Surah Al-Anbya (The Prophets)

Named "Al-Anbya" ("The Prophets") because it mentions a large number of prophets and episodes from their missions.

Surah Al-Anbya is the 21st chapter of the Quran, traditionally classified as Meccan, comprising 112 ayahs. It opens by noting humanity's heedlessness as the reckoning draws near and responds to those who doubt the message and the resurrection. The surah affirms God's oneness through reflection on the order of the heavens and earth, arguing that multiple deities would bring ruin to creation. Its distinctive feature is a succession of brief accounts of prophets, including Abraham's argument against idolatry, Moses and Aaron, Lot, Noah, David and Solomon, Job's patience, Jonah, Zechariah, and John, along with a reference to Mary. Each is presented as a recipient of guidance and mercy who called their people to the worship of one God. The chapter emphasizes that all messengers were mortal men, that this life is a test, and that the final gathering is certain.

Surah number: 21
Revelation: Meccan
Ayahs: 112
Arabic: الأنبياء

Read Surah Al-Anbya online — full Arabic text with the Pickthall English translation.

Main themes

The nearness and certainty of the reckoning
God's oneness argued from the order of creation
A succession of prophets and their trials
Prophets as mortal recipients of mercy
Abraham's stand against idol worship
Patience, supplication, and divine deliverance

Why this surah matters

Al-Anbya is distinguished by gathering many prophetic stories into a single chapter, underscoring the unity of the prophetic message across time. It is often cited for its concise portraits of patience and supplication, such as those associated with Job and Jonah, which many Muslims turn to in times of difficulty. Its argument for God's oneness from the coherence of the cosmos is frequently referenced in discussions of monotheism. As a Meccan surah, it reinforced the early community's conviction in resurrection and the shared calling of all messengers.

Frequently asked questions

Why is it called "The Prophets"?

The surah recounts brief episodes from the lives of many prophets, presenting them as a continuous line calling people to the one God.

How many prophets are mentioned in Surah Al-Anbya?

A large number are referenced, including Abraham, Moses, Aaron, Lot, Noah, David, Solomon, Job, Jonah, Zechariah, and John, among others.

Is Surah Al-Anbya Meccan or Medinan?

It is traditionally classified as Meccan, revealed during the Prophet's years in Mecca.

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