قَالَ فَمَا خَطْبُكُمْ أَيُّهَا ٱلْمُرْسَلُونَ 57
Translations
[Abraham] said, "Then what is your business [here], O messengers?"
Transliteration
Qala fama khatbukum ayyuha al-mursalun
Tafsir (Explanation)
Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) asks the angels who have come to him: 'What is your business/mission, O messengers?' This question reflects Ibrahim's initial uncertainty about the identity and purpose of his visitors, though he had already shown them hospitality. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note that this demonstrates Ibrahim's prudence in seeking clarification before fully understanding their message, which was to inform him of the birth of Ishaq and to announce the punishment upon the people of Lot.
Revelation Context
This ayah occurs within the narrative of Ibrahim's encounter with the angels (15:51-60), a Meccan revelation that recounts a significant episode from Ibrahim's life. The context illustrates the divine communication between the angels and prophets, establishing the reality of angelic visitation and divine messages.
Related Hadiths
While no specific hadith directly quotes this ayah, Sahih Bukhari contains numerous hadiths about Ibrahim's character and his role as a messenger. The theme of questioning for understanding is supported by hadith traditions encouraging believers to seek knowledge and clarification.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us the importance of seeking clear understanding before acting on information, and demonstrates that even prophets appropriately asked clarifying questions when facing uncertain situations—encouraging believers to be thoughtful and inquisitive in matters of faith.