Abū Lahab (ابو لهب)
Definition and Significance
Abū Lahab (ابو لهب) - One of the sons of Abū Muṭṭalib, making him an uncle to the Prophet Muḥammad (peace be upon him). He is significantly noted for his vehement opposition to the Prophet and the early establishment of Islam.
Etymology
- Arabic: “أبو لهب” (Abū Lahab)
- “Abū” means “father of,”
- “Lahab” means “flame.”
- Turkish: “Ebu Leheb”
His actual name was ʿAbdu ʾl-ʿUzzā, but he was given the epithet “Abū Lahab,” meaning “Father of the Flame,” by the Prophet Muḥammad.
Qur’anic Mention and Story
When Muḥammad began his mission and warned his relatives of impending divine chastisement, Abū Lahab vociferously rejected his message. He derisively exclaimed, “Mayest thou perish! Hast thou called us together for this?” in reaction to the Prophet’s proclamation.
Due to Abū Lahab’s enmity, a specific chapter (Sūrah) of the Qur’an, namely Sūrah Al-Masad (CXI: 1-5), was revealed:
<p>“Let the hands of Abū Lahab perish, and let himself perish! His wealth and his gains shall avail him naught. Burned shall he be at a fiery flame, And his wife laden with firewood, On her neck a rope of palm fiber.”</p>
Historical Context
Abū Lahab’s opposition continued unabated until the Battle of Badr, where the Muslims achieved a significant victory. The defeat demoralized the Meccan pagans, and Abū Lahab is said to have died of grief and frustration seven days later. Notably, his body remained unburied for several days following his death.
Suggested Books for Further Reading
- “In the Footsteps of the Prophet: Lessons from the Life of Muhammad” by Tariq Ramadan
- “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings
- “The Sealed Nectar: Biography of the Noble Prophet” by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarkpuri
- “Qur’anic Studies: Sources and Methods of Interpretation” by John Wansbrough
Takeaways
- Ancestors and Lineage: Abū Lahab’s role as an uncle to Muḥammad provides insights into the familial dynamics during the early stages of Islam.
- Symbol of Opposition: His character symbolizes the early resistance faced by the Prophet from his own kin.
- Qur’anic Reference: The specific mention of Abū Lahab in the Qur’an underscores his notable role in Islamic history as an adversary to the prophetic mission.
Conclusion
Abū Lahab’s story is a compelling component of Islamic history, illustrating the challenges and familial opposition faced by the Prophet Muḥammad in the early days of his mission. His derisive remarks and actions are eternally captured in the Qur’an, serving as a narrative on the divine retribution for those who oppose the path of truth.
