Prophet Musa (A.S.) हज़रत मूसा (अ.स.)

Early Life

Prophet Musa (Moses) was born during a time of great oppression in Egypt, when the Israelites lived under the tyrannical rule of Pharaoh. The ruler had decreed that all newborn Hebrew boys should be killed, fearing that one among them would challenge his authority.

By Allah's divine plan, Musa's mother was inspired to place her infant son in a basket and set it afloat on the Nile River. The basket was discovered by Pharaoh's wife, who convinced her husband to adopt the child, unknowingly raising the very person who would later confront his tyranny.

Life in Egypt

Musa grew up in Pharaoh's palace, receiving the finest education and training. Despite his privileged upbringing, he remained aware of his Hebrew origins and the suffering of his people. His compassionate nature led him to intervene when he witnessed an Egyptian taskmaster brutally beating a Hebrew slave.

In defending his fellow Hebrew, Musa accidentally killed the Egyptian. Fearing Pharaoh's wrath and realizing his life was in danger, he fled Egypt and journeyed eastward toward the land of Madyan, leaving behind his life of luxury for an uncertain future.

Years in Madyan

In Madyan, Musa encountered the daughters of Prophet Shu'ayb at a well, where he helped them water their flocks. Impressed by his character and strength, Shu'ayb offered Musa work as a shepherd and eventually gave him his daughter in marriage.

For eight to ten years, Musa lived peacefully in Madyan, tending sheep and learning valuable lessons about patience, humility, and leadership. This period of quiet preparation would prove essential for the monumental task that Allah had planned for him.

The Divine Call

While traveling with his family, Musa noticed a fire on Mount Sinai (Tur). Approaching to investigate, he heard Allah's voice calling to him from the burning bush. This marked the beginning of his prophetic mission, as Allah commanded him to return to Egypt and confront Pharaoh.

Allah granted Musa miraculous signs: his staff would transform into a serpent, and his hand would shine with divine light. Despite his initial hesitation and request for his brother Harun (Aaron) to assist him, Musa accepted his role as Allah's messenger to the oppressed Israelites.

Confronting Pharaoh

Returning to Egypt with Harun, Musa demanded that Pharaoh release the Israelites and worship Allah alone. Pharaoh's arrogance led him to reject the message and challenge Musa to prove his divine authority. The ensuing contest between Musa and Pharaoh's magicians demonstrated Allah's supreme power.

When Pharaoh continued to refuse, Allah sent nine devastating plagues upon Egypt: blood, frogs, lice, flies, livestock disease, boils, hail, locusts, and darkness. Each plague was a sign of Allah's power, yet Pharaoh's heart remained hardened by pride and disbelief.

The Exodus

Finally commanded by Allah to lead his people out of Egypt, Musa guided the Israelites in their historic exodus. When they reached the Red Sea with Pharaoh's army in pursuit, Allah performed one of the greatest miracles: the sea parted, creating a dry path for the believers to cross safely.

As Pharaoh and his forces attempted to follow, the waters returned, drowning the tyrant and his army. This miraculous deliverance demonstrated Allah's protection of the righteous and His punishment of the oppressors, becoming a defining moment in the history of the Israelites.

Mount Sinai and the Torah

At Mount Sinai, Musa received the Torah, containing divine guidance and laws for his people. During his forty-day absence on the mountain, some Israelites, led astray by a man named Samiri, fashioned a golden calf and began worshipping it, forgetting their recent deliverance.

Upon his return, Musa was filled with righteous anger at this betrayal. He destroyed the idol and called his people back to the worship of Allah alone. This incident highlighted the constant struggle between faith and the temptation to follow false gods.

Trials and Lessons

Throughout their journey in the wilderness, the Israelites faced numerous trials that tested their faith and obedience. Despite witnessing countless miracles, they often complained and showed ingratitude, requiring constant guidance and patience from their prophet.

Musa's life exemplifies unwavering dedication to Allah's cause, patience in the face of adversity, and compassion for his people despite their shortcomings. His story teaches us about the importance of trusting in Allah's plan, standing against oppression, and remaining steadfast in faith through all trials.