Why Does Allah Tell Stories of the Prophets in the Qur'an? -

The Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, is a divine guidance for humanity, containing not just laws and commandments but also the stories of various prophets. These narratives are not mere historical recounts but serve profound purposes in shaping the beliefs, values, and behaviors of believers. The stories of the prophets in the Qur’an play a crucial role in educating, guiding, and providing moral and spiritual insights to Muslims. This article aims to explore the multifaceted purposes of these stories, demonstrating their relevance and importance in the lives of believers.

The Purpose of Allah Telling the Stories of Prophets in the Qur’an

Throughout history, Allah has sent prophets to every community to guide them towards His religion. As emphasized in the Qur’an, the actions and moral qualities of these prophets serve as exemplary models for believers. Allah advises believers to follow the prophets as role models:

“You have an excellent model in the Messenger of Allah, for all who put their hope in Allah and the Last Day and remember Allah much.” (Surat al-Ahzab, 21)

Believers should meticulously study the information provided in the Qur’an about the prophets, understanding their lives, their practice of moral excellence, and their deep devotion to Allah. By doing so, they can aspire to embody the high morality of these noble individuals, who are the most worthy people ever to have lived.

Moreover, every event narrated in the Qur’an about the prophets is enlightening and instructive for the lives of believers. As Allah states:

“Or did you suppose that you would enter the Garden without facing the same as those who came before you?” (Surat al-Baqara, 214)

Believers will experience similar trials and challenges as those faced by the prophets and their followers. Therefore, a careful examination of the lifestyles of the prophets as narrated in the Qur’an will benefit believers. Allah mentions in the Qur’an that there are lessons in the stories of the prophets for people of intelligence:

“There is instruction in their stories for people of intelligence. This is not a narration which has been invented but confirmation of all that came before, a clarification of everything, and a guidance and a mercy for people who believe.” (Surah Yusuf, 111)

A Messenger Has Been Sent to Every Community

Allah has sent messengers to every community, bringing good news and warnings:

“We have sent you with the truth bringing good news and giving warning. There is no community to which a warner has not come.” (Surah Fatir, 24)

“We sent a Messenger among every people saying: ‘Worship Allah and keep clear of all false gods.’ Among them were some whom Allah guided but others received the misguidance they deserved. Travel about the earth and see the final fate of the deniers.” (Surat an-Nahl, 36)

“We have never destroyed a city without giving it prior warning.” (Surat ash-Shu’ara’, 208)

Every Community Has Been Sent a Messenger Speaking the Language of Its People

Allah sent messengers in the language of their people so that the message could be clearly understood:

“We have not sent any Messenger except with the language of his people so he can make things clear to them. Allah misguides anyone He wills and guides anyone He wills. He is the Almighty, the All-Wise.” (Surah Ibrahim, 4)

The Purpose of Sending Prophets

The primary purpose of sending prophets is to deliver good news and warnings. Those who believe and rectify their actions will have no fear or sorrow:

“We do not send the Messengers except to bring good news and to give warning. As for those who believe and put things right, they will feel no fear and will know no sorrow.” (Surat al-An’am, 48)

“That was because their Lord would never have destroyed the cities unjustly while their people were unaware.” (Surat al-An’am, 131)

“We only sent you for the whole of mankind, bringing good news and giving warning. But most of mankind do not know it.” (Surah Saba’, 28)

Messengers bring good news and warnings so that people have no argument against Allah after the coming of the Messengers:

“Messengers bringing good news and giving warning, so that people will have no argument against Allah after the coming of the Messengers. Allah is Almighty, All-Wise.” (Surat an-Nisa’, 165)

Obedience to Prophets and Its Reward

Believers are advised to fear Allah and believe in His Messenger to receive a double portion of mercy, a light to guide them, and forgiveness:

“You who believe! Have fear of Allah and believe in His Messenger. He will give you a double portion of His mercy and grant you a Light by which to walk and forgive you. Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Surat al-Hadid, 28)

“Obey Allah and the Messenger so that hopefully you will gain mercy.” (Surah Al ‘Imran, 132)

“…Allah has sent down a reminder to you, a Messenger reciting Allah’s Clear Signs to you to bring those who believe and do right actions out of the darkness into the Light. Whoever believes in Allah and acts rightly, We will admit him into Gardens with rivers flowing under them, remaining in them timelessly, forever and ever. Allah has provided for him excellently!” (Surat at-Talaq, 10-11)

“The reply of the believers when they are summoned to Allah and His Messenger so that he can judge between them, is to say, ‘We hear and we obey.’ They are the ones who are successful. All who obey Allah and His Messenger and have awe of Allah and heed Him, they are the ones who are victorious.” (Surat an-Nur, 51-52)

“Children of Adam! If Messengers come to you from among yourselves, recounting My Signs to you, those who guard against evil and put things right, will feel no fear and will know no sorrow.” (Surat al-A’raf, 35)

“Whoever obeys Allah and the Messenger will be with those whom Allah has blessed: the Prophets and the loyal persons, the martyrs and the righteous. What excellent company such people are!” (Surat an-Nisa’, 69)

Obedience to the Prophet Is Obedience to Allah

Obeying the Prophet is equated with obeying Allah:

“Whoever obeys the Messenger has obeyed Allah. If anyone turns away, we did not send you to them as their keeper.” (Surat an-Nisa’, 80)

The Prophets Did Not Ask People for Any Recompense

The prophets guided by Allah did not ask for any wage for their efforts; their mission was purely a reminder to all beings:

“They are the ones Allah has guided, so be guided by their guidance. Say, ‘I do not ask you for any wage for it. It is simply a reminder to all beings.'” (Surat al-An’am, 90)

“But most people, for all your eagerness, are not believers. You do not ask them for any wage for it. It is only a reminder to all beings.” (Surah Yusuf, 103-104)

“A man came running from the far side of the city, saying, ‘My people! Follow the Messengers! Follow those who do not ask you for any wage and who have received guidance.'” (Surah Ya Sin, 20-21)

“We sent you only to bring good news and to give warning. Say: ‘I do not ask you for any wage for it – only that anyone who wants to should make his way towards his Lord.'” (Surat al-Furqan, 56-57)

“Say: ‘I exhort you to do one thing alone: to stand before Allah in pairs and on your own and then reflect. Your companion is not possessed. He is only a warner come to you ahead of a terrible punishment.’ Say: ‘Whatever reward I might have asked of you is yours. My reward is the affair of Allah only. He is witness over all things.'” (Surah Saba’, 46-47)

Verses Advising the Prophets to Be Steadfast in the Face of Difficulties

The prophets were advised to call people to the way of Allah with wisdom and kind admonition, and to be patient in the face of adversity:

“Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and fair admonition, and argue with them in the kindest way. Your Lord knows best who is misguided from His way. And He knows best who are guided. If you want to retaliate, retaliate to the same degree as the injury done to you. But if you are patient, it is better to be patient. Be patient. But your patience is only by Allah. Do not be grieved by them and do not be constricted by the plots they hatch.” (Surat an-Nahl, 125-127)

“Perhaps you may destroy yourself with grief, chasing after them, if they do not believe in these words.” (Surat al-Kahf, 6)

“Were it not for a prior word from your Lord, and a specified term, it would inevitably have already taken place. So be steadfast in the face of what they say and glorify your Lord with praise before the rising of the sun and before its setting. And glorify Him during part of the night and at both ends of the day, so that hopefully you will be pleased.” (Surah Ta Ha, 129-130)

“So do not let their words distress you. We know what they keep secret and what they divulge.” (Surah Ya Sin, 76)

“We know that what they say distresses you. It is not that they are calling you a liar; the wrongdoers are just denying Allah’s Signs.” (Surat al-An’am, 33)

“Do not grieve over them and do not let the plots they make distress you.” (Surat an-Naml, 70)

“So put your trust in Allah. You are clearly on a path of truth. You will not make dead men hear and you will not make deaf men hear the call when they turn their backs in flight. You will not guide blind men out of their error. You will not make anyone hear except for those who believe in Our Signs and so are Muslims.” (Surat an-Naml, 79-81)

“These are the Signs of the Clear Book. Perhaps you will destroy yourself with grief because they will not become believers. If We wished We could send down a Sign to them from heaven, before which their heads would be bowed low in subjection.” (Surat ash-Shu’ara’, 2-4)

“O Messenger! Do not be grieved by those who rush headlong into disbelief among those who say ‘We believe’ with their tongues when their hearts contain no faith. And among the Jews are those who listen to lies, listening to other people who have not come to you, distorting words from their proper meanings, saying, ‘If you are given this, then take it. If you are not given it, then beware!’ If Allah desires misguidance for someone, you cannot help him against Allah in any way. Those are the people whose hearts Allah does not want to purify. They will have disgrace in this world and in the hereafter they will have a terrible punishment.” (Surat al-Ma’ida, 41)

“Be steadfast in the face of what they say and cut yourself off from them – but courteously.” (Surat al-Muzzammil, 10)

“Proclaim what you have been ordered to and turn away from the idolaters. We are enough for you against the mockers, those who set up another god beside Allah. They will soon know! We know that your breast is constricted by what they say. So glorify your Lord with praise and be one of the prostrators. And worship your Lord until what is Certain comes to you.” (Surat al-Hijr, 94-99)

Disobedience to the Prophets and Its Penalty

Those who reject Allah and His Messengers, causing division between them, are the true disbelievers and will face a humiliating punishment:

“Those who reject Allah and His Messengers and desire to cause division between Allah and His Messengers, saying, ‘We believe in some and reject the others,’ wanting to take a pathway in between, such people are the true disbelievers. We have prepared a humiliating punishment for the disbelievers.” (Surat an-Nisa’, 150-151)

“Those who oppose Allah and His Messenger will be subdued and overcome as those before them were also subdued and overcome. We have sent down Clear Signs. The disbelievers will have a humiliating punishment.” (Surat al-Mujadala, 5)

“How many cities spurned their Lord’s command and His Messengers! And so We called them harshly to account and punished them with a terrible punishment.” (Surat at-Talaq, 8)

“As for those who disobey Allah and His Messenger and overstep His limits, We will admit them into a Fire, remaining in it timelessly, forever. They will have a humiliating punishment.” (Surat an-Nisa’, 14)

“Then We sent Our Messengers one after another, at intervals. Each time its Messenger came to a community they called him a liar so We made them follow one another too and turned them into myths and legends. Away with the people who do not believe!” (Surat al-Mu’minun, 44)

10 Reasons Why Allah Tells Stories of the Prophets in the Qur’an?

Here is the list of 10 solid reasons about Why Allah Tells Stories of the Prophets in the Qur’an?

1. Guidance and Instruction

One of the primary purposes of the stories of the prophets in the Qur’an is to provide guidance and instruction. The prophets are presented as exemplars of faith, righteousness, and steadfastness in the face of adversity. By narrating their experiences, Allah provides believers with practical examples of how to live a life that is pleasing to Him. These stories illustrate the principles of Islamic faith, including monotheism, patience, gratitude, humility, and trust in Allah.

For instance, the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith in Allah. Despite being thrown into a fire for rejecting idolatry, Ibrahim remained steadfast in his belief, and Allah saved him from the flames. This story teaches believers the virtue of maintaining faith in the face of severe trials and tribulations. Similarly, the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph) highlights the value of patience and forgiveness. Despite being betrayed by his brothers and wrongfully imprisoned, Yusuf forgave them and trusted in Allah’s plan, ultimately rising to a position of power in Egypt.

2. Moral and Ethical Lessons

The stories of the prophets are rich with moral and ethical lessons that are timeless and universal. These narratives teach believers about the consequences of moral behavior and the rewards of righteous conduct. They also illustrate the pitfalls of sinful behavior and the eventual downfall of those who transgress Allah’s commandments.

The story of Prophet Nuh (Noah) serves as a warning against arrogance and disobedience to Allah. Despite his persistent efforts to guide his people to the right path, they rejected his message and were ultimately destroyed in a great flood. This story underscores the importance of heeding divine warnings and the dire consequences of ignoring them. On the other hand, the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) highlights the importance of justice and perseverance. Despite the oppression of Pharaoh, Musa led the Israelites to freedom, demonstrating that justice will ultimately prevail with Allah’s support.

3. Strengthening Faith and Conviction

The stories of the prophets serve to strengthen the faith and conviction of believers. By recounting the trials and triumphs of these righteous individuals, the Qur’an reassures believers that Allah’s support is always with those who are steadfast in their faith. These stories also remind believers that every trial has a purpose and that ultimate success lies in remaining true to one’s faith.

The story of Prophet Ayub (Job) is particularly powerful in this regard. Ayub was afflicted with severe illness and lost his wealth and family, yet he remained patient and unwavering in his faith. His story is a testament to the power of patience and trust in Allah’s wisdom, encouraging believers to maintain their faith even in the most challenging circumstances.

4. Encouraging Reflection and Contemplation

The Qur’an often encourages believers to reflect on the stories of the prophets and draw lessons from them. These narratives are presented not just as historical accounts but as opportunities for deep contemplation and spiritual growth. By reflecting on the experiences of the prophets, believers can gain insights into their own lives and the challenges they face.

For example, the story of Prophet Yunus (Jonah) teaches the importance of repentance and humility. After initially fleeing from his mission, Yunus found himself in the belly of a whale, where he repented and called out to Allah for forgiveness. His story encourages believers to reflect on their own shortcomings and seek Allah’s forgiveness with sincerity and humility.

5. Establishing a Connection with the Past

The stories of the prophets serve to establish a connection between contemporary believers and the past. By recounting the experiences of previous prophets, the Qur’an emphasizes the continuity of the divine message and the universality of its principles. This connection helps believers understand that they are part of a long tradition of faith and that the challenges they face are not unique.

The story of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the final prophet, is intricately linked with the stories of previous prophets. His mission is presented as the culmination of the prophetic tradition, affirming the consistency and coherence of Allah’s message throughout history. This continuity reinforces the idea that the principles of Islam are timeless and that believers are part of a broader, divinely ordained narrative.

6. Inspiring Hope and Perseverance

The stories of the prophets are often filled with instances of divine intervention and miraculous events that inspire hope and perseverance. These narratives reassure believers that, no matter how dire the situation, Allah’s help is always near. By highlighting the triumph of the prophets over seemingly insurmountable challenges, the Qur’an encourages believers to remain hopeful and persevere in their faith.

The story of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (Ishmael) is a profound example of unwavering obedience and trust in Allah. At the last moment, Allah intervened and provided a ram to be sacrificed instead. This story instills hope in believers, reminding them that Allah’s mercy and assistance are always available to those who submit to His will.

7. Providing Context for Revelation

The stories of the prophets also provide context for the revelation of the Qur’an. Many verses in the Qur’an were revealed in response to specific events or questions posed to Prophet Muhammad. By understanding the historical and narrative context of these revelations, believers can gain a deeper appreciation of their meaning and significance.

For instance, the story of the Battle of Badr, where a small Muslim army triumphed against a much larger force, provides context for several Qur’anic verses that emphasize the importance of faith and reliance on Allah. Understanding the context of this battle helps believers appreciate the lessons of courage, unity, and divine support that are conveyed in these verses.

8. Affirming the Universality of the Prophetic Mission

The Qur’an asserts that Allah has sent prophets to every community throughout history, emphasizing the universality of the prophetic mission. By recounting the stories of various prophets from different regions and eras, the Qur’an affirms that the message of monotheism and righteousness is universal and timeless.

This universality is highlighted in the story of Prophet Shu’ayb, who was sent to the people of Midian, and the story of Prophet Salih, who was sent to the people of Thamud. Despite the differences in their communities, the core message of these prophets was the same: to worship Allah alone and adhere to moral principles. This underscores the idea that the message of Islam transcends cultural and temporal boundaries, uniting all believers in a common faith.

9. Serving as a Source of Legitimacy for Prophet Muhammad

The stories of the prophets also serve to legitimize the prophethood of Muhammad. By aligning his mission with the missions of previous prophets, the Qur’an establishes his legitimacy and continuity within the prophetic tradition. This is particularly important in the face of opposition and skepticism from those who doubted his prophethood.

The Qur’an often draws parallels between the experiences of Muhammad and those of previous prophets, emphasizing that their challenges and rejections are part of a broader pattern. For example, the story of Prophet Musa confronting Pharaoh’s tyranny mirrors Muhammad’s struggle against the Quraysh leaders in Mecca. These parallels reinforce the idea that Muhammad’s mission is a continuation of the same divine guidance that previous prophets brought to their communities.

10. Encouraging Unity and Solidarity Among Believers

The stories of the prophets also promote unity and solidarity among believers. By emphasizing the shared struggles and triumphs of the prophets and their followers, the Qur’an fosters a sense of collective identity and purpose among Muslims. These narratives remind believers that they are part of a larger community that transcends time and geography.

The story of the migration (Hijra) of Prophet Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina exemplifies this sense of solidarity. Despite facing persecution and hardship, the early Muslims supported one another and established a cohesive and thriving community in Medina. This story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of unity, mutual support, and collective effort in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the stories of the prophets in the Qur’an serve multiple, interconnected purposes that are vital for the spiritual and moral development of believers. These narratives provide guidance, instruction, and ethical lessons, while also strengthening faith, encouraging reflection, and establishing a connection with the past. They inspire hope and perseverance, provide context for revelation, affirm the universality of the prophetic mission, legitimize the prophethood of Muhammad, and promote unity among believers.

By studying and reflecting on these stories, Muslims can gain a deeper understanding of their faith, draw inspiration for their daily lives, and strive to emulate the exemplary qualities of the prophets. In this way, the stories of the prophets in the Qur’an continue to serve as a timeless and invaluable source of wisdom and guidance for believers across generations.

In summary, the stories of the prophets in the Qur’an provide invaluable lessons for believers. These narratives are not just historical accounts but serve as moral and spiritual guidance. By following the examples set by the prophets, believers can navigate their own lives with wisdom, patience, and unwavering faith in Allah.