Surah Al-Hijr — Verse 68

Word Meanings:

• ضَيْفِي (Dayfi): My guests — those who have sought my hospitality and protection.
• تَفْضَحُونِ (Tafdahoon): You disgrace me or bring shame upon me — by harming or humiliating my guests.

Explanation of the Verse:

Here, Prophet Lot (Lut, peace be upon him) is addressing his people who had come with evil intentions toward his noble guests — the angels sent by Allah in the form of handsome young men. Lot, peace be upon him, stands before them as a protective host, saying: "These are my guests, so do not disgrace me."

In this brief yet powerful statement, Lot is invoking the sacred code of hospitality that was deeply honored among the Arabs and in all noble traditions. A guest is under the protection of the host, and any harm done to a guest is a direct offense against the host himself. Lot is essentially saying: "If you have any respect for me, if you recognize my rights as a host, then leave my guests alone. Do not bring shame upon me by violating this sacred trust."

The verse also carries a deeper emotional appeal — Lot is not merely stating a fact; he is pleading with his people to uphold basic decency and honor. He is trying to awaken their sense of shame and moral conscience, reminding them that attacking guests is not only a crime against individuals but a disgrace to the entire community and its values.

A Lesson for Us Today:

This verse teaches us the immense value of protecting those who seek our care and hospitality. In Islam, the guest holds a special status, and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him honor his guest." (Bukhari and Muslim)

Prophet Lot's words echo through time as a reminder that we, too, must stand firm in defending the vulnerable and protecting those under our care — whether they are guests, neighbors, or anyone who has placed their trust in us. His courage in confronting his people, despite their wickedness, shows us that truth and righteousness must be upheld even when facing overwhelming opposition.

And how beautiful is the believer's character when they say, as Lot did: "These are my guests, so do not disgrace me" — a statement that combines honor, courage, and a profound sense of responsibility toward others. May Allah grant us the strength to protect the weak and uphold the noble values of Islam in our lives.