Lot (Lut)
Etymology
- Arabic Translation: لوط (Lūṭ)
- Turkish Translation: Lût
Introduction
Lot, known as Lūṭ in Arabic, is described in Islamic tradition and the Quran as a prophet and a righteous man. He was the inhabitant of the city of Sodom and is commonly recognized as a figure closely associated with his uncle, the Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim).
Role and Mission
- Islamic Perspective: Lot was sent as a prophet to the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah to issue a warning and to guide them away from their immoral behaviors and sins.
- Quranic Narrative: The Quran narrates that Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed due to their wickedness, most notably exemplified by sexual immorality. Lot and his family, except for his wife who was ungodly and did not heed the warning, were the only ones who were saved from the divine punishment.
Differences with Biblical Account
- Wife’s Fate: In both Islamic and Judeo-Christian texts, Lot’s wife is portrayed as a figure who does not escape punishment. However, Biblical accounts narrate her transformation into a pillar of salt, a detail not described in the Quran.
- Subsequent Events: The Quran does not mention certain events found in the Bible, such as the impregnation of Lot’s daughters.
Additional Insights
- Morality and Prophethood: Lot’s story in the Quran serves to highlight principles of morality and the consequences of sin, emphasizing God’s judgment and mercy.
- Family and Faith: The exception of Lot’s wife from his family’s salvation reflects the importance of personal faith and righteousness in Islamic teachings.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- Islam: Faith, Practice & History by M.A. Shomali
- The Stories of the Prophets by Ibn Kathir
- The Qur’an: A New Translation by M.A.S. Abdel Haleem
- Understanding the Qur’an: Themes and Style by Muhammad Abdel Haleem
Takeaways and Conclusion
The story of Lot in Islamic tradition underscores the themes of divine justice, the importance of heeding prophetic warning, and upholding righteous living. While sharing similarities with Biblical narratives, Islamic accounts focus more distinctively on aspects of moral conduct and the direct intervention of God’s judgment upon transgression.
Summary
Lot (Lūṭ), as portrayed in Islamic texts, serves as a model of prophetic duty and steadfast faith amidst a society given to grave sins. His tale is both a caution and an inspiration, urging adherence to ethical and divine instructions.
This expanded entry provides a comprehensive look into the figure of Lot from an Islamic perspective, with highlighted distinctions from Judeo-Christian narratives, aiming to offer a fuller understanding of his role and significance in Islamic tradition.
