Where did the birds come from in the event of Ashab-e-Feel (People of the Elephant)?

In the event of Ashab-e-Feel (The People of the Elephant), the birds that destroyed the army of Abraha came from the sky. This incident is described in the Holy Quran in Surah Al-Feel. It shows how Allah protected the Kaaba from being attacked by sending a miraculous punishment.

Abrāha, a ruler from Yemen, led an army including elephants to destroy the Holy Kaaba in Makkah. People of Makkah were afraid and left the city, trusting Allah’s protection. As the army approached, Allah sent flocks of small birds called “Ababil” from the sky.

• Source: Surah Al-Feel (Chapter 105)


• Birds: Ababil (mentioned in the Quran)


• Origin: Came from the sky in groups


• Action: Dropped stones of baked clay (Sijjil) on the army


• Result: Abraha’s army was destroyed completely

Each bird carried small stones in its beak and claws. These stones struck the soldiers and caused their bodies to break apart. This powerful event showed that no matter how strong an army is, they cannot harm the House of Allah unless He allows it. Allah alone is the protector of His sacred places.

The incident of Ashab-e-Feel happened in the year the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was born (around 570 CE). It is a strong reminder of Allah’s power and His ability to protect the truth and punish arrogance and evil. The birds from the sky were a divine miracle that made the people of Makkah realize that their Lord was watching over them.

This event teaches Muslims to trust in Allah’s plan, even when the enemy appears stronger. Allah’s help can come in any form—even from birds in the sky.