Tafsir & Commentary
Those who set the Ranks (الصافات) · Meccan
إِنَّهُمَا مِنْ عِبَادِنَا ٱلْمُؤْمِنِينَ122
37:122
Translation — Sahih International
Indeed, they were of Our believing servants.
Transliteration
Innahuma min ibadina al-mu'mineen
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ishaq (Isaac), affirming that both were among Allah's believing servants. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari emphasize that this verse highlights the righteousness and faith of these two prophets, positioning them as exemplars of true servitude to Allah. The dual pronoun 'huma' (they two) establishes their shared status as believers and servants of the Most High.
Revelation Context (Asbab al-Nuzul)
This ayah appears in the context of Surah As-Saffat's discussion of various prophets and righteous servants of Allah. The surah, revealed in Mecca during the early Islamic period, serves to console the Prophet Muhammad and the believers by reminding them of the legacy of previous prophets who faced opposition yet remained steadfast in their faith.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'The best of people are those of my generation, then those who will come after them, then those who will come after them.' (Sahih Bukhari 3456). This relates thematically to the honor given to the prophets Ibrahim and Ishaq as among the best of believers.
Themes
Key Lessons
This ayah teaches us that true nobility and distinction come not from worldly status but from sincere belief and servitude to Allah; we should aspire to emulate the faith and dedication of the prophets in our own spiritual journeys.