‘Ad (people of ‘Ad) refers to an ancient Arabian tribe mentioned in the Qur’an as a powerful nation that was destroyed for rejecting the prophet Hūd. The Malay translation of the Burda cites the ‘Ad as an example of divine retribution against obstinate peoples.
Qur’anic Account
The Qur’an recounts the story of the ‘Ad in several passages (e.g., Qur’an 26:123‑140) highlighting their arrogance and ultimate downfall.
Role in Acehnese Religious Narrative
By invoking the ‘Ad in the Burda translation, Acehnese poets draw a parallel between past communities that denied divine guidance and contemporary believers, reinforcing the moral imperative to remain faithful to the Prophet Muhammad.
See Also
Source
DLP‑54 – Een 16de‑eeuwse Maleise vertaling van de Burda van al‑Busiri, digitised manuscript, pages 73‑79, 20260707_232246_DLP-54-Een_16de_eeuwse_Maleise_vertaling_van_de_Burda_van_al_Bu_s_i_ri_OCR.txt.