The Messenger’s Example (33:21)

A typical argument that is often brought up to argue for the validity of the Hadith is the following verse, which states that God has set up the messenger as a good example ( أُسْوَةٌ).

33:21 The messenger of GOD has set up a good example for those among you who seek GOD and the Last Day, and constantly think about GOD.

لَّقَدْ كَانَ لَكُمْ فِى رَسُولِ ٱللَّهِ أُسْوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ لِّمَن كَانَ يَرْجُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ وَٱلْيَوْمَ ٱلْـَٔاخِرَ وَذَكَرَ ٱللَّهَ كَثِيرًا

This word for a good example is us’watun ( أُسْوَةٌ) and occurs only two other times in the Quran in reference to Abraham and his followers.

60:4  A good example has been set for you by Abraham and those with him. They said to their people, “We disown you and the idols that you worship besides GOD. We denounce you, and you will see nothing from us except animosity and hatred until you believe in GOD ALONE.” However, a mistake was committed by Abraham when he said to his father, “I will pray for your forgiveness, but I possess no power to protect you from GOD.” “Our Lord, we trust in You, and submit to You; to You is the final destiny.  “Our Lord, let us not be oppressed by those who disbelieved, and forgive us. You are the Almighty, Most Wise.”   A good example has been set by them for those who seek GOD and the Last Day. As for those who turn away, GOD is in no need (of them), Most Praiseworthy.