The Line of Prophets: A Continuation of the Message

Musa (Moses): A Beacon of Justice, Leadership, and Divine Submission

Musa (peace be upon him) is one of the most prominent prophets in Islam—mentioned by name more than any other person in the Qur’an (over 130 times). His life embodies the Islamic themes of divine justice, prophetic mission, and unwavering submission to Allah.

Islamic tradition honors him with the title Kalim Allah (“the one who spoke with Allah”) and includes him among the Ulul 'Azm—the five prophets of exceptional resolve: Nuh, Ibrahim, Musa, ‘Isa, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).

From the Nile to the Palace: Divine Protection and Preparation

Musa’s story begins with Pharaoh’s command to kill all newborn Israelite boys (Qur’an 28:3–7). His mother, inspired by divine revelation, placed him in a basket in the Nile—trusting Allah’s promise:

“We shall return him to you and make him one of the messengers.”
(Qur’an 28:7)

Ironically, Musa was raised in Pharaoh’s palace, cared for by the very people who sought to destroy him—preparing him to later confront that same empire with Allah’s message.

After defending an Israelite and accidentally killing an Egyptian, Musa fled to Madyan, where he married, lived humbly, and was unknowingly prepared for prophethood (Qur’an 28:15–28).

The Call to Prophethood at Sinai

On his return to Egypt, Musa was called by Allah on Mount Sinai:

“Indeed, I am your Lord. Remove your sandals. Verily, you are in the sacred valley of Tuwa.”
(Qur’an 20:12)

He was appointed as a prophet and commanded:

“Go to Pharaoh; indeed, he has transgressed.”
(Qur’an 20:24)

He requested support from his brother Harun (Aaron), and Allah accepted (Qur’an 20:25–36).

The Confrontation with Pharaoh: Miracles and Defiance

To validate his mission, Allah gave Musa clear signs:

  • His staff turned into a serpent (Qur’an 20:17–21),

  • His hand became radiant (Qur’an 7:108),

  • And he defeated Pharaoh’s magicians, who then believed in the God of Musa and Harun (Qur’an 7:120–122).

Pharaoh, arrogant and defiant, declared:

“I am your lord, most high.”
(Qur’an 79:24)

Despite repeated warnings and plagues—including locusts, frogs, and blood (Qur’an 7:133)—Pharaoh remained stubborn, and divine punishment drew near.

The Exodus: Divine Deliverance and Pharaoh’s Downfall

Allah commanded Musa to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Pursued by Pharaoh, they reached the sea. As panic set in, Musa declared:

“No! Indeed, with me is my Lord; He will guide me.”
(Qur’an 26:62)

Allah parted the sea with Musa’s staff, and the Israelites crossed safely. Pharaoh and his army were drowned.

“Today We will save your body so that you may be a sign for those after you.”
(Qur’an 10:92)

Trials in the Wilderness: Revelation and Rebellion

In the desert, Musa led his people through trials. Allah provided food (manna and quails) and water from a rock (Qur’an 2:57–60).

Musa ascended Sinai for 40 nights to receive the Tawrah (Torah) (Qur’an 7:142), but in his absence, some Israelites worshipped a golden calf under Samiri’s influence (Qur’an 20:85–97). Musa returned, rebuked them, and pleaded for Allah’s forgiveness.

A Journey for Knowledge: Musa and Al-Khidr

Surah Al-Kahf (18:60–82) recounts Musa’s journey to learn from Al-Khidr, a mysterious servant of Allah. Despite Musa’s prophetic status, he struggled to understand Al-Khidr’s seemingly unjust actions—only to later learn the hidden wisdom behind each one.

This story teaches that divine knowledge often lies beyond human perception and that patience and trust in Allah are essential.

Musa the Lawgiver: Scripture and Leadership

Musa received the Tawrah—a divine book of law and guidance (Qur’an 28:43). It embodied Tawheed (God’s oneness), moral commands, and community justice.

Yet the Qur’an says that over time, this scripture was altered by human hands (Qur’an 2:75, 2:79). Still, the core mission of Musa remains central in Islam: to call his people to monotheism and righteous living.

“Indeed, We gave Musa the Scripture... as guidance and mercy that they might be reminded.”
(Qur’an 28:43)

Musa’s Character: Patience, Courage, and Obedience

Throughout his life, Musa exhibited remarkable courage and humility. He was tested by a tyrant, burdened with leadership, and challenged by his own people, yet remained devoted to Allah.

“And mention in the Book, Musa. Indeed, he was chosen, and he was a messenger and a prophet.”
(Qur’an 19:51)

Death and Enduring Legacy

Musa died before entering the Promised Land. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“If I were there, I would show you his grave beside the red sandhill.”
(Sahih Muslim 2372)

For Muslims, Musa is not just a figure of the past, but a living example of prophetic resolve and divine guidance. His story reaffirms that the essence of all prophetic missions is the same:

“Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam.”
(Surah Al-‘Imran 3:19)

📜 Note to Readers:

If you believe any part of this article misrepresents the teachings of Islam, we invite your input. Please cite specific sources from the Qur’an, authentic Hadith, or classical tafsir. This blog aims for accuracy and welcomes respectful, evidence-based dialogue.

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