Surah Hud — Verse 69

Word Meanings:

• Rusuluna (Our messengers): The angels sent by Allah, including Jibril (Gabriel) and those with him.
• Bushra (good tidings): The glad news of the birth of Ishaq (Isaac) and after him Ya'qub (Jacob), as well as the news of the destruction of the people of Lut.
• Salaman (peace): A greeting of safety and well-being.
• Haneedh (roasted calf): A calf roasted on hot stones in a pit, a traditional method of cooking that makes the meat tender and delicious.

Tafsir (Explanation):

Indeed, Allah tells us of a noble and blessed visit — the angels of mercy came to Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), peace be upon him, in the form of handsome, honorable men. They came bearing two kinds of glad tidings: the birth of a righteous son, Ishaq, who would be followed by his son Ya'qub, and the imminent punishment that would befall the wicked people of Lut.

When they entered upon Ibrahim, they greeted him with the words: "Salaman" (Peace be upon you). And Ibrahim, with his noble character and generosity, replied with an even better greeting: "Salamun" (Peace be upon you too). This exchange reflects the beautiful Islamic etiquette of returning greetings with something equal or better, as Allah says: "And when you are greeted with a greeting, greet with better than it or return it equally" (An-Nisa 4:86).

Then, without any delay — for Ibrahim was renowned for his hospitality and generosity — he hurried to prepare food for his guests. He went quickly and brought them a roasted calf, tender and well-cooked, placed before them as a generous meal. He assumed they were human guests who would eat, for it is the way of generous hosts to serve the best they have.

This scene teaches us profound lessons: the honor of angels visiting a prophet, the virtue of hastening to serve guests, and the importance of responding to kindness with even greater kindness. It also shows us that Allah's messengers bring only good — whether it is the good news of a blessed child or the justice of punishment upon the wicked.

Beloved reader, reflect on how Ibrahim, despite his old age, did not hesitate to serve his guests personally. This is the character of the beloved of Allah — humility combined with generosity. And when the angels later revealed their true identity and gave him the news of a son in his old age, he was amazed — yet he submitted to Allah's will with gratitude and trust.

Let us emulate this noble example: be quick in doing good, be generous to guests, and always respond to greetings with warmth and kindness. For in these simple acts lie the keys to Allah's love and blessings. And know that when Allah sends His mercy to His righteous servants, it comes with peace and glad tidings — so hold firm to faith, and you too shall receive His gracious care.