The Significance of “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna”

The phrase “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” (وَقَالَ الَّذِينَ) is used in various contexts throughout the Quran to introduce statements made by individuals or groups, often in the form of objections or arguments against the message of Allah. The phrase is commonly followed by a statement from disbelievers, hypocrites, or those opposing the prophets.

It reflects a pattern seen across different stories and accounts in the Quran, where people reject the truth or make arrogant claims against the prophets sent by Allah. These statements often reveal the disbelief, arrogance, and ignorance that prevented them from accepting the message of Islam.

By examining these statements, we can better understand the mindset of those who opposed the truth and the lessons for today’s believers in confronting similar attitudes in modern life.

Contextual Examples of “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” in Para 19

One prominent example of “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” in Para 19 is found in Surah Al-Furqan (25:7), where the disbelievers object to the human nature of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):

“وَقَالُوا مَالِ هَـٰذَا ٱلرَّسُولِ يَأْكُلُ ٱلطَّعَامَ وَيَمْشِى فِى ٱلْأَسْوَاقِ”

Translation: “And they say, ‘Why does this Messenger eat food and walk about in the markets?'”

Here, the disbelievers express surprise and disdain that a prophet, who is supposed to be a divine messenger, engages in ordinary human activities such as eating and walking in the markets. They viewed these actions as beneath the dignity of a prophet and used them as a pretext to reject his message.

This example highlights a common attitude among those who opposed the prophets: they sought excuses to discredit them based on superficial criteria, rather than considering the truth of their message. The Quran emphasizes that prophets were sent as human beings to live among the people, serve as examples, and deliver the message of Allah in a relatable and practical manner.

Lessons from “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna”

The phrase “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” offers several key lessons for believers, particularly in understanding the mindset of those who oppose the truth and how to respond to similar challenges today.

1. Arrogance as a Barrier to Truth

One of the most common themes in the statements introduced by “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” is arrogance. The disbelievers often rejected the prophets because they considered themselves superior or more knowledgeable, and they could not accept that someone from among them could be chosen as a prophet. In Surah Al-Furqan (25:7), the disbelievers express disbelief that a prophet could eat and walk in markets, viewing these human actions as beneath the dignity of a messenger.

This arrogance prevented them from recognizing the truth and accepting the message of Islam. It serves as a reminder for believers to remain humble, open to guidance, and mindful of the ways in which pride can cloud one’s judgment.

2. Misplaced Priorities

Another common theme in these statements is the focus on material or worldly concerns rather than spiritual truths. In Surah Al-Furqan, the disbelievers focus on the prophet’s human actions, rather than the divine message he was delivering. This reflects a mindset that prioritizes material concerns and outward appearances over inner truth and spiritual reality.

For believers, this serves as a warning to avoid becoming distracted by superficial concerns or the judgments of others, and to remain focused on the deeper truths of faith and spirituality.

3. The Role of Prophets as Human Examples

The objections raised by the disbelievers in the Quran often center around the human nature of the prophets. They could not understand how someone who ate, drank, and walked in the markets could be a messenger of Allah. However, the Quran emphasizes that prophets were sent as human beings precisely because they could serve as relatable examples for their communities.

Prophets were not distant, otherworldly figures, but human beings who lived among the people, experienced the same challenges, and demonstrated through their actions how to live a life in accordance with divine guidance. This understanding is important for believers, as it underscores the relevance of the prophets’ examples in their own lives.

Responding to Modern Challenges

The attitudes reflected in “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” are not limited to the past. Today, many people still reject divine guidance or make similar arguments against religious teachings, focusing on superficial concerns or material success rather than spiritual truths.

Believers can learn from the Quranic responses to these challenges and apply the same principles in their own lives. When faced with criticism or opposition, they should remain focused on the truth, avoid becoming distracted by material concerns, and respond with humility and patience.

Practical Applications of “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” in Daily Life

Understanding the lessons from “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” can help believers navigate similar challenges in their daily lives. Here are some practical ways to apply these lessons:

1. Cultivating Humility and Openness to Guidance

One of the key lessons from the statements introduced by “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” is the danger of arrogance. Believers should strive to cultivate humility, recognizing that no one is above the need for divine guidance. This involves being open to learning, seeking knowledge, and accepting advice from those who are more knowledgeable in matters of faith.

By maintaining humility, believers can avoid the pitfalls of arrogance and remain open to the truth.

2. Prioritizing Spiritual Concerns Over Material Success

The disbelievers in the Quran often rejected the prophets because they were focused on material concerns or outward appearances. Believers today should prioritize their spiritual development, focusing on their relationship with Allah and the teachings of Islam, rather than becoming overly concerned with worldly success or the judgments of others.

This involves setting spiritual goals, such as improving the quality of one’s prayers, increasing knowledge of the Quran, or engaging in acts of charity, and making these a priority in daily life.

3. Following the Example of the Prophets

The prophets were sent as human examples for their communities, and their lives provide valuable lessons for believers. By studying the stories of the prophets in the Quran, believers can learn how to respond to challenges, maintain their faith in difficult circumstances, and live a life in accordance with divine guidance.

This involves not only reading the stories of the prophets but reflecting on how their actions and decisions can be applied in modern life.

Conclusion

The phrase “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” in Para 19 of the Quran highlights the objections and challenges raised by disbelievers against the prophets. These statements reflect common attitudes of arrogance, misplaced priorities, and a rejection of divine guidance. By understanding the lessons from these statements, believers can learn to navigate similar challenges in their own lives, remaining humble, focused on spiritual truths, and committed to following the examples of the prophets.

Ultimately, the lessons from “Wa-qāla ’lladhīna” serve as a reminder that true success lies in obedience to Allah and adherence to the teachings of Islam, regardless of the opinions or objections of others.