وَكَأَيِّن مِّن نَّبِىٍّ قَـٰتَلَ مَعَهُۥ رِبِّيُّونَ كَثِيرٌ فَمَا وَهَنُوا۟ لِمَآ أَصَابَهُمْ فِى سَبِيلِ ٱللَّهِ وَمَا ضَعُفُوا۟ وَمَا ٱسْتَكَانُوا۟ ۗ وَٱللَّهُ يُحِبُّ ٱلصَّـٰبِرِينَ 146
Translations
And how many a prophet [fought in battle and] with him fought many religious scholars. But they never lost assurance due to what afflicted them in the cause of Allāh, nor did they weaken or submit. And Allāh loves the steadfast.
Transliteration
Wa-ka-ayyin min nabiyyin qatala ma'ahu ribbiyyun kathir fama wahanu lima asabahum fi sabili-llah wa ma daafu wa mas-takanu wa-llahu yuhibbu as-sabirin
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah emphasizes that numerous prophets fought alongside large numbers of devoted believers (rabbiyyun - scholars and devout followers) without losing resolve or becoming weak despite the hardships they endured in the path of Allah. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari note this ayah was revealed to strengthen the resolve of the believers at Uhud, demonstrating that patience and steadfastness in the face of trials is a characteristic beloved by Allah. The ayah serves as a historical reminder that prophets and their companions maintained unwavering determination despite suffering casualties and setbacks.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah Ali 'Imran's discussion of the Battle of Uhud (2 AH), which occurred after the Muslims' victory at Badr. It was revealed to console and encourage the believers after their initial setback at Uhud, reminding them of the examples of previous prophets who persevered despite losses.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet ﷺ said: 'The greatest jihad is the struggle against one's self' (Tirmidhi). Also relevant: 'Indeed, with hardship comes ease' (Quran 94:5-6), which pairs with this ayah's theme of perseverance through trials.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches believers that facing difficulties with unwavering resolve and patience in Allah's cause is a divine quality that attracts Allah's love and approval. In modern contexts, it encourages Muslims to maintain steadfastness in their faith and duties despite worldly challenges, loss, or opposition.