إِنْ أَنَا۠ إِلَّا نَذِيرٌ مُّبِينٌ 115
Translations
I am only a clear warner."
Transliteration
In ani illa nadheerun mubeen
Tafsir (Explanation)
Prophet Nuh (peace be upon him) declares to his people that he is nothing but a clear warner sent by Allah to communicate His message. Ibn Kathir explains that this statement reflects Nuh's humility and his clarification that he possesses no power to compel belief—his sole responsibility is to convey the warning clearly and plainly. Al-Tabari notes this ayah emphasizes the distinction between the messenger's duty (to warn) and the people's choice (to believe or reject), removing any suggestion that Nuh claims divine attributes or independent authority.
Revelation Context
This ayah occurs within Surah Ash-Shu'ara, which narrates the stories of various prophets and their struggles against their peoples' rejection. Specifically, this verse is part of Nuh's response to his people's mockery and disbelief after preaching to them for 950 years. The broader context shows how Nuh reaffirmed his mission despite overwhelming rejection, serving as encouragement to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) facing similar opposition in Mecca.
Related Hadiths
The Quran itself (68:44-48) references the patience of Nuh and other messengers. Additionally, a hadith in Sahih Muslim relates that the Prophet Muhammad said he was sent as a 'warner and a bringer of glad tidings' (nadheer wa mubashshir), directly paralleling Nuh's self-description of being a clear warner.
Themes
Key Lesson
A messenger's role is to communicate truth clearly and sincerely, not to force acceptance; believers today should recognize that faith is a personal choice, and those who convey Islamic knowledge should do so with humility, understanding that ultimate guidance comes only from Allah.