Episode 8
Episode 8: The Greatest Trial — the Command to Sacrifice
⏳ Audio is being processed — you can listen online for now.
Ibrahim said, "Indeed, I am going to my Lord; He will guide me. My Lord, grant me [a child] from among the righteous." So We gave him glad tidings of a forbearing boy (37:99-101). When the boy reached the age to strive alongside him, Ibrahim said, "O my son, I have seen in a dream that I am to sacrifice you, so consider what you think." The son answered with astonishing faith, "O my father, do as you are commanded; you will find me, Allah willing, among the patient" (37:102). So when they had both submitted, and Ibrahim laid his son down upon his forehead [to carry out the command], We called to him, "O Ibrahim! You have fulfilled the vision." Indeed, thus do We reward the doers of good. Indeed, this was a clear trial (37:103-106). And We ransomed the boy with a great sacrifice. And We left for Ibrahim [favorable mention] among later generations: "Peace be upon Ibrahim." Thus do We reward the doers of good. Indeed, he was among Our believing servants (37:107-111). Reflection: the heart of this trial was not blood but total surrender. When father and son alike submitted to Allah's command, Allah replaced it with a ransom — for what He desires is the obedience of the heart, not destruction.
Next →
Episode 9: Raising the Foundations of the Ka'bah and the Prayer for Mecca