Al-Qaṣaṣ (Surah 28)
Al-Qaṣaṣ (The Whole Story)
Makki SurahIntroduction
In 26:18-19, Pharaoh reminds Moses (ﷺ) of his up-bringing in the care of Pharaoh and how Moses (ﷺ) killed an Egyptian (accidentally). Unlike the previous sûrah, this Meccan sûrah focuses on these two aspects of Moses’ life in Egypt, along with his escape to Midian where he met his future wife. Another aspect is the story of Korah, one of the people of Moses, who behaved arrogantly, leading to his own destruction. Just like the previous sûrah, it reaffirms Allah’s power and the authenticity of the Quran. Again, the Prophet (ﷺ) is reminded that his duty is not to convert, but to convey. After criticizing the polytheists (verses 45-75), the sûrah concludes by bidding the Prophet (ﷺ) to be steadfast. The next sûrah starts off by talking about steadfastness. In the Name of Allah—the Most Compassionate, Most Merciful
بِسْمِ ٱللَّهِ ٱلرَّحْمَـٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ
In the Name of Allah—the Most Compassionate, Most Merciful.
Pharaoh’s Tyranny
1. Ṭâ-Sĩn-Mĩm. 2. These are the verses of the clear Book. 3. We narrate to you (O Prophet) part of the story of Moses and Pharaoh in truth for people who believe. 4. 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. 5. But it was Our Will to favour those who were oppressed in the land, making them models (of faith) as well as successors; 6. and to establish them in the land; and through them show Pharaoh, Hamân, and their soldiers (the fulfilment of) what they feared.
Surah 28 - Al-Qaṣaṣ (The Whole Story) - Verses 1-6
Baby Moses in the Nile
7. We inspired the mother of Moses: “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.” 8. And (it so happened that) Pharaoh’s people picked him up, only to become their enemy and source of grief. Surely Pharaoh, Hamân, and their soldiers were sinful.
Surah 28 - Al-Qaṣaṣ (The Whole Story) - Verses 7-8
Moses in the Palace
9. 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). 10. And the heart of Moses’ mother ached so much that she almost gave away his identity, had We not reassured her heart in order for her to have faith (in Allah’s promise). 11. And she said to his sister, “Keep track of him!” So she watched him from a distance, while they were unaware. 12. And We had caused him to refuse all wet-nurses at first, so his sister suggested, “Shall I direct you to a family who will bring him up for you and take good care of him?” 13. This is how We returned him to his mother so that her heart would be put at ease, and not grieve, and that she would know that Allah’s promise is (always) true. But most people do not know. 14. And when he reached full strength and maturity, We gave him wisdom and knowledge. This is how We reward the good-doers.
Surah 28 - Al-Qaṣaṣ (The Whole Story) - Verses 9-14
Unintentional Killing
15. (One day) he entered the city unnoticed by its people. There he found two men fighting: one of his own people, and the other of his enemies. The man from his people called to him for help against his foe. So Moses punched him, causing his death. Moses cried, “This is from Satan’s handiwork. He is certainly a sworn, misleading enemy.” 16. He pleaded, “My Lord! I have definitely wronged my soul, so forgive me.” So He forgave him, (for) He is indeed the All-Forgiving, Most Merciful. 17. Moses pledged, “My Lord! For all Your favours upon me, I will never side with the wicked.”