رَبِّ نَجِّنِى وَأَهْلِى مِمَّا يَعْمَلُونَ 169
Translations
My Lord, save me and my family from [the consequence of] what they do."
Transliteration
Rabbi najjini wa ahli mimma ya'malun
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah records the supplication of Prophet Nuh (Noah) calling upon his Lord to save him and his family from the actions and disbelief of those around them. According to Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari, this du'a reflects Nuh's plea for deliverance from the idolatrous practices and rejection he faced from his people after 950 years of preaching. The ayah emphasizes the permissibility and virtue of seeking Allah's protection from the harm caused by the transgressions of others, and Allah's promise to answer such sincere supplications.
Revelation Context
This ayah appears in the narrative of Surah Ash-Shu'ara, which presents stories of various prophets and their steadfastness. The context here is Nuh's desperate prayer after his people's continued rejection of tawhid (monotheism), serving as a lesson about patience in da'wah and reliance upon Allah when facing widespread opposition and wickedness.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: 'The supplication of Nuh was answered when he called upon his Lord, "I am overcome, so help me." [Quran 54:10]' - referenced in Jami' at-Tirmidhi. Additionally, the general principle of seeking refuge in Allah from evil is supported by the hadith: 'Whoever enters the morning in safety with provisions and good health has been given all good.' - Jami' at-Tirmidhi.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that it is appropriate and encouraged to seek Allah's protection for ourselves and our families from the harms and corrupting influences of society, and to maintain sincere du'a even when facing prolonged opposition. It reminds us that true deliverance comes only from Allah, and that our concern for our loved ones' spiritual welfare is a reflection of genuine faith.