When the World Drowned: Story of Prophet Nuh in Islam
The story of Prophet Nuh (A.S), known as Noah in biblical traditions, is among the most powerful and enduring stories Found In The Qur’an.
It is a tale of unwavering faith, extraordinary patience, and Divine Judgment.
In Islam, Prophet Nuh is revered as one of the five greatest messengers—Ulul Azm—who faced extreme resistance from his people yet remained steadfast in his mission for centuries.
Table of Contents
Who Was Prophet Nuh (A.S)?
Who was Prophet Nuh in Islam with Qur’anic references?
Prophet Nuh (A.S) is a descendant of Prophet Adam (A.S).
He was sent by Allah to a community that had strayed far from the teachings of monotheism.
As idolatry and moral corruption spread among his people, Allah appointed Nuh (A.S) to guide them back to the worship of the One true God.
His story is mentioned in multiple chapters of the Qur’an, especially Surah Nuh, Surah Hud, and Surah Al-Shu’ara.
According to Islamic Tradition, Nuh (A.S) was the first prophet sent to a large community After Adam.
The Beginning of His Prophethood
How was Prophet Nuh chosen as a prophet by Allah?
Allah Chose Nuh (A.S) As A Messenger to his people when they began to worship idols and abandon the worship of Allah.
These idols—Wadd, Suwa, Yaghuth, Ya’uq, and Nasr—were originally righteous men whose images were idolized after their deaths.
Nuh was commanded to warn his people against this deviation and invite them to Tawheed (monotheism). He said:
“O my people, worship Allah. You have no deity other than Him. Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a tremendous Day.” (Qur’an 7:59)
The Message and the Response
How did people react to Prophet Nuh’s message of Tawheed?
Nuh’s message was clear and consistent: turn back to Allah, seek His forgiveness, and live righteously.
He preached tirelessly, using various methods—public preaching, private conversations, day and night reminders. Despite his sincere efforts, the people mocked him, accused him of madness, and turned away.
They would plug their ears, cover themselves with garments, and persist in denial.
“Indeed, every time I invited them so that You might forgive them, they thrust their fingers into their ears, covered themselves with their garments, persisted, and were arrogant with pride.” (Qur’an 71:7)
His story reflects the resilience of true leadership and the loneliness that sometimes comes with upholding the truth.
The Long Struggle and His Supplication
How long did Prophet Nuh preach and what dua did he make?
One of the most remarkable aspects of The Story Of Prophet Nuh in Islam is the length of his mission. He preached for 950 years, as mentioned in Surah Al-Ankabut:
“And We certainly sent Nuh to his people, and he remained among them a thousand years minus fifty years…” (Qur’an 29:14)
Even after nearly a millennium of continuous preaching, only a small number of people accepted his message.
Overwhelmed by the obstinacy of his people, Nuh finally prayed to Allah:
“My Lord, do not leave upon the earth from among the disbelievers an inhabitant.” (Qur’an 71:26)
The Divine Command to Build the Ark
Why did Allah command Prophet Nuh to build the Ark?
Allah responded to his prayer and decreed a great punishment. He instructed Nuh to build an ark (ship) under divine supervision.
As Nuh and his followers began constructing the Ark on dry land, the people mocked him:
“And he constructed the ship, and whenever an assembly of the eminent of his people passed by him, they ridiculed him.” (Qur’an 11:38)
This stage of the story of Prophet Nuh in Islam highlights the theme of obedience to Allah in the face of societal mockery and disbelief.
The Great Flood
What were the details of the great flood in Islam?
When the Ark was completed, Allah commanded Nuh to take into it his family, the believers, and pairs of all species. Then, the punishment arrived.
Water gushed from the earth and poured from the sky. A great flood engulfed the land. Even Nuh’s own son, who refused to believe, was among those drowned.
“And it sailed with them through waves like mountains… And the matter was settled, and the ship came to rest on [Mount] Judi.” (Qur’an 11:42-44)
This part of the story of Prophet Nuh in Islam illustrates that salvation is not based on family ties, but on faith and obedience.
Survival and the End of the Flood
What happened after the flood in Prophet Nuh’s story?
After the flood, the Ark came to rest on Mount Judi.
The believers disembarked, and humanity was given a new beginning. Nuh (A.S) thanked Allah for His mercy and was praised as a grateful servant:
“Peace upon Nuh among the worlds. Indeed, We thus reward the doers of good. Indeed, he was of Our believing servants.” (Qur’an 37:79-81)
This marks a new chapter of hope and regeneration after divine cleansing.
Lessons from the Story
What Islamic lessons can we learn from Prophet Nuh?
The story of Prophet Nuh in Islam offers numerous timeless lessons:
- Unmatched Patience: Preaching for 950 years without losing hope.
- Faith over Family: His own son was destroyed due to disbelief.
- Obedience under Pressure: Continued building the Ark despite ridicule.
Divine Justice: Allah’s mercy and punishment are both real and absolute.
These lessons are especially relevant today in a world where truth is often ignored or mocked.
Prophet Nuh (A.S) in the Hadith
Are there Hadith references about Prophet Nuh in Islam?
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) mentioned Nuh (A.S) on several occasions.
In the Hadith of Intercession, Nuh is referred to as the first messenger sent to humanity. He is praised for his dedication and worship.
The Prophet (PBUH) also described him as someone who bore his people’s rejection with immense patience.
Conclusion: A Message for All Times
What can Muslims today learn from Prophet Nuh’s story?
The story of Prophet Nuh in Islam is not just about an ancient flood—it is about moral clarity, spiritual endurance, and the ultimate triumph of faith.
It reminds us that success in the eyes of Allah is measured by sincerity and perseverance, not numbers or popularity.
In an age of confusion and falsehood, the legacy of Nuh (A.S) teaches us to remain firm, keep calling others to truth, and trust in Allah’s wisdom—even if the whole world stands against us.
