Tazkirul Quran, Qur’an 26:167–175
The Poets (Al-Shu‘ara’)
By Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
English text; the translator is not named in the archive’s data.
Translation
(167) They said, ‘If you do not desist, Lot, you will surely be banished.’ (168) He said, ‘I am one of those who abhors your ways. (169) My Lord, save me and my family from their evil doings.’ (170) We saved him and all of his family, (171) except for an old woman who stayed behind, (172) then We totally destroyed the rest, (173) and We poured a rain [of destruction] down upon them—and how evil was the rain which fell on those who were forewarned. (174) Surely in this there is a sign: but most of them would not believe: (175) your Lord is the Mighty One, the Merciful.
Commentary
(a) The area to the south and east of the Dead Sea now appears to be deserted. But, from 2300 to 1900 B.C., it was a very flourishing area, inhabited by the people of Lot. In spite of his continuous preaching, they did not reform themselves. On the contrary, they were out to kill him. Then they were destroyed by a severe earthquake. One part of this area is buried in the Dead Sea, while the other part exists only in the shape of ruins. This event happened four thousand years ago.
Lot’s wife could not rise above the traditions of her community. In spite of being the prophet’s wife, she remained loyal to her community’s religion. As a result, when God’s punishment was administered, she was killed along with the common unbelievers.