Ibrahim was old, his wife Sarah was old too, and they had no child. One day honoured guests came to him and greeted him with peace. Ever hospitable, Ibrahim went straight to his household and brought a fat calf, roasted.
But the guests did not reach for the food. Ibrahim felt a quiet fear. Then they said: do not be afraid — we are angels sent by Allah. And they gave him the good news of a knowledgeable son.
Sarah was standing nearby. Hearing the news, she struck her face in wonder and said: I am an old, barren woman — shall I have a child? And my husband too is old! This is a strange thing indeed.
The good news was twofold: not only Ishaq, but after Ishaq his son Ya'qub too.
Ishaq grew up to be a prophet. The Quran names him among the righteous, and from his line came many prophets of the Children of Israel.