The Severe Test on Ibraheem (Alaihis Salaam)

It is possible that a person overcome with a mental condition and in a state of senselessness slaughters a son who was born to him in his old age after much aspiration. However, with the senses intact, such courage can never be mustered. In fact, instead of slaughtering one’s son, it is easier to commit suicide.

It is furthermore apparent that this action of Ibraheem (Alaihis Salaam) was done in a state of complete self-control and whilst being in his senses. There is no possibility here of being under an overwhelming condition and out of his mind.

The Ambiya (Alaihimus Salaam) never become so overwhelmed spiritually that they are unable to recognise the reality of things. The Awliya, however, do become at times overwhelmed with their spiritual states.

Secondly, Haq Ta’ala says:

قَدْ صَدَّقْتَ الرُّءْيَآ

“O Ibraheem! You have confirmed your dream to be true.”

It is clear from this that Ibraheem (Alaihis Salaam) did that [attempted slaughter of his son] with the intention of carrying out the divine command. The word “confirmed” bears this out. In an overwhelming state, an intention is not completely found.

Thirdly, Allah Ta’ala says further ahead:

اِنَّ هٰذَا لَهُوَ الْبَلٰٓؤُا الْمُبِيْنُ

“Indeed, this was clearly a severe test.”

This, too, evinces that Ibraheem (Alaihis Salaam) did it volitionally while his senses were intact. And this is a test; when the mind and senses are intact. When a person loses his mind and senses then whatever he does is not by exercising his free will, and in that case, there is no test from Allah. In short, the Ambiya are free of losing their senses.

(Sunnat-e-Ibraheem)