family of Abraham the Scripture and wisdom and conferred upon them a great kingdom.'
- Q4:125 states that: 'And who is better in religion than one who submits himself to Allāh while being a doer of good and follows the religion of Abraham, inclining toward truth? ...'
- Q4:125 continues to state that: '... And Allāh took Abraham as an intimate friend.'
- Q4:163 states that: 'Indeed, We have revealed to you, [O Muḥammad], as We revealed to Noah and the prophets after him. And We revealed to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, the Descendants, Jesus, Job, Jonah, Aaron, and Solomon, and to David We gave the book [of Psalms].' and the next two ayaat state: 'And [We sent] messengers about whom We have related [their stories] to you before and messengers about whom We have not related to you. And Allāh spoke to Moses with [direct] speech.', '[We sent] messengers as bringers of good tidings and warners so that mankind will have no argument against Allāh after the messengers. And ever is Allāh Exalted in Might and Wise.'
The next four mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah al-An`am.
- Q6:74 reminds: 'And (remember) when Ibrahim said to his father, Azar: "Do you (really) take idols as gods? I am afraid you and your people are in open error."'
- Q6:75 informs: 'And thus We showed Ibrahim the kingdom of the heavens and the earth, so that he may be firm in belief.' The next few ayaat relate his sayings about the kaukab (planet), moon and sun, and then abandoning all, and declaring that he turns his face towards the Fatir (separator) of the heavens and earth, inclining towards the truth (Hanif), and that Allah alone is the only Rabb (Sustainer). He declares that he is not a polytheist.
- Q6:83 states: 'And that is the proof from Us We gave to Ibrahim against his people. We raise in ranks whom We will. Surely, your Lord is Wise, Knowing.'
- Q6:161 states that: 'Say, “ As for me, my Lord has guided me to a straight path: the straight religion, the faith of Ibrahim, the upright: and he was not of those who associate partners with Allah. (قُلۡ اِنَّنِىۡ هَدٰٮنِىۡ رَبِّىۡۤ اِلٰى صِرَاطٍ مُّسۡتَقِيۡمٍ دِيۡنًا قِيَمًا مِّلَّةَ اِبۡرٰهِيۡمَ حَنِيۡفًا ۚ وَمَا كَانَ مِنَ الۡمُشۡرِكِيۡنَ ١٦١).'
The next three mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah at-Taubah. The surah begins with a declaration of war against the polytheistic city-state of Makkah, to whom Prophet Muhammad ﷺ had preached for over two decades.
- Q9:70 questions: 'Has there not reached them the news of those before them, the people of Nuh (Noah) and ` Ad and Thamud and the people of Ibrahim and the people of Madyan, and (the news) of the towns overturned? Their messengers came to them with clear signs; so, Allah was not to wrong them, but they have been doing wrong to their own selves.'
- Q9:114 states that: 'And the prayer of Ibrahim for the forgiveness of his father was not but due to a promise he had made to him. Later when it became clear to him that he was an enemy of Allah, he withdrew himself from him. ...'
- Q9:114 continues to explain: '... Surely, Ibrahim is oft sighing (before Allah), forbearing.'
Surah at-Taubah (Q9:36) defines the Deen (Law of Recompense) as:
اِنَّ عِدَّةَ الشُّهُوۡرِ عِنۡدَ اللّٰهِ اثۡنَا عَشَرَ شَهۡرًا فِىۡ كِتٰبِ اللّٰهِ يَوۡمَ خَلَقَ السَّمٰوٰتِ وَالۡاَرۡضَ مِنۡهَاۤ اَرۡبَعَةٌ حُرُمٌ ؕ ذٰ لِكَ الدِّيۡنُ الۡقَيِّمُ ۙ فَلَا تَظۡلِمُوۡا فِيۡهِنَّ اَنۡفُسَكُمۡ ؕ وَقَاتِلُوا الۡمُشۡرِكِيۡنَ كَآفَّةً كَمَا يُقَاتِلُوۡنَكُمۡ كَآفَّةً ؕ وَاعۡلَمُوۡۤا اَنَّ اللّٰهَ مَعَ الۡمُتَّقِيۡنَ ٣٦
Indeed, the number of months with Allāh is twelve [lunar] months in the register of Allāh [from] the day He created the heavens and the earth; of these, four are sacred. That is the correct religion [i.e., way], so do not wrong yourselves during them. And fight against the disbelievers collectively as they fight against you collectively. And know that Allāh is with the righteous [who fear Him].
[Al-Quran 9:36, Translation: Saheeh International]
The next four mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah Hud.
- Q11:69 states that: 'And Our emissaries came to Ibrāhīm with the good news. They greeted him with “Salām (peace).” He said, “Salām.” Then he took not much time in bringing a roasted calf.' The next few ayaat go on to describe Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) reactions, first when he realised who they were (those who are sent with the decision of punishment) and for whom they had been sent (Q11:70); and then when they gave him and his wife the good news about a son, quoting his wife's astonishment (Q11:71-72), and the emissaries (messengers) reply: 'They said, “Do you marvel at Allah’s command? Allah’s mercy and His blessings have always been upon you, O people of the house. Surely, He is Praiseworthy, Glorious.”' (Q11:73).
- Q11:74 informs that: 'So, when fear left Ibrāhīm and the happy news came to him, he started disputing with Us for the people of LūT.'
- Q11:75 declares that: 'Surely, Ibrāhīm is forbearing, very penitent, ever-turning to Allah.'
- Q11:76 quotes the emissaries (messengers) response: '“O Ibrāhīm! Leave it. In fact, the command of your Lord has come to pass, and there has to come upon them a punishment that cannot be averted.”'
The next two mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah Yusuf.
- Q12:4 quotes Jacob (Yaqub عليه السلام) interpreting Joseph (Yusuf عليه السلام)'s dream as: 'And so will your Lord choose you ˹O Joseph˺, and teach you the interpretation of dreams, and perfect His favour upon you and the descendants of Jacob—˹just˺ as He once perfected it upon your forefathers, Abraham and Isaac. Surely your Lord is All-Knowing, All-Wise.”'
- Q12:38 quotes Joseph (Yusuf عليه السلام)'s declaring to his prison-mates that: 'I follow the faith of my fathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is not ˹right˺ for us to associate anything with Allah ˹in worship˺. This is part of Allah’s grace upon us and humanity, but most people are not grateful.'
Surah Yusuf (Q12:40) defines the Deen (Law of Recompense) as:
مَا تَعۡبُدُوۡنَ مِنۡ دُوۡنِهٖۤ اِلَّاۤ اَسۡمَآءً سَمَّيۡتُمُوۡهَاۤ اَنۡـتُمۡ وَ اٰبَآؤُكُمۡ مَّاۤ اَنۡزَلَ اللّٰهُ بِهَا مِنۡ سُلۡطٰنٍؕ اِنِ الۡحُكۡمُ اِلَّا لِلّٰهِؕ اَمَرَ اَلَّا تَعۡبُدُوۡۤا اِلَّاۤ اِيَّاهُؕ ذٰلِكَ الدِّيۡنُ الۡقَيِّمُ وَلٰـكِنَّ اَكۡثَرَ النَّاسِ لَا يَعۡلَمُوۡنَ ٤٠
You worship not besides Him except [mere] names you have named them, you and your fathers, for which Allāh has sent down no evidence. Legislation is not but for Allāh. He has commanded that you worship not except Him. That is the correct religion, but most of the people do not know.
[Al-Quran 12:40, Translation: Saheeh International]
The next mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah Ibrahim. The surah responds in detail to all the objections against the Abrahamic faith.
- Q14:35 begins with the prayer of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام): '(Recall) when Ibrāhīm said, “My Lord, make this city peaceful, and keep me and my children away from worshiping idols.' This relates back to the dua quoted in Q2:126 when he and his son, Ismael (Ismail عليه السلام) had purified the Kaaba for the worship of Allah alone. The rest of the dua is as follows: 'My Lord, they have misled many a people. So, the one who follows me does surely belong to me. As for the one who disobeys me, then You are Most-Forgiving, Very-Merciful. Our Lord, I have settled some of my children in a valley of no vegetation, close to Your sanctified House, so that, Our Lord, they may establish Salāh. So, make hearts of people yearn towards them, and provide them with fruits, so that they may be grateful. Our Lord, surely You know what we conceal and what we reveal.-Hidden from Allah is nothing whatsoever, neither in the earth nor in the heavens. Praise be to Allah who, despite my old age, blessed me with Ismā‘īl (Ishmael) and IsHāq (Isaac). Surely, my Lord is the One who listens to the prayer. My Lord, make me steadfast in Salāh, and my offspring as well. And, Our Lord, grant my prayer. Our Lord, forgive me and my parents and all believers on the day when reckoning shall take place.”' (Q14:36-41)
The next mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah al-Hijr.
- Q15:51 states that: 'And inform them about the guests of Abraham,'. The next few ayaat relate that: 'When they entered upon him and said, "Peace." [Abraham] said, "Indeed, we are fearful [i.e., apprehensive] of you." [The angels] said, "Fear not. Indeed, we give you good tidings of a learned boy." He said, "Have you given me good tidings although old age has come upon me? Then of what [wonder] do you inform?" They said, "We have given you good tidings in truth, so do not be of the despairing." He said, "And who despairs of the mercy of his Lord except for those astray?" [Abraham] said, "Then what is your business [here], O messengers?" They said, "Indeed, we have been sent to a people of criminals, Except the family of Lot; indeed, we will save them all Except his wife." We [i.e., Allāh] decreed that she is of those who remain behind. And when the messengers came to the family of Lot, He said, "Indeed, you are people unknown." They said, "But we have come to you with that about which they were disputing, And we have come to you with truth, and indeed, we are truthful. So set out with your family during a portion of the night and follow behind them and let not anyone among you look back and continue on to where you are commanded." And We conveyed to him [the decree] of that matter: that those [sinners] would be eliminated by early morning.' (Q15:52-66). The surah narrates the behaviour of the people of that city towards the guests of Lot (Lut عليه السلام), takes an oath by the Prophet's life, that in their intoxication, blind (لَعَمۡرُكَ اِنَّهُمۡ لَفِىۡ سَكۡرَتِهِمۡ يَعۡمَهُوۡنَ ٧٢); and so the shriek took them away at sunrise (فَاَخَذَتۡهُمُ الصَّيۡحَةُ مُشۡرِقِيۡنَۙ). ... till Q15:77.
The next two mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah an-Nahl.
- Q16:120 states that: 'Surely, Ibr him was an Ummah (a whole community in himself), devoted to Allah, a man of pure faith; and he was not among the Mushriks (those who associate partners with Allah)'. The next ayat continues to inform that: 'while he was grateful to His bounties. He chose him and led him to the straight path. And We gave him good in this world; and in the Hereafter, he is among the righteous.'
- Q16:123 states that: 'Then, We revealed to you, 'Follow the way of Ibrihim, the upright, and he was not among the Mushriks".'
The next three mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah Maryam.
- Q19:41 states that: 'And mention in the Book [the story of] Abraham. Indeed, he was a man of truth and a prophet.' The next few ayaat record his respectful conversation with his polytheistic father regarding religion.
- Q19:46 records his father's reaction to the invitation to monotheism: '[His father] said, "Have you no desire for my gods, O Abraham? If you do not desist, I will surely stone you, so avoid me a prolonged time."' The surah continues with the mention of Isaac (Ishaque عليه السلام), Jacob (Yaqub عليه السلام), Moses (Musa عليه السلام), Aaron (Harun عليه السلام) Ishmael (Ismail عليه السلام), and Enoch (Idris عليه السلام).
- Q19:58 states that: 'Those were the ones upon whom Allāh bestowed favor from among the prophets of the descendants of Adam and of those We carried [in the ship] with Noah, and of the descendants of Abraham and Israel [i.e., Jacob], and of those whom We guided and chose. When the verses of the Most Merciful were recited to them, they fell in prostration and weeping.'
The next four mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah al-Anbiya.
- Q21:51 states that: 'And We had certainly given Abraham his sound judgement before,1 and We were of him well-Knowing'. The surah goes on to narrate the breaking of idols by Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام), and the people looking for the 'wrongdoer'.
- Q21:60 states that: 'They said, "We heard a young man mention them who is called Abraham."'
- Q21:62 states their inquiry: 'They said, "Have you done this to our gods, O Abraham?"'. They eventually decide to punish him by burning in a fire, and their fire couldn't harm Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام).
- Q21:69 quotes the command given to the fire: 'We said, “O fire, be cold and safe for Ibrāhīm.”'.
The next three mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah al-Hajj.
- Q22:26 informs that: 'And recall when We located the House for Abraham: “Do not associate anything with Me, and cleanse My House for the circumambulators and those who stand to pray and those who kneel and prostrate.' The word (بَوَّاۡنَا) is variously translated as We located, pointed out, assigned. I think located is more correct, as the Kaaba must already be in existence for it to be cleansed, and as also Q22:29 goes on to call it The Ancient House ( بِالۡبَيۡتِ الۡعَتِيۡقِ ٢٩).
- Q22:43 states: 'And the people of Abraham and the people of Lot.'. Read together with the ayaat before and after it: 'And if they deny you, [O Muḥammad] - so, before them, did the people of Noah and ʿAad and Thamūd deny [their prophets], And the people of Abraham and the people of Lot. And the inhabitants of Madyan. And Moses was denied, so I prolonged enjoyment for the disbelievers; then I seized them, and how [terrible] was My reproach.'
- Q22:78 concludes with: 'And strive for Allāh with the striving due to Him. He has chosen you and has not placed upon you in the religion any difficulty. [It is] the religion of your father, Abraham. He [i.e., Allāh] named you "Muslims" before [in former scriptures] and in this [revelation] that the Messenger may be a witness over you and you may be witnesses over the people. So establish prayer and give zakāh and hold fast to Allāh. He is your protector; and excellent is the protector, and excellent is the helper.'.
The next mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah ash-Shu`ara.
- Q26:69 states that: 'And recite to them the news of Abraham,'. The passage about Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) reads as: 'And recite to them the news of Abraham, When he said to his father and his people, "What do you worship?" They said, "We worship idols and remain to them devoted." He said, "Do they hear you when you supplicate? Or do they benefit you, or do they harm?" They said, "But we found our fathers doing thus." He said, "Then do you see what you have been worshipping, You and your ancient forefathers? Indeed, they are enemies to me, except the Lord of the worlds, Who created me, and He [it is who] guides me. And it is He who feeds me and gives me drink. And when I am ill, it is He who cures me And who will cause me to die and then bring me to life And who I aspire that He will forgive me my sin on the Day of Recompense." [And he said], "My Lord, grant me authority and join me with the righteous. And grant me a mention [i.e., reputation] of honor among later generations. And place me among the inheritors of the Garden of Pleasure. And forgive my father. Indeed, he has been of those astray. And do not disgrace me on the Day they are [all] resurrected - The Day when there will not benefit [anyone] wealth or children But only one who comes to Allāh with a sound heart." And Paradise will be brought near [that Day] to the righteous. And Hellfire will be brought forth for the deviators, ...'
The next two mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah al-Ankabut.
The surah begins with the statement that people will be tested for their claim that they are believers. We know that Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) was tested with many difficult tests, before he was appointed an Imam (Q2:124).
The name of the surah translates as 'The Spider'. After recounting the nations that were destroyed after they rejected their Messenger(s)' invitation to monotheism, ayat 41 of the surah explains that the likeness of those who take protectors other than Allah is that of the spider who builds a home for itself, and the very feeblest of homes is that of the spider.
- Q29:16 reminds that: 'And [We sent] Abraham, when he said to his people, "Worship Allāh and fear Him. That is best for you, if you should know.' The next few ayaat recap his mission, his people trying to burn him in defence of their gods, he being saved, and then emigrating, and Lot (Lut عليه السلام) along with him. Then, Lot (Lut عليه السلام)'s mission is also recapped.
- Q29:31 states that: 'And when Our messengers [i.e., angels] came to Abraham with the good tidings, they said, "Indeed, we will destroy the people of that [i.e., Lot's] city. Indeed, its people have been wrongdoers."' The next ayat records Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) pleading that Lot (Lut عليه السلام) is among them. He is reassured that he, and his family, will be saved, except his wife ...
The next mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah al-Ahzaab (The Confederates).
- Q33:7 reminds: 'And [mention, O Muḥammad], when We took from the prophets their covenant and from you and from Noah and Abraham and Moses and Jesus, the son of Mary; and We took from them a solemn covenant', and the next ayat explains: 'That He may question the truthful about their truth. And He has prepared for the disbelievers a painful punishment.'
The next three mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah as-Saafaat. The surah presents examples of the chosen ones, believers who did good excellently, and so they were the ones upon whom was bestowed peace. After mentioning the story of Noah (Nuh عليه السلام), the next person mentioned is Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام).
- Q37:83 states that: 'To his sect belonged Abraham'. The next ayat informs that: (اِذۡ جَآءَ رَبَّهٗ بِقَلۡبٍ سَلِيۡمٍ ٨٤) He came to his Lord with a sound / whole heart. The following ayaat recount his preaching to his people, his breaking of the idols, then their plan to burn him, Allah saving Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) while making those who planned against him the lowest; Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) going away from there, Allah granting his prayer and bestowing him with a forbearing son, his relating his dream about sacrificing his son, asking his son for what he thinks, the son respectfully asking his father to do as commanded, and then they both submitting with the father putting the son down on his forehead, and then
- Q37:104 states: 'We called out to him: "Abraham,'. The next ayat states that he had made his dream true, and that's how those who do excellently are rewarded. Indeed, it was an evident test. The son was ransomed with a great sacrifice, and he was granted mention among the latter ones:
- Q37:109 "Peace be upon Abraham!" the next ayat reiterates that this is how those who do excellently are rewarded. Q37:111 goes on to state that he was a Believer, and the next ayaat detail the rewards.
The next mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah Saad. This surah narrates about rich, powerful men. It begins with the mention of disbelievers in general, then specifically mentions three examples of men who were believers, and would quickly repent when they slipped, and then:
- Q38:41 reminds: 'And remember Our servants: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—the men of strength and insight.'
The surah concludes with a narration about the command to angels to prostrate to Adam عليه السلام .
The next mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah Ash-Shuraa, informing us that the true religion (الدِّيۡنِ) from Allah has always been the same
- Q38:41 reminds: 'He hath ordained for you that religion which He commended unto Noah, and that which We inspire in thee (Muhammad), and that which We commended unto Abraham and Moses and Jesus, saying: Establish the religion, and be not divided therein. Dreadful for the idolaters is that unto which thou callest them. Allah chooseth for Himself whom He will, and guideth unto Himself him who turneth (toward Him).'
The next mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah Az-Zukhruf (gold ornaments). Among the first few ayaat is the statement that this is a recitation in Arabic, and questions them that shouldn't they be reminded because they are an extravagant people.
Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) was the father of Ishmael (Ismail عليه السلام) from whom descended Prophet-Messenger Muhammad ﷺ.
- Q43:26 reminds: 'And (recall) when Ibrahim said to his father and to his people, "I disown that which you worship,' and the following ayat continues to quote: 'except the One who has originated me; so He will guide me." And he made it a word lasting among his posterity, so that they may return. But, I gave these and their fathers enjoyment, until the truth came to them, and a messenger who explains (it).'
The next mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah adh-Dhariyat.
- Q51:24 questions: 'Has there reached you the story of the honored guests of Abraham?'. The following ayaat relate the story as: 'When they entered upon him and said, "[We greet you with] peace." He answered, "[And upon you] peace; [you are] a people unknown." Then he went to his family and came with a fat [roasted] calf. And placed it near them; he said, "Will you not eat?" And he felt from them apprehension. They said, "Fear not," and gave him good tidings of a learned boy. And his wife approached with a cry [of alarm] and struck her face and said, "[I am] a barren old woman!" They said, "Thus has said your Lord; indeed, He is the Wise, the Knowing." [Abraham] said, "Then what is your business [here], O messengers?" They said, "Indeed, we have been sent to a people of criminals To send down upon them stones of clay, Marked in the presence of your Lord for the transgressors." So We brought out whoever was in them [i.e., the cities] of the believers. And We found not within them other than a [single] house of Muslims. And We left therein a sign for those who fear the painful punishment.'
The next mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah an-Najm.
- Q53:37 reminds of: 'And with Abraham who kept his word: (وَاِبۡرٰهِيۡمَ الَّذِىۡ وَفّٰىٓ ۙ ٣٧)'
The next mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah al-Hadeed.
- Q57:26 states that: 'And we have indeed sent Nuh and Ibrahim, and kept the Book and prophet-hood (continuing) in their progeny. So, some of those (to whom they were sent) were on the right path, and many of them were sinners.'
The next two mentions of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occur in Surah al-Mumtahhanah, also quoted at the beginning of this post.
- Q60:4 states: 'You already have an excellent example in Abraham and those with him, when they said to their people, “We totally dissociate ourselves from you and ˹shun˺ whatever ˹idols˺ you worship besides Allah. We reject you. The enmity and hatred that has arisen between us and you will last until you believe in Allah alone.” The only exception is when Abraham said to his father, “I will seek forgiveness for you,˹” adding, “but˺ I cannot protect you from Allah at all.” ˹The believers prayed,˺ “Our Lord! In You we trust. And to You we ˹always˺ turn. And to You is the final return.'
The final mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام) occurs in Surah al-A`la. It begins with the tasbeeh of prostration (), and concludes with a mention of Abraham (Ibrahim عليه السلام).
- Q87:19 informs that: 'The scriptures of Abraham and Moses.'
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DRAFT
Hajj and the lunar calendar (Surah alBaqarah and Surah atTaubah and Surah alHajj)
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References and Links
The Covenant & Its Ratification
The Case against the Bani Israel
The Quran, the Pharaoh, Exodus and the Promised Day!
Wronging the Nafs - II (The Forbidden & The Sacred)
Wronging the Nafs - III (The Calendar)
Some translations are my own, while some are copied from Quran.com
Last updated on: February 28, 2024
