26.69 – Recite to them the story of Abraham
Abraham challenges his father and his people about their worship of idols (vv. 70–77) and bears witness to the Creator – the “Lord of the worlds” (vv. 77–82). Abraham then prays for wisdom (v. 83) and asks forgiveness for his father (v. 86).
Here Abraham acknowledges his sin ( khaṭi ’ a ) and his need for forgiveness (v. 82). See the analysis of the sins of prophets and messengers at 48.2.
Stories of Abraham’s opposition to idolatry appear eight times in the Quran, each adding unique details. One striking difference between this version and the final version is Abraham’s “hatred” for his people at 60.4. See “Abraham in the Quran”.