Understanding Para 9 Qāla ’l-mala’u
Lessons from the Dialogue of Leaders and Prophets
In 9 Para Qāla ’l-mala’u the Quran serves as an eternal source of guidance for humanity, filled with stories and lessons that are applicable to various situations and eras. In Para 9, we encounter a significant phrase, “Qāla ’l-mala’u”, which translates as “the leaders said” or “the chiefs said.” This phrase occurs in several places within the Quran and often introduces dialogues between the elite class of a society and the prophets sent to guide them. These conversations offer deep insights into human behavior, leadership dynamics, and the rejection of divine guidance.
Context of “Qāla ’l-mala’u” in Para 9
The phrase “Qāla ’l-mala’u” appears in Surah Al-A’raf and Surah Al-Anfal, both of which are located in Para 9. This phrase typically introduces a statement from the leaders or influential members of a community, particularly in their interactions with prophets who are delivering Allah’s message.
One prominent instance of “Qāla ’l-mala’u” is in Surah Al-A’raf, Ayah 60, where the leaders of the people of Prophet Nuh (Noah) respond to his call for monotheism. The verse reads:
“Qāla ’l-mala’u min qawmihi inna lanaraka fī ḍalālin mubīn”
Translation:
“The leaders of his people said, ‘Indeed, we see you in clear error.'”
(Surah Al-A’raf, 7:60)
Here, the “mala” (leaders or chiefs) dismiss the prophet’s message, accusing him of being misguided. This response is typical of the reactions of the elites in various communities whenever a prophet called for change—especially change that threatened their power, wealth, or societal status.
The Role of Leadership in Rejecting Truth
The Quran consistently highlights how the leaders or “mala” of societies play a crucial role in either accepting or rejecting divine guidance. The term “Qāla ’l-mala’u” symbolizes not just a refusal of the truth but often an active effort to maintain the status quo for personal gain.
In the case of Prophet Nuh, the elites of his society rejected his call to monotheism because it threatened their positions of power. By dismissing him as being in error, they sought to discredit him in the eyes of the common people. This rejection is repeated in other narratives, including those of Prophets Hud, Salih, and Musa (Moses).
- In Surah Al-A’raf, Ayah 66, we see a similar phrase when the chiefs of the people of Prophet Hud say:
“Qāla ’l-mala’u alladhīna kafarū min qawmihi inna lanaraka fī safāhatin wa inna lanauẓannuka mina ‘l-kādhibīn”
Translation:
“The chiefs of those who disbelieved among his people said, ‘Indeed, we see you in foolishness, and indeed, we think you are one of the liars.'”
- Similarly, in Surah Al-A’raf, Ayah 75, the chiefs of the people of Prophet Salih reject his message:
“Qāla ’l-mala’u alladhīna istakbarū min qawmihi lil-ladhīna ‘stuḍ’ifu li-man āmana minhum at’lamūna anna ṣāliḥam mursalun min rabbihi”
Translation:
“The arrogant chiefs among his people said to those who believed, ‘Do you know that Salih is sent from his Lord?'”
In these examples, “Qāla ’l-mala’u” not only introduces the speech of the leaders but also reveals their disdain for the prophets and their messages. These leaders often accuse the prophets of madness, foolishness, or deceit. This behavior is not just about disbelief but is also about preserving their influence over the masses, which would be diminished if people accepted the prophets’ call for equality, justice, and worship of the One God.
Consequences of Rejection
The rejection of prophets by the mala (leaders) often leads to dire consequences for the entire community. In the stories of Nuh, Hud, and Salih, the refusal to heed divine guidance results in punishment from Allah. The flood in the time of Nuh, the windstorm in the time of Hud, and the earthquake that struck the people of Salih are all examples of Allah’s retribution on communities whose leaders led them astray.
These punishments are not merely acts of destruction but serve as warnings for future generations about the dangers of rejecting the truth. They also emphasize that the elites of a society have a responsibility not to mislead the people they govern.
Lessons from “Qāla ’l-mala’u” in Para 9
- The Danger of Arrogance in Leadership:
One of the most significant lessons from the phrase “Qāla ’l-mala’u” is the danger of arrogance, especially among leaders. The mala often reject the prophets out of pride and a desire to maintain their societal privileges. This arrogance blinds them to the truth and leads them to reject what is good for their community. - Power and Responsibility:
Leaders have immense influence over the people they govern. When the mala reject divine guidance, it often results in widespread rejection among the masses as well. This highlights the responsibility of those in power to seek and accept the truth, as their actions have far-reaching consequences. - The Cycle of Rejection and Punishment:
The stories introduced by “Qāla ’l-mala’u” reveal a pattern of behavior among leaders throughout history. Each time a prophet is sent, the elites reject him, and this rejection eventually leads to divine punishment. This cycle is a reminder that while power may give individuals influence in the short term, it cannot protect them from the consequences of rejecting Allah’s message. - Hope for Believers:
Despite the arrogance of the mala, the stories in Para 9 also offer hope for believers. The prophets remain steadfast in their mission, and those who follow them are ultimately saved. The stories of Nuh, Hud, and Salih show that even when the majority of society rejects the truth, those who believe will find salvation.
Relevance of “Qāla ’l-mala’u” Today
The lessons from Para 9 and the phrase “Qāla ’l-mala’u” are as relevant today as they were during the time of the prophets. In many societies, we still witness leaders rejecting what is right for the sake of personal gain. The Quran encourages us to reflect on these stories and learn from the mistakes of past nations. Leaders, in particular, are reminded that their power is temporary and that they will be held accountable for how they lead their communities.
For believers, these stories reinforce the importance of following the truth, even when it is unpopular. Just as the prophets persisted in their mission despite opposition from the mala, we too must hold firm to our faith, trusting that Allah’s justice will ultimately prevail.
