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Few stories in our tradition capture human fortitude like the exodus from Egypt led by Prophet Mūsa (ʿalayhi al-Salām). It’s a captivating narrative of liberation from oppression, and a testament to the power of faith and leadership in the face of tests.
This chapter touches upon the heart of this story, revealing valuable lessons on faith, leadership, and divine guidance.
Tyranny breeds resistance
At the core of Mūsa’s story (ʿalayhi al-Salām) lies the cruel reign of the Pharaoh. Due to his oppressive rule, the Israelites, enslaved and mistreated, faced unimaginable hardship.
Allah (subḥānahu wa ta’āla) says of Mūsa’s journey (ʿalayhi al-Salām),
“Indeed, Pharaoh arrogantly elevated himself in the land and divided its people into subservient groups, one of which he persecuted, slaughtering their sons and keeping their women. He was truly one of the corruptors.
“But it was Our Will to favour those who were oppressed in the land, making them models of faith, as well as successors; and to establish them in the land; and through them show Pharaoh, Hamān, and their soldiers the fulfilment of what they feared.” [1]
Incredibly, he (ʿalayhi al-Salām) was raised within the very palace of Pharaoh, as planned by Allah, the Lord of all that exists.
When He inspired to Mūsa’s mother,
“…nurse him, but when you fear for him, put him then into the river, and do not fear or grieve. We will certainly return him to you, and make him one of the messengers.” [2]
And Mūsa (ʿalayhi al-Salām) was then taken in by Pharaoh’s wife, Asiya:
“Pharaoh’s wife said to him, ‘This baby is a source of joy for me and you. Do not kill him. Perhaps he may be useful to us or we may adopt him as a son.’ They were unaware of what was to come.” [3]
Mūsa (ʿalayhi al-Salām) was chosen by Allah to lead his people to freedom. This divine duty ignited a monumental clash between good and evil, between tyranny and faith, showcasing Mūsa’s reliance on Allah, even in the face of seemingly impossible odds.
A journey of faith
The exodus from Egypt was not merely a physical escape; it signified a major test of faith for the believers.
Indeed, guided by his trust in Allah, Mūsa’s leadership (ʿalayhi al-Salām) faced challenges not only from Pharaoh’s tireless pursuit but also from the doubts and weaknesses of his own people.
Allah says,
“When the two groups came face to face, the companions of Mūsa cried out, ‘We are overtaken for sure.’
“Mūsa reassured them, ‘Absolutely not! My Lord is certainly with me — He will guide me.’” [4]
Along these lines, the parting of the sea, as Mūsa (ʿalayhi al-Salām) and the Israelites stood before Pharaoh’s approaching army, is a miracle that will never be forgotten.
As Allah (subḥānahu wa ta’āla) says,
“So We seized him and his soldiers, casting them into the sea. See, then, what was the end of the wrongdoers!
“We made them leaders inviting others to the Fire. And, on the Day of Judgment, they will not be helped.” [5]
Action points
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Do not despair, always turn to Allah in prayer. Even persecuted minorities can be victorious with the help of Allah.
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Do what you can, Mūsa struck his staff on the water while knowing it alone couldn't move the sea.
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Seek guidance from Allah and have trust in His plan; with patience and belief, the believers will be successful.
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Source: Islam21c
Notes
[1] al-Qur’ān, 28:4-6
[2] al-Qur’ān, 28:7
[3] al-Qur’ān, 28:9
[4] al-Qur’ān, 26:61-62
[5] al-Qur’ān, 28:40-41
