Did the table descend from heaven or not, and what is the most preponderant opinion on this matter?
The Salaf differed on the issue of the descent of the table (Al-Ma'idah) upon the companions of Jesus (peace be upon him). The majority of the Salaf held that it did indeed descend, citing Allah's verse: "Indeed, I will send it down to you," and that Allah's promise is true and does not fail. However, Mujahid and Al-Hasan held that it did not descend, because they feared the threat mentioned in the verse: "But whoever disbelieves among you after that – then indeed, I will punish him with a torment such as I have not punished anyone among the worlds." Ibn Jarir al-Tabari, Ibn Kathir, and others supported the view that it descended, emphasizing that Allah does not break His promise, and that such news cannot be mere words without action.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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