ترجمة الآية 74 من سورة Hud - English - سورة هود : عدد الآيات 123 - - الصفحة 230 - الجزء 12.
Then when the fear had gone away from (the mind of) Ibrahim (Abraham), and the glad tidings had reached him, he began to plead with Us (Our Messengers) for the people of Lout (Lot).
And when the fright had left Abraham and the good tidings had reached him, he began to argue with Us concerning the people of Lot.
(11:74) Thus when fear had left Abraham and the good news had been conveyed to him, he began to dispute with Us concerning the people of Lot. *83
*83). The word 'dispute' here expresses the nexus of affection and endearment between Abraham (peace be on him) and God. Perusal of this verse brings to one's mind Abraham's persistent pleading to God that He may spare Lot's people His chastisement. To this God replied that since they were totally devoid of all good and had exceeded all reasonable limits, they did not deserve any leniency. Yet Abraham (peace be on him) continued to plead for them and presumably submitted that if there was even the least bit of good left in them, their chastisement be deferred so that this good may come to the fore.
It is interesting to note that the Bible also recounts this 'dispute' between God and Abraham. However, the Qur'anic account, though brief, is much more meaningful, and significant. (Cf. Genesis 18: 23-32.)