
The Story of Prophet Nuh (AS)
The Story of Prophet Nuh (AS): A Tale of Patience and Faith
Introduction
Prophet Nuh (AS), known as Noah in English, was one of the greatest messengers of Allah. His story, mentioned in multiple places in the Quran, is a lesson in perseverance, unwavering faith, and obedience to Allah. Nuh (AS) was sent to a disbelieving nation that indulged in idolatry, and despite his continuous efforts for nearly a thousand years, only a few accepted his message.
The Rise of Idolatry
After Prophet Adam (AS), people initially followed monotheism. However, as time passed, they started creating statues to remember righteous individuals. Eventually, these statues became objects of worship, leading to widespread idolatry. Allah, in His mercy, sent Prophet Nuh (AS) to guide them back to the true path.
Quranic Reference:
“Indeed, We sent Nuh to his people, [saying], ‘Warn your people before a painful punishment comes to them.’” (Surah Nuh 71:1)
The Dawah of Prophet Nuh (AS)
Prophet Nuh (AS) preached tirelessly, warning his people about the consequences of their actions. He invited them day and night, publicly and privately, using wisdom and logic.
However, the people were arrogant and rejected his message. They ridiculed him, saying:
“We see you as nothing but a man like ourselves, and we do not see you followed except by those who are the lowest among us.” (Surah Hud 11:27)
Building the Ark
After centuries of rejection, Allah revealed to Nuh (AS) that no more people would believe. He commanded him to build a massive ark. The disbelievers mocked him, saying:
“He is just building a ship in the middle of the desert!”
Despite their ridicule, Prophet Nuh (AS) continued, trusting Allah’s command. When the ark was completed, Allah commanded him to gather believers and pairs of animals into the ship.
Quranic Reference:
“Construct the Ark under Our watchful eyes and directions… And do not plead with Me for those who have done wrong—they will surely be drowned.” (Surah Hud 11:37)
The Great Flood
When the time came, a great flood overtook the land. Water gushed from the ground and rained from the sky for forty days and nights. The disbelievers, who once mocked Prophet Nuh (AS), tried to escape, but it was too late.
Tragically, even his own son refused to board the ark, saying he would seek refuge on a mountain. Prophet Nuh (AS) pleaded with him, but he drowned in the storm.
Quranic Reference:
“Nuh called out to his son, who stood apart, ‘O my dear son! Come aboard with us and do not be with the disbelievers!’ But he replied, ‘I will take refuge on a mountain, which will protect me from the water.’ Nuh cried, ‘Today no one is protected from Allah’s decree, except those to whom He shows mercy.’” (Surah Hud 11:42-43)
Aftermath and New Beginnings
The flood wiped out the disbelievers, and after many days, the waters subsided. The ark came to rest on Mount Judi, as mentioned in the Quran. Prophet Nuh (AS) and the believers disembarked, grateful for Allah’s mercy. They established a new, pious community devoted to worshiping Allah alone.
Quranic Reference:
“And it was said, ‘O earth! Swallow your water, and O sky! Withhold [your rain].’ And the water receded, the matter was accomplished, and the Ark came to rest on [Mount] Judi. And it was said, ‘Away with the wrongdoing people!’” (Surah Hud 11:44)
Lessons from the Story of Prophet Nuh (AS)
- Patience in the Face of Hardship – Nuh (AS) preached for 950 years (Surah Al-Ankabut 29:14) but never gave up.
- Trust in Allah’s Plan – Despite mockery, he obeyed Allah’s command and built the ark.
- Avoid Arrogance – The disbelievers rejected the truth out of pride and were destroyed.
- Guidance is Only from Allah – Even his own son refused to believe, proving that guidance is in Allah’s hands.
Conclusion
The story of Prophet Nuh (AS) teaches us about faith, patience, and trust in Allah. No matter how difficult the path may be, we should always remain steadfast in our belief and obedience to Allah. His story serves as a timeless lesson for all believers.
May Allah guide us all on the right path. Ameen.