Sahlay facts for kids

Sahlay (also known as Saleh or Salih) was a special person called a prophet. He lived in a land called Arabia a very long time ago, even before the religion of Islam began. His story is told in the Quran, a holy book.

Who Was Prophet Sahlay?

Sahlay was sent by God to a group of people known as the Thamud. The Thamud lived in a place called Al-Hijr, which is now known as Mada'in Saleh in Saudi Arabia. They were skilled builders and carved amazing homes and temples into mountainsides.

The Thamud People and Their Beliefs

The Thamud were very successful and wealthy. However, they had started to worship idols instead of believing in one God. They also became proud and treated each other unfairly. God sent Prophet Sahlay to them to teach them to worship only Him and to live good lives.

Sahlay's Message to His People

Sahlay told the Thamud that there is only one God who created everything. He asked them to stop worshipping idols and to be kind to one another. He warned them that if they did not change their ways, they would face consequences.

The Miracle of the She-Camel

The Thamud people did not believe Sahlay at first. They asked him for a special sign, a miracle, to prove that he was truly a prophet from God. They challenged him to bring forth a unique she-camel from a solid rock.

The She-Camel Appears

God answered Sahlay's prayers. A huge, pregnant she-camel, unlike any other, appeared from the rock. This was a clear miracle! Sahlay told his people that this camel was a sign from God.

Rules for the She-Camel

Sahlay told the Thamud that they must respect the she-camel. She would drink water from their well on certain days, and on other days, they could use the water. They were also told not to harm her in any way.

The Thamud's Disobedience

For a while, some of the Thamud followed Sahlay's instructions. But many others, especially the powerful and proud ones, did not like the she-camel. They felt she was a burden and a challenge to their authority.

The She-Camel is Harmed

Eventually, a group of people plotted against the she-camel. They attacked her and killed her. This was a terrible act of disobedience against God's clear sign.

The Consequences of Disobedience

After they killed the she-camel, Sahlay warned the Thamud that they had only three days left before a great punishment would come upon them. He urged them to repent and ask for forgiveness, but they refused.

The Divine Punishment

On the third day, a mighty earthquake shook the land, and a loud, terrifying cry filled the air. The Thamud people were destroyed because of their disbelief and their cruel act against the she-camel. Only Sahlay and the few people who believed him were saved.

Lessons from Sahlay's Story

The story of Prophet Sahlay teaches us many important lessons:

• It shows the importance of believing in one God.
• It teaches us to respect God's signs and messengers.
• It reminds us that disobedience can lead to serious consequences.
• It highlights the importance of kindness and fairness to others.

Images for kids

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  Mada'in Saleh or Al-Hijr in the Hijazi mountainous region of Saudi Arabia

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  Salih Inviting His People to See the She-Camel Illuminated collection of Stories of the Prophets

See also

In Spanish: Salé (profeta) para niños