Surat Al Anbiya Ayat 107 - Meaning, Tafsir, and Lessons from Classical Scholars.

Surat Al-Anbiya Ayah 107 Arabic calligraphy with English translation – 'And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds'

Introduction


One of the most profound and widely quoted verses in the Qur’an is Surat Al-Anbiya, Ayah 107 It captures the essence of Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) mission and the spirit of Islam itself. The verse reads:
وَمَا أَرْسَلْنَاكَ إِلَّا رَحْمَةً لِّلْعَالَمِينَ
"And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds." (Surat Al-Anbiya, 21:107) This powerful ayah has been deeply analyzed by classical and modern scholars alike, as it lays the foundation for understanding the Prophet’s role and the universal message of Islam.


Arabic Text and Transliteration


Arabic:
وَمَا أَرْسَلْنَاكَ إِلَّا رَحْمَةً لِّلْعَالَمِينَ
Transliteration:
Wa maa arsalnaaka illaa rahmatal lil'aalameen



Meaning of the Verse


Allah clearly declares that the mission of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was not restricted to a specific people, nation, or period, but was a universal mercy for all of creation. The term “rahmah” (mercy) implies compassion, guidance, and relief — not just for humans, but for all beings in the universe.


Tafsir (Exegesis) from Classical Scholars



1. Ibn Kathir (d. 774 AH)


In his famous Tafsir, Ibn Kathir states:




“Allah is saying: ‘We have only sent you as a mercy to all of creation. Whoever accepts this mercy and shows gratitude for it, will be successful in both this world and the next. Whoever rejects it, will be deprived of this mercy.’”


He emphasizes that the Prophet’s mission was a gift to all, regardless of their acceptance, as his very presence and message were means of softening hearts and guiding mankind.


2. Al-Qurtubi (d. 671 AH)


Al-Qurtubi highlights:




“This verse is among the clearest in showing the generality of the Prophet’s mission. He was sent to all races, all generations, all places.”


He further mentions that the “al-'alamin” (the worlds) includes jinn, humans, animals, and even inanimate creation — meaning the Prophet’s mercy transcended species.


3. Imam Al-Tabari (d. 310 AH)


Imam Al-Tabari, one of the earliest and most respected mufassirun (exegetes), said:




“Allah did not send Muhammad ﷺ except as a mercy to the people of the heavens and the earth — to believers, through his guidance; and even to disbelievers, by delaying their punishment.”


This interpretation underlines how mercy was manifested even toward those who opposed him, by giving them a chance for repentance.



Contemporary Reflections


Today, in a world full of conflict and divisions, this ayah serves as a timeless reminder that Islam is a religion of mercy. From social justice to animal rights, the Prophet’s life was a practical demonstration of compassion in all its forms. The Prophet ﷺ was merciful in war and peace, with family and strangers, even with those who insulted or attacked him. His teachings protect the rights of the weak, promote forgiveness, and elevate moral character — all under the banner of rahmah.


Lessons Derived from Surat Al Anbiya Ayah 107


  1. The universality of Islam:Islam is for all people, regardless of race or region
  2. Mercy is central to Islam:The Prophet’s mission was based on kindness, not coercion.
  3. Everyone can benefit from his teachings:Believers gain guidance; non-believers are given time and opportunity.
  4. Islamic values promote peace and coexistence:Mercy extends even to animals and the environment.

Conclusion


Surat Al Anbiya Ayat 107 is more than a verse — it is a profound statement of purpose. It defines the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as a symbol of mercy, love, and unity for all of creation. Studying this verse and its tafsir deepens our appreciation for the mercy-centered message of Islam and the noble character of the Messenger ﷺ.