Surah As-Saffat — Verse 90

Word Meanings:

• فَتَوَلَّوْا (They turned away): They left him and went away.
• مُدْبِرِينَ (Turning their backs): Going away from him, leaving him behind.

Explanation of the Verse:

After Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) made his excuse to his people — saying "Indeed, I am sick" as a subtle way of distancing himself from their idolatrous festival — his people turned away from him and left him behind, heading to their celebration. They did not pay any further attention to him, nor did they question his excuse. This was a moment of divine preparation: Ibrahim was left alone, free from their presence, so that he could carry out the mission that Allah had destined for him — to smash their idols and demonstrate the futility of their worship.

This verse shows us how Allah, in His infinite wisdom, paved the way for His prophets to fulfill their missions. When Ibrahim said he was ill, it was not a lie but a permissible ambiguity (mu'āridah) — he was indeed "sick" of their false worship and their stubbornness in polytheism. His words were a wise and gentle exit from a situation that would have otherwise led to conflict before the right time.

A Da'wah Reflection:

This scene teaches us the beauty of wisdom (ḥikmah) in dealing with people. Ibrahim did not engage in a heated argument at that moment, nor did he openly challenge them before the time was right. Instead, he used a soft approach that allowed him to continue his mission effectively. As believers, we learn that sometimes the greatest strength lies in patience, strategic withdrawal, and choosing the right moment to speak the truth. Allah honored Ibrahim's sincerity by granting him victory over falsehood, and He honors those who sincerely strive in His cause with guidance and support. Let this be a reminder that when we dedicate ourselves to Allah's path with wisdom and patience, He will open doors for us that we never imagined — just as He prepared the way for His beloved friend, Ibrahim.