Surah Al-Hijr — Verse 54

Word Meanings:

• أَبَشَّرْتُمُونِي (Do you give me glad tidings): Do you bring me news of a child?
• مَسَّنِيَ الْكِبَرُ (Old age has touched me): I have reached extreme old age and weakness.
• فَبِمَ تُبَشِّرُونَ (With what do you give me glad tidings): On what basis or by what wonder do you tell me this?

Tafsir (Explanation):

Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him) received the visit of honored angels who came with two missions: to deliver the divine punishment to the people of Lut, and to bring him the joyful news of a son. When they informed him that he would have a child, Ibrahim expressed his profound amazement, saying: "Do you give me glad tidings of a son when old age has already overtaken me?" He was an elderly man, and his wife Sarah was also advanced in years. His question was not one of disbelief or rejection of Allah's power—far from it. Rather, it was a natural human expression of wonder at how such a thing could occur under these circumstances. He then asked: "With what do you give me this glad tidings?" meaning: by what sign, miracle, or extraordinary means will this come to pass?

This moment captures the beautiful humility of a prophet who, despite his deep faith in Allah's omnipotence, still marveled at the divine plan unfolding before him. It reminds us that even the greatest of believers experience awe at Allah's creative power, and that the impossible becomes possible when Allah wills it. The angels' response, which follows in the next verses, reassures Ibrahim that Allah's command is absolute and that nothing is too great for Him.

Reflection and Da'wah:

This verse teaches us a profound lesson about hope and trust in Allah. When Ibrahim received the glad tidings, he did not reject it or despair—he simply wondered with amazement. As believers, we too should maintain this balance: acknowledging our human limitations while never doubting Allah's limitless power. How often do we limit Allah's blessings in our minds because we see obstacles? Age, circumstances, or past failures may seem like barriers, but Allah's mercy and power transcend all of that. The story of Ibrahim encourages us to keep our hearts open to Allah's glad tidings, no matter how impossible they may seem. Just as Ibrahim was blessed with a son in his old age, Allah can bless you with what you have been waiting for—even when all doors appear closed. Turn to Him with sincerity, and never underestimate what He can do. This is the beauty of Islam: a religion that combines complete trust in Allah with the sweetest hope for His mercy.