Surah Ash-Shu'ara — Verse 165

Key Words and Meanings:

• "Atatuna" (أَتَأْتُونَ): Do you come to/approach — a euphemism for committing a shameful act.
• "Adh-Dhukran" (الذُّكْرَانَ): The males — specifically referring to males of the human race.
• "Al-'Alameen" (الْعَالَمِينَ): All of creation, i.e., all of mankind.

Explanation of the Verse:

Prophet Lut (peace be upon him) addressed his people with a tone of severe rebuke and astonishment, saying: "Do you approach males from among all of mankind [for your base desires]?" This was an act of immense depravity that no nation before them had ever committed. Instead of turning to the women whom Allah had created for them — lawful spouses for intimacy, affection, and the continuation of the human race — they abandoned the pure and the permissible, and instead turned to other males to satisfy their lusts. This was a transgression against the natural disposition (fitrah) that Allah instilled in humanity, and a violation of the boundaries He set. The Prophet Lut was not merely asking a question; he was expressing utter shock and disgust at a practice that defied reason, nature, and divine law. He reminded them that they had no excuse, for Allah had provided them with what was lawful and wholesome, yet they chose the unlawful and the corrupt.

A Call to Reflection and Righteousness:

This verse is a timeless reminder of the mercy of Allah in guiding humanity toward purity and away from destruction. It teaches us that Islam honors the human being, protects the family, and upholds the natural order of creation. When we obey Allah's commands, we find peace, dignity, and true happiness. When we transgress, we bring ruin upon ourselves and society. Let this be a lesson for every believer to hold fast to what is lawful and pure, to guard their desires within the boundaries Allah has set, and to trust that His wisdom is always for our benefit. Indeed, Allah loves those who purify themselves, and He has prepared for the righteous a reward beyond imagination. Let us turn to Him in repentance and strive to be among those who hear the call of truth and respond with obedience and love.