قَالُوا۟ لَئِن لَّمْ تَنتَهِ يَـٰنُوحُ لَتَكُونَنَّ مِنَ ٱلْمَرْجُومِينَ 116
Translations
They said, "If you do not desist, O Noah, you will surely be of those who are stoned."
Transliteration
Qāloo la-in lam tantahi yā nūḥu la-takūnanna mina al-marjūmīn
Tafsir (Explanation)
The people of Prophet Noah threatened him with stoning, declaring that if he did not cease his preaching and call to monotheism, they would stone him to death. This verse illustrates the severe persecution and rejection that Noah faced from his community despite his 950 years of patient da'wah. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari emphasize that this threat demonstrates the obstinacy and hostility of those who reject divine guidance, and Noah's unwavering resolve to continue his mission despite mortal danger.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the narrative of Prophet Noah (Surah Ash-Shu'ara:26:105-122) within a Meccan surah that recounts stories of earlier prophets facing rejection from their peoples. The surah was revealed to console Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) by showing that rejection and persecution of messengers is a recurring pattern throughout history, reassuring him that he is not alone in facing opposition from disbelievers in Mecca.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'The most severely tested people are the Prophets, then those nearest to them in piety' (Jami' at-Tirmidhi). This relates to Noah's persecution, exemplifying the trials faced by messengers. Additionally, Surah Ash-Shu'ara:26:3-5 is framed as a consolation to the Prophet about the rejection of the message.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that truth-bearers may face severe opposition and threats from those who reject divine guidance, yet they must remain steadfast in their mission without fear. For believers today, it serves as a reminder that facing ridicule, rejection, or threats for upholding Islamic principles is part of the path of prophets, and perseverance in faith is the ultimate victory.