In this lesson from Sūrah Al-A‘rāf, verses 65-72, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf discusses Prophet Hūd عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ and the people of ‘Ād. The people of ‘Ād were the descendants of ‘Ād, son of Iram, son of Aws, son of Sām, son of Nūḥ (Noah). They lived in Aḥqāf, an area in present-day Yemen, known for their strength and impressive structures. Prophet Hūd عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ was sent to guide his people away from idol worship and back to the worship of Allāh عَزَّ وَجَلَّ. Despite his sincere message, the ‘Ād people ridiculed him, claiming he was mad. Hūd عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ reminded them of Allāh's blessings and warned of dire consequences for their arrogance. He foretold that a "barren wind" would punish them for their denial. This ultimately led to their destruction, illustrating the importance of heeding divine guidance and the dangers of pride and disbelief.