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The Story of Moses (part 1 of 12): Who is Moses?
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Description: The scene is set, and the child is born.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 01 Feb 2010 - Last modified on 28 Mar 2010
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> Beliefs of Islam
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_001.jpg) In both Judaism and Christianity Moses is a central
figure. He is the man from the Old Testament most mentioned in the New
Testament, he led the Israelites out of bondage in Egypt, communicated with God
and received the Ten Commandments. Moses is known as both a religious leader
and a lawgiver.
In Islam, Moses is loved and respected; he is both a
Prophet and a Messenger. God mentions him more than 120 times, and his story
ranges across several chapters. It is the longest and most detailed story of a
prophet in the Quran and is discussed in elaborate detail.
The word Prophet (Nabi in Arabic) is derived from
the word Naba, meaning news. God’s message is revealed and
the Prophet spreads the news amongst his people. A Messenger, on the
other hand, comes with a specific mission, usually to convey a new ordainment
from God. Every Messenger is a Prophet, but not every Prophet, is a
Messenger.
Islam teaches that all prophets came to their people
with the same proclamation, “O my people, worship God, you have no other God
but Him”. (Quran 11:50). Moses called the children of Israel to worship God alone and he laid down the laws prescribed in the Torah.
“Verily, We did send down the Torah to Moses, therein was
guidance and light, by which the Prophets, who submitted themselves to God's
Will, judged the Jews. And the rabbis and the priests too judged the Jews by the
Torah for to them was entrusted the protection of God's Book, and they were
witnesses thereto.” (Quran 5:44)
Quran is a book of guidance for all of humankind. It is
not a history book; however, it does contain historical information. God asks
us to reflect and contemplate on the stories of the Prophets in order that we
may learn from their trials, tribulations, and triumphs. Moses’ story contains
many lessons for humankind. God says that the account of Moses and Pharaoh in
Quran is the truth. It is a story of political intrigue and of oppression that
knew no bounds.
“We recite to you some of the news of Moses
and Pharaoh in truth, for a people who believe. Verily, Pharaoh exalted
himself in the land and made its people sects, weakening (oppressing) a group
(i.e. Children of Israel) among them; killing their sons, and letting their
females live. Verily, he was of those who commit great sins and crimes,
oppressors, tyrant.” (Quran 28:3&4)
Moses was born into one of the most politically charged
times in history. The Pharaoh of Egypt was the dominant power figure in the
land. He was so incredibly powerful that he referred to himself as a god and
nobody was inclined or able to dispute this. He said, “I am your lord, most
high”, (Quran 79:24)
Pharaoh effortlessly exerted his authority and influence
over all the people in Egypt. He used the strategy of divide and conquer. He
set up class distinctions, divided the people into groups and tribes, and set
them against one another. The Jews, the children of Israel, were put at the
lowest level of Egyptian society. They were the slaves and servants. Moses’
family was from amongst the children of Israel.
Egypt at the time was the known world’s superpower. The
ultimate power rested in the hands of very few. Pharaoh and his trusted
ministers directed matters as if lives of the population were of little or no
consequence. The political situation was in some ways similar to the political
world of the 21st century. In a time when the young people of the
world are used as cannon fodder for the political and military games of the
most powerful, the story of Moses is particularly pertinent.
According to Islamic scholar Ibn Kathir the
children of Israel talked vaguely about one of their nation’s sons arsing to
wrest the throne of Egypt from Pharaoh. Perhaps it was just a persistent
daydream from an oppressed people, or even an ancient prophecy but the story of
Moses begins here. A yearning for freedom coupled with a tyrannical king’s
dream.
The people of Egypt were influenced by dreams and the
interpretation of dreams. Dreams featured prominently in the story of prophet
Joseph and once again, in the story of Moses the fate of the children of Israel is affected by a dream. Pharaoh dreams that a child from the children of Israel grows to manhood and seizes his throne.
True to character, Pharaoh reacts arrogantly and gives
the order that all male children born to the children of Israel be killed. His ministers however perceive that this would lead to the complete annihilation
of the children of Israel and economic ruin for Egypt. How, they ask, would
the empire function without slaves and servants? The order is changed; the
male children are killed in one year but spared in the next.
Pharaoh becomes so fanatical he sends spies or security
agents to seek out pregnant women. If any woman gives birth to a male child,
he is immediately put to death. When Moses’ mother becomes pregnant with the
child destined to lead the children of Israel out of bondage, she conceals her
pregnancy. However, God wished to do a favour to those who were weak and
oppressed, and pharaoh’s plans are thwarted.
“And We wished to do a favour to those who were weak (and
oppressed) in the land, and to make them rulers and to make them the
inheritors, And to establish them in the land, and We let Pharaoh
and Haman (Egypt’s Chief Minister) and their hosts receive from them that
which they feared.” (Quran 28:5&6)
The scene is set, and the child is born. The winds of
change begin to blow and God demonstrates that humans may plan and scheme but
He Alone is the best of planners.
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The Story of Moses (part 2 of 12): Trust in God
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Description: Moses’ mother demonstrates that there is none more trustworthy than God Alone.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 01 Feb 2010 - Last modified on 23 Mar 2010
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There are lessons for humankind throughout the story of
Moses, which are not only learnt after his prophethood; rather, they are found
even when he was a newborn. His righteous mother’s behavior gives us numerous
lessons that are relevant even today. Put your trust in God!
Moses was born in a year in which the sons of the Children
of Israel were put to death the moment they were born. Imagine the sense of
fear that permeated every aspect of life under such conditions. Pregnancy was
not an event to be celebrated and cherished but a source of fear and insecurity.
Security guards roamed the streets and invaded homes
searching for pregnant women, therefore Moses’ mother concealed her pregnancy.
Imagine the conditions under which she gave birth: fearful, silent, possibly
shrouded in darkness. Was she surrounded by women or alone? Did her husband
hold her hand praying that she did not cry out revealing herself to the
neighbours or guards?
Whatever the conditions, Moses was born. A boy. His parents’
heart must have constricted with joy and fear simultaneously. What were they
to do now, how would they conceal a newborn baby? Moses’ mother was a righteous
woman, pious and God fearing, therefore in her hour of need she turned to God
and He inspired her next actions.
“And We inspired the mother of Moses saying, suckle him, but
when you fear for him, then cast him into the river and fear not, nor grieve. Verily!
We shall bring him back to you, and shall make him one of (Our) Messengers.” (Quran
28:2-7).
Moses’ mother has just spent the last months concealing
her pregnancy for fear that her child would be put to death, now as she holds
him to her breast God inspires her to cast him into the river. Not a gentle
stream but the Nile River, a huge powerful river with a strong current. Her
initial reaction must have been that such an action would be condemning him to
certain death.
Moses’ mother put her trust in God. “Do not fear and
do not grieve, for We will bring him back to you.” She made a waterproof
basket, placed her tiny son inside, and cast him into the river. Ibn Kathir
narrates that as the basket touched the water the raging current became calm
and gentle, sweeping the basket silently downstream. Moses’ sister was
instructed by her mother to slip silently through the reeds and follow the
basket on its journey.
The basket with its precious cargo courses down the Nile River, passing houses, boats, and people, unnoticed until it stops at Pharaoh’s palace.
Moses’ sister watches in fear, as someone from Pharaoh’s household removes the
basket from the river. Moses was cast into the river to escape certain death
and now his resting place is the palace of Pharaoh. This is surely too much
for a mother to bear, however events about to unfold will demonstrate that the
promise of God is true.
“...And whosoever fears God and keeps his duty to Him, He will
make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He
will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. And whosoever puts his
trust in God, then He will suffice him. Verily, God will accomplish his
purpose. Indeed God has set a measure for all things.” (Quran 65:2-3)
Baby Moses was taken to Asiya, the wife of Pharaoh. Asiya,
in contrast to her arrogant, proud husband was a righteous, merciful woman. God
opened her heart and Asiya looked down up on the tiny baby and felt overcome by
her love for him. The royal couple were unable to conceive a child and this
tiny baby awakened her maternal instincts. Asiya clutched him to her chest and
asked her husband to accept the child into family.
Possibly, against his better judgement Pharaoh accepted
the child, who was part of God’s plan to bring down the royal house. Far from
abandoning him, God set Moses up as a royal son of Egypt, he provided him with
the strongest human support in the land. Asiya and Pharaoh now had a son, who
was now protected by the very person who had sought to kill him.
“Then the household of Pharaoh picked him up, that he might
become for them an enemy and a cause of grief. Verily! Pharaoh, Haman, and
their hosts were sinners. And the wife of Pharaoh said; ‘A comfort of the eye for
me and for you. Kill him not, perhaps he maybe of a benefit to us, or we may
adopt him as a son.’ And they perceived not (the result of that).” (Quran 28:8-9)
Asiya summoned wet nurses to the palace, but the tiny
child refused to suckle. This was a cause of great distress; in those days there
were no baby formulas or supplements to offer the child. At this stage the
royal palace was in turmoil, the women of the household were fussing over Asiya
and her new baby therefore no one noticed the presence of Moses’ sister
amongst the servants. She summoned all her courage and stepped forward
offering a solution. She said she knew of a woman who would suckle the child
affectionately. Why would the royal household take the advice of an unknown
child, if not to fulfil God’s plan. Moses’ sister was ordered to rush and
fetch the woman.
“And We had already forbidden (other) foster suckling mothers
for him, until she (his sister came up and) said: "Shall I direct you to a
household who will rear him for you, and sincerely they will look after him in
a good manner?” (Quran 28:12)
Moses’ mother was in her home. Was she pacing, or
weeping silently? We do not know, but God tells us that her heart was empty and
that she was about to reveal herself. Was she considering dashing down to the
river and searching frantically through the reeds? God relieved her of her
torment when her daughter rushed into the house breathlessly relating the story
of what had happened to Moses.
Mother and daughter lost no time returning to the
palace. When Moses was handed to his real mother, he settled immediately and
began to suckle. According to Ibn Kathir, the household, including Pharaoh
himself, was astonished. Pharaoh asked the woman who she was and she replied, "I
am a woman of sweet milk and sweet smell, and no child refuses me."
Pharaoh accepted this answer, and thus Moses was returned to the arms of his
mother and raised in the palace as a prince of Egypt.
“So did We restore him to his mother, that she might be
delighted, and that she might not grieve, and that she might know that the
Promise of God is true. But most of them know not.” (Quran 28:13)
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The Story of Moses (part 3 of 12): Moses flees Egypt
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Description: God replaces weakness with strength.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 08 Feb 2010 - Last modified on 30 Oct 2011
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_001.jpg) Chapter 28 of the Quran is named, ‘The Narration’, the
first 45 verses focus solely on the story of Moses. It is from here that we
learn about the strength and piety of his mother, and how God rewarded her
righteousness and trust in Him by returning her son. Some scholars believe
that Moses and his mother retuned to their home among the Children of Israel,
others, including Ibn Kathir believe that Moses and his mother lived in the
palace while she was breast feeding him and that as he grew up she was allowed
the privilege of visiting him.
The Quran and the authentic traditions of Prophet
Muhammad, may God praise him, are silent about this period of Moses life,
although it would be fair to say that by the time Moses was a man, he probably knew
about his origin and identified with the children of Israel. The traditions of
Prophet Muhammad describe Moses as a tall, well-built, dark skinned man with
curly hair. Both his character and physique are described as strong.
“And when he attained his full strength, and was perfect (in
manhood), We bestowed on him Hukman (Prophethood, right judgment of the
affairs) and religious knowledge (of the religion of his forefathers, Islamic
Monotheism). And thus do We reward the Muhsineen (good-doers).” (Quran 28:14)
We will discover in the story of Moses that he was a
forthright man. He believed in speaking his mind and standing up for the
weaker members of society. Whenever he witnessed oppression or cruelty, he
found it impossible to stop himself from intervening.
Ibn Kathir narrates that one day while walking in the city;
Moses came upon two men fighting. One was an Israelite and the other an
Egyptian. The Israelite recognised Moses and cried out to him for help. Moses
stepped into the fight and struck the Egyptian one ferocious blow. He
immediately fell to the ground and died. Moses was overcome with grief. He
was aware of his own strength but did not imagine that he had the power to kill
someone with one blow.
“And he entered the city at a time of unawareness of its
people, and he found there two men fighting, one of his party and the other of
his foes. The man of his own party asked him for help against his foe, so
Moses struck him with his fist and killed him. He said, “This is of Satan’s
doing, verily, he is a plain misleading enemy.”
He said, “My Lord! Verily, I have wronged myself, so forgive
me.” Then He forgave him. Verily, He is the Oft-Forgiving, the Most Merciful.
He said, “My Lord! For that with which You have favoured me,
I will never more be a helper for the criminals, disobedient to God,
polytheists, sinners, etc.!” (Quran 28:15-17)
Either because the streets were relatively deserted or
because the people had no wish to be involved in a serious assault, the
authorities had no idea that Moses was involved in the melee. However, the
next day Moses saw the same Israelite man involved in yet another fight. He
suspected that the man was a troublemaker and approached him to warn him about
such behaviour.
The Israelite saw Moses striding towards him and became
afraid, he called out, “Would you kill me as you killed the wretch yesterday?”
The man’s opponent, an Egyptian heard this remark and rushed away to report
Moses to the authorities. Later on that day, Moses was approached by a person
unknown who informed him that the authorities were planning to arrest him and
possibly put him to death for the crime of killing an Egyptian.
So he became afraid, looking about in the city (waiting as to
what will be the result of his crime of killing), when behold, the man who had
sought his help the day before, called for his help again. Moses said to him, “Verily,
you are a plain misleader!” Then when he decided to seize the man who was an
enemy to both of them, the man said, “O Moses! Is it your intention to kill me
as you killed a man yesterday? Your aim is nothing but to become a tyrant in
the land, and not to be one of those who do right.”
And there came a man running, from the farthest end of the
city. He said, “O Moses! Verily, the chiefs are taking counsel together about
you, to kill you, so escape. Truly, I am to you of those who give sincere
advice.”
So he escaped from there, looking about in a state of fear.
He said, “My Lord! Save me from the people who are polytheists, and
wrong-doers!” (Quran 28:15-21)
Moses immediately left the confines of the city. He did
not take the time to return to his home to change his clothes or prepare
provisions. Moses strode into the desert towards Midian, the country that lay
between Syria and Egypt. His heart was filled with fear and he was afraid that
he would turn around and see the authorities pursuing him. He walked, and
walked, and when his feet and legs felt like lead, he continued walking. His
shoes wore away on the rough desert ground and the hot sand burned the soles of
his feet. Moses was exhausted, hungry, thirsty, and bleeding but he forced
himself to continue, some say for more than a week, until he came to a watering
hole. Moses threw himself under the shade of a tree.
Death in the dry dusty heat of the Egyptian desert
should have been the likely outcome of Moses journey. Tracking across the
inhospitable landscape with no provisions and inappropriate clothing would have
been an expedition doomed to failure. Yet once again, the story of Moses
reveals a fundamental truth. If a believer submits fully to the will of God,
God will provide for him from sources unimaginable. God will replace weakness
with strength, and will replace failure with victory.
Moses arrived safely at the desert oasis, the smell of
water and the shade of the trees must have seemed like paradise on earth. Moses
however was not alone in his newfound paradise; the waterhole was surrounded by
shepherds watering their flocks.
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The Story of Moses (part 4 of 12): A Stranger in a Strange Land
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Description: Moses finds shelter in Midian.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 08 Feb 2010 - Last modified on 23 Mar 2010
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After walking for more than a week across the burning
desert, Moses arrived at an oasis where groups of men were watering their
animals. They were pushing, fighting, joking, and laughing, behaving in a rough,
and tumble manner. Moses flung himself onto the ground grateful for the shade
of a tree. As he caught his breath, he noticed two women and their flock of
sheep. They were standing well back, hesitant to approach the waterhole.
Moses was a man of honour. Even though he was exhausted
and dehydrated Moses could not bear to see the women standing back afraid to
move toward the waterhole. He approached them, and asked why the men in their
family did not look after the sheep. The two young women explained that their
father was an old man and the task of caring for the sheep was now their
responsibility.
Moses took the women’s sheep to the waterhole, where he
easily pushed in amongst the men already there. After completing this task, Moses’
energy was totally spent. He sat under the shade of the tree and began to
supplicate God. He said, “O Lord, whatever good you can bestow on me, I am
surely in need of it”.
“And when he arrived at the water of Midian he found there a
group of men watering their flocks, and besides them he found two women who
were keeping back their flocks. He said, “What is the matter with you?” They
said, “We cannot water (our flocks) until the shepherds take their flocks. And
our father is a very old man.” Therefore, he watered their flocks for them,
and then he turned back to shade, and said, “My Lord! Truly, I am in need of
whatever good that You bestow on me!” (Quran 28:22-24)
Quran relates to us the stories of the prophets of God
in order that we might learn from them. The Prophets are worthy role models
and their lives are not so different from our own. How many times has each one
of us sunk to the ground or into a chair in despair? How many times have we
felt so physically or mentally exhausted that it seems we will be unable to go
on for even one more second?
Moses once again turned to the only real source of
help for humankind – God, and before his supplication was finished help was on
its way. Moses was probably hoping for a slice of bread or a handful of dates
but instead God gave him safety, provisions and a family.
One of the two women returned to Moses. She
conducted herself with modesty and shyness and said to Moses, “My father wants
to reward you for your kindness and invites you to our home’. Consequently,
Moses roused himself and went to see the elderly man. They sat together and
Moses related his story. The elderly man allayed his fears and told Moses that
he had safely crossed the Egyptian border; he was now in Midian and was safe
from any authorities that may have been pursuing him.
“Then there came to him one of the two women, walking shyly.
She said, “Verily, my father calls you that he may reward you for having
watered our flocks for us.” So when he came to him and narrated the story, he
said, “Fear you not. You have escaped from the people who are polytheists,
disbelievers, and wrong-doers.” (Quran 28:25)
After Moses had been invited to stay with the family,
one of the women approached her father privately and advised him to hire
Moses. When her father asked why, she answered because he is strong and
trustworthy. Two qualities that Islam tells us are signs of leadership. In
the years immediately following the death of Prophet Muhammad, may God praise
him, the leaders of the Muslim nation were chosen for these two qualities.
They learned their politics from Quran, from the stories of their righteous
predecessors.
The elderly man, who some scholars believe was Prophet
Shuaib, although there are no authentic sources either confirming or denying
this, offered Moses the safety and security of his own family. He gave one of
his daughters in marriage to Moses on the condition that he work for eight
years, or ten if Moses agreed to stay on for the further two years. Moses was
a stranger in a strange land. Exhausted and alone, but God heard his
supplication and provided for him from sources that Moses could never have
imagined.
And said one of them (the two women): “O my father! Hire him!
Verily, the best of men for you to hire is the strong, the trustworthy.” He
said, “I intend to wed one of these two daughters of mine to you, on condition
that you serve me for eight years, but if you complete ten years, it will be a favour
from you. But I intend not to place you under a difficulty. If Allah wills,
you will find me one of the righteous.” He (Moses) said, “That is settled
between me and you whichever of the two terms I fulfil, there will be no
injustice to me, and Allah is Surety over what we say.” (Quran 28:26-28)
As believers we must never forget that God hears our
prayers and supplications, and answers. Sometimes the wisdom behind the
answers is beyond our comprehension but God desires only good for us. Putting
our trust in God and submitting to His will allow the believer to weather any
storm, and to stand tall in the face of adversity. We are never alone, just as
Moses was not alone as he trudged across the desert fleeing the only life and
land he had ever known.
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The Story of Moses (part 5 of 12): Moses Hears the Voice of God
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Description: A yearning for home leads Moses towards his destiny.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 15 Feb 2010 - Last modified on 23 Mar 2010
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_001.jpg) Moses, may God praise him, married one of the women he
had initially helped at waterhole and spent the next ten years working with her
father and raising his own family. His new life was quiet and contemplative,
he did not have to endure the intrigue of the Egyptian court or the humiliation
of his people, the Children of Israel. Moses was able to ponder the wonders of
God and the universe.
Any account of Moses’ life is filled with lessons and
guidance, for Moses and for humankind. God put Moses through experiences that
would hold him in good stead in his coming mission. Moses had been brought up
in the house of the Pharaoh of Egypt; therefore, he was well aware of the
politics and intrigue of the Egyptian government. Moses also had first hand
experience of the corruption of Pharaoh himself – the man who had declared himself
God.
It was through God’s grace and mercy that Moses was able
to escape from Egypt and travel about in the lands. He was able to experience
other cultures and people. Travel then and now broadens horizons and opens
hearts and minds to the differences and the similarities between people of
diverse backgrounds.God says:
“O humankind! We have created you from a male and a female,
and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another.” (Quran
49:13)
During his time in Midian, Moses was a shepherd. Prophet
Muhammad, may God praise him, informed us that all the prophets of God had
spent time tending flocks of sheep. It may seem a strange profession but on
careful examination, we can see that shepherds learn some valuable lessons
while tending to their flocks. A shepherd has a lonely quiet life; there is
time for personal reflection and contemplation of the wonders of life.
However, at the same time a shepherd must be constantly
on alert for danger. Sheep in particular are weak animals requiring constant
care and attention. If even one sheep wanders away from the protection of the flock,
it becomes easy prey. A prophet usually has the job of protecting a whole nation,
he must be alert and aware of any danger threatening his followers, especially
the weak, poor and oppressed among them.
After Moses had completed his term of service that he
had pledged to his father in law, he was overcome by homesickness. He began to
miss his family and the land of Egypt. Even though he was afraid of what would
happen if he returned, he experienced a strange longing to return to the land
of his birth. Moses gathered his family together and made the long journey
back to Egypt.
“Then, when Moses had fulfilled the term, and was travelling
with his family, he saw a fire in the direction of Mount Tur. He said to his family,
“Wait, I have seen a fire; perhaps I may bring to you from there some news, or
a burning fire-brand that you may warm yourselves”. (Quran 28:29)
While Moses was trekking back across the desert, he
became lost. It was a cold dark night. Moses saw what appeared to be a fire
burning in the distance. He told his family to stay where they were. He had
hopes of either getting directions or being able to carry some fire back to
warm his family. Unbeknownst to Moses, he was about to participate in one of
history’s most amazing conversations. He walked towards the fire, and as he did,
he heard a voice.
“…Blessed is whosoever is in the fire, and whosoever is round
about it! And far removed is God from every imperfecction, the Lord of all
that exists. “O Moses! Verily! It is I, God, the All-Mighty, and the All-Wise.”
(Quran 27:8&9)
God spoke to Moses. He asked Moses to remove his shoes
for he would be standing on scared ground. God revealed to Moses that he had
been chosen for a special mission and bid him listen to what was about to be
said.
“Verily! I am God, none has the right to be worshipped but I,
so worship Me, and perform prayer for My Remembrance. Verily, the Hour is
coming and I am almost hiding it that every person may be rewarded for that
which he strives. Therefore, let not the one who believes not therein (i.e. in
the Day of Resurrection, Reckoning, Paradise and Hell, etc.), but follows his
own lusts, divert you, lest you perish.” (Quran 20:14-16)
In a direct conversation between God and Moses, prayer
was prescribed upon Moses and his followers. Prayer was also prescribed upon
Prophet Muhammad and his followers in much the same way on the night of Prophet
Muhammad’s journey to Jerusalem and ascent into the heavens.
At this time,
Moses must have been mesmerised. He set out for Egypt, following a strange
yearning to return to his homeland. He had become lost in the dark and cold
and was searching for light and guidance. He walked towards what he thought
was a burning fire and found the light and guidance of God.
Moses was holding a stick or staff in his hand. God
spoke to him and said what is this stick Moses, tell me about it. Moses
answered, “This is my stick, whereon I lean, and wherewith I beat down
branches for my sheep, and wherein I find other uses.” (Quran 20:18) Moses
knew his stick very well; he knew it had no miraculous qualities. God asked Moses
to throw the stick to the ground and when he did, it began to slither and shake.
The stick had been transformed into a snake.
Moses was afraid; he turned on his heels and began to
run away. It is a natural human inclination to be afraid of strange and
unknown things, but God wanted to remove this fear from Moses’ heart. He was
about to embark on a difficult mission and it was important that he began with
complete trust that God would protect him, knowing that there was absolutely no
reason for him to be fearful.
“And throw your stick!” But when he saw it moving as if it were
a snake, he turned in flight, and looked not back. (It was said): “O Moses! Draw
near, and fear not. Verily, you are of those who are secure”. (Quran 28:31)
God then instructed Moses to put his hand inside his
cloak, He revealed to him another sign of his magnificence and omnipotence. Signs,
which Moses would need in his coming mission, proof for those who are
disobedient and rebellious.
“Insert your hand into the opening of your garment, it will
come out white without disease, and draw your hand close to your side to be
free from fear (that which you suffered from the snake, and also by that your
hand will return to its original state). These are two signs, (miracles,
evidences, proofs) from your Lord to Pharaoh and his chiefs. Verily, they are
the people who are rebellious, and disobedient towards God.” (Quran 28:32)
God intended to send Moses to Pharaoh. The man he
feared most, the man Moses thought would surely put him to death. His heart
constricted on fear but God reassured him.
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The Story of Moses (part 6 of 12): An Amazing Conversation
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Description: The story so far.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 22 Feb 2010 - Last modified on 23 Mar 2010
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_001.jpg) On a dark night, in the shadow of Mount Tur, God conferred Prophethood on Moses. His first command to him was go to Pharaoh.
“Go To Pharaoh! Verily! He has transgressed (all bounds in
disbelief and disobedience, and has behaved as an arrogant tyrant).” (Quran
20:24)
Moses fled Egypt in fear for his life; he had spent 10
years in a country outside the jurisdiction of Pharaoh. Now God was telling
him that he must face his biggest fear. He must face the corrupt Pharaoh; the
man Moses was sure would want to see him executed. Moses once again felt the
fear that had sustained him during his long journey across the desert. He
responded to God’s words.
“My Lord! I have killed a man among them, and I fear that
they will kill me” (Quran 28:33)
Moses was afraid but understood that God was completely able
to provide him with all the support he needed for a mission that appeared to be
virtually impossible. Moses made supplication; he begged for strength and ease
in this most difficult mission. He asked God to open his chest, and grant him eloquence,
self-confidence, and contentment. He also called upon God to strengthen him
with a trusted and capable companion in prophethood, his brother Aaron.
The dialogue between God and Moses is one of the most
amazing conversations contained in the pages of Quran. The words of God are
delivered with eloquence and clarity. They paint a portrait of a strong yet
humble man, enthralled by his encounter with God. They deliver the ethereal
sense that God is all-powerful, omnipotent, yet filled with mercy and love
towards His slaves.
“Moses said, “O my Lord! Open for me my chest (grant me
self-confidence, contentment, and boldness). And ease my task for me; and make
loose the knot (the defect) from my tongue, (remove the incorrectness of my
speech) that they understand my speech, and appoint for me a helper from my
family, Aaron, my brother; increase my strength with him, and let him share my task
(of conveying God’s Message and Prophethood), and we may glorify You much, and remember
You much, Verily! You are of us ever a Well-Seer.”
God said, “You are granted your request, O Moses! And indeed,
We conferred a favor on you another time before. When We inspired your mother
with that which We inspired, saying, “Put him (the child) into a box or a case
or a chest and put him into the river (Nile), and then the river shall cast it
up on the bank, and there, an enemy of Mine and an enemy of his shall take him.’
And I endured you with love from Me, in order that you may be brought up under
My Eye, when your sister went and said; “Shall I show you one who will nurse
him?’ So We restored you to your mother that she might cool her eyes and she
should not grieve. Then you did kill a man, but We saved you from a great
distress and tried you with a heavy trial. Then you stayed a number of years
with the people of Midian. Then you came here according to the term which I ordained
(for you), O Moses!
“And I have chosen you for My Inspiration and My Message for
Myself. Go you and your brother with My proofs, lessons, verses, evidences,
signs, revelations, and do not, you both, slacken and become weak in My
Remembrance.
“Go, both of you, to Pharaoh, verily, he has transgressed all
bounds in disbelief and disobedience and behaved as an arrogant tyrant. And
speak to him kinldy, perhaps he may accept admonition or fear God.”
They said, “Our Lord! Verily! We fear lest he should hasten
to punish us or lest he should transgress all bounds against us.”
He (God) said: “Fear not, Verily! I am with you both, Hearing
and Seeing. So go you both to him, and say, “Verily, we are Messengers of your
Lord, so let the children of Israel go with us, and torment them not; indeed,
we have come with a sign from your Lord! And peace will be upon him who
follows the guidance! Truly, it has been revealed to us that the torment will
be for him who denies (believes not in the Oneness of God, and in His
Messengers, etc) and turns away’ (from the truth and obedience of God)” (Quran
20:25-48).
This short astonishing conversation changed Moses’ life.
It taught him lessons about himself, about his world, about the nature of
humankind and most importantly of all, about the nature of God. To this day it
continues to teach important lessons to humankind. On a daily basis, the words
of Quran change lives. The lessons learned in the story of Moses are as
relevant today as they were thousands of years ago.
By reading the story of Moses so far, we have learned
the importance of trusting God; we have learned that human beings plan and scheme,
but God’s plan can overcome any triumph, test, or trial. The story of Moses
has taught us that there is no relief from the torments of this world accept
with remembrance and closeness to God.
The story of Moses teaches us that God can replace
weakness with strength and failure with victory; and that God supports the righteous
from sources unimaginable. Now as God confers prophethood on Moses and his
brother Aaron we learn the true meaning of brotherhood and the true meaning of
why choosing righteous companions can be the key to Paradise.
Moses wanted his brother to be his companion in
prophethood and on this dangerous mission to confront Pharaoh because Aaron was
strong and trustworthy, he was also an articulate, persuasive speaker. Whenever
a person stands with his brother united in a common sense of purpose, united in
their worship of God, united in righteousness they are unbeatable against even
the most formidable enemy.
Ibn Kathir narrates that Moses and Aaron went together
to Pharaoh and delivered their message. Moses spoke to Pharaoh about God, His
mercy and His Paradise and about the obligation of humankind to worship God
Alone.
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The Story of Moses (part 7 of 12): Magic & Illusion
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Description: By the permission of God, Moses defeats the magicians.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 22 Feb 2010 - Last modified on 23 Mar 2010
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_001.jpg) Quran narrates several conversations between Moses and
Pharaoh. One of the most detailed accounts is in chapter 26 which is entitled
‘The Poets’. Moses speaks kindly to Pharaoh about God, His Mercy, and His
Paradise, but Pharaoh reacts disdainfully and arrogantly. He reminds Moses of
his past crime and asks Moses to be grateful that he was raised in the palace
amongst luxuries and wealth. Moses excuses himself by saying he committed the
crime of killing an innocent man when he was ignorant and points out that he
was raised in the palace only because he was unable to live with his own family
due to Pharaoh’s indiscriminate killing of baby boys.
“Moses said, “I did it then, when I was an ignorant (as
regards my Lord and His Message). So I fled from you when I feared you. But
my Lord has granted me religious knowledge, and Prophethood, and appointed me
as one of the Messengers. And this is the past favour with which you reproach
me, and that you have enslaved the children of Israel.”
Pharaoh said, “And what is the Lord of the mankind, jinn, and
all that exists?”
Moses replied, “The Lord of the heavens, and the earth, and
all that is between them, if you seek to be convinced with certainty.”
Pharaoh said to those around, “Do you not hear what he says?”
Moses said, “Your Lord and the Lord of your ancient fathers!”
Pharaoh said, "Indeed, your 'messenger' who has been sent
to you is mad."
Moses said, “Lord of the east, and the west, and all that is
between them, if you did but understand!”
Pharaoh said, “If you choose a god other than me, I will
certainly put you among the prisoners.”
Moses said, “Even if I bring you something manifest (and
convincing).”
Pharaoh
said, “Bring it forth then, if you are of the truthful!” (Quran 26:20-31)
Pharaoh began by mocking Moses, then accusing him of
being ungrateful and finally he threatened him. During this historical period,
many people in Egypt practiced magic. There were even schools teaching classes
in magic and illusion. Pharaoh jumped to the wrong conclusion, he thought that
the manifest signs Moses was able to show by the permission of God were magic
tricks and illusions.
When Moses threw his stick and it became a serpent,
slithering and sliding along the ground, and when he withdrew his hand from his
cloak and it strongly shone bright and white, Pharaoh presumed that Moses has
learned the art of illusion. Ibn Kathir narrates the Pharaoh detained Moses
and Aaron while he despatched couriers throughout Egypt to summon all the
magicians to the palace. Pharaoh promised the magicians prestige and money in
return for their tricks. A contest was set up between Moses and the Egyptian
magicians.
Pharaoh was confident that his magicians were unbeatable.
He had long been using them to influence the hearts and minds of the people.
Pharaoh used their conjuring tricks and illusions to dominate and control his
subjects. Moses was able to set the day for the contest and he chose a
customary festival day. The streets would be crowded with people and the power
and strength of God would be visible to all. There would be maximum exposure
to the truth of the words that, there is none worthy of worship except God
alone.
“O Moses! Have you come to drive us out from our land with
your magic? We can also show you magic to match it, so set an appointment
between us and you, which neither we nor you shall forget to keep, in a fair (open)
place.’
Moses said, ‘Let the encounter be on the day (of the Festival)
of Adornment, and let the people assemble at forenoon.’” (Quran 20:56-59)
Moses asked the magicians to perform first. It is
narrated that there were up to 70 magicians lined up in a row. The magicians threw
their sticks and ropes in the name of the Pharaoh and the ground became a
seething sea of serpents, writhing and slithering. The crowd looked on in
amazement. Moses was afraid, but he was steadfast, secure in the knowledge
that God would protect him and make his task easy. God covered him with tranquility
and directed Moses to throw his stick.
Moses stick transformed into a huge serpent and quickly
devoured all the illusionary serpents that covered the ground. The crowd rose
up like a great wave, cheering and shouting for Moses. The magicians were
astounded. They were well skilled in the art of magic and illusion, for they
were the best magicians in the world at the time, but their conjuring was
nothing but a trick. The magicians knew that Moses’ serpent was real. They
collectively fell in prostration declaring their belief in the Lord of Moses
and Aaron.
“And the magicians fell down prostrating. Saying:
“We believe in the Lord of mankind, jinn, and all that exists. “The Lord of
Moses and Aaron.” Pharaoh said, “You have believed in him
before I give you leave. Surely, he indeed is your chief, who has taught you
magic! So verily, you shall come to know. Verily, I will cut off your hands
and your feet on opposite sides, and I will crucify you all.” They
said, “No harm! Surely, to our Lord we are to return. “Verily! We hope that
our Lord will forgive us our sins, as we are the first of the believers in
Moses and in the Monotheism which he has brought from God.”
The magicians began that day as disbelievers, corrupt
and interested only in riches and fame; however, within a few hours they had recognised
the truth. They saw with their own eyes the omnipotence of God and repented
for their errant ways. God is the most merciful, and He will forgive those who
turn to Him with sincere and humble repentance.
Moses and Aaron left the
contest field. The magicians, as it is told, were put to death, their bodies
hung in the squares and market places to teach the people a lesson. Pharaoh
returned to his palace and his rage magnified. He quarrelled with his
ministers and advisors. He sent them away and then summoned them into his
presence. He turned to his chief minister and said, “Am I a liar Oh Haman?” The
Pharaoh had built his kingdom on the fact that he was a god, what was he to do
now that Moses had revealed that there is no god but the one and only God.
“O Haman! Build me a tower that I may arrive at the ways, -
the ways of the heavens, and I may look upon the God of Moses but verily, I
think him to be a liar.” Thus, it was made fair seeming, in Pharaoh’s eyes,
the evil of his deeds, he was hindered from the Right Path, and the plot of
Pharaoh led to nothing but loss and destruction for him.” (Quran 40:36-37)
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The Story of Moses (part 8 of 12): Signs of God’s Magnificent Power
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Description: Egypt suffers but Pharaoh refuses to free the children of Israel.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 01 Mar 2010 - Last modified on 23 Mar 2010
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_001.jpg) Pharaoh was angry. His kingdom of fear was built by oppressing
the people and holding their hearts and minds captive. All the people of Egypt from the ministers and magicians to the lowly slaves and servants were afraid of Pharaoh’s
power and anger but Moses had exposed a weak spot. Pharaoh worried that his
kingdom was about to unravel, however he was surrounded by sycophants and
parasites who urged him on to greater tyranny.
Pharaoh’s security and intelligence officers began to
spread rumours. They said Moses and some magicians had secretly organised for
Moses to win the competition. The lifeless bodies of the slain magicians were
hung in public places to further terrorise the people. Due to their
association with Moses the children of Israel, became the scapegoats. They
complained to Moses that they were ill treated when he was born and now he had
caused them to be oppressed once again.
Pharaoh ordered more killing, pillaging and raping. He
imprisoned anyone who spoke out against this oppression, and Moses was
powerless. He could not interfere. He counselled patience and watched
silently. The children of Israel complained to Moses, and he was put into a
very difficult situation. As he contended with Pharaoh’s plots and plans, his
people were turning against him and one of his own was working with the
Egyptian powerbrokers.
Korah was a man from the children of Israel blessed with
wealth and status, while all around him were poor and often destitute. He did
not acknowledge the blessings of God and treated the poor with contempt. When Moses
reminded him that it was his duty, as one who worshipped the One God, to pay
poor tax, he refused and began to spread a rumour that Moses had invented the
tax to make him rich. God’s anger fell upon Korah and the earth opened up and
swallowed him as if he had never existed.
“Verily, Korah was of Moses’ people, but he behaved arrogantly
towards them. And We gave him of the treasures, that of which the keys would
have been a burden to a body of strong men... He said, “This has been given to
me only because of knowledge I possess.” Did he not know that God had destroyed
before him generations, men who were stronger than he in might and greater in
the amount of riches. So he went forth before his people arrogantly and We
caused the earth to swallow him and his dwelling place. (Quran 28: 76-82)
Pharaoh summoned Moses to the palace. Ibn Kathir
narrates that Pharaoh wanted Moses killed and that he was supported by all his
ministers and government officials, except one. This man, believed to be a
relative of Pharaoh’s, was a believer in the Oneness of God, although until
this moment he had kept his belief secret.
And a believing man of Pharaoh’s family, who hid his faith
said, “Would you kill a man because he says, My Lord is God, and he (Moses) has
come to you with clear signs (proofs) from your Lord? And if he is a liar, upon
him will be (the sin of) his lie; but if he is telling the truth, then some of
that calamity wherewith he threatens you will befall on you. (Quran 40:28)
The believing man spoke eloquently; he warned his people
that they would suffer a day of disaster like those days that had afflicted people
in the past. He reminded them that God had sent clear signs with Moses, but his
words fell on deaf ears. Pharaoh and many of his ministers threatened to kill the
believing man but God kept him safe, and under His protection.
So God saved him from the evils that they plotted (against
him), while an evil torment encompassed Pharaoh’s people. (Quran 40: 45)
God commanded Moses to warn the Pharaoh that he and the Egyptians
would suffer a severe punishment if the children of Israel were not set free.
If the torture, oppression, and harassment did not stop, the signs of God’s
wrath would descend upon them. Pharaoh’s response was to call all the people of
Egypt including the children of Israel to a large gathering. He informed them
that he was their Lord, he pointed out that Moses was no more then a lowly
slave with no power, strength or might. Moses strength however came directly
from God. The people however believed and obeyed Pharaoh: the signs of God’s
power began to descend.
God afflicted Egypt with a severe drought. Even the
lush, green, and fertile Nile valleys began to whither and die. The crops
failed and the people began to suffer but Pharaoh remained arrogant therefore
God sent a huge flood to devastate the land. The people, including the chief
ministers appealed to Moses.
“O Moses! Invoke your Lord for us because of His Promise to
you. If you will remove the punishment from us, we indeed shall believe in you,
and we shall let the children of Israel go with you.” (Quran 7:134)
The land returned to normal and the crops once again
began to grow, but still the children of Israel were enslaved. God sent a
plague of locusts that swallowed up everything in their path. The people rushed
to Moses begging for his help. The locusts departed but still the children of
Israel remained enslaved. Next came a plague of lice, spreading disease amongst
the people, followed by a plague of frogs that harassed and terrified the
people in their homes and beds. Each time one of God’s punishments descended
the people begged Moses to implore his Lord for relief; each time they promised
to free the enslaved children of Israel and each time, they failed to fulfil
that promise.
Then the final sign of God’s anger was revealed, the
water of the Nile river turned to blood. For the children of Israel the water
remained pure and clear but for all others it appeared as thick red blood.
Even after this most devastating series of signs of God’s displeasure, the
children of Israel remained enslaved.
And indeed, We punished the people of Pharaoh with years of
drought and shortness of fruits (crops, etc.), that they might remember and take
heed.
But whenever good came to them, they said, “Ours is this.” And
if evil afflicted them, they ascribed it to evil omens connected with Moses and
those with him. Be informed! Verily, their evil omens are with God but most of
them know not.
They said Moses, “Whatever, signs, you may bring to us, and to
work therewith your sorcery on us, we shall never believe in you.”
So We sent on them: the flood, the locusts, the lice, the
frogs, and the blood, as a succession of signs, yet they remained arrogant, and
they were of those people who were criminals, polytheists and sinners.
And when the punishment fell on them they said, “O Moses! Invoke
your Lord for us because of His Promise to you. If you will remove the
punishment from us, we indeed shall believe in you, and we shall let the
Children of Israel go with you.”
But when We removed the punishment from them to a fixed term,
which they had to reach, behold! They broke their word!
So We took retribution from them. We drowned them in the
sea, because they belied Our signs, and were heedless about them. (Quran 7:
130-136)
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The Story of Moses (part 9 of 12): We Drowned Them in the Sea
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Description: The Children of Israel flee, but they are a broken people.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 01 Mar 2010 - Last modified on 23 Mar 2010
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Pharaoh and the majority of the people of Egypt refused
to believe the signs. Repeatedly God sent his punishments and the people
appealed to Moses, promising to worship God alone and free the Children of
Israel but time and time again, they broke their promises. Finally, God
withdrew His mercy and gave the order for Moses to lead his people out of
Egypt.
But when We removed the punishment from them to a fixed term,
which they had to reach, behold! They broke their word! So We
took retribution from them. We drowned them in the sea, because they
belied Our signs, and were heedless about them. (Quran 7: 130-136)
Pharaoh’s spies knew immediately that something
momentous was happening and Pharaoh called a meeting of his most trusted
advisors. They decided to gather the entire armed forces to pursue the feeling
slaves. Gathering the army took all night and Pharaoh’s army did not leave
confines of the city until dawn.
Pharaoh’s army marched into the desert. It was not long
before the children of Israel could look back into the distance and see the
dust raised by the approaching army. It was also not long before those in the
front ranks of the children of Israel had reached the edge of the Red Sea.
The Children of Israel were trapped. In front of them
was the Red Sea; to their back was the avenging army. Fear and panic began to
spread through their ranks. They appealed to Moses. Moses had been walking at
the back of his fleeing people; he could see the army getting closer and
closer. He made his way through the ranks to the edge of the sea. He walked
amongst his people allaying their fears and reminding them to keep the faith to
continue trusting that God would not let them down.
Moses stood at the edge of the Red Sea and looked out
toward the horizon. Ibn Kathir narrates that Joshua turned to Moses and said, “In
front of us is this impassable barrier, the sea, and behind us the enemy;
surely death cannot be avoided!” Moses did not panic; he stood silently and
waited for God to keep His promise, to free the children of Israel.
At that moment, as panic swept over the children of
Israel, God inspired Moses to strike the sea with his stick. He did as he was
commanded. A fierce wind began to blow, the sea began to swirl and spin, and
suddenly it parted to reveal a pathway; the bottom of the sea became dry enough
for the people to walk across it.
Moses began to direct the people across the dry corridor
in the middle of the sea. He waited until the last person had commenced walking
across the sea before he turned back to look at the approaching army and then followed
his people across the seabed. As they reached the other side, the panic and
fear began to overwhelm the children of Israel. They once again began to beg
and plead for Moses to close the corridor. Moses refused, God’s plan was
already in motion, and he was confidant that the Children of Israel would be
safe even though Pharaoh’s army had followed them into the dry seabed corridor.
And We took the children of Israel across the sea, and Pharaoh
with his hosts followed them in oppression and enmity, till when drowning
overtook him, he said, “None has the right to be worshipped but He, in whom
the children of Israel believe, and I am one of the Muslims (those who submit
to God’s Will).”
Now you believe while you refused to believe before and you
were one of the evildoers! So this day We shall deliver your dead body out from
the sea that you maybe a sign to those who come after you! And verily, many among
humankind are heedless of our Signs. (Quran10:90-92)
Ibn Kathir describes the death of Pharaoh, “The curtain
fell on Pharaoh’s tyranny, and the waves threw his corpse up to the western
seashore. The Egyptians saw him and knew that the god whom they worshipped and
obeyed was a mere man who could not keep death away from his own neck.” When
Pharaoh had power, wealth, good health and strength he refused to acknowledge
God but when he saw death approaching he cried out to God with fear and horror.
If humankind remembers God in times of ease, God will remember the even the
lowliest of human beings in times of distress.
Generations of oppression had left an indelible mark on
the Children of Israel. Years of humiliation and constant fear had left them
ignorant and obstinate. Most of them had been deprived of comforts and
luxuries for all of their lives. They longed for anything that was a sign of
wealth or materialism. The children of Israel believed in God, they had just
witnessed the most amazing miracles and signs of God’s power but still they
coveted an idol they saw on their journey out of Egypt.
And We brought the Children of Israel (with safety) across the
sea, and they came upon a people devoted to some of their idols (in worship).
They said, “Moses! Make for us a god as they have gods.” He said, “Verily, you
are a people who know not the Majesty and Greatness of God and what is
obligatory upon you.” Moses added, “Verily, these people will be destroyed for
that which they are engaged in (idols-worship). And all that they are doing is
in vain.”
He said, “Shall I seek for you a god other than God, while He
has given you superiority over the mankind and jinn of your time.”
And (remember) when We rescued you from Pharaoh’s people, who
were afflicting you with the worst torment, killing your sons and letting your
women live. And in that was a great trial from your Lord.” (Quran 7: 138-141)
God had
favoured the Children of Israel. They were led safely out of Egypt and they had
witnessed the drowning of their cruel ruler Pharaoh. When they needed water
God commanded Moses to strike a
rock, which sent forth twelve springs of water for the twelve different tribes
so that there was no dispute. God also sent clouds to protect them from the
scorching sun and to relieve their hunger He sent a special delicious food
called manna, and quail. Sadly, in spite of God’s generosity many of the
children of Israel complained and wanted the food they were used to eating in
Egypt, onions, garlic, beans and lentils.
Moses admonished his people and reminded them that they
had just left a life of degradation and humiliation. He asked why they whined
for the worst bounties when God was providing them with the best. Moses said, “Would
you exchange that which is better for that which is lower? Go you down to any
town and you shall find what you want!” (Quran2: 61). God was providing
bounties and making life easy for the children of Israel while they made their
way to the Promised land, but they were a broken people, unable to stay away
from sin and corruption.
.
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The Story of Moses (part 10 of 12): The Ten Commandments
|
Description: Prophet Moses led his people, the Children of Israel, out of Egypt.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 08 Mar 2010 - Last modified on 23 Mar 2010
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_001.jpg) They left under the cover of darkness, carrying their
meagre possessions headed across the desert towards the Red Sea. When they
reached the sea, the Pharaoh’s army was pursuing them closely, the people of Moses
could see the dust stirred up by the approaching army. They looked at the sea
in front of them and felt trapped. By the will and permission of God, Moses
struck the sea with his staff and the sea parted revealing a pathway. The
Children of Israel walked across the seabed. When the last person had safely
crossed, the sea fell back into place and drowned the army of Egypt including the tyrannical Pharaoh.
The Children of Israel were a people oppressed and
humiliated over a long period. Several generations had lived under the yoke of
the Pharaoh. They had become a belligerent people. Always expecting the worst.
Always longing for a slice of the good things of this world. There sense of
honour and self-confidence had been eroded. During their journey out of Egypt to the Promised Land, there was ample opportunity for their character flaws to become
obvious. The Children of Israel were ungrateful to God, despite His care and
attention to them. They were incapable of behaving submissively and accepting
the will of God.
When the Children of Israel came across a people
worshipping idols, their eagerness to be like those people they perceived to be
happy became manifest and they asked Moses to let them have an idol, completely
forgetting the miracles of God they had just witnessed. When God provided them
with delicious food which was till then unknown to them, they complained,
wanting the inferior food they were used to. When Moses directed them to march
into a town and overthrow the Canaanites they refused, mostly out of fear and
thus disobeyed the command of God. Ibn Kathir narrates that Moses was able to
find only two men willing to fight.
“He (Moses) said, “O my Lord! I have power only over myself
and my brother, so separate us from the people who are rebellious and
disobedient to God!” God said, “Therefore it (this holy land) is forbidden to
them for forty years; in distraction they will wander through the land. So be
not sorrowful over the people who are rebellious and disobedient to God.” (Quran
5:20-26)
The ‘days of wandering’ began. Each day was like the
one before it. The people travelled with no destination in mind. Eventually
they entered the Sinai; Moses recognised it as the place where he had spoken to
God before his great journey into Egypt had begun. God ordered Moses to fast,
as purification, for thirty days, and then added ten more days. After the fast
was completed, Moses was ready to once again communicate with God.
“And We appointed for Moses thirty nights and added to the
period ten more, and he completed the term, appointed by his Lord, of forty nights.
And Moses said to his brother Aaron, “Take my place among my people, act in the
Right Way (by ordering the people to obey God and to worship Him Alone) and
follow not the way of the mischief makers.” And when Moses came at the time
and place appointed by Us, and his Lord spoke to him, he said, “O my Lord! Show
me (yourself) that I may look upon You.” God said, “You cannot see Me, but
look upon the mountain, if it stands still in its place then you shall see Me.”
So when his Lord appeared to the mountain, He made it collapse into dust, and Moses
fell down unconscious. Then when he recovered his senses he said, “Far removed
are you from every imperfection, I turn to You in repentance and I am the first
of the believers.” God said, “O Moses, I have chosen you above men by My
Messages, and by My speaking to you. So hold that which I have given you and
be among the grateful.” (Quran 7:142-144)
God gave Moses two stone tablets, written upon them were
the Ten Commandments. These commandments form the basis of the Jewish law, the
Torah, and they are standards of morality still set by the Christian churches.
Ibn Kathir and the early scholars of Islam state that the Ten commandments are
reiterated in two verses from the Quran.
“Come, I will recite what your Lord has prohibited you from,
Join not anything in worship with Him; be good and dutiful to your parents;
kill not your children because of poverty- We provide sustenance for you and
for them; come not near to shameful sins whether committed openly or secretly;
and kill not anyone whom God has forbidden, except for a just cause. This He
has commanded you that you may understand. And come not near to the orphan’s
property, except to improve it, until he or she attains the age of full
strength; and give full measure and full weight with justice. We burden not
any person but that which he can bear. And whenever you give your word (i.e. judge
between men or give evidences) say the truth even if a near relative is
concerned, and fulfil the Covenant of God. This He commands you, that you may
remember.” (Quran 6:151-152)
Moses had been absent for forty days. His people had
become restless, they were like children, complaining and acting impulsively. Ibn
Kathir describes their descent into the unforgiveable sin of idolatry. “As-Samiri,
a man who was inclined towards evil, suggested that they find themselves
another guide, as Moses had broken his promise.” He said to them, “In order to
find true guidance, you need a god, and I shall provide one for you.” So he
collected all their gold jewellery, and melted it down. During the casting, he
threw in a handful of dust, acting like a magician to impress the ignorant. From
the molten metal, he fashioned a golden calf. It was hollow, and when wind
passed through it, it produced a sound.”
It was as if they had succeeded in making themselves a
living God. Moses’ brother Aaron had been afraid to stand up to the people but
when he saw the idol and realised what a grave sin was being committed he spoke
up. He reminded the people to worship God Alone and he warned them of dire
consequences for their actions both from Moses on his return and from God
Himself. Those who remained true to their belief in One God separated
themselves from the idol worshippers. When Moses returned to his people he saw
them singing and dancing around the golden calf. He was furious.
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The Story of Moses (part 11 of 12): The Death of Moses
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Description: God punishes the idolaters and the death of Moses.
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 08 Mar 2010 - Last modified on 23 Mar 2010
Viewed: 10428 (daily average: 13) - Rating: 4 out of 5 - Rated by: 2
Printed: 555 - Emailed: 0 - Commented on: 0
Category: Articles
> Beliefs of Islam
> Stories of the Prophets
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Moses could not believe his eyes, even though God had just
warned him that a severe punishment was about to befall his people for
worshipping the golden calf. Moses heart was filled with shame and anger. His
own people had witnessed the power and majesty of God yet they acted belligerently
and without fear of God’s punishment.
“God said, “Verily! We have tried your people in your
absence, and As-Samiri has led them astray.” Then Moses returned to his people
in a state of anger and sorrow. He said, “O my people! Did not your Lord
promise you a fair promise? Did then the promise seem to you long in coming? Or
did you desire the Wrath should descend from your Lord on you, so you broke
your promise to me (disbelieving in God and worshipping the calf)?” (Quran
20:83-86)
Moses turned to his brother Aaron; he was angry and
grabbed him by the beard, at the same time he pulled Aaron towards him by the
head. He bellowed at his brother demanding that Aaron explain why he disobeyed
the instructions he had given him, and why he allowed As Samiri to beguile the Children
of Israel. Aaron explained that the people did not listen to him, and were
about to kill him. He appealed to Moses not to let the idolaters separate them.
Aaron was not as strong and as forceful as his brother and he feared that he
would not be able to control the Children of Israel so he waited for his
brother Moses to return.
God’s promise is true and His punishment was swift. Moses
confronted As Samiri and sent him into exile.
“Moses said, go away! And verily, your punishment in this
life will be that you will say, ‘Touch me not’ (you will live alone exiled away
from humankind); and verily (for a future torment), you have a promise that
will not fail. And look at your god, to which you have been devoted. We will
certainly burn it, and scatter its particles in the sea.” (Quran 20:83-98)
The punishment imposed upon the idol worshippers was
severe.
“Remember when Moses said to his people: “O my people! Verily,
you have wronged yourselves by worshipping the calf. So turn in repentance to
your Creator and kill yourselves (the innocent kill the wrong doers among you),
that will be better for you in the Sight of your Creator.” Then He accepted
your repentance. Truly, He is the One who accepts repentance, the Most
Merciful.” (Quran 2:54)
God is the Most Merciful and is forgiving. After the Children
of Israel had purged themselves and killed the idol worshippers among them, God
accepted their repentance. Even after their continuous belligerence and stubbornness,
the Children of Israel once again felt God’s favor upon them.
Moses then chose 70 men from amongst the most pious
elders of the Children of Israel. He returned with them to Mount Tur. They
were a delegation intending to apologise to God for their behaviour. They
stood back while Moses moved into a low-lying cloud to speak with God while the
elders waited. When he came back to them, instead of feeling repentant and
apologising the elders informed Moses that they would not truly follow him
until they had seen God with their own eyes.
“O Moses! We shall never believe in you till we see God
plainly.” (Quran 2:35)
The ground shook and the seventy men were struck by a
lightening bolt. They fell to the ground dead. Moses was astounded. He
immediately wondered what he would say to the Children of Israel. These
seventy men were the best of people; Moses felt that now the Children of Israel
had no hope. He turned to God.
“O my Lord, if it had been Your Will, You could have destroyed
them and me before; would You destroy us for the deeds of the foolish ones
among us? It is only Your trial by which You lead astray whom You will, and
keep guided whom You will. You are our Protector, so forgive us and have Mercy
on us, for You are the best of those who forgive. And ordain for us good in
this world, and in the Hereafter. Certainly we have turned unto You.” He said
(as to) My Punishment I afflict therewith whom I will and My Mercy embraces all
things. That (Mercy) I shall ordain for those who are the pious and give alms;
and those who believe in our signs.” (Quran 7:155-157)
God is indeed the Most Merciful and His mercy embraces
all things. When Moses beseeched God He raised up the seventy dead elders. For
many years the Children of Israel wandered about in the desert and wastelands.
Prophet Moses suffered greatly at their hands. He endured mutiny, belligerence,
ignorance, and idolatry, they even inflicted personal harm upon him. He suffered
purely for the sake of pleasing God. After many years Prophet Aaron died, so Moses
was finally without his greatest supporter. Still he remained steadfast; still
he remained in the wilderness never quite reaching the Promised land. Moses
died, still surrounded by the belligerent Children of Israel. Still surrounded
by people who refused to see the miracles before their eyes, yet God in His
Mercy continued to give them chance after chance.
From the traditions of Prophet Muhammad, may God praise
him, comes the account of Prophet Moses’ death. “The Angel of Death was
sent to Moses. When he arrived Moses punched him in the eye. The Angel
returned to his Lord and said, ‘You have sent me to a slave who does not want
to die.’ God said, ‘Return to him and tell him to put his hand on the back of
an ox and for every hair that will come under it, he will be granted one year
of life.’ Moses said, ‘O Lord! What will happen after that?’ God replied, ‘then
death.’ Moses said, ‘Let it come now!’ Moses then requested God to let him
die close to the Holy Land so that he would be at a distance of a stone’s throw
from it.”
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The Story of Moses (part 12 of 12): Lessons from the life of Prophet Moses
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Description: Put your trust in God!
By Aisha Stacey (© 2010 IslamReligion.com)
Published on 15 Mar 2010 - Last modified on 23 Mar 2010
Viewed: 8640 (daily average: 11) - Rating: 5 out of 5 - Rated by: 7
Printed: 585 - Emailed: 3 - Commented on: 1
Category: Articles
> Beliefs of Islam
> Stories of the Prophets
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_001.jpg) The human condition is filled with trials, tribulations,
and tremendous learning curves. Life is full of surprises. However
remembering God and striving to please Him is humankind’s lifeline. The Quran contains
inspirational stories of prophets, and righteous men and women. The life of
Moses is discussed frequently and his story teaches us that God is merciful, trustworthy,
and caring. Allah, the Most Forgiving, has not left us alone; He has provided
us with His guidance and light.
“Indeed, in their stories, there is a lesson for men of
understanding. It (the Quran) is not a forged statement but a confirmation of God’s
existing Books (the Torah, the Gospel and other Scriptures of God) and a
detailed explanation of everything, a guide, and a Mercy for the people who
believe.” (Quran 12: 111)
Throughout this series of articles, we have learned about
Moses’ tremendous strength of character, and his ability to persevere even in
dire circumstances. Moses followed God’s commandments with valor and
determination, and beyond this all, he possessed a character of great
importance, the character of sincerity. Moses was sincere in all his efforts.
No matter what he did, he acted with the express purpose of pleasing God. When
determination is coupled with sincerity a person’s character can become extraordinary.
During the years that the Children of Israel wandered
the desert unable to enter the Promised Land, Moses met and spent time with
Khidr. A man whom the majority of scholars believe to have been a prophet.
Ibn Kathir narrates that one day Moses was asked by
someone, “O Messenger of God, is there another man on earth more learned than
you?” Moses replied, “No!” believing that since God had allowed him to perform
miracles and had given him the Torah, he must surely be the most learned man
alive. This however was not the case. Moses’ encounter with Khidr teaches
humankind that no one person can hold all the information available and that
even though we may think we are wise and knowledgeable, the need to seek
knowledge never ceases. When Moses learned of Khidr’s existence, he asked to
meet him.
God instructed Moses to take a live fish in a container.
When the fish disappeared, he would find the man he sought. Moses set out on
his journey, accompanied by a young man who carried the container with the fish.
They reached a place where two rivers met and decided to rest there. Instantly,
Moses fell asleep. While he was asleep, his companion saw the fish wriggle out
of the vessel into the river and swim away. However, he forgot to inform Moses.
When Moses awoke, they continued their journey until
they were exhausted and hungry. Moses asked for a meal. Only then did his
companion recall that the fish had gotten away. Hearing this, Moses cried, “This
is exactly what we are seeking!” They hurriedly retraced their steps to the
place where the rivers met and where the fish had jumped out.
When Moses realised that they had taken the wrong
direction, he immediately turned back. He did not push forward hoping that he
could save face, or time, he acknowledged that his path was incorrect and he
changed his way. In this life, so many of us choose the wrong path but are
afraid or too embarrassed to turn and face in a different direction. There are
great lessons to be taken from the actions of Prophet Moses. Once a person realizes
he is heading in the wrong direction in life he must immediately turn around
and get back onto the Straight Path. One should not consider this a defeat; rather,
it is a victory.
When Moses returned to the correct path, he met Khidr. It
was a meeting designed to bring forth knowledge. This momentous story of the
meeting of Moses and Khidr is narrated in Quran in Chapter 18, The Cave.
“Moses said to him, "May I follow you on [the condition]
that you teach me from what you have been taught of sound judgment?" He
said, "Indeed, with me you will never be able to have patience. And how
can you have patience for what you do not encompass in knowledge?" Moses
said, "You will find me, if Allah wills, patient, and I will not disobey
you in any order." He said, "Then if you follow me, do not ask me
about anything until I mention it to you." So they set out, until when
they had embarked on the ship, al-Khidhr damaged it. Moses said, "Have you
damaged it to drown its people? You have certainly done a grave thing." Al-Khidhr
said, "Did I not say that with me you would never be able to have
patience?" Moses said, "Do not blame me for what I forgot and do not
cover me in my matter with difficulty." So they set out, until when they
met a boy, al-Khidhr killed him. Moses said, "Have you killed a pure soul
for other than having killed a soul? You have certainly done a deplorable
thing." Al-Khidhr said, "Did I not tell you that with me you would
never be able to have patience?" Moses said, "If I should ask you
about anything after this, then do not keep me as a companion. You have
obtained from me an excuse." So they set out, until when they came to the
people of a town, they asked its people for food, but they refused to offer
them hospitality. And they found therein a wall about to collapse, so al-Khidhr
restored it. Moses said, "If you wished, you could have taken for it a
payment." Al-Khidhr said, "This is parting between me and you. I will
inform you of the interpretation of that about which you could not have
patience. As for the ship, it belonged to poor people working at sea. So I
intended to defect it as there was after them a king who seized every [good]
ship by force. As for the boy, his parents were believers, and we feared that
he would overburden them by transgression and disbelief. So we intended that
their Lord should substitute for them one better than him in purity and nearer
to mercy. And as for the wall, it belonged to two orphan boys in the city, and
there was beneath it a treasure for them, and their father had been righteous.
So your Lord intended that they reach maturity and extract their treasure, as a
mercy from your Lord. And I did it not of my own accord. That is the interpretation
of that about which you could not have patience." (Quran 18:66-82)
The story of Moses and Khidr reminds us that God is the
Most Wise. For the frail human being life can hold great joy and laughter but
sometimes we are beset by trials, tragedies, and calamities that seemingly make
no sense. As believers we should believe that whatever God’s decree is it
stems from His Supreme and Absolute Wisdom.
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