Habib-i Neccar is one of the few prophets mentioned by name in the Quran, and his story is told in the Surah Yasin. He is believed to have lived in Antioch and was a carpenter who was respected by the people. He is known for being one of the first people to believe in and accept the messengers of Jesus Christ, and for being martyred for his faith.
Life of Habib-i Neccar
Habib-i Neccar is a prophet mentioned by name in the Quran in Surah Yasin. He is believed to be one of the first people to believe in and accept the messengers of Jesus Christ and is known for being martyred for his faith. Although there is no clear information about his life, we can learn some details from tafsir books and historical sources.
Birth and Period
The exact date of Habib-i Neccar’s birth is unknown, but it is estimated that he lived during the same period as Jesus Christ. He is believed to have lived in Antioch in the 1st century AD.
Occupation
There are different accounts about Habib-i Neccar’s occupation. The most common tradition says that he was a carpenter (neccar). Some sources also state that he was a silk worker, a bleacher, or a shoemaker.
Acceptance of Faith
The most well-known tradition about Habib-i Neccar’s faith is as follows: Jesus Christ sends two of his disciples to Antioch for preaching. When the disciples enter the city, they meet Habib-i Neccar. Habib-i Neccar is impressed by the message they bring and accepts faith in Jesus Christ. This event marks the beginning of Christianity in Antioch.
Impact on Society
Habib-i Neccar’s acceptance of faith leads to certain developments in Antioch. Many people are influenced by his faith and start to believe in Jesus Christ. This angers the pagans and leads them to adopt hostile attitudes towards Habib-i Neccar.
Martyrdom
There are also different accounts of Habib-i Neccar’s martyrdom. According to the most common tradition, he is stoned or sawed to death by the pagans. His martyrdom is briefly narrated in verses 20-27 of Surah Yasin.
Commemoration of Habib-i Neccar
There are many historical artifacts in Antioch dedicated to the memory of Habib-i Neccar. The most important of these are the Habib-i Neccar Mosque and the Habib-i Neccar Hill. Additionally, the story of Habib-i Neccar is also included in many Sufi works.
The Story of Habib-i Neccar in the Quran
The story of Habib-i Neccar is mentioned in verses 20-27 of Surah Yasin in the Quran. These verses briefly narrate Habib-i Neccar’s acceptance of faith, his struggle with his people, and his martyrdom. For a detailed interpretation and commentary of the story, it is possible to refer to various sources.
Translation of the Verses
20. And We certainly sent messengers to Antioch. When they came to its people, they said, “We have come to you with a clear sign.”
21. They said, “Are you anything except human beings like us? And the Most Gracious has not revealed anything to you. You are only lying.”
22. They said, “Our Lord knows that we have certainly come to you, and indeed, the testimony of Allah is sufficient for us.”
23. They said, “What is this message that you have brought? We have never heard of it before.”
24. They said, “We have certainly brought you the truth, but most of you are defiantly disbelieving.”
25. They said, “O our people, we have certainly heard a message that has been revealed after Moses, confirming what was before it, guiding to the truth and to a straight path.”
26. “O our people, respond to the caller of Allah and believe in him. He will forgive you of your sins and protect you from a painful punishment.”
27. But those who disbelieved said, “We will not believe in this message, and indeed, we find it strange.”
Interpretation of the Story
These verses narrate how messengers of Allah were sent to the city of Antioch where Habib-i Neccar lived and conveyed the message of monotheism to its people. While there was a group of people who believed and accepted the messengers, there was also a group who rejected them and turned away arrogantly. The verses also mention Habib-i Neccar’s acceptance of faith and his invitation to his people to believe in Allah and the Day of Judgment.
The story of Habib-i Neccar is significant in many ways. Some of the lessons that can be learned from this story are:
- The importance of believing in the messengers of Allah and the messages they convey.
- The necessity of being patient and steadfast in the face of difficulties.
- The virtue of defending truth and justice without hesitation.
- The importance of showing respect for different beliefs.
Habib-i Neccar is a prophet we take as an example with his faith and courage. His story reminds us that we must face all kinds of difficulties to gain Allah’s approval.
Additional Information from Tafsirs
Some additional information found in tafsirs regarding the story of Habib-i Neccar are as follows:
- It is stated that Habib-i Neccar was a carpenter and one of the notables of the city.
- It is said that when the messengers came to the city, Habib-i Neccar hosted them in his home and was deeply impressed by them.
- It is narrated that after Habib-i Neccar accepted faith, his people became angry with him and stoned him to death.
- Some sources also mention that during Habib-i Neccar’s martyrdom, Jesus Christ addressed him from the sky and gave him the glad tidings of Paradise.
The Legacy of Habib-i Neccar
The legacy of Habib-i Neccar is preserved not only as a religious figure but also as an icon of courage, sacrifice, and faith. His legacy can be seen in many ways:
Religious Legacy
- Habib-i Neccar is one of the few prophets mentioned by name in the Quran.
- His story, narrated in Surah Yasin, serves as an example and inspiration for believers.
- Numerous historical artifacts, such as the Habib-i Neccar Mosque and Habib-i Neccar Hill in Antioch, keep his memory alive.
- Habib-i Neccar also holds a significant place in Islamic mysticism and is featured in many works.
Moral Legacy
- Habib-i Neccar exemplifies patience and steadfastness in the face of adversity.
- He is a courageous figure who does not hesitate to defend truth and justice.
- He is portrayed as a respectful and tolerant figure who shows regard for different beliefs.
- His sacrifice and faith inspire many people.
Social Legacy
- The story of Habib-i Neccar emphasizes the importance of peace and tolerance between people of different faiths.
- It reminds society of the importance of love, respect, and solidarity.
- It demonstrates the significance of fighting against difficulties and never losing hope.
- It shows that goodness and virtue will always be praised and emulated.
Habib-i Neccar Mosque
Type: Mosque
Tourism Type: Faith-Culture Tourism
How to Get There: The mosque is located in the center of Hatay, at the intersection of Kurtuluş Caddesi and Kemalpaşa Caddesi.
Address: Habib-i Neccar, 31060 Merkez/Hatay
[…] Habib-i Neccar Mosque: This mosque is considered an important religious site as it houses the tomb of Habib-i Neccar, who is believed to be the son of Noah. […]