Surah Ash-Shu'ara 26:80
سُورَةُ الشُّعَرَاءِ · Meccan · Verse 80 of 227
وَإِذَا مَرِضْتُ فَهُوَ يَشْفِينِ
Translation
He who cures me when I am ill;
English translation: M.A.S. Abdel Haleem.
Meaning and reflection
Qur'anic Worlds
This profound verse, "وَإِذَا مَرِضْتُ فَهُوَ يَشْفِينِ" (And when I am ill, it is He who cures me), is part of a powerful declaration by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to his people. He was addressing those who worshipped idols, urging them to recognize the one true God, Allah, the Lord of all creation.
A Prophet's Declaration
From the "World of Past Nations," we hear Prophet Ibrahim presenting a detailed, logical argument for monotheism. He systematically lists the attributes and actions of his Lord, contrasting them with the helplessness of the idols. He speaks of Allah as the One who created him and guides him, provides him with food and drink, and will ultimately give him life after death. This verse is nestled within that majestic speech, anchoring the understanding of divine power and care. It’s a moment where a prophet is calling his people to reflect deeply on their own existence and the true source of all blessings.
The World of Creation: Healing and Humility
Within this declaration, the phrase "وَإِذَا مَرِضْتُ فَهُوَ يَشْفِينِ" offers a subtle yet profound insight into the "World of Creation" and the etiquette of speaking about Allah. Notice that Prophet Ibrahim attributes the illness ("مرضت" - *I am ill*) to himself, but the healing ("يشفين" - *He cures me*) directly to Allah. This is a beautiful example of *adab*, or good manners, in addressing the Divine.
Scholars like al-Baghawi, Ibn Kathir, and Sayyid Qutb point out this deliberate choice of words. While both sickness and healing ultimately come from Allah's decree, illness can sometimes be connected to human actions, choices, or a trial, whereas healing is purely an act of Allah's mercy and grace. By attributing sickness to himself, Ibrahim (عليه السلام) shows profound humility. He understands that healing is a complete gift, a direct and unconditional blessing from Allah alone. Imam al-Razi explains that while many causes of illness might be linked to human negligence, health and recovery from illness are sustained by a "conquering force," emphasizing that healing is entirely from Allah.
This verse invites us to reflect on our own understanding of illness and healing. Do we see Allah as the ultimate Healer, recognizing His power in every recovery, big or small? Prophet Ibrahim's words teach us to acknowledge Allah's boundless care in all aspects of our lives, especially when we are most vulnerable.
Sources: Ma'arif al-Quran (Mufti Shafi), al-Baghawi (Maalim al-Tanzil), Sayyid Qutb (Fi Zilal al-Quran), al-Tabari (Jami al-Bayan), Ibn Kathir, al-Razi (Mafatih al-Ghayb)
Topics that discuss this verse
Surah Ash-Shu'ara 26:80 is discussed in 6 study guides on Maani. Each guide gathers the key verses, Arabic words and lessons of one Quranic topic.
Reflect on this verse
Open Surah Ash-Shu'ara 26:80 in Maani to reflect on it through the Five Lenses: its wording, its context, what it means for you, its connections across the Quran and its lessons, grounded in classical tafsir.