The story of Nuh (alai) Noah
The story of Prophet Nuh (Noah)
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INTRODUCTION
The story of Prophet Nuh (Noah) as narrated in the Qur'an is a significant example of faith, patience, and perseverance. Below is the story in chronological order as it is pieced together from various Qur'anic verses:
1. Nuh’s Prophethood and Call to Monotheism
Prophet Nuh was sent by Allah to guide his people, who had fallen into idol worship. They worshiped deities such as Wadd, Suwa’, Yaghuth, Ya’uq, and Nasr .
And said, 'Never leave your gods and never leave Wadd or Suwa' or Yaghuth and Ya'uq and
Nasr.(Surah Nuh, 71:23).
Nuh called them to worship Allah alone, saying:
“O my people, worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him. Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a tremendous Day.” (Surah Al-A‘raf, 7:59)
He reminded them of Allah's signs, blessings, and their creation, urging them to turn away from
false gods and repent.
2. Rejection by His People
Most of Nuh's people rejected his message. They ridiculed him, accused him of lying, and dismissed
him as a mere human:
“The leaders of his people said, ‘Indeed, we see you in clear error.’”
(Surah Al-A‘raf, 7:60)
The disbelievers among his people said, "We do not believe that you are any better than the rest of us; we see that only the worthless hasty ones, the lowliest among us follow you. Thus, we do not think that you are superior to us, rather you are all liars."(Surah Hud, 11:27).
And We certainly sent Noah to his people, and he remained among them a thousand years
minus fifty years, and the flood seized them while they were wrongdoers.
(Surah Al-‘Ankabut, 29:14).
3. Nuh’s Arguments and Plea
Prophet Nuh reasoned with his people using logic and compassion. He told them:
“I do not ask you for wealth. My reward is only from Allah.” (Surah Hud, 11:29)
“What is [wrong] with you that you do not attribute to Allah [due] grandeur?” (Surah Nuh, 71:13)
and told them, "Ask forgiveness from your Lord; He is All-forgiving".
He will send you abundant
And give you increase in wealth and children and provide for you gardens and provide for you rivers.,,,,
Surah Nuh, 71:10-20).
4. The People’s Stubbornness
Despite his efforts, Nuh’s people continued in their disbelief. They said:
“If you do not desist, O Nuh, you will surely be of those who are stoned.” (Surah Ash-Shu‘ara, 26:116)
They built idols, ignored his warnings, and grew more hostile. Nuh despaired of their arrogance and supplicated to Allah:
“My Lord, do not leave upon the earth from among the disbelievers an inhabitant.” (Surah Nuh, 71:26)
5. Allah Commands Nuh to Build the Ark
Allah informed Nuh that none of his people, except for those who already believed, would accept the truth. He commanded him to build an ark under Divine instruction:
“Construct the ship under Our observation and Our inspiration, and do not address Me concerning those who have wronged; indeed, they are [to be] drowned.” (Surah Hud, 11:37)
As Nuh built the ark, the disbelievers mocked him, asking why he was constructing a ship on dry land:
“They said, ‘Shall we believe you while you are followed by the lowest [class of people]?’” (Surah Hud, 11:27)
6. The Great Flood
When the time of punishment arrived, Allah sent a sign:
“When the oven gushes forth [water], put into it [the ark] from each [creature] two mates and your family, except those about whom the word has preceded.” (Surah Hud, 11:40)
Nuh obeyed and gathered the believers and pairs of animals into the ark. A massive flood covered the earth, destroying the disbelievers:
“And We opened the gates of the heaven with rain pouring down. And We caused the earth to gush forth with springs, so the waters met for a matter already predestined.” (Surah Al-Qamar, 54:11-12)
7. The Fate of Nuh’s Son
Among the disbelievers was Nuh’s own son. Nuh called out to him:
“O my son, come aboard with us and be not with the disbelievers.” (Surah Hud, 11:42)
But his son refused, saying he would seek refuge on a mountain. Allah decreed that no one could escape His punishment, and Nuh’s son was drowned.
8. The End of the Flood
After the flood, Allah commanded the waters to subside:
“And it was said, ‘O earth, swallow your water, and O sky, withhold [your rain].’ And the water subsided, and the matter was accomplished.” (Surah Hud, 11:44)
The ark came to rest on Mount Judi. Allah declared peace and blessings for Nuh and the believers.
9. Lessons and Legacy
Allah praised Nuh for his steadfastness and faith:
“Indeed, he was a grateful servant.” (Surah Al-Isra, 17:3)
The story of Nuh serves as a warning to disbelievers and a source of inspiration for believers to trust in Allah’s guidance and remain patient in the face of adversity.
This narrative is a beautiful blend of Nuh’s unwavering dedication and Allah’s mercy and justice, emphasizing the consequences of disbelief and the rewards of faith.