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Let us explore the story of Prophet Lūt (ʿalayhi al-Salām), who was an ideal example of one who shows firmness and the ability to find strength when alone and facing adversity.
Being one man against an oppressive and hostile people set upon immorality, sin, and disbelief, he (ʿalayhi al-Salām) was strong in his īmān (faith) and tawakkul (trust) in Allah.
Region of al-Mu’tafikāt
Prophet Lūt (ʿalayhi al-Salām) was entrusted with a mission to guide the inhabitants of the city of Sodom and the smaller cities around it — referred to in the Qur’ān as al-Mu’tafikāt according to Imam al-Tabarī.
The Qur’ān mentions that these cities were notorious for acts of homosexuality and the first to commit such acts.
Lūt’s purpose (ʿalayhi al-Salām) was to lead them back from wickedness to righteousness, from disbelief to belief, and to warn them of the inevitable consequences their actions would bring, if they continued down this path.
Allah says,
“And remember when Lot scolded the men of his people, saying, ‘Do you commit a shameful deed that no man has ever done before? You lust after men instead of women! You are certainly transgressors.’” [1]
And in another chapter, He (subḥānahu wa ta’āla) says,
“And remember when Lot rebuked the men of his people: ‘You certainly commit a shameful deed that no man has ever done before you. Do you really lust after other men, abuse the travellers, and practise immorality openly in your gatherings?’
“His people’s only response was to say mockingly: ‘Bring Allah’s punishment upon us, if what you say is true.’” [2]
How he faced down the storm
The people of Sodom revelled in their immorality, fiercely resistant to anyone who dared question their way of life.
Prophet Lūt’s da’wah (ʿalayhi al-Salām), delivered with the utmost conviction, was met with scorn and threats. His people gathered against him, branded him an extremist and prevented him from hosting individuals in his house.
Yet, under the threat of losing his citizenship, he remained steadfast in his duty.
Allah says,
“And to Lot We gave wisdom and knowledge, and delivered him from the society engrossed in shameful practices. They were certainly an evil, rebellious people.
“And We admitted him into Our mercy. Indeed, he was of the righteous.” [3]
Divine intervention was the turning point
When the people’s defiance reached its peak, Lūt (ʿalayhi al-Salām) pleaded for the help of Allah, and He certainly responded.
The destruction of Sodom and the surrounding cities by a cataclysmic event is a reminder of the consequences that befall societies consumed by disbelief.
It also reinforces the understanding that while mercy and compassion are attributes of Allah (subḥānahu wa ta’āla), so, too, are justice and retribution.
Emerging from the ruins of Sodom, the story of Prophet Lūt (ʿalayhi al-Salām) encapsulates the transformative journey from struggle to strength, teaching us that enduring adversity and strong resolve embedded with īmān can lead to success.
Action points
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In our ever-changing world, hold fast to what you believe in, even when pressured to conform.
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When encountering those who have strayed, follow Lūt's example of wisdom in offering guidance.
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Be a positive force by advocating for Islamic justice, compassion, and moral values.
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Source: Islam21c
Notes
[1] al-Qur’ān, 7:80-81
[2] al-Qur’ān, 29:28-29
[3] al-Qur’ān, 21:74-75
