Prophet Salih عَلَيْهِ السَّلَام and the Special Camel

Long ago there lived a people called Thamud. Allah had given them many blessings: green gardens, flowing springs, date palms and plenty of food. They were so skilful that they carved big, beautiful houses right into the sides of the mountains. But instead of thanking Allah, they became proud and worshipped idols. So Allah sent them a prophet from among themselves, a good and honest man named Salih (peace be upon him).

Salih a.s said to his people, “O my people, worship Allah alone. You have no god except Him. He made you from the earth and let you live in it, so ask His forgiveness and turn back to Him.” Then he said gently, “My Lord is always near, and He answers those who call on Him.” A few people believed, but most of them laughed. “Show us a miracle if you are telling the truth!” they said.

By Allah’s command, a wonderful she-camel came out as a sign for them. Salih a.s told them, “This is the camel of Allah, a sign for you. Let her eat freely on Allah’s earth and do not harm her.” He also told them that the water would be shared: one day the camel would drink from the well, and the next day the people would drink. Everyone could see that this camel was a special gift from Allah.

But the proud leaders did not like the camel or the rules about the water. A group of wicked men made a bad plan, and the worst of them hurt the camel so badly that she died. Then they mocked Salih a.s and said, “Bring us the punishment you warned us about!” Salih was very sad. He told them, “Enjoy yourselves in your homes for three days. This is a promise that will not be broken.”

After three days, a mighty blast came, and the proud people of Thamud were destroyed in their beautiful stone houses. But Allah saved Salih a.s and the people who believed, by His mercy. Salih a.s turned away from the empty homes and said, “O my people, I gave you my Lord’s message and good advice, but you did not like those who give good advice.” The carved houses of Thamud are still in the mountains today, a reminder for anyone who thinks.