In this teaching we revisit the Qur’anic story of Prophet Lut (peace be upon him) and draw parallels between the transgression of his people and the turmoil of our world today. Lut’s story reminds us of the enduring call to uphold justice, protect the vulnerable and remain on the straight path.
The Qur’anic Narrative of Prophet Lut
The people of Lut, we are reminded, are no distant myth but a reality recorded in many verses of the Qur’an. Their sin lay not only in idolatry but in the systematic abuse of travellers passing through their town: they would seize strangers, imprison them and subject them to sexual violence – a “filth” never before witnessed.
When Prophet Lut (peace be upon him) confronted his people, he urged them to give up this depravity: “Leave these wicked deeds; we have no dealings with women in this manner; we will not deviate from the path of Allah.” Despite his pleas they persisted, and a divine punishment wiped out the entire community.
History and Divine Retribution
The town of Lut was modest – home to roughly three to five thousand people – and lay on a trade route. When their rebellion reached its peak, the Angel Jibril (peace be upon him) delivered Allah’s decree: the earth split open and the sea level sank two thousand metres below normal, forming what is known today as the Dead Sea. So complete was the devastation that even micro-organisms cannot survive there – a sign of the absolute nature of divine retribution.
Parallels with Our Contemporary World
The speaker then turns to present-day crises: the war in Ukraine, the conflict between Russia and its neighbours, the ongoing Palestine–Israel conflict, economic instability, the after-effects of pandemics and other calamities. In each, humanity stands at a moral crossroads reminiscent of Lut’s era, with societies struggling with violence, oppression and disregard for the sanctity of life.
Just as the people of Lut violated the dignity of strangers, civilians today often bear the brunt of aggression. The teaching asks: Are we witnessing a repeat of ancient transgression on a global scale? Recognising these patterns, we are called to compassion, to justice and to resisting every form of oppression that mirrors the sins condemned in the Qur’an.
A Call to Reflect and Act
We encourage all seekers to read Lut’s story not merely as history but as an ever-present warning: to protect the vulnerable, to speak against injustice wherever it arises and to remain guided by the timeless principles of mercy and righteousness.
Those who wish to deepen their understanding in community are welcome at our live meetings, where seekers can take Bayʿah, join in zikr and walk the Sufi path together.
— The Royal Ottoman Society
