إِنَّ هَـٰذَا لَهُوَ ٱلْبَلَـٰٓؤُا۟ ٱلْمُبِينُ 106
Translations
Indeed, this was the clear trial.
Transliteration
Inna hatha lahu al-balaa al-mubin
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah occurs in the context of Prophet Ibrahim's sacrifice, where Allah is affirming that the trial (balaa) Ibrahim faced—being commanded to sacrifice his beloved son Ismail—was indeed a clear and manifest test. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir explain that this demonstrates Allah's wisdom in testing His servants with difficulties to purify their faith and demonstrate their obedience. Al-Tabari notes that the word 'balaa' encompasses both the command to sacrifice and the subsequent reprieve, showing how trials test the sincerity of devotion.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of Surah As-Saffat (37:106), which recounts the story of Prophet Ibrahim and the sacrifice of his son. The surah, revealed in Mecca during the early Islamic period, emphasizes the trials of the prophets and their unwavering faith. This particular ayah directly follows the moment when Allah commands Ibrahim to sacrifice Ismail, making it central to understanding the theme of divine testing and human submission to Allah's will.
Related Hadiths
The story of Ibrahim's sacrifice is extensively referenced in hadith literature. See Sahih Bukhari (3844) where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) mentions Ibrahim among the most patient prophets. Additionally, Muslim (1218) contains traditions about the virtues of Ibrahim's faith and obedience.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that difficulties and trials in life are not punishments but opportunities to strengthen our faith and demonstrate sincere devotion to Allah. By recognizing trials as 'clear tests' rather than mere hardships, believers can cultivate patience, gratitude, and deeper trust in Allah's wisdom and plan.