The Trial of Prophet Lut (AS) and the Destruction of Sodom
A Lesson in Divine Justice and the Consequences of Defying Allah’s Commandments
Prophet Lut (AS) and His Divine Mission
Prophet Lut (AS) was raised under the guidance of his uncle, the noble Prophet Ibrahim (AS), peace be upon them both. From a young age, Lut (AS) deeply respected and believed in Ibrahim’s message, standing firm in faith even when others mocked him. Together, they journeyed across lands and seas, calling people to the worship of Allah (SWT).
During their migration to Palestine, Allah (SWT) bestowed prophethood upon Lut (AS) and commanded him to travel to the sinful city of Sodom, located near the borders of Jordan and Palestine. His mission was clear: guide the corrupt people of Sodom back to the path of righteousness.
The Depravity of Sodom
Sodom was a prosperous trading hub, frequented by merchants and travelers. Yet, beneath its wealth lay unimaginable corruption. The people were notorious for robbery, murder, and—most shockingly—open homosexuality, a sin unheard of before their time.
Unlike any nation before them, the people of Sodom not only engaged in this immoral act but boasted about it publicly, defying the natural order established by Allah. They rejected all notions of modesty and morality, making their city a symbol of shameless transgression.
Prophet Lut’s Call to Repentance
Undeterred by their wickedness, Prophet Lut (AS) settled among them and began his mission with wisdom and patience. He reminded them of Allah’s power and warned them of the consequences of their sins:
“Will you not fear Allah and obey Him? Verily, I am a trustworthy messenger to you. So fear Allah, keep your duty to Him, and obey me.”
(Quran, Surah Ash-Shu’ara, Chapter 26, The Poets, Verse, 160-163)
The people mocked him, accusing him of seeking personal gain. But Lut (AS) replied:
“My reward is only from the Lord of the Worlds.”
He confronted their most heinous crime—homosexuality—asking:
“Do you approach men instead of women? Nay, you are a people transgressing beyond bounds!”(Quran, Surah Ash-Shu’ara, Chapter 26, The Poets, Verse, 165-166)
Rejection and Defiance
Despite his warnings, the people ridiculed him, daring him to bring Allah’s punishment if he was truthful. They threatened to expel him from their city, refusing to abandon their vile ways.
Prophet Lut (AS), heartbroken but resolute, continued preaching. Yet, over the years, not a single person repented—except for his faithful daughters. Even his wife betrayed him, siding with the disbelievers.
Divine Punishment Descends
Allah sent three angels (including Jibreel (AS)) disguised as handsome young men to execute His judgment. When the people of Sodom saw them, their lustful desires drove them to surround Prophet Lut’s house, demanding his guests.
In desperation, Prophet Lut (AS) offered his daughters in lawful marriage, but they scoffed:
“You know well what we want!”
As they broke down his door, the angels revealed their true forms. Jibreel (AS) struck the mob blind, yet they still arrogantly vowed revenge.
The Destruction of Sodom
Allah commanded Prophet Lut (AS) to flee with his family at night, warning them not to look back. As dawn approached, a catastrophic punishment rained upon Sodom:
Stones of baked clay pelted the city (Quran, Surah Hud, Chapter 11, Verse 82).
The land was overturned, burying the sinners beneath it.
Lut’s wife, who had betrayed him, was also destroyed for her disbelief.
By morning, the once-thriving city was reduced to ruins. Today, its remains lie beneath the Dead Sea, a stark reminder of Allah’s wrath against defiance.
A Legacy of Faith
Prophet Lut (AS) and his daughters were saved, rejoining Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to continue spreading Islam. His story remains a powerful lesson: No society can thrive when it abandons morality and mocks divine guidance.
“So We saved him and his family, except his wife; she was of those who remained behind. And We rained upon them a rain. Then see how was the end of the criminals!”
(Quran, Surah Al-A’raf, Chapter 7, The Elevated Places, Verse 83-84)
Reflection: The story of Prophet Lut (AS) warns us against moral corruption and the dangers of normalising sin. It reminds believers to stand firm in truth, even when surrounded by disbelief, and trust in Allah’s ultimate justice.