Surah Hud — Verse 38

Word Meanings:

• Al-Fulk (الْفُلْكَ): The ship or ark.
• Mala' (مَلَأٌ): The chiefs, leaders, or prominent figures of a people.
• Sakhiru (سَخِرُوا): They mocked, ridiculed, or derided.

Tafsir (Explanation):

Prophet Noah (peace be upon him) obeyed his Lord's command and began constructing the great ark. He worked diligently, and whenever a group of his people's leaders and nobles passed by him, they would mock and ridicule him. They found it absurd that he was building a massive ship on dry land, far from any sea or river, and they laughed at what they considered a foolish endeavor.

Their repeated scorn and derision continued as they passed by him, making fun of his efforts and questioning his sanity. They could not comprehend the divine wisdom behind his actions, nor did they believe in the warning he had been delivering for centuries.

When their mockery became persistent and excessive, Noah (peace be upon him) responded with firmness and wisdom: "If you mock us now, then we will mock you just as you mock us." This was not a petty retaliation, but rather a declaration of certainty — a promise that the truth of Allah's promise would soon be revealed. He meant that their laughter would soon turn into regret and despair when the punishment of Allah would descend upon them, and they would drown in the very flood they refused to believe in.

Noah's response carried profound wisdom: he was not shaken by their ridicule, nor did it deter him from his mission. Instead, he turned their mockery into a testimony of faith — a reminder that the outcome belongs to Allah alone, and that those who trust in Him will ultimately prevail, while the scoffers will face the consequences of their arrogance.

This verse teaches us a timeless lesson: when you are upon the truth and fulfilling Allah's command, never let the mockery of others weaken your resolve. The disbelievers' laughter is temporary, but the victory of Allah's promise is eternal. Let this be a source of strength for every believer who faces ridicule for their faith — for the end belongs to the righteous, and the mockers will see the reality of their words in due time.