The correct answer is Hazrat Shoaib (AS).The title Khateeb-ul-Ambia translates from Arabic as "The Orator of the Prophets" or "The Preacher of the Prophets." This title was bestowed upon Hazrat Shoaib (AS) due to his extraordinary eloquence, his heart-wrenching and... Read More
The correct answer is Hazrat Shoaib (AS).The title Khateeb-ul-Ambia translates from Arabic as "The Orator of the Prophets" or "The Preacher of the Prophets." This title was bestowed upon Hazrat Shoaib (AS) due to his extraordinary eloquence, his heart-wrenching and logical arguments, and his beautiful style of speech when inviting people toward the path of monotheism and social justice. While all prophets were given the miracle of clear communication, Hazrat Shoaib (AS) was specifically recognized for the depth and persuasive power of his sermons.
Hazrat Shoaib (AS) was sent to the people of Madyan (often identified with the northwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula, near the Red Sea). The Midianites were a prosperous community of traders and merchants located on a major trade route between Egypt, Syria, and Mesopotamia. However, their physical prosperity was overshadowed by deep-seated moral and economic corruption. Unlike many other ancient civilizations that were primarily punished for idolatry alone, the people of Madyan were specifically condemned for their systemic "white-collar crimes."
The eloquence that earned Hazrat Shoaib (AS) his title was most visible in his debates regarding economic ethics. He did not merely preach about the oneness of God; he connected faith directly to the marketplace. The people of Madyan were notorious for cheating in weights and measures (Tatfif). They would take full measure when buying from others but give less than what was due when selling.
In the Quranic account, Hazrat Shoaib (AS) used his oratorical skills to explain that such corruption would lead to the total collapse of their society. He famously argued, "O my people, give full measure and weight in justice and do not deprive the people of their due and do not commit abuse on the earth, spreading corruption" (Surah Hud). His speeches were so powerful because they combined logical economic theory with divine warnings, appealing to both the intellect and the heart of his audience.
Despite his masterful delivery and the clear logic of his arguments, the leaders of Madyan remained arrogant. They mocked Hazrat Shoaib (AS), claiming that his "prayers" were the only thing stopping them from doing what they wished with their own property. They even threatened to exile him and his followers from the city. Through these trials, his speeches remained patient and dignified, never descending into the vulgarity used by his opponents. This steadfastness in communication is why he is remembered as the "Khateeb" (Orator) above all others.
The mission of Hazrat Shoaib (AS) eventually concluded with a divine punishment upon those who refused to rectify their economic and spiritual ways. A terrifying blast (As-Sayhah) and an earthquake destroyed the dwellings of the corrupt, leaving only Hazrat Shoaib (AS) and the believers.
Today, the title Khateeb-ul-Ambia serves as a historical reminder of the importance of communication in leadership. It highlights that the role of a Messenger was not just to deliver a message, but to deliver it with such beauty and clarity that no excuse remained for the listener. Hazrat Shoaib (AS) remains the gold standard for religious and social discourse, teaching that the best speech is that which seeks to reform society and protect the rights of the weak.
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