فَأَوْجَسَ مِنْهُمْ خِيفَةً ۖ قَالُوا۟ لَا تَخَفْ ۖ وَبَشَّرُوهُ بِغُلَـٰمٍ عَلِيمٍ 28
Translations
And he felt from them apprehension. They said, "Fear not," and gave him good tidings of a learned boy.
Transliteration
Fa-awjasa minhum khifatan qaaloo laa takhaf wa bashsharoohu bighulamin aleem
Tafsir (Explanation)
Ibrahim (peace be upon him) felt fear when the angels arrived in human form, but they reassured him not to fear and gave him glad tidings of a son who would be learned and wise. This refers to the birth of Ishaq (Isaac), and the mention of 'aleem' (learned/wise) indicates the spiritual and intellectual excellence of his offspring, as Ibn Kathir notes that this child would possess both knowledge and righteousness. Al-Tabari emphasizes that the angels' reassurance removed Ibrahim's anxiety about their unexpected visit, replacing it with joy at the promise of progeny.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the narrative of Ibrahim's hospitality to the three angels (messengers) sent by Allah, as detailed in Surah Adh-Dhariyat 24-37. The broader context describes how Ibrahim prepared food for his guests, then experienced fear when they did not eat, which made him anxious. This Meccan surah uses this story to illustrate divine mercy, trust in Allah, and the reward for those who show hospitality and faith.
Related Hadiths
In Sahih Bukhari (Vol. 4, Book 55, Hadith 546), the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentioned that Ibrahim was the most forbearing and kind-hearted person, exemplifying the virtues displayed in this narrative. Additionally, Sunan Ibn Majah contains traditions about the virtues of Ishaq as a righteous prophet and scholar.
Themes
Key Lesson
When we face uncertainty or fear, Allah sends signs of comfort and hope; Ibrahim's transformation from fear to joy teaches us that trust in Allah's wisdom and providence ultimately replaces anxiety with gratitude and celebration of His blessings.