Surah Baqarah Main Characters: Key Figures, Bios, Roles & Lessons

By Published On: September 17, 2025Last Updated: September 18, 202517998 words90 min read

Table Of Contents

Nothing Found

In the name of God

Meet the Key Figures in Surah Baqarah: Roles, Significance & Takeaways

This Character Compendium for Surah Al-Baqarah offers a definitive guide to the many figures, archetypes, and groups mentioned in the Qur’an’s longest chapter. Surah Al-Baqarah is a vast ocean of guidance, legislation, and history, featuring stories of prophets, nations, and the core human responses to divine revelation. From the story of creation with Adam to the detailed laws governing the nascent Muslim community in Madinah, this resource explores the key characters who play a role in the Surah’s narrative, providing deep insights into their attributes, their stories, and the timeless moral and spiritual lessons we can learn from them.

Adam (عليه السلام) – Adam

Brief Biography / Background

Adam (عليه السلام) is the first human being, the father of all mankind, and the first prophet of God. Created by Allah from clay and honored by having the angels prostrate to him, he was placed in a heavenly Garden (Jannah) with his wife, Hawwa (Eve). His story represents the beginning of humanity’s journey of trial, repentance, and redemption. Adam’s narrative is foundational to understanding the human condition, our relationship with God, and our susceptibility to temptation. He is mentioned by name in numerous Surahs, establishing his paramount importance.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Adam’s story is introduced early on to establish humanity’s role as a vicegerent (khalifah) on Earth. The Surah details his creation, Allah’s announcement to the angels, the prostration of the angels, and Iblis’s refusal. It narrates the temptation by Shaytan and the subsequent expulsion from the Garden. Crucially, it highlights Adam’s repentance: “Then Adam received from his Lord [some] words, and He accepted his repentance. Indeed, it is He who is the Accepting of repentance, the Merciful.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:37). His story serves as a prelude to the guidance sent for his descendants, setting the stage for the recurring theme of covenant, error, repentance, and divine mercy.

Personality & Attributes

  • Honored: Allah honored him with knowledge of the names of all things, demonstrating his intellectual capacity.
  • Forgetful & Prone to Error: He momentarily forgot his covenant with Allah when tempted.
  • Repentant: His defining characteristic after the error was his immediate and sincere turn back to Allah for forgiveness.
  • Prophetic: As the first prophet, he received direct guidance from Allah for himself and his offspring.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The high station of humanity as God’s vicegerent on Earth comes with great responsibility.
  • Human beings are inherently fallible and susceptible to temptation, but the door to repentance is always open.
  • Sincere repentance involves acknowledging the sin, feeling remorse, and seeking Allah’s forgiveness.
  • Knowledge is a great honor from Allah and a means of distinguishing humanity.

Supporting References

Islamic tradition emphasizes that Adam’s sin was a personal error, not an inherited “original sin.” His experience teaches that every human is responsible for their own actions. The “words” he received from Allah are understood to be a prayer for forgiveness, a model for all his descendants to follow when they err. His story is not one of condemnation but of hope, demonstrating that Allah’s mercy is always greater than our mistakes.

Ahl al-Kitab (أَهْلِ الْكِتَابِ) – The People of the Book

Brief Biography / Background

Ahl al-Kitab is the Qur’anic term for nations that previously received divine scripture: primarily the Jews (Yahud) and the Christians (Nasara). They are considered “people of the book” because they were recipients of the Tawrat (Torah), Zabur (Psalms), and Injil (Gospel). They share a common heritage with Muslims through the lineage of Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام) and the principle of monotheistic revelation. The Qur’an addresses them directly in many places, inviting them to the pure, original monotheism and correcting the doctrinal changes that entered their faiths over time.

Role in the Surah

Surah Al-Baqarah engages extensively with the Ahl al-Kitab, especially the Jewish community of Madinah. The Surah invites them to believe in the final revelation, which confirms their own scriptures. It criticizes some of their actions, such as concealing the truth, breaking covenants, and altering their scriptures. For example: “O People of the Scripture, why do you disbelieve in the verses of Allah while you are witnesses [to their truth]?” (This theme is found throughout, e.g., 2:40-42, 2:109). However, it does not condemn them wholesale, acknowledging that righteous individuals exist among them. Their story serves as both a bridge and a warning to the new Muslim community.

Personality & Attributes

The Surah highlights a range of attributes found among them (not universally in every individual):

  • Knowledgeable: They possess knowledge from their scriptures about the truth of the final Prophet.
  • Argumentative: Some engaged in obstinate debates and raised difficult questions to challenge the truth.
  • Envious: Some felt envy that the final prophet was not from among them.
  • Covenant Breakers: The Surah recounts historical instances where they broke their covenants with God.
  • Righteous minority: The Qur’an acknowledges those among them who are sincere, pious, and believe.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Possessing scripture is a great responsibility that requires honest preservation and sincere application.
  • Religious knowledge without sincere practice can lead to arrogance and spiritual ruin.
  • Believers should learn from the mistakes of previous nations, especially regarding internal division and disobedience to prophets.
  • Dialogue with other faith communities should be based on calling to common principles of monotheism.

Supporting References

The term Ahl al-Kitab holds a special status in Islamic law, distinguishing them from polytheists. This status allows for certain social interactions, such as the permissibility of marrying their chaste women and eating their slaughtered meat (under specific conditions). This demonstrates Islam’s recognition of their revealed origins while still calling them to the final and complete message.

Al-Baqarah (الْبَقَرَةُ) – The Cow

Brief Biography / Background

Al-Baqarah, the Heifer or Cow, is not a character in the traditional sense but the centerpiece of a pivotal story involving Prophet Musa (عليه السلام) and the Children of Israel. This animal gives the Surah its name and serves as the catalyst for a narrative that exposes the obstinacy and weak faith of a segment of Bani Isra’il. The story revolves around an unsolved murder and Allah’s command to sacrifice a specific cow to reveal the killer.

Role in the Surah

The story of the cow is narrated from verses 2:67 to 2:73. When Musa conveys Allah’s command to sacrifice a cow, his people respond not with submission but with mockery and excessive questioning: “And [recall] when Moses said to his people, ‘Indeed, Allah commands you to slaughter a cow.’ They said, ‘Do you take us in ridicule?'” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:67). They repeatedly ask for more specific details about its age, color, and function, making the task harder for themselves. Ultimately, they sacrifice it, and a piece of the cow is used to strike the dead man, who is miraculously revived to name his killer. The cow’s story is a powerful illustration of the difference between sincere submission and argumentative religiosity.

Personality & Attributes

The cow itself is described with specific attributes due to the incessant questioning of the people:

  • Neither too old nor too young.
  • A bright yellow color, pleasing to the eye.
  • Not trained for plowing the earth or watering the fields.
  • Free from any blemishes.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Immediate obedience to Allah’s commands is a sign of true faith.
  • Excessive and unnecessary questioning in matters of religion can be a sign of weak faith and can make religious duties more difficult.
  • Allah has the power over life and death and can reveal the unseen through miraculous means.
  • The story serves as a warning against legalism and focusing on the letter of the law while ignoring its spirit.

Supporting References

The naming of the entire Surah after this single story underscores its importance. It encapsulates a central theme of the Surah: the correct attitude a believer must have towards divine commands. While the story criticizes a specific attitude of the Children of Israel at that time, the lesson is timeless for the Muslim Ummah, warning against the spiritual disease of replacing heartfelt submission with empty argumentation.

Al-Kafirun (الْكَافِرُونَ) – The Disbelievers

Brief Biography / Background

Al-Kafirun is the archetype of those who willfully reject or conceal the truth (kufr) after it has become clear to them. This term is not simply for a non-Muslim, but specifically refers to those who are actively hostile to the divine message and obstinately refuse to believe. They are characterized by a spiritual blindness and deafness, where their hearts are “sealed” due to their persistent arrogance and rejection of clear signs. They are a recurring group in the Qur’an, representing the primary opposition to the prophets and the message of monotheism.

Role in the Surah

Surah Al-Baqarah opens by defining the three main groups of humanity in relation to guidance: the pious (Muttaqun), the disbelievers (Kafirun), and the hypocrites (Munafiqun). The Kafirun are described concisely and powerfully: “Indeed, those who disbelieve – it is all the same for them whether you warn them or do not warn them – they will not believe. Allah has set a seal upon their hearts and upon their hearing, and over their vision is a veil. And for them is a great punishment.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:6-7). They appear throughout the Surah as the antithesis to the believers, serving as a warning and illustrating the consequences of rejecting faith.

Personality & Attributes

  • Arrogance: They reject the truth out of pride.
  • Spiritual Blindness: Their persistent denial creates a barrier that prevents them from perceiving the truth.
  • Hostility: They often actively oppose the message and the messengers.
  • Mockery: They ridicule the believers and the signs of God.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The choice to believe or disbelieve is a profound one with eternal consequences.
  • Persistent and arrogant rejection of truth can lead to a state where one is no longer able to accept guidance.
  • The story of the disbelievers serves as a reminder of the blessing of faith and the danger of pride.
  • A believer’s duty is to convey the message, but guidance itself is ultimately from Allah alone.

Supporting References

The Qur’an makes it clear that the “sealing” of the heart is not an arbitrary act from God that removes free will. Rather, it is the natural consequence of a person’s own repeated choices. When someone is presented with clear signs and consistently chooses to reject them out of arrogance, they create that seal themselves. The description in Al-Baqarah is a diagnosis of a spiritual condition that results from human choice.

Al-Mu’minun (الْمُؤْمِنُونَ) – The Believers

Brief Biography / Background

Al-Mu’minun represents the archetype of those who have true faith (Iman). They are not merely those who profess belief but whose conviction resides deep within their hearts, manifesting in their actions, character, and complete submission to Allah. They are the heroes of the Qur’anic narrative, the inheritors of divine guidance, and the recipients of Allah’s ultimate promise of success and reward. The term encompasses all true followers of the prophets throughout history, culminating in the followers of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم).

Role in the Surah

Surah Al-Baqarah opens by defining the core characteristics of the believers, who are also referred to as the pious (Al-Muttaqun). They are the primary audience of the Qur’an. Their attributes are listed immediately: “…who believe in the unseen, establish prayer, and spend out of what We have provided for them, And who believe in what has been revealed to you, [O Muhammad], and what was revealed before you, and of the Hereafter they are certain [in faith].” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:3-4). The entire Surah is a detailed roadmap for them, containing laws, guidance, and stories to strengthen their faith and build their community.

Personality & Attributes

  • Faith in the Unseen (Ghayb): Their belief is not limited to what can be perceived by the senses.
  • Steadfast in Prayer (Salah): They maintain a constant connection with their Lord.
  • Charitable: They are generous with the provisions Allah has given them.
  • Comprehensive Belief: They believe in all divine revelations, not just their own.
  • Certainty in the Hereafter (Akhirah): Their actions are guided by a firm belief in the Day of Judgment.
  • Patient and Resilient: They endure trials with steadfastness.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • True faith is a holistic state that combines inner conviction with outward action.
  • The foundational pillars of a believer’s life are their relationship with God (prayer), their relationship with fellow humans (charity), and their core beliefs.
  • The ideal community is one built upon the shared characteristics of the Mu’minun.
  • Certainty in the Hereafter is the ultimate moral compass for a believer.

Supporting References

The detailed legislation in the latter parts of Surah Al-Baqarah—covering everything from fasting and Hajj to finance and family law—is addressed to the community of believers. This demonstrates that faith is not an abstract concept but a practical code of life. The description of the believers at the beginning of the Surah is the prerequisite for understanding and implementing the guidance that follows.

Al-Munafiqun (الْمُنَافِقُونَ) – The Hypocrites

Brief Biography / Background

Al-Munafiqun are the archetype of those who profess faith outwardly but conceal disbelief and enmity in their hearts. This is considered a more dangerous spiritual disease than open disbelief because it attacks the community from within. The phenomenon of hypocrisy became prominent in Madinah after the Prophet’s migration, where some individuals entered Islam for worldly gain, social pressure, or to conspire against the Muslims, while lacking any genuine conviction. They represent the ultimate spiritual duplicity and indecision.

Role in the Surah

Surah Al-Baqarah dedicates a significant early passage (2:8-20) to exposing the psychology and characteristics of the hypocrites, more verses than it uses to describe the believers and disbelievers combined. This highlights the grave danger they posed. The Surah describes their claims and exposes their reality: “And of the people are some who say, ‘We believe in Allah and the Last Day,’ but they are not believers. They [think to] deceive Allah and those who believe, but they deceive not except themselves and perceive [it] not.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:8-9). Their narrative serves as a severe warning and a diagnostic tool for the Muslim community to recognize and guard against the traits of hypocrisy.

Personality & Attributes

  • Deceitful: Their primary tool is lying and deception.
  • Spiritually Diseased: The Qur’an describes a “disease in their hearts” which Allah increases.
  • Arrogant: They consider themselves reformers while they are actually corrupters.
  • Mocking: They privately mock the believers for their sincere faith.
  • Indecisive and Wavering: They are described as wavering between the believers and the disbelievers, belonging to neither.
  • Cowardly: Their actions are often driven by fear of worldly loss.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The importance of sincerity (Ikhlas) in faith is paramount; what is in the heart is more important than outward declarations.
  • Hypocrisy is a destructive force that can undermine a community from within.
  • Believers must be wary of the traits of hypocrisy within themselves, such as lying, breaking promises, and duplicity.
  • True guidance is a light; the hypocrites are described as those who are left stumbling in darkness.

Supporting References

The detailed description of the hypocrites in Al-Baqarah serves as a timeless cautionary tale. While it refers to a specific group in Madinah, the characteristics are universal. Prophetic traditions list the “signs of the hypocrite” (such as lying when speaking, breaking promises, and being treacherous in agreements) so that believers can constantly self-evaluate and purify their intentions and actions.

Al-Mufsidun (الْمُفْسِدُونَ) – The Corrupters

Brief Biography / Background

Al-Mufsidun is the archetype for those who cause corruption, mischief, and chaos on Earth (Fasad fil-Ard). This concept is the direct opposite of Islah (reformation, setting things right). Corruption, in the Qur’anic sense, is not just political or financial; it is a comprehensive term for any action that disrupts the divine, social, or natural order. This includes disbelief, oppression, injustice, breaking family ties, and destroying the environment. Shaytan is the ultimate Mufsid, as his goal is to spread corruption among humanity.

Role in the Surah

This archetype appears early in Surah Al-Baqarah in the description of the hypocrites. The hypocrites have a deluded self-perception that they are reformers, but Allah exposes their true nature: “And when it is said to them, ‘Do not cause corruption on earth,’ they say, ‘We are but reformers.’ Unquestionably, it is they who are the corrupters, but they perceive [it] not.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:11-12). The term also applies to the actions of some of the Children of Israel, who are reminded not to “commit abuse on earth, spreading corruption” (2:60). The archetype serves to highlight the destructive consequences of disobeying divine law, which is designed to bring order and justice (Islah) to the world.

Personality & Attributes

  • Deceptive Self-Image: They often justify their corrupt actions under the guise of progress or reform.
  • Destructive: Their actions lead to social decay, injustice, and strife.
  • Disobedient: Their corruption stems from a rejection of the divine order and law.
  • Lacking Perception: They are often blind to the true nature and consequences of their actions.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The purpose of divine law is to establish justice and harmony (Islah) and prevent corruption (Fasad).
  • One must be critically self-aware, as it is possible to cause great harm while believing one is doing good.
  • Actions are judged by their ultimate outcomes, not just their stated intentions.
  • Working to establish justice and order on earth is a fundamental part of a believer’s duty.

Supporting References

The theme of ‘corruption on Earth’ is contrasted throughout the Qur’an with the mission of the prophets, who were sent as reformers (Muslihun). The stories of nations like ‘Ad and Thamud, who were destroyed, often cite their spreading of corruption as a primary reason for their downfall. This establishes a clear divine principle: societies that allow corruption to flourish ultimately bring about their own destruction.

Al-Muttaqun (الْمُتَّقُونَ) – The Pious/God-fearing

Brief Biography / Background

Al-Muttaqun are the ideal believers, those who possess Taqwa. Taqwa is a profound and comprehensive Islamic concept often translated as “piety” or “God-consciousness.” It signifies a state of being where one is constantly aware of Allah’s presence and knowledge, which leads them to perform righteous deeds and abstain from sins. It is a shield that protects a person from evil. The Muttaqun are not sinless, but they are quick to repent and constantly strive to live in accordance with divine guidance.

Role in the Surah

Surah Al-Baqarah begins by declaring that the Qur’an itself is “a guidance for the Muttaqun” (2:2). This establishes them as the primary group capable of truly benefiting from the divine message. The Surah immediately follows this by defining their core characteristics: belief in the unseen, establishing prayer, spending in charity, believing in all revelations, and having certainty in the Hereafter (2:3-4). The entire Surah, with its laws and narratives, is designed to cultivate Taqwa in the hearts of the believers. The call “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become Muttaqun” (2:183) is a perfect example of this.

Personality & Attributes

  • God-Conscious: Their awareness of Allah guides all their actions and decisions.
  • Proactive in Goodness: They actively seek to perform righteous deeds.
  • Averse to Sin: They are careful to avoid what Allah has forbidden.
  • Humble: Their piety does not lead to arrogance but to greater humility before God.
  • Receptive to Guidance: Their hearts are open and ready to accept and implement divine truth.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The ultimate goal of all Islamic rituals and laws—prayer, fasting, charity—is to cultivate Taqwa.
  • True benefit from the Qur’an comes not just from reading it, but from approaching it with a heart that possesses Taqwa.
  • Taqwa is the best provision for the journey of life and the Hereafter.
  • It is a state of the heart that translates into righteous action, not just a feeling.

Supporting References

Taqwa is one of the most praised virtues in the Qur’an. It is described as the criteria for honor in the sight of Allah: “Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous (Atqakum) of you” (Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:13). The description of the Muttaqun at the start of Al-Baqarah serves as a checklist for every believer to measure themselves against and a goal to strive for throughout their lives.

Al-Mushrikun (الْمُشْرِكُون) – The Polytheists

Brief Biography / Background

Al-Mushrikun is the Qur’anic term for polytheists or idolaters, those who commit Shirk. Shirk is the gravest sin in Islam: the act of associating partners with Allah in His divinity or worship. This can include worshipping idols, nature, saints, or any created being alongside or instead of the one true God. The primary mission of all prophets, from Adam to Muhammad, was to call humanity away from Shirk and towards pure monotheism (Tawhid). The polytheists of Makkah during the time of Prophet Muhammad were the primary antagonists of the early Islamic message.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, the Mushrikun are contrasted with the People of the Book and the believers. While the People of the Book have a basis in revealed scripture, the polytheists are depicted as following baseless ancestral traditions. The Surah challenges their beliefs through logical arguments and calls them to the worship of the one God who created them. A key piece of legislation regarding them is mentioned: “And do not marry polytheistic women until they believe… And do not marry polytheistic men [to your women] until they believe…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:221). This establishes a clear social and spiritual boundary, emphasizing that unity of faith is the essential foundation for a believing family. The Surah also commands fighting against them when they persecute the believers, until “persecution is no more, and religion is for Allah” (2:193).

Personality & Attributes

  • Followers of Conjecture: Their beliefs are based on inherited traditions rather than divine revelation.
  • Hostile to Monotheism: They often persecute believers for abandoning the gods of their forefathers.
  • Spiritually Impure: The Qur’an refers to them as spiritually unclean due to their Shirk.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The sin of Shirk is the greatest injustice and the only sin that Allah will not forgive if one dies upon it without repentance.
  • A believer’s primary allegiance is to faith (Tawhid), which must take precedence even over marital and social ties.
  • The foundation of a righteous society is the complete eradication of polytheism and the establishment of the pure worship of Allah alone.

Supporting References

The Qur’an makes a clear distinction between the People of the Book (Ahl al-Kitab) and the Polytheists (Mushrikun). While it engages in theological debate with the former, it fundamentally condemns the core practice of the latter. The entire struggle of the Makkan period of the Prophet’s life revolved around the ideological battle between Tawhid and Shirk.

Al-Yatim (الْيَتِيم) – The Orphan

Brief Biography / Background

Al-Yatim, the orphan, represents a highly vulnerable member of society for whom Islam shows profound concern. An orphan in the Islamic context is a child who has lost their father before reaching the age of puberty. Because the father was traditionally the primary protector and provider, the orphan was left socially and financially exposed. The Qur’an and the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم), who was himself an orphan, repeatedly emphasize the duty of the community to care for, protect, and deal justly with orphans and their property.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, the orphan is mentioned in the context of righteousness and social justice. When the believers ask what they should spend in charity, the answer includes providing for orphans. The Surah also addresses the sensitive issue of managing the orphan’s property, a topic of great concern for the early Muslims who feared mismanaging it. It provides a balanced principle: “And they ask you about orphans. Say, ‘Improvement for them is best.’ And if you mix your affairs with theirs – they are your brothers. And Allah knows the corrupter from the amender.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:220). This verse eased their concerns by permitting the mixing of assets for practical reasons (like sharing meals), as long as the intention is to benefit the orphan, not to consume their wealth unjustly.

Personality & Attributes

  • Vulnerable: Lacking the protection and provision of a father.
  • A Trust (Amanah): Their well-being and property are a sacred trust for their guardians and the community.
  • Deserving of Kindness: The Qur’an commands that they be treated with justice, respect, and compassion.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Caring for the most vulnerable members of society is a defining characteristic of a righteous community.
  • Consuming an orphan’s wealth unjustly is one of the gravest sins in Islam.
  • The guiding principle in dealing with orphans is to always seek what is best for them, with the pure intention of helping them.
  • Intention is paramount; Allah judges the hidden intent behind one’s actions toward the orphan.

Supporting References

Numerous prophetic traditions highlight the immense reward for sponsoring an orphan. The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said that he and the one who takes care of an orphan will be as close in Paradise as two fingers of a hand. This elevated status for the orphan’s guardian underscores the importance Islam places on social responsibility and compassion.

Allah (الله) – God

Brief Biography / Background

Allah is the proper name of the one and only God, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. He is the central figure of the Qur’an and the sole object of all worship in Islam. Surah Al-Baqarah provides one of the most comprehensive portraits of Allah in the entire Qur’an, detailing His attributes, His legislative authority, His relationship with humanity, and His absolute power. He is introduced as the Lord of all worlds, the Merciful, the Just, the All-Knowing, and the All-Powerful.

Role in the Surah

Allah is the speaker, the legislator, the narrator, and the ultimate authority throughout Surah Al-Baqarah. The Surah contains the famous “Throne Verse” (Ayat al-Kursi), which is considered the greatest verse in the Qur’an for its magnificent description of Him: “Allah – there is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of [all] existence. Neither drowsiness overtakes Him nor sleep…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:255). He engages in dialogue with the angels, gives commands to humanity, tells the stories of past nations, lays down laws for society, and promises reward and punishment. His presence is all-encompassing.

Personality & Attributes

Surah Al-Baqarah highlights numerous divine attributes, including:

  • Omniscience: “And He is Knowing of all things” (2:29).
  • Omnipotence: “Indeed, Allah is over all things competent” (2:20).
  • Legislator: He is the source of all law (Shari’ah) regarding fasting, pilgrimage, marriage, divorce, and finance.
  • The Forgiving and Merciful: He repeatedly offers opportunities for repentance.
  • The Just: He will judge every soul according to its deeds.
  • The Provider: He is the source of all sustenance.
  • The Guide: He guides whom He wills to the Straight Path.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • A deep and accurate understanding of God’s attributes is the foundation of faith.
  • Reflecting on Ayat al-Kursi provides a powerful source of spiritual strength and protection.
  • Recognizing Allah as the ultimate legislator fosters submission to His laws, understanding they are for our own benefit.
  • The relationship with Allah is multifaceted, involving love, hope, awe, and reverence.

Supporting References

The final two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah are a treasure given to the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) during the Mi’raj (Ascension). These verses encapsulate the believers’ complete submission and faith in Allah, their plea for forgiveness, and their reliance on His mercy. Reciting these verses is said to be a source of great protection and blessing, summarizing the core relationship between humanity and its Creator as detailed throughout this momentous Surah.

As-Sabi’un (الصَّابِئُونَ) – The Sabians

Brief Biography / Background

As-Sabi’un refers to a religious group mentioned three times in the Qur’an alongside the Jews, Christians, and believers. Their exact identity has been a subject of scholarly discussion. Historical accounts suggest they may have been a monotheistic or star-worshipping group from ancient Mesopotamia who followed a prophet or had elements of revealed truth in their beliefs. Regardless of their specific identity, the Qur’an includes them among those who, if they possess true faith, will be saved.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, the Sabians are mentioned in a verse that lays down a universal principle of salvation: “Indeed, those who believed and those who were Jews or Christians or Sabians – those [among them] who believed in Allah and the Last Day and did righteousness – will have their reward with their Lord, and no fear will there be concerning them, nor will they grieve.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:62). Their role in this verse is to broaden the scope of divine mercy beyond the apparent followers of the major prophets, emphasizing that the core criteria for salvation are universal: true faith in the One God, belief in accountability, and righteous actions.

Personality & Attributes

The Surah does not describe their specific attributes, but includes them in a list of communities who are judged based on the universal principles of:

  • True Belief in Allah: A sincere, monotheistic faith.
  • Belief in the Last Day: Acknowledging a final judgment and accountability.
  • Righteous Deeds: Translating faith into good actions.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Salvation is not based on nominal affiliation with a particular religious group, but on the substance of one’s faith and actions.
  • Allah’s justice is perfect and He judges every individual and community based on the truth that was available to them.
  • The core message of all prophets was the same: to worship the One God, believe in the Hereafter, and live righteously.

Supporting References

This verse is understood in the context of the entire Qur’anic message. After the advent of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم), belief in him becomes part of “believing in Allah” and “righteous deeds.” The verse establishes a timeless principle while also being historically situated. It reassures believers that Allah’s justice encompassed righteous monotheists from communities who lived before the final message was revealed or who never received it.

Asbat (الأَسْبَاط) – The Tribes of Israel

Brief Biography / Background

Al-Asbat refers to the twelve tribes of Israel, who were the descendants of the twelve sons of Prophet Ya’qub (Jacob, عليه السلام). Prophet Ya’qub was also known as Isra’il (Israel), and his sons became the progenitors of these distinct tribes. The Asbat form the foundational structure of the nation of Bani Isra’il. The Qur’an mentions that among these tribes were prophets and righteous leaders who received divine inspiration.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, the Asbat are mentioned as part of a declaration of faith that a true believer must uphold. It emphasizes the continuity of divine revelation through the lineage of prophets. Believers are commanded to say: “…We believe in Allah and what has been revealed to us and what has been revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the Descendants (al-Asbat), and what was given to Moses and Jesus and what was given to the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them, and we are Muslims [in submission] to Him.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:136). Their role is to represent the generations of Israelites who received divine guidance after Prophet Ya’qub, affirming that revelation was not confined to a single prophet but continued through their righteous descendants.

Personality & Attributes

  • Prophetic Heritage: They were the recipients of ongoing divine guidance and inspiration.
  • Divinely Organized: Their division into twelve tribes was part of a divine plan, as seen in the story of Musa striking the rock from which twelve springs gushed forth, one for each tribe (2:60).
  • Varied in Faith: Like any large nation, their history includes periods of great faith and righteousness as well as periods of sin and rebellion.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • True faith requires believing in all of God’s prophets and revelations without making distinctions between them.
  • Allah’s guidance is continuous and was sent to many nations and peoples throughout history.
  • Lineage or belonging to a specific tribe or nation does not guarantee salvation; only personal submission to God does.

Supporting References

The story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph, عليه السلام) provides a detailed background on the origins of the Asbat through the interactions of Yusuf and his eleven brothers. While Surah Al-Baqarah does not go into this detail, its mention of the Asbat connects the narrative to this rich history, reminding the People of the Book of their own prophetic lineage and inviting them to the universal faith that encompasses it.

Bani Isra’il (بَنُو إِسْرَائِيلَ) – The Children of Israel

Brief Biography / Background

Bani Isra’il (the Children of Israel) are the descendants of Prophet Ya’qub (Jacob), whose title was Isra’il. They are a central nation in the Qur’anic narrative, serving as a primary example of a people who were blessed with immense divine favor—prophets, scripture, and miracles—but who also repeatedly fell into disobedience, broke their covenants, and were held accountable for their actions. Their extensive story is a source of powerful lessons for the Muslim Ummah.

Role in the Surah

A very large portion of Surah Al-Baqarah is a direct address to the Children of Israel (e.g., 2:40, 2:47). The Surah recounts a long list of their historical experiences: their salvation from Fir’awn, the parting of the sea, the 40 years in the wilderness, receiving the manna and quails, the calf-worship incident, the story of the cow, their rejection of prophets, and their breaking of the Sabbath. This detailed history serves two main purposes: to remind the Jews of Madinah of their own history and covenants, urging them to accept the final prophet, and to warn the newly-formed Muslim community not to repeat the same mistakes. “O Children of Israel, remember My favor which I have bestowed upon you and fulfill My covenant [upon you] that I will fulfill your covenant [from Me], and be afraid of [only] Me.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:40).

Personality & Attributes

The Surah highlights a spectrum of traits displayed by them throughout their history:

  • Favored by God: They were chosen at one time and given preference over many nations.
  • Argumentative & Obstinate: As shown in the story of the cow, they could be legalistic and reluctant to obey.
  • Ingratitude: They often forgot Allah’s favors soon after receiving them, like worshipping the calf after being saved from Fir’awn.
  • Hard-heartedness: Their hearts became “like stones or even harder” after witnessing countless miracles (2:74).
  • Courageous and Faithful (at times): The Surah also alludes to their righteous prophets and those who remained steadfast.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Divine favor is not a guarantee of permanent success; it is a responsibility that must be upheld through obedience.
  • Past glory and noble lineage are meaningless without present-day faith and righteous action.
  • The Muslim community must learn from the history of Bani Isra’il to avoid the pitfalls of disobedience, argumentation, and ingratitude.
  • Allah’s covenant is with the righteous, regardless of their ethnicity or ancestry.

Supporting References

The Qur’an’s focus on Bani Isra’il is not a condemnation of a race, but a critique of specific actions and attitudes. By presenting their history in such detail, it provides a case study for all of humanity on the relationship between a nation and its Lord. It is a mirror in which the Muslim Ummah is meant to see itself and take heed.

Dawud (عليه السلام) – David

Brief Biography / Background

Dawud (David, عليه السلام) was a righteous servant, a noble prophet, and a just king of the Children of Israel. He is renowned for his wisdom, his beautiful recitation of the Zabur (Psalms), and his strength in both faith and battle. He is the father of Prophet Sulayman (Solomon, عليه السلام). His story is one of courage, reliance on Allah, and just leadership. He is a significant figure in the Abrahamic traditions and is mentioned with great honor in the Qur’an.

Role in the Surah

Prophet Dawud appears in Surah Al-Baqarah at the climax of the story of Talut (Saul) and Jalut (Goliath). He is introduced as a young, seemingly insignificant soldier in Talut’s army. While the mighty warrior Jalut terrified the Israelite army, Dawud stepped forward with unshakable faith in Allah and defeated him. This victory turned the tide of the battle and established Dawud as a leader. The Surah concisely states: “And Dawud killed Jalut, and Allah gave him the kingship and wisdom and taught him from that which He willed.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:251). His role is to exemplify how faith can overcome seemingly insurmountable odds and how Allah grants authority to whom He wills based on piety, not just physical strength.

Personality & Attributes

  • Courageous: He was unafraid to face the giant Jalut when all other soldiers were fearful.
  • Full of Faith: His courage stemmed from his absolute reliance on Allah’s help, not his own strength.
  • Wise: Allah granted him wisdom and sound judgment, making him a just king.
  • Chosen by God: His victory and subsequent kingship were divinely ordained.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • True strength and victory come from Allah alone.
  • One should not underestimate others based on their size or appearance; piety and faith are the true measures of a person.
  • Leadership is a gift from Allah granted to those He deems worthy, and it combines both worldly authority (kingship) and divine guidance (wisdom).
  • A single act of courage, driven by faith, can change the course of history.

Supporting References

While Surah Al-Baqarah gives a brief but powerful summary, other parts of the Qur’an elaborate on Dawud’s life. He was taught by Allah to make coats of mail, the mountains and birds would praise Allah along with him, and he was known for his just and wise arbitration between people. His story in Al-Baqarah serves as the pivotal moment that marked his rise to prophethood and kingship.

Fir’awn (فِرْعَوْن) – Pharaoh

Brief Biography / Background

Fir’awn (Pharaoh) is the title of the tyrannical ruler of ancient Egypt during the time of Prophet Musa (عليه السلام). In the Qur’an, he is the ultimate archetype of the arrogant, oppressive, and defiant disbeliever. He enslaved the Children of Israel and, in his extreme hubris, claimed divinity for himself. His story is a powerful testament to the transient nature of worldly power and the absolute sovereignty of Allah. He represents the peak of human rebellion against the divine.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Fir’awn and his people are central to the historical narrative of the Children of Israel. The Surah recounts Allah’s great favor in saving them from his tyranny: “And [recall] when We saved your forefathers from the people of Pharaoh, who afflicted you with the worst torment, slaughtering your [newborn] sons and keeping your females alive. And in that was a great trial from your Lord.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:49). His downfall is also mentioned: “And [recall] when We parted the sea for you and saved you and drowned the people of Pharaoh while you were looking on.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:50). Fir’awn’s role is to serve as the oppressive antagonist whose defeat demonstrates Allah’s power to save the believers and destroy the arrogant.

Personality & Attributes

  • Extremely Arrogant: His pride led him to declare, “I am your lord, most high.”
  • Cruel and Oppressive: He brutalized the Children of Israel with mass infanticide and enslavement.
  • Defiant Disbeliever: He rejected the clear signs and miracles brought by Musa, attributing them to magic.
  • Power-Hungry: His entire being was consumed with maintaining his worldly kingdom and authority.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The ultimate end of arrogance and tyranny is destruction and humiliation.
  • Worldly power is a test from Allah and is insignificant compared to His divine might.
  • The story of Fir’awn provides hope and solace to the oppressed, showing that no tyrant is beyond the reach of God’s justice.
  • One should never despair, for Allah’s help can arrive in miraculous ways, just as He parted the sea.

Supporting References

The story of Fir’awn is one of the most frequently repeated narratives in the Qur’an, highlighting its profound importance. His body was preserved after he drowned as a sign for later generations, a testament to the fact that even the most powerful human being is utterly helpless before God. His last-minute declaration of faith was rejected because it was made only when he saw his doom, not out of sincere repentance.

Harut and Marut (هَارُوتَ وَمَارُوتَ)

Brief Biography / Background

Harut and Marut were two angels sent down to Babylon as a trial and test for the people. Their story addresses the prevalence of magic (sihr) at that time and clarifies its reality. They were not sent to promote magic, but to teach people about it so they could distinguish it from true miracles and be aware of its evil. Their presence on earth was a specific and temporary test for that particular community.

Role in the Surah

Their story appears in Surah Al-Baqarah in the context of correcting a false accusation against Prophet Sulayman (عليه السلام). Some Jews had claimed that Sulayman’s kingdom was based on magic. The verse clarifies that Sulayman never disbelieved, but that the devils did, teaching people magic. It then explains the origin of this knowledge: “…and [they follow] that which was revealed to the two angels in Babylon, Harut and Marut. But the two angels do not teach anyone unless they say, ‘We are but a trial, so do not disbelieve [by practicing magic].’ And [yet] they learn from them that by which they cause separation between a man and his wife…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:102). Their role is to demonstrate that knowledge of magic exists, but it is a great evil and a test of faith, and that using it constitutes disbelief.

Personality & Attributes

  • Angelic Nature: They are identified as two angels (malakayn).
  • Function as a Test: Their explicit purpose was to be a trial (fitnah) for humanity.
  • Honest and Warning: They would always issue a clear warning about the spiritual danger of magic before imparting any knowledge of it.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • There is a clear distinction between divine miracles given to prophets and the deceptive practice of magic.
  • Engaging in magic is a form of disbelief (kufr) and is strictly forbidden.
  • Knowledge can be a test; even knowing about evil things requires a moral choice not to practice them.
  • One of the most wicked applications of magic is to sow discord in families and break the bond between a husband and wife.

Supporting References

The story of Harut and Marut is unique to this passage in the Qur’an. It serves a crucial theological purpose: to demystify magic and place it firmly in the category of a forbidden, satanic practice that was falsely attributed to God’s noble prophets like Sulayman. It confirms the reality of magic as a harmful force while condemning its use in the strongest terms.

Hawwa (عليها السلام) – Eve

Brief Biography / Background

Hawwa (Eve) is the first woman, created by Allah as a partner and mate for Prophet Adam (عليه السلام). Though not mentioned by her proper name in the Qur’an, she is consistently referred to as Adam’s “wife” or “spouse” (zawj). She lived with him in the Garden, shared in the temptation and the subsequent error, and joined him in repentance. As the mother of all humanity, her story is inextricably linked with Adam’s and is foundational to the human experience.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Hawwa is part of the story of creation and the fall. Allah describes the command given to both of them: “And We said, ‘O Adam, dwell, you and your wife, in Paradise and eat therefrom in [ease and] abundance from wherever you will. But do not approach this tree, lest you be among the wrongdoers.'” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:35). The Surah portrays the temptation and the error as a shared experience, with Shaytan causing “them” both to slip. Her role is that of Adam’s partner in every stage of this initial human story: residence in the Garden, the test, the mistake, and the descent to Earth to begin the journey of human life.

Personality & Attributes

  • Companionate: Created to be a comfort and partner for Adam.
  • Sharing Responsibility: The Qur’an presents the error as a mutual failing, not placing primary blame on her.
  • Repentant: She, along with Adam, turned to Allah for forgiveness after their mistake.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The relationship between man and woman is divinely ordained to be one of companionship and mutual support.
  • The Islamic narrative of “the fall” is one of shared responsibility, rejecting the concept of “original sin” and the idea that woman is the sole or primary tempter.
  • Partners in life should also be partners in faith, helping each other to obey Allah and turning back to Him together when they err.

Supporting References

Unlike some other traditions, the Qur’anic account does not single out Hawwa for blame. Shaytan “whispered to them” and “caused them to slip.” This balanced portrayal is crucial, establishing a foundation of mutual responsibility in the relationship between genders. Her story affirms her integral and honored role as the mother of humankind.

Ibrahim (عليه السلام) – Abraham

Brief Biography / Background

Ibrahim (Abraham, عليه السلام) is one of the most revered prophets in Islam, given the title Khalilullah (the intimate friend of Allah). He is the patriarch of monotheism and the ancestor of numerous prophets, including his sons Isma’il and Ishaq, and through them, Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) and the prophets of Israel. His life was a series of immense trials through which he demonstrated unwavering submission to Allah. He is a role model of faith for Muslims, Jews, and Christians alike.

Role in the Surah

Prophet Ibrahim has a multifaceted and highly significant role in Surah Al-Baqarah. He is presented as the builder of the Ka’bah along with his son Isma’il, establishing it as a center of monotheistic worship: “And [mention] when Abraham was raising the foundations of the House and [with him] Ishmael, [saying], ‘Our Lord, accept [this] from us…'” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:127). He is also shown in a powerful debate with the tyrannical king Nimrud, where he uses logic to prove the oneness of God (2:258). The Surah also mentions the trial where Allah commanded him to sacrifice his son (alluded to in 2:124) and the miracle where Allah showed him how He gives life to the dead using four birds (2:260). He is established as the father of a pure, universal monotheism, the Millah of Ibrahim, which predates both Judaism and Christianity.

Personality & Attributes

  • Perfectly Submissive (Muslim): He submitted to Allah’s will without hesitation, even in the most difficult trials.
  • Intelligent and Logical: He used rational arguments to dismantle polytheism in his debate with Nimrud.
  • Hospitable and Kind: Known for his immense generosity.
  • A Leader (Imam): Allah appointed him as a spiritual leader for all of humanity (2:124).
  • Devoted Father: He constantly prayed for the well-being and righteousness of his descendants.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • True faith is demonstrated through submission and action, not just words.
  • One should use wisdom and clear reasoning when calling others to the truth.
  • The foundation of all true religion is the pure and simple monotheism of Ibrahim.
  • Great leadership and honor from God come only after passing severe tests with patience and perseverance.

Supporting References

Surah Al-Baqarah positions Ibrahim as the central figure who defines the true meaning of “submission” (Islam). It repeatedly refutes the claims of the People of the Book that he belonged to their specific faith, stating clearly that he was a “hanif” (a pure monotheist) who was not of the polytheists. This makes him a unifying figure, calling all of humanity back to the original, unadulterated worship of the One God.

‘Isa ibn Maryam (عليه السلام) – Jesus, son of Mary

Brief Biography / Background

‘Isa ibn Maryam (Jesus, son of Mary, عليه السلام) is one of the most esteemed messengers of Allah in Islam. He is considered one of the five “Messengers of Strong Will.” His miraculous birth to the virgin Maryam (Mary), without a father, is a sign of Allah’s absolute power. He was sent to the Children of Israel to confirm the Tawrat (Torah) and was given the Injil (Gospel). He performed numerous miracles by Allah’s permission, such as healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, and raising the dead. Islam rejects the concepts of his divinity and sonship, affirming his status as a noble human prophet.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Prophet ‘Isa is mentioned to affirm his prophethood and the miracles he was given, while correcting the erroneous beliefs about him. He is described as being supported by the “Holy Spirit” (Jibril): “And We did certainly give Moses the Scripture and followed up after him with messengers. And We gave Jesus, the son of Mary, clear proofs and supported him with the Pure Spirit…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:87 and 2:253). His role is to serve as a link in the long chain of prophecy sent to the Children of Israel and to emphasize that true believers must accept all prophets, including ‘Isa and the final prophet, Muhammad, without making distinctions.

Personality & Attributes

  • A Sign of God: His miraculous birth made him and his mother a sign for all peoples.
  • Supported by God: He was given clear proofs and strengthened with the Holy Spirit.
  • Righteous Messenger: He called his people to the pure worship of the One God.
  • Humble Servant: He never claimed divinity, but always affirmed his servitude to Allah.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Belief in all of Allah’s messengers, including ‘Isa, is a fundamental tenet of Islamic faith.
  • Miracles are performed only by the will and permission of Allah to support His prophets; they are not proof of divinity.
  • The stories of prophets like ‘Isa should be understood through the lens of pure monotheism, correcting any doctrines that compromise God’s oneness.

Supporting References

While Surah Al-Baqarah introduces him, other Surahs like Aal ‘Imran, Maryam, and Al-Ma’idah provide much more detail about his birth, his message, his disciples, and the Islamic account of his ascension. In Islam, it is believed that ‘Isa was not crucified but was raised up to Allah and will return to Earth before the Day of Judgment to defeat the Antichrist (Dajjal) and restore justice.

Ishaq (عليه السلام) – Isaac

Brief Biography / Background

Ishaq (Isaac, عليه السلام) was the second son of Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام), born miraculously to his elderly wife Sarah. He was a noble prophet of Allah who continued the monotheistic mission of his father. He is the father of Prophet Ya’qub (Jacob, عليه السلام), and thus the ancestor of the prophets of the Children of Israel. His birth was given as glad tidings to Ibrahim and Sarah at an old age, serving as a great sign of Allah’s mercy and power.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Ishaq is mentioned as a vital link in the patriarchal chain of monotheism. He is named alongside his father Ibrahim, his brother Isma’il, and his son Ya’qub. This listing emphasizes the continuity of the one true faith through this blessed lineage. Believers are instructed to declare their faith in the revelation given to him: “…and what was revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the Descendants…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:136). He is also mentioned in the context of Prophet Ya’qub’s deathbed, where Ya’qub asks his sons whom they will worship after him, and they reply that they will worship the God of their fathers: Ibrahim, Isma’il, and Ishaq (2:133).

Personality & Attributes

  • A Gift from God: His birth was a miraculous gift and glad tidings.
  • Pious and Righteous: The Qur’an describes him as one of the “righteous” and “chosen.”
  • Bearer of the Prophetic Legacy: He carried on the mission of his father and passed it to his son Ya’qub.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The message of monotheism is a continuous legacy passed down through generations of prophets.
  • True legacy is not wealth or status, but faith and piety that one passes on to one’s children.
  • Allah’s power is limitless; He can grant blessings like childbirth even when it seems impossible by worldly standards.

Supporting References

The Qur’an consistently presents Ishaq as part of the primary lineage of prophets stemming from Ibrahim. His story reinforces the shared heritage among the Abrahamic faiths and calls the People of the Book back to the unified worship practiced by their common patriarchs, including the noble Prophet Ishaq.

Isma’il (عليه السلام) – Ishmael

Brief Biography / Background

Isma’il (Ishmael, عليه السلام) was the firstborn son of Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام), born to his wife Hajar. He is a major prophet in Islam and is honored as the ancestor of the Arab peoples and of the final prophet, Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم). His life was one of profound sacrifice, patience, and submission, from being left with his mother in the barren valley of Makkah as an infant to his willingness to be sacrificed by his father in fulfillment of a divine vision.

Role in the Surah

Prophet Isma’il plays a crucial role in Surah Al-Baqarah as the co-builder of the Ka’bah. He worked alongside his father Ibrahim to raise the foundations of the sacred house, turning it into a center for pilgrimage and the worship of the One God. Their joint prayer is recorded in the Surah: “Our Lord, and make us Muslims [in submission] to You and from our descendants a Muslim nation [in submission] to You. And show us our rites and accept our repentance…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:128). He is also mentioned in the lists of prophets in whom believers must declare their faith (2:133, 2:136), establishing his high rank and the continuity of revelation through him.

Personality & Attributes

  • Patient and Enduring: He and his mother patiently endured the hardship of being left in Makkah, trusting in Allah.
  • Obedient and Submissive: He willingly submitted to what he believed was a command from Allah to be sacrificed.
  • Devoted Co-builder: He dutifully assisted his father in the sacred task of building the Ka’bah.
  • Prophetic: He was a prophet and messenger who called his people to prayer and charity.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The greatest acts of worship are often built on a foundation of patience and sacrifice.
  • The bond between a father and son can be sanctified when they work together for the sake of Allah.
  • The legacy of Isma’il is central to Islam, linking the final revelation directly to the patriarchal heritage of Ibrahim.
  • True nobility lies in submission to God’s will, no matter how difficult the command.

Supporting References

The rituals of Hajj, such as the Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, directly commemorate the struggle and faith of Isma’il’s mother Hajar as she searched for water. The Zamzam well sprang forth miraculously for them. This entire history, centered around Isma’il and Hajar, forms the geographical and spiritual foundation of Islam’s most sacred city, Makkah.

Jalut (جالوت) – Goliath

Brief Biography / Background

Jalut (Goliath) was a mighty, formidable, and tyrannical warrior from the Philistine army who fought against the Children of Israel. He is depicted as a giant of a man, whose immense size, strength, and fearsome reputation struck terror into the hearts of his enemies. He represents the archetype of the arrogant and physically powerful oppressor who relies solely on material strength and scoffs at the power of faith.

Role in the Surah

Jalut appears in Surah Al-Baqarah during the story of the Israelite army led by Talut (Saul). He is the champion of the enemy forces, and his presence is the ultimate test of the Israelites’ courage and faith. The army of Talut was small and many of them had deserted, and they felt utterly hopeless before Jalut’s might: “And when they went forth to [face] Goliath and his soldiers, they said, ‘Our Lord, pour upon us patience and plant firmly our feet and give us victory over the disbelieving people.'” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:250). Jalut’s role is to be the seemingly invincible obstacle that is overcome not by equal physical power, but by the divine assistance granted to a faithful servant, Prophet Dawud (David). His defeat at the hands of the young Dawud is the story’s turning point.

Personality & Attributes

  • Arrogant and Boastful: He was a champion who took pride in his physical power.
  • Intimidating: His presence alone was enough to demoralize an entire army.
  • A Disbeliever: He fought against the army of the believers.
  • Ultimately Powerless: Despite his great strength, he was helpless against the will of Allah.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Material strength and worldly power are no match for true faith and divine support.
  • Appearances can be deceiving; the most fearsome enemy can be defeated by the most unexpected hero.
  • Victory comes only from Allah. Believers should pray for patience and steadfastness, and trust in Him for the outcome.
  • The story of Jalut’s defeat is a timeless source of inspiration for believers who feel they are facing overwhelming odds.

Supporting References

The Qur’anic account focuses on the moral and spiritual dimensions of the conflict rather than just the physical battle. Jalut represents the hubris of the material world, while Dawud represents the quiet strength of faith. The narrative powerfully illustrates the verse, “How many a small company has overcome a large company by permission of Allah. And Allah is with the patient” (2:249), which the steadfast believers in Talut’s army recited before the battle.

Jibril (عليه السلام) – Gabriel

Brief Biography / Background

Jibril (Gabriel, عليه السلام) is the greatest of the angels and the archangel of revelation. His primary role is to serve as the divine messenger, transmitting Allah’s words—the scriptures—to His chosen prophets on Earth. He is known in the Qur’an by several titles, including Ruh al-Qudus (the Holy Spirit) and Ruh al-Amin (the Trustworthy Spirit). He was the angel who brought the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم), supported Prophet ‘Isa (عليه السلام), and interacted with many other prophets.

Role in the Surah

Jibril is mentioned by name in Surah Al-Baqarah in a verse that rebukes the Jews of Madinah for their proclaimed enmity towards him. They seemingly disliked him because he brought revelations that challenged their authority or brought tidings of war. Allah declares that enmity towards Jibril is equivalent to enmity towards Allah Himself: “Say, ‘Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel – it is [none but] he who has brought the Qur’an down upon your heart, [O Muhammad], by permission of Allah, confirming that which was before it and as guidance and good tidings for the believers.’ Whoever is an enemy to Allah and His angels and His messengers and Gabriel and Michael – then indeed, Allah is an enemy to the disbelievers.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:97-98).

Personality & Attributes

  • Trustworthy and Faithful: He delivers the divine message perfectly, without alteration.
  • Powerful: Described in other surahs as being of immense power.
  • Obedient: He acts only by the command of Allah.
  • The Carrier of Revelation: His defining role is to be the link between heaven and earth.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • To have enmity for the messenger is to have enmity for the one who sent the message. Rejecting the angel of revelation is a rejection of Allah.
  • Belief in the angels, especially Jibril who brought the Qur’an, is an essential pillar of Islamic faith.
  • The Qur’an is a divinely protected revelation, brought down by the most trustworthy angel by Allah’s direct permission.

Supporting References

Prophetic traditions provide many more details about Jibril’s interactions with Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم), including his appearance in different forms, his role in teaching the Prophet the religion, and his companionship during the Night Journey and Ascension (Al-Isra’ wal-Mi’raj). His mention in Al-Baqarah solidifies his central role in the very transmission of the guidance being laid out in the Surah.

Mala’ikah (الْمَلَائِكَة) – The Angels

Brief Biography / Background

The Mala’ikah (Angels) are celestial beings created by Allah from light. They are incapable of disobeying God and spend their existence in His worship and in carrying out His commands. They do not have free will in the human sense, and they do not eat, drink, or have gender. They can take on different forms by Allah’s permission. Belief in the angels is one of the six fundamental articles of Islamic faith.

Role in the Surah

Angels appear in several key instances in Surah Al-Baqarah. Their first appearance is during the creation of Adam, where they engage in a dialogue with Allah, questioning the creation of a being who would cause corruption on Earth. They then demonstrate their humility and obedience by prostrating to Adam upon Allah’s command (2:30-34). They are also mentioned as the beings who carry divine revelation (Jibril and Mika’il, 2:98) and as a force that believers should not be enemies with. The Surah concludes with a declaration of faith that includes belief in the angels: “The Messenger has believed in what was revealed to him from his Lord, and [so have] the believers. All of them have believed in Allah and His angels and His books and His messengers…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:285).

Personality & Attributes

  • Perfectly Obedient: “They do not disobey Allah in what He commands them but do what they are commanded.”
  • Worshipping Constantly: They praise and glorify Allah day and night without tiring.
  • Humble: Despite their high station, they acknowledged the superiority of Adam’s knowledge and submitted to Allah’s command.
  • Powerful Agents: They carry out Allah’s will, from bringing revelation to managing the forces of nature.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Belief in the unseen world of the angels is a cornerstone of faith.
  • The story of their prostration to Adam teaches humility; even the most noble beings should submit to God’s wisdom.
  • Angels are our allies in faith, and showing enmity towards them is a sign of disbelief.
  • Reflecting on the angels and their constant worship should inspire believers to be more diligent in their own.

Supporting References

The Qur’an and Sunnah describe many different roles for the angels. Some record human deeds (the Kiraman Katibin), some protect believers (the Mu’aqqibat), some are responsible for taking souls at death (like the Angel of Death, Malak al-Mawt), and others are bearers of Allah’s Throne. Their existence is a sign of the grandeur of Allah’s kingdom.

Maryam (عليها السلام) – Mary

Brief Biography / Background

Maryam (Mary, عليها السلام) is the mother of Prophet ‘Isa (عليه السلام) and the only woman mentioned by name in the entire Qur’an. She is among the most honored and revered women in Islam, praised for her piety, chastity, and complete devotion to Allah. An entire Surah of the Qur’an (Surah Maryam, Chapter 19) is named after her. She was chosen by Allah above all other women of the worlds to give birth miraculously to Prophet ‘Isa without a father.

Role in the Surah

Although her full story is not detailed in Surah Al-Baqarah, she is mentioned as the mother of Prophet ‘Isa, which is his primary identifier: ‘Isa ibn Maryam’ (Jesus, son of Mary). This naming convention is highly significant. The verse says: “And We gave Jesus, the son of Mary, clear proofs and supported him with the Pure Spirit…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:87, 2:253). By constantly attributing ‘Isa to his mother, the Qur’an subtly and powerfully refutes the Christian doctrine of him being the “son of God.” It affirms his true human lineage through his mother, highlighting the miracle of his creation while negating any concept of divine paternity.

Personality & Attributes

  • Pious and Devout: She dedicated her life to the worship of Allah from a young age.
  • Chaste and Pure: Allah chose her for her purity and guarded her honor.
  • Chosen by God: She holds a uniquely exalted status as the woman chosen to bear a prophet miraculously.
  • Trusting in Allah: She submitted to Allah’s will despite the immense social difficulty of her situation.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • A person’s honor in the sight of Allah is based on their piety and devotion, regardless of gender.
  • The story of Maryam is a testament to Allah’s power to work miracles and defy the normal course of nature.
  • The consistent Qur’anic reference to “‘Isa ibn Maryam” is a theological statement emphasizing the pure monotheistic understanding of Prophet ‘Isa’s identity.

Supporting References

Surah Aal ‘Imran describes her early life, her dedication to the temple, and the angelic annunciation of ‘Isa’s birth. Surah Maryam details the miraculous birth itself and how she was defended by the infant ‘Isa speaking from the cradle. Her story is a profound source of inspiration, particularly for women, showcasing a model of faith, patience, and purity.

Mika’il (عليه السلام) – Michael

Brief Biography / Background

Mika’il (Michael, عليه السلام) is one of the greatest and most senior archangels in Islam. While the primary role of Jibril (Gabriel) is revelation, Islamic tradition generally associates Mika’il with overseeing the forces of nature, such as rain, vegetation, and the provision of sustenance for creation, all by the command of Allah. He is a mighty angel who carries out his duties with perfect obedience.

Role in the Surah

Mika’il is mentioned by name only once in the Qur’an, in the same passage as Jibril in Surah Al-Baqarah. This mention comes in the context of Allah condemning the enmity of some Jews towards His angels. They reportedly claimed to be enemies of Jibril but friends of Mika’il. Allah refutes this selective belief by grouping them together, stating that enmity towards one is enmity towards all, and ultimately, enmity towards God Himself: “Whoever is an enemy to Allah and His angels and His messengers and Gabriel and Michael – then indeed, Allah is an enemy to the disbelievers.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:98).

Personality & Attributes

  • High-ranking Archangel: He is named alongside Jibril, indicating his exalted status.
  • Agent of Sustenance: He is traditionally understood to be in charge of distributing Allah’s provisions.
  • Obedient Servant: Like all angels, he acts only on Allah’s command.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Belief in the angels must be comprehensive; one cannot pick and choose which of God’s agents to accept.
  • Selective belief or making distinctions between God’s angels and messengers is a sign of disbelief.
  • The forces of nature, which bring us sustenance and rain, are not random but are managed by mighty angels acting on God’s precise orders. This should increase our gratitude and awe.

Supporting References

The reason for the specific mention of Mika’il was to counter the specific claims being made in Madinah at the time. By placing him and Jibril on the same level, the Qur’an teaches a crucial lesson in the totality of faith. A believer accepts the entire system of the unseen as described by Allah, without making arbitrary distinctions based on personal preference.

Muhammad (The Messenger) (صلى الله عليه وسلم)

Brief Biography / Background

Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) is the final prophet and messenger of Allah, the “Seal of the Prophets,” sent to all of humanity. He was born in Makkah into the noble tribe of Quraysh. He received the final revelation, the Qur’an, through the angel Jibril over a period of 23 years. His life, known as the Seerah, is the most well-documented of any prophet and serves as a perfect practical example for Muslims to follow in every aspect of life. He is the ultimate role model of mercy, patience, leadership, and servitude to God.

Role in the Surah

Prophet Muhammad is the direct recipient of the revelation of Surah Al-Baqarah. The Surah frequently addresses him directly with phrases like “They ask you…” (yas’alunaka), after which Allah provides him with the answer to give to the people. He is presented as the final link in the prophetic chain, whose message confirms the truth of previous scriptures. The Surah defends his authority and commands obedience to him. The final verses encapsulate his perfect faith: “The Messenger has believed in what was revealed to him from his Lord, and [so have] the believers.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:285). The change of the Qibla (direction of prayer) from Jerusalem to the Ka’bah in Makkah, a pivotal event detailed in this Surah (2:144), establishes the unique identity of his community.

Personality & Attributes

  • Perfect Believer: He is the foremost example of one who believes in what has been revealed by his Lord.
  • Merciful: Sent as a mercy to the worlds.
  • Patient and Steadfast: He endured immense hardship in conveying the message.
  • The Final Messenger: He is not just a prophet for one nation but for all of humanity until the Day of Judgment.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Obedience to the Messenger is intrinsically linked to obedience to Allah.
  • The Prophet’s life (Sunnah) is the practical guide to implementing the Qur’an.
  • The establishment of a distinct community (Ummah) with its own identity (like the Qibla) was a key part of his mission.
  • His perfect faith serves as the ultimate model for all believers to aspire to.

Supporting References

The entirety of Surah Al-Baqarah was revealed in Madinah, forming the constitutional and legal backbone of the first Islamic state led by the Prophet. Its laws on finance, warfare, family life, and worship were directly implemented under his guidance. Therefore, the Surah cannot be understood without understanding his role as the living embodiment and legislator of its teachings.

The Murdered Man

Brief Biography / Background

The Murdered Man is an unnamed individual whose death is the event that triggers the story of the Cow (Al-Baqarah). He was a man from among the Children of Israel who was killed, and his murderer was unknown. His kinsmen fell into dispute, each accusing the other, and they were unable to solve the crime. This situation of internal discord and injustice prompted them to seek the help of Prophet Musa (عليه السلام) to identify the killer.

Role in the Surah

The Murdered Man is the silent victim at the heart of the narrative in verses 2:72-73. His unresolved murder creates the central problem that requires divine intervention. Allah commands the sacrifice of the cow, and upon its completion, a piece of the slaughtered animal is used to strike the corpse of the murdered man. He is then miraculously and temporarily brought back to life by Allah’s power. The verse states: “And [recall] when you slew a man and disputed over it, but Allah was to bring out that which you were concealing. So, We said, ‘Strike the slain man with part of it.’ Thus does Allah bring the dead to life, and He shows you His signs that you might use reason.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:72-73). He then identifies his killer, after which the matter is settled. His role is to be the vessel for one of Allah’s greatest signs: the power to give life to the dead.

Personality & Attributes

As an unnamed character, no personal attributes are given. He represents:

  • The Victim of Injustice: A symbol of a crime that disrupted the social fabric.
  • A Vessel for a Miracle: His corpse becomes the focus of a divine sign.
  • A Proof of Resurrection: His temporary revival serves as a powerful, tangible proof of the final resurrection.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Allah’s justice will always prevail, and He has the power to expose what is hidden, even a secret murder.
  • The story provides a stunning real-world example of Allah’s power over life and death, serving as an answer to those who doubt the Resurrection.
  • Internal disputes and unresolved injustices weaken a community and require divine guidance to solve.

Supporting References

This story is a powerful lesson for the Children of Israel, who, despite witnessing such a profound miracle, are immediately criticized in the following verse for their hearts growing even harder afterwards. The miraculous revival of the murdered man should have softened their hearts in awe of God, but for many, it did not. This highlights the theme of their spiritual obstinacy.

Musa (عليه السلام) – Moses

Brief Biography / Background

Musa (Moses, عليه السلام) is the most frequently mentioned prophet in the Qur’an. He was a messenger of mighty resolve sent to the tyrannical Fir’awn and to the Children of Israel. His life was marked by extraordinary events: his survival as an infant cast into the Nile, his upbringing in Fir’awn’s own palace, his call to prophethood at the burning bush, his epic confrontation with Fir’awn and his magicians, leading his people out of Egypt, and receiving the Tawrat (Torah) on Mount Sinai. His story is a rich tapestry of faith, leadership, struggle, and patience.

Role in the Surah

Prophet Musa is a dominant figure in the historical narratives of Surah Al-Baqarah. The Surah recounts numerous key episodes from his mission as a leader of Bani Isra’il. These include: his confrontation with Fir’awn and the parting of the sea (2:50), his 40-day stay on Mount Sinai to receive the scripture (2:51), his fury at his people for worshipping the golden calf (2:54, 2:92), the miracle of the twelve springs (2:60), and his role as the conveyor of divine commands in the story of the cow (2:67-71). His leadership is presented as a constant struggle against the obstinacy and rebelliousness of his own people. He is the long-suffering prophet who tirelessly calls them to submit to Allah’s will.

Personality & Attributes

  • Patient and Perseverant: He endured constant challenges and complaints from his people.
  • Strong and Resolute: He stood firm and spoke truth to power when confronting Fir’awn.
  • Devout Communicant with God: He was given the unique honor of speaking directly with Allah.
  • A Zealous Leader: He showed righteous anger against the sin of idolatry committed by his people.

Major Lessons & Morals

    • Effective leadership requires immense patience and reliance on Allah, especially when leading a difficult people.
    • The path of calling to God is filled with trials and requires unwavering resolve.

–

  • True strength is not in tolerating sin, but in standing firmly for the principles of monotheism.
  • The story of Musa provides a detailed case study for the Muslim community on the challenges of nation-building and maintaining faith through generations.

Supporting References

The extensive coverage of Prophet Musa and his people in Surah Al-Baqarah and elsewhere in the Qur’an serves as a foundational “lesson book” for the Ummah of Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم). By studying their successes and, more often, their failures, the Muslim community is taught how to cherish divine revelation, obey their prophet, and avoid the spiritual diseases that afflicted past nations.

Nasara (نَصَارَىٰ) – The Christians

Brief Biography / Background

Nasara is the Qur’anic term for the Christians, the followers of Prophet ‘Isa (Jesus, عليه السلام). They are considered part of the “People of the Book” (Ahl al-Kitab) as they were recipients of a divine scripture, the Injil (Gospel). The Qur’an acknowledges their religious origins but critiques the doctrinal shifts that occurred over time, particularly the concepts of the Trinity, the divinity of Jesus, and divine sonship. It invites them to return to the pure monotheism taught by Jesus himself.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, the Nasara are addressed as part of the wider group of Ahl al-Kitab. The Surah critiques their claims of exclusivity, alongside those of the Jews. Both groups claimed that paradise was reserved for them alone, a notion the Qur’an refutes: “And they say, ‘None will enter Paradise except one who is a Jew or a Christian.’ That is [merely] their wishful thinking…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:111). The Surah also mentions their theological disputes with the Jews, noting that “the Christians say ‘The Jews have nothing [true] to stand on'” (2:113), highlighting the internal divisions among the People of the Book. The verse on salvation (2:62) includes them as a community whose righteous monotheists from the past will be rewarded by God.

Personality & Attributes

The Surah highlights some of their theological stances and attitudes:

  • Claiming Exclusivity: A belief that salvation is exclusive to their group.
  • Doctrinal Disputers: Engaged in theological disagreements with the Jewish community.
  • Recipients of Scripture: They are acknowledged as followers of a revealed book.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Salvation is based on sincere faith and righteous deeds, not on mere affiliation with a religious label.
  • Wishful thinking and claims of exclusivity are worthless in the sight of God; proof and sincere submission are what matter.
  • Internal divisions and condemning other faith groups based on rivalry rather than truth is a sign of being astray.
  • The Qur’an calls for a return to the unified message of all prophets, which is submission to the One God.

Supporting References

The Qur’an often praises Christians for being “nearest in affection to the believers” (Surah Al-Ma’idah, 5:82) due to the humility and compassion found among their priests and monks. However, it consistently and uncompromisingly corrects their core theological doctrines that violate the principle of pure monotheism (Tawhid). The engagement with the Nasara in Al-Baqarah is primarily to dismantle claims of religious exclusivism and call them to the universal truth of Islam.

Nimrud (نمرود)

Brief Biography / Background

Nimrud was a powerful and arrogant king who, in his tyranny, laid a claim to divinity. Though not mentioned by his proper name in the Qur’an, he is identified by classical commentators as the king who engaged Prophet Ibrahim (عليه السلام) in a debate about the nature of God. He represents the archetype of the worldly ruler whose power and wealth lead him to challenge the authority of Allah Himself. He is a parallel figure to Fir’awn, representing defiant, power-drunk disbelief.

Role in the Surah

Nimrud’s story appears in a concise and powerful passage in Surah Al-Baqarah. He is the antagonist in a debate with Ibrahim about lordship. His story is introduced with the words: “Have you not considered the one who argued with Abraham about his Lord [merely] because Allah had given him kingship?” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:258). When Ibrahim declared, “‘My Lord is the one who gives life and causes death,’ he said, ‘I give life and cause death.'” Nimrud made this foolish claim by freeing a prisoner and executing another. Ibrahim then presented an irrefutable argument: “‘Indeed, Allah brings the sun from the east, so bring it from the west.’ So the one who disbelieved was overwhelmed [by astonishment], and Allah does not guide the wrongdoing people.”

Personality & Attributes

    • Extremely Arrogant: His power corrupted him to the point of arguing with a prophet about God.
    • Intellectually Dishonest: He used a cheap trick to support his claim of giving life and death.

–

  • Tyrannical: His argument was based on the authority that Allah had temporarily granted him.
  • Ultimately Defeated: He was left speechless and intellectually crushed by Ibrahim’s clear and simple proof.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Worldly power is a test from Allah; it can either lead to gratitude or to arrogant rebellion.
  • The truth of monotheism can be established through clear, rational arguments that expose the absurdity of false claims to divinity.
  • No matter how powerful a tyrant may seem, they are intellectually and existentially helpless before the simple truths of creation.
  • True guidance is a gift from Allah, which He withholds from those who are persistent in their wrongdoing and arrogance.

Supporting References

Classical sources narrate that this was the same king who, after being defeated in the debate, ordered Prophet Ibrahim to be thrown into a massive fire, from which Allah miraculously saved him. The debate in Al-Baqarah captures the intellectual dimension of this confrontation, showing that the message of the prophets is built on unshakable proof, while the claims of tyrants are built on delusion and sophistry.

The People of the Sabbath

Brief Biography / Background

The People of the Sabbath were a group from the Children of Israel who lived in a coastal town. Allah had sanctified the Sabbath day (Saturday) for them, commanding them not to work or fish on that day. As a test from Him, the fish would appear in abundance on the Sabbath, swimming right up to the shore, but would be scarce on all other days. A group among them devised a clever trick to circumvent the law, which led to a severe divine punishment.

Role in the Surah

Their story is mentioned briefly but powerfully in Surah Al-Baqarah as a stark warning about the consequences of disobedience and finding loopholes in divine law. The Surah reminds the Jews of Madinah: “And you had already known about those who transgressed among you concerning the sabbath, and We said to them, ‘Be apes, despised.'” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:65). This punishment was not a literal, biological transformation but a transformation of their state to one of utter humiliation and disgrace, like that of apes. The verse continues: “And We made it a deterrent example for those who were present and those who succeeded them and a lesson for those who fear Allah.” (2:66).

Personality & Attributes

  • Deceitful and Cunning: They used trickery to disobey God’s command while maintaining an appearance of obedience. (They would lay their nets on Friday and collect the trapped fish on Sunday).
  • Greedy: Their transgression was driven by the desire for worldly gain.
  • Disobedient: They knowingly violated a clear command from Allah.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Trying to find “legal loopholes” to get around the spirit of divine law is a grave sin and a form of mockery.
  • Allah’s punishment can be severe and humiliating for those who persist in defiant disobedience.
  • The stories of past nations serve as a powerful warning and deterrent for future generations.
  • True piety (Taqwa) involves submitting to both the letter and the spirit of the law.

Supporting References

A more detailed account of their story in Surah Al-A’raf explains that the town was divided into three groups: the transgressors, a righteous group that forbade the evil, and a silent group that did not transgress but also did not forbid the evil. When the punishment came, Allah saved only the second group, those who actively stood against the wrongdoing. This adds another layer to the lesson about the importance of enjoining good and forbidding evil.

The Person Who Conceals Testimony

Brief Biography / Background

The Person Who Conceals Testimony is an archetype of dishonesty and injustice. In any society, but especially one governed by divine law, bearing truthful witness is a cornerstone of justice. It ensures that rights are protected, disputes are settled fairly, and the innocent are not wrongfully punished. Concealing testimony that one has witnessed is a major sin because it obstructs justice and allows falsehood and oppression to prevail. It is a betrayal of a trust placed upon the witness by both society and God.

Role in the Surah

This archetype appears in the longest verse of the Qur’an (2:282), which deals with the meticulous documentation of debts. After detailing the importance of writing down contracts and having witnesses, the verse gives a stern warning: “…And do not conceal testimony. And whoever conceals it – his heart is indeed sinful. And Allah is Knowing of what you do.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:282). A related warning comes in verse 2:283, which says witnesses should not refuse to give testimony when called upon. The role of this character is to highlight the spiritual gravity of what might seem like a passive act. In God’s eyes, silence in the face of injustice is not neutral; it is a sin of the heart.

Personality & Attributes

  • Dishonest: They are untruthful by omission.
  • Unjust: Their silence allows injustice to occur.
  • Sinful of Heart: Allah specifically attributes the sin to their heart, indicating a corrupt inner state.
  • Irresponsible: They shirk a fundamental social and religious duty.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Bearing truthful witness is a sacred duty and a pillar of a just society.
  • Concealing the truth is not a victimless crime; it harms others and corrupts one’s own heart.
  • Allah is aware of all secrets, including the testimony one conceals in their heart.
  • A believer must be proactive in upholding justice, and speaking the truth is a crucial part of that role.

Supporting References

The sin of concealing testimony is linked thematically to the sin of the People of the Book who “conceal the truth while they know it” (2:146), referring to the prophecies about Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم). Both actions involve hiding a known truth, one in a legal context and the other in a theological one. Both are condemned because they prevent people from reaching justice and guidance.

The Person Who Consumes Riba (Usury)

Brief Biography / Background

The Person Who Consumes Riba (Usury) is a powerful and dark archetype in the Qur’an. Riba refers to any excess or increase in a loan or exchange, essentially interest. It is condemned in the strongest possible terms in Islam because it represents exploitation, greed, and a system where wealth is generated from money itself, rather than from productive work and risk-sharing. The consumer of Riba is one who enriches himself at the expense of another’s debt and hardship, creating a society of extreme inequality and injustice.

Role in the Surah

The verses on Riba in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:275-280) are the most definitive and severe on the topic in the entire Qur’an. The archetype of the Riba-consumer is described in a terrifying manner on the Day of Judgment: “Those who consume interest will not stand [on the Day of Resurrection] except like the one who is being beaten by Satan into insanity.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:275). This is because they foolishly equate legitimate trade with exploitative interest. Allah declares a literal war on those who persist in this practice after the prohibition has come: “But if you do not, then be informed of a war [against you] from Allah and His Messenger.” (2:279). This person’s role is to represent the pinnacle of economic evil and injustice, the direct opposite of the charitable person.

Personality & Attributes

  • Greedy and Exploitative: They profit from the needs and debts of others.
  • Deluded: They try to justify their sin by equating it with lawful trade.
  • Spiritually Insane: Their state in the Hereafter reflects their frantic, unstable pursuit of wealth in this life.
  • An Enemy of God: They are in a state of declared war with Allah and His Messenger.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The prohibition of Riba is absolute and its practice is one of the most destructive sins.
  • A just economic system is based on charity, risk-sharing (trade), and compassion, not interest-based debt.
  • The pursuit of wealth through exploitative means leads to spiritual ruin and divine wrath.
  • Believers must purify their earnings from any trace of Riba to be successful in this life and the next.

Supporting References

The verses on Riba are juxtaposed directly with the verses on charity (Sadaqah). Allah “destroys interest and gives increase for charities” (2:276). This creates a stark contrast between the two economic visions: a satanic system based on greed and exploitation versus a divine system based on generosity and mutual support. The consumer of Riba actively chooses the former.

The Person Who Spends in Allah’s Way

Brief Biography / Background

The Person Who Spends in Allah’s Way (al-Munfiq fi Sabilillah) is the archetype of the generous believer. This individual understands that their wealth is a trust (amanah) from Allah and uses it to seek His pleasure. Their spending is not limited to obligatory charity (Zakat) but includes voluntary contributions (Sadaqah) for the poor, for the community’s needs, and for the defense of the faith. This character is the embodiment of the Qur’anic principle that true righteousness involves detaching oneself from the love of material possessions and investing in the Hereafter.

Role in the Surah

This archetype is one of the most celebrated in Surah Al-Baqarah. It is introduced in the opening verses as a key quality of the pious (2:3). The Surah then provides one of the most beautiful parables in the Qur’an to describe the reward for their spending: “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:261). The Surah goes on to detail the etiquette of charity: it should be done without boasting or causing injury to the recipient’s feelings (2:262-264). This person stands in direct opposition to the one who consumes Riba.

Personality & Attributes

  • Generous and Selfless: They give freely from what they love.
  • Sincere: Their spending is for the sake of Allah alone, not for show or reputation.
  • Wise Investor: They understand that spending for Allah’s cause is the best possible investment, yielding multiplied returns in the Hereafter.
  • Humble and Considerate: They protect the dignity of the person they are helping.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Charity is a fundamental proof of faith and a means of immense spiritual growth.
  • The intention behind charity is more important than the amount; sincerity is the key to an accepted deed.
  • How one gives is as important as what one gives. Charity must be accompanied by kindness and respect.
  • Allah rewards generosity exponentially, promising a return far greater than the initial amount spent.

Supporting References

The detailed guidance on charitable spending in Surah Al-Baqarah forms a core part of its vision for a just and compassionate society. The verses teach that an economy built on giving, sharing, and mutual support is blessed and will flourish, while one built on hoarding and Riba is cursed and will be destroyed.

Samuel (Prophet)

Brief Biography / Background

The Prophet Samuel is a significant figure from the history of the Children of Israel who lived during a period of their decline and disunity. Though not mentioned by name in the Qur’an, classical commentators widely agree that he is the unnamed prophet described in the story of Talut (Saul) and Jalut (Goliath). After the time of Prophet Musa (عليه السلام), the Israelites had fallen into weakness and were oppressed by their enemies. They desired a king to unite them and lead them in battle, so they went to their prophet—Samuel—and made their request.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:246-248), Samuel acts as the crucial intermediary between the Children of Israel and Allah. He receives their request for a king, warns them that they might waver when the command to fight actually comes, and then conveys Allah’s choice for their king: Talut. When the people object to Talut because he is not from a noble or wealthy family, Samuel presents the divine criteria for leadership and the sign of Talut’s legitimacy. His role is to be the voice of divine wisdom, challenging his people’s materialistic and tribalistic standards and guiding them to accept Allah’s chosen commander. He is the one who says, “Indeed, Allah has chosen him over you and has increased him abundantly in knowledge and stature. And Allah gives His sovereignty to whom He wills.” (2:247).

Personality & Attributes

  • Wise and Insightful: He understood the fickle nature of his people and warned them of their likely hesitation.
  • Obedient to God: He faithfully conveyed Allah’s commands, even when they were unpopular.
  • A True Guide: He tried to correct his people’s false standards for what makes a good leader.
  • Patient: He dealt patiently with their objections and arguments.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • True leadership qualities, in the sight of God, are knowledge and ability, not wealth or lineage.
  • Prophets often have the difficult task of challenging the flawed cultural norms of their people.
  • A community should trust in the wisdom of their righteous scholars and guides, especially when it comes to matters of leadership.

Supporting References

The story establishes a vital principle of Islamic governance and leadership. The people wanted a king based on their own superficial criteria, but the prophet redirected them to God’s criteria. By accepting Talut based on the prophet’s instruction, the Israelites were able to achieve victory. This shows that success is tied to obedience to the guidance brought by the prophets.

The Scribe of Debts (Al-Katib)

Brief Biography / Background

The Scribe of Debts (Al-Katib) is an archetype representing a person with the skill of literacy who plays a crucial role in ensuring justice and clarity in financial transactions. In a society where many might have been illiterate, the scribe was a vital professional who could be trusted to record contracts and agreements accurately and fairly. Their integrity was essential for the smooth and just functioning of the community’s economy.

Role in the Surah

The scribe is given a prominent and honored role in the “Verse of the Debt” (Ayat al-Dayn), the longest verse in the Qur’an (2:282). This verse commands believers to write down any loan for a future period. It then specifies the role of the scribe: “And let a scribe write [it] between you in justice. Let no scribe refuse to write as Allah has taught him. So let him write…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:282). The verse further commands that the scribe must not be harmed or pressured. The scribe’s role is to be an impartial and just recorder, using their God-given skill to prevent future disputes and protect the rights of both the lender and the borrower. They are a pillar of transactional justice.

Personality & Attributes

  • Just and Impartial: Commanded to write “in justice,” favoring neither party.
  • Responsible: They should not refuse to perform this important community service.
  • Skillful: They possess the skill of writing, which is presented as a gift from Allah (“as Allah has taught him”).
  • Trustworthy: Their integrity is the foundation upon which the contract’s validity rests.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The skill of writing is a blessing from God that should be used to uphold justice.
  • Islam places immense importance on clarity, documentation, and the prevention of disputes in all financial matters.
  • Professionals with valuable skills, like scribes (or modern-day lawyers and notaries), have a religious duty to serve their community with integrity.
  • A just society protects its key functionaries and ensures they can perform their duties without fear or pressure.

Supporting References

This verse demonstrates the comprehensive nature of Islamic guidance, which covers not only matters of worship but also the practical details of civil and financial transactions. The emphasis on writing and witnessing reflects a desire to build a society on principles of transparency and fairness, and the scribe is the central agent in achieving this goal.

Shaytan (شَيْطَان) – Satan / Iblis (إِبْلِيس)

Brief Biography / Background

Shaytan (Satan) is the primary antagonist of humanity and the archetype of evil, arrogance, and rebellion. He was originally a Jinn who, through his devotion, was raised to a high rank among the angels. His downfall came with the creation of Adam. When Allah commanded the angels to prostrate to Adam, he refused out of pride and racism, claiming, “I am better than him. You created me from fire, and him from clay.” This act of defiant disobedience led to his expulsion from God’s grace. He then asked for respite until the Day of Judgment to prove humanity’s unworthiness by tempting and misleading them. His proper name is Iblis, while “Shaytan” is a title that means “the adversary” or “the accursed,” which can also refer to any of his followers from among the Jinn and humans.

Role in the Surah

Shaytan plays a crucial role in Surah Al-Baqarah from the very beginning. He is introduced as Iblis, the one who refused to prostrate to Adam and became a disbeliever (2:34). He is then identified as the tempter who caused Adam and Eve to slip from the Garden by making them disobey Allah’s command (2:36). He is presented as an “open enemy” to mankind. The Surah warns the believers against following his footsteps, as he “only orders you to evil and immorality and to say about Allah what you do not know” (2:169). He is also identified as the one who tempts people with the fear of poverty to prevent them from giving charity (2:268) and who drives people to insanity through Riba (2:275).

Personality & Attributes

  • Arrogant and Prideful: His downfall was caused by his belief in his own superiority.
  • Envious and Hateful: He harbors a deep-seated hatred for humanity.
  • Deceptive and Cunning: He uses whispers, false promises, and beautifies evil deeds to mislead people.
  • A Disbeliever (Kafir): His rebellion was the first and ultimate act of disbelief.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The root of all sin is arrogance and pride.
  • Shaytan is a real, active enemy who must be constantly guarded against by seeking refuge in Allah.
  • His primary methods are temptation, whispering doubts, and making sin look attractive.
  • Every human being is engaged in a lifelong spiritual struggle against the influence of Shaytan.

Supporting References

The story of Iblis’s refusal is a powerful lesson in the nature of true faith. The angels, created from light, prostrated to a being of clay simply out of obedience to God. Iblis, created from fire, judged the command based on his own flawed, racist logic. This shows that true submission is obeying God’s command even if one doesn’t fully grasp the wisdom behind it, while the path of Satan is to place one’s own ego and reasoning above the divine decree.

Sulayman (عليه السلام) – Solomon

Brief Biography / Background

Sulayman (Solomon, عليه السلام) was the son of Prophet Dawud (عليه السلام) and a wise prophet-king of the Children of Israel. Allah granted him a kingdom and abilities unlike any other human being. He had command over the wind, the Jinn, and could understand the language of animals. His reign was one of peace, prosperity, and the firm establishment of monotheistic worship. He is a symbol of how worldly power and divine wisdom can be combined in a single, righteous ruler.

Role in the Surah

Prophet Sulayman’s role in Surah Al-Baqarah is to be defended against a malicious slander. A group among the Jews and others falsely accused him of practicing and teaching magic (sihr) to build his magnificent kingdom. Surah Al-Baqarah exonerates him completely and forcefully: “And they followed [instead] what the devils had recited during the reign of Solomon. It was not Solomon who disbelieved, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:102). The verse clarifies that magic is a form of disbelief (kufr) and that Sulayman was a noble prophet who was completely free of it. His role here is to be the subject of a divine testimony that separates the miracle-based power of prophets from the satanic deception of magic.

Personality & Attributes

  • A True Believer: He never committed disbelief by resorting to magic.
  • A Powerful King: His kingdom was vast and supported by unique, God-given powers.
  • Wise and Just: Known for his incredible wisdom and sound judgment.
  • Grateful: In other Surahs, he is shown to be deeply grateful to Allah for the favors bestowed upon him.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • It is a grave sin to attribute evil or satanic practices to the prophets of God.
  • There is a fundamental difference between divine miracles, which are signs of God’s power, and magic, which is a satanic art of deception.
  • Believers must defend the honor of the prophets and reject any false stories or slanders made against them.

Supporting References

Other Surahs provide more details about Sulayman’s kingdom, including his interactions with the Queen of Sheba (Bilqis), his army of Jinn and birds, and his encounter with the ants. The story in Al-Baqarah serves a specific theological purpose: to purify his legacy and teach a crucial lesson about the nature of true power versus the illusion of magic, a theme introduced in the context of Harut and Marut.

Talut (طالوت) – Saul

Brief Biography / Background

Talut (Saul) was the first king appointed to rule over the Children of Israel. During a time of humiliation and defeat, the Israelites asked their prophet (Samuel) to appoint a king so they could fight in the way of Allah. Talut was not from a noble or wealthy family, which caused the Israelite elite to object to his appointment. However, he was chosen by Allah based on his superior knowledge and physical stature, qualities essential for leadership and military command.

Role in the Surah

Talut is the central figure in the narrative of the Israelites’ battle against Jalut (Goliath), found in Surah Al-Baqarah 2:246-251. He is presented as the divinely appointed leader who tested his army’s discipline and faith. Before the battle, he tested them at a river: “And when Saul went forth with the soldiers, he said, ‘Indeed, Allah will be testing you with a river. So whoever drinks from it is not of me, and whoever does not taste it is indeed of me, excepting one who takes [from it] in the hollow of his hand.'” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:249). Most of his soldiers failed this test, leaving him with only a small, faithful contingent. It was this small group that, through their patience and faith, was granted victory. Talut’s role is to demonstrate the divine criteria for leadership and to show how a true leader tests and purifies his followers.

Personality & Attributes

  • Knowledgeable: He was chosen partly for his superior knowledge.
  • Physically Capable: He was also given a strong physique suitable for a military commander.
  • A Wise Strategist: He knew the importance of discipline and tested his army’s obedience.
  • Divinely Appointed: His authority came directly from Allah, not from wealth or social status.

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The qualities of a true leader are wisdom and capability, not inherited status or wealth.
  • Success in any struggle depends on the quality, discipline, and faith of the followers, not just their quantity.
  • Tests and trials are necessary to distinguish the truly faithful from the wavering.
  • Obedience to a righteous leader, even when his commands seem difficult, is a prerequisite for victory.

Supporting References

The legitimacy of Talut’s kingship was confirmed by a divine sign: the return of the Ark of the Covenant (at-Tabut), which contained relics from the families of Musa and Harun and was a source of tranquility (sakinah) for the Israelites. This sign silenced the objectors and solidified his authority, proving that Allah’s choice is based on wisdom, not on human whims.

The Traveller and the Ruined Town

Brief Biography / Background

The Traveller and the Ruined Town refers to an unnamed individual in a powerful story about life, death, and resurrection. Many classical commentators have suggested this individual could be the Prophet ‘Uzayr (Ezra), but the Qur’an leaves him anonymous to universalize the lesson. He was a righteous man who, while travelling, came upon a town that was completely in ruins, with its people long dead. Struck by the sight, he wondered how Allah could possibly bring such a place back to life.

Role in the Surah

This character’s story is narrated in Surah Al-Baqarah 2:259 as one of the key proofs of Allah’s power over resurrection. In response to his pondering, Allah caused the man himself to die for a hundred years and then resurrected him. Allah asked him, “‘How long have you remained?’ He said, ‘I have remained a day or part of a day.’ He said, ‘Rather, you have remained one hundred years.'” To prove this, Allah showed him that his food and drink had not spoiled at all, but his donkey had decomposed into bones. Then, before his very eyes, Allah reassembled the donkey’s bones, clothed them with flesh, and brought it back to life. The man’s role is to be a direct witness to the miracle of resurrection, after which he declared with certainty: “‘I know that Allah is over all things competent.'”

Personality & Attributes

  • Contemplative: His journey led him to ponder the deep questions of life and death.
  • A Seeker of Certainty: His question was not from a place of doubt, but a desire to understand the ‘how’ of God’s power.
  • A Witness to a Miracle: He was chosen by Allah to experience death and resurrection personally.
  • Full of Conviction: His experience transformed his knowledge into absolute certainty (yaqin).

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Allah’s power to resurrect the dead is absolute and effortless.
  • Sometimes Allah gives his servants profound, personal experiences to strengthen their faith and turn theoretical knowledge into unshakable certainty.
  • Contemplating the creation and the cycle of life and death is an act of worship that can lead to a deeper understanding of God’s power.
  • The story serves as a powerful, tangible proof for anyone who questions the possibility of the Final Resurrection.

Supporting References

This story is presented in a sequence with two other narratives about resurrection: the story of the people who fled death and were brought back to life, and the story of Prophet Ibrahim and the four birds. Together, these three accounts provide overwhelming proof of Allah’s power to give life after death, a central tenet of faith that is repeatedly emphasized throughout the Surah.

Ya’qub (عليه السلام) – Jacob

Brief Biography / Background

Ya’qub (Jacob, عليه السلام), also known by the title Isra’il (Israel), was the son of Prophet Ishaq and the grandson of Prophet Ibrahim. He was a noble prophet of Allah who had twelve sons, who would go on to become the progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel (the Asbat). The story of his life, particularly his relationship with his beloved son Yusuf (Joseph), is a profound saga of patience, sorrow, and ultimate trust in Allah’s plan. He is a key patriarch in the lineage of the prophets.

Role in the Surah

In Surah Al-Baqarah, Ya’qub is presented as a patriarch who was deeply concerned with the spiritual legacy he would leave for his children. The Surah highlights his dying moments, using them as a powerful lesson in faith. He is not concerned with bequeathing wealth, but with ensuring his children’s monotheistic faith: “Or were you witnesses when death approached Jacob, when he said to his sons, ‘What will you worship after me?’ They said, ‘We will worship your God and the God of your fathers, Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac – one God. And we are Muslims [in submission] to Him.'” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:133). He is also mentioned in the will of Ibrahim to his sons, and in the lists of prophets in whom believers must affirm their faith (2:136, 2:140).

Personality & Attributes

  • Devoted Father: His primary concern was the faith of his children.
  • Steadfast Monotheist: He followed the pure religion (Millah) of his father and grandfather.
  • A Man of Piety: He submitted himself completely to the Lord of the worlds (2:131-132).

Major Lessons & Morals

  • The greatest inheritance a parent can leave for their children is a strong foundation in faith and the pure worship of God.
  • A person should be concerned about the spiritual state of their family, especially at the end of their life.
  • The true religion of all the patriarchs—Ibrahim, Isma’il, Ishaq, and Ya’qub—was Islam (submission to the One God).

Supporting References

The scene of Ya’qub on his deathbed is a direct challenge to the claims of the Jews and Christians of Madinah. The verse asks them, “Were you witnesses?” The obvious answer is no. Therefore, they have no basis to claim that Ya’qub instructed his children to follow the specific formulations of Judaism or Christianity that developed centuries later. Instead, his will was to follow the universal religion of submission to the One God, the faith of all his forefathers.

Yahud (الْيَهُود) – The Jews

Brief Biography / Background

Yahud is the Qur’anic term for the Jews, the followers of the religion that emerged from the teachings of Prophet Musa (عليه السلام) and the scripture of the Tawrat (Torah). As descendants of Bani Isra’il and inheritors of a long prophetic tradition, they are part of the “People of the Book” (Ahl al-Kitab). The Qur’an engages with them extensively, acknowledging their prophetic heritage while also critiquing the ways in which some of them deviated from their original teachings, broke their covenants, and rejected subsequent prophets.

Role in the Surah

The Yahud of Madinah are a primary audience for many passages in Surah Al-Baqarah. The Surah repeatedly calls on them to recognize the truth of the Qur’an, which confirms their own scriptures. It critiques specific actions and beliefs, such as their claim that Paradise is exclusively for them (2:111), their enmity towards the angel Jibril (2:97), their altering of scripture (2:75), and their accusation that Prophet Sulayman practiced magic (2:102). The Surah recounts the long history of their ancestors, the Children of Israel, as a mirror to show them the consequences of disobedience. The term Yahud is used specifically when highlighting their claims and theological positions: “The Jews say ‘The Christians have nothing [true] to stand on,’ and the Christians say ‘The Jews have nothing [true] to stand on,’… “ (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:113).

Personality & Attributes

The Surah critiques certain attitudes and actions found among some of them at that time:

  • Strong group identity: A belief in their own religious exclusivity.
  • Knowledgeable of Scripture: They recognized the Prophet Muhammad “as they recognize their own sons” but many still rejected him (2:146).
  • Envious: Some felt envy that the final prophet was not from among them (2:109).
  • Materialistic: Described as being the “most greedy of people for life” (2:96).

Major Lessons & Morals

  • Religious identity and knowledge of scripture are not enough for salvation if not coupled with sincere submission to all of God’s truth.
  • Envy and tribal pride can be major barriers to accepting the truth, even when it is clear.
  • The Qur’an’s critique is not of a people as a race, but of specific beliefs and actions that deviate from the universal path of the prophets.

Supporting References

It is important to note the distinction between “Bani Isra’il” and “Yahud” in the Qur’an. “Bani Isra’il” often refers to the historical nation in the time of Musa and afterwards. “Yahud” often refers to the religious community contemporary to the Prophet Muhammad, with their established theological positions. The Qur’an’s engagement is a call for them to return to the pure, universal faith of their patriarch Ibrahim, which is Islam.

Image showing Quran and Surah Fatihah Written On ItSurah Fatihah Main Characters: Key Figures, Bios, Roles & Lessons
Image showing Quran and Surah Ale Imran Written On ItSurah Ale Imran Main Characters: Key Figures, Bios, Roles & Lessons

Share this article

gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==
Written by : TheLastDialogue

A Synthesis of Religions. O Mankind I am presenting you the case of God,, يا أيّها الجنس البشري؛أنا أقدم لكم "قضية الله, ¡Oh humanidad! Les estoy presentando el caso de Dios, O люди, я представляю вам дело Божие, ای بشر من سخنان خدا را به تو عرضه می کنم., Ey insanlık, ben sana Tanrı'nın davasını sunuyorum, 哦人类，我向你展示上帝的情形, اے بنی نوع انسان میں آپ کے سامنے خدا کا مقدمہ رکھتا ہوں

"The Last Dialogue" is an individual's effort by the Will of his Lord to make this world a better living place, to raise the human intellect for the fulfillment of God’s Will and to invoke God’s Mercy on humans.

The Last Dialogue (thelastdialogue.org) stands as a testament to human understanding, held in high esteem and frequently cited across prominent platforms such as Wikipedia, Reddit, and Quora. Its profound significance is evidenced by the multitude of citations and mentions it garners from scholars spanning various faith traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

It distinguishes itself as the sole religious platform adhering to the noble tradition of not soliciting charity, zakat, or donations – a practice aligned with the true Sunnah of Prophets.

قُلْ مَا أَسْأَلُكُمْ عَلَيْهِ مِنْ أَجْرٍ وَمَا أَنَا مِنَ الْمُتَكَلِّفِينَ

Say, "I do not ask you for this any payment, and I am not of the pretentious.

Recent Posts

Quran Text

Bible Text

Quran Topics

Bible Topics

Quran Miracles 3D model6
Quran Summary
Bible Miracles 3D model
Bible Summary
Quran Miracles 3D model 3
Quran Miracles
Bible Miracles 3D model 7
Bible Miracles