The story of Prophet Sulaymaan -I
Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, was one of the prominent Prophets of Allaah, may Allaah exalt their mention, who are well known in the religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. His story, which is an interesting one, is mentioned in the Noble Quran.
Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, inherited his prophethood and dominion from his father Daawood, may Allaah exalt his mention. This was not a material inheritance, as Prophets do not bequeath their property; rather, it may even be given away to the poor and needy who are not related to them. Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam (may Allaah exalt his mention) said: "We (Prophets) do not inherit anything, and whatever we leave is to be used for charity." [Al-Bukhaari]
In the Quran, Allaah Almighty Says (what means): [Quran: 27:15-17]
After his father's death, Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, became king. He begged Allaah for a kingdom of the stature that none after him would have, and Allaah granted him his wish. Besides wisdom, Allaah had blessed Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, with many abilities. He could command the winds and understand and talk to birds and animals. Allaah directed him to teach both men and jinn to mine the earth and extract its minerals to make tools and weapons. He also favoured him by giving him a mine of copper, which was a rare metal in that era.
During his time, horses were the common mode of transportation. They were essential for defence, to carry soldiers, and cart provisions and weapons of war. The animals were well cared for and well trained. One day, Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, was reviewing a parade of his stable. The fitness, beauty and posture of the horses fascinated him so much that he kept on stroking and admiring them while the sun was nearly setting, and the time for the mid-afternoon prayer was passing by. When he realised this, he exclaimed (what means): "… Indeed I gave preference to the love of good [things] over the remembrance of my Lord until it [i.e., the sun] disappeared into the curtain [of darkness]." [Quran: 38:32]
Indeed, this entire story is related in the Quran as follows, the meaning of which is [Quran: 38:30-40]
One day, Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, gathered his army, which had different battalions of men, jinn, birds, and animals, and marched them to Askalon (in Palestine). While they were passing through a valley, an ant saw the approaching army and cried out to warn the other ants saying (what means): "…Enter your dwellings that you not be crushed by Sulaymaan and his soldiers while they perceive not." [Quran: 27:18] Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, hearing the cry of the ant, smiled. He was glad that the ant knew him to be a Prophet who would not intentionally harm Allaah's creation. He thanked Allaah for saving the ants' lives.
Allaah the Almighty narrated (what means [Quran: 27:17-19]
In Jerusalem, on a huge rock, Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, built a beautiful temple to draw the people to worship Allaah. Today, this building is known as the Dome of the Rock. From there, a large band of followers joined Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, on pilgrimage to the Holy Mosque in Makkah. After they had completed their Hajj, they travelled to Yemen and arrived in the city of Sana'a. Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, was impressed by the clever method of channelling water all over the cities that the Yemenis deployed. He was keen to build similar water systems in his own country but did not have enough springs.
He set out to find a hoopoe bird, which could detect water under the ground. He sent signals all over for the hoopoe to call on him, but it was nowhere to be found. In anger, he declared that unless the bird had a good reason for its absence, he would punish it severely.
The hoopoe eventually came and explained to Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, the reason for its delay. "I have discovered something of which you are not aware. I have come from Sheba (Saba') with important news," said the bird. Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, became curious, and his anger subsided. The bird continued: "Saba' is ruled by a queen who has plenty of everything, including a splendid throne. But in spite of all this wealth, Satan has entered her heart and the hearts of her people. She rules their minds completely. I was shocked to learn that they worship the sun instead of Allaah, the Almighty."
To check the hoopoe's information, Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, sent a letter to the queen with the bird. He instructed the bird to remain hidden and to observe everything it saw.
The hoopoe dropped the letter in front of the queen and flew away to hide. She excitedly opened and read its content (which means): [Quran: 27:30-31]
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Sulaymaan- II
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
17/05/2005
The queen of Sheba, upon receiving the letter from Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, was very disturbed and hurriedly summoned her advisors. They reacted as to a challenge, for they felt that there was someone challenging them, hinting at war and defeat, and asking them to submit to his conditions.
They told her that they could only offer advice, but it was her right to command action. She sensed that they wanted to meet Sulaymaan's threat of invasion with a battle. However, she told them: "Peace and friendship are better and wiser; war only brings humiliation, enslaves people and destroys everything that is good. I have decided to send gifts to Sulaymaan, selected from our most precious treasures. The courtiers who will deliver the gifts will also have an opportunity to learn about Sulaymaan and his military might."
Sulaymaan's 'reconnaissance team' brought him the news of the arrival of the queen’s messengers with gifts. He immediately realised that the queen had sent her men on a probing mission and, therefore, gave orders to rally his army. The envoys of the queen, entering amidst the well-equipped army of Sulaymaan, may Allaah be pleased with him, realised that their wealth was nothing in comparison to that of the kingdom of Sulaymaan, in which the floors of his palace were made of sandalwood and inlaid with pure gold. They noticed Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, surveying his army, and were amazed at the number and variety of soldiers, which included lions, tigers, and birds. The messengers stood awestruck, realising that they were in front of an irresistible army.
The envoys marvelled at the splendour surrounding them. They eagerly presented their queen's precious gifts and told Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, that the queen wished that he would accept them as a token of friendship. They were shocked by his reaction: he did not even ask to open the covers of the containers! He told them: "Allaah has given me plenty of wealth, a large kingdom, and prophethood. I am, therefore, beyond bribery. My only objective is to spread belief in Tawheed - the Oneness of Allaah."
He also directed them to take the gifts back to the queen and to tell her that if she did not stop her type of worship (i.e., the worship of the sun) he would uproot her kingdom and drive its people out of the land.
The queen's envoys returned with the gifts and conveyed the message. They also told her of the wonderful things they had seen. Instead of taking offence, she decided to visit Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention. Accompanied by her royal officials and servants, she left Saba', sending a messenger ahead to inform Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, that she was on her way to meet him.
Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, asked the jinn in his employment whether anyone among them could bring her throne to his palace before she arrived. One of them said: "I will bring it to you before this sitting is over." Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, did not react to this offer; it appeared that he was waiting for a faster means. The jinn competed with each other to please him. One of them said: "I will fetch it for you in the twinkling of an eye!"
No sooner had this one, who had knowledge of the Book, finished his statement that the throne stood before Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention. The mission had, indeed, been completed in the blinking of an eye. Sulaymaan's seat was in Palestine, and the throne of the queen had been in Yemen, two thousand miles away. This was a great miracle performed by one of the soldiers of Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention.
When the queen arrived at Sulaymaan's palace, she was welcomed with pomp and ceremony. Then, pointing to the altered throne, Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, asked her whether her throne looked like it. She looked at it again and again. In her mind she was convinced that her throne could not possibly be the one she was looking at, as hers was in her palace; yet, she detected a striking similarity and replied: "It is as if it were the very one, and resembles mine in every respect." Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, judged that she was intelligent and diplomatic.
He then invited her into the great hall, the floor of which was laid in glass and shimmering. Thinking it was water, as she stepped on the floor, she lifted her skirt slightly above her heels, for fear of wetting it. Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, pointed out to her that it was made of solid glass.
She was amazed. She had never seen such things before. The queen realised that she was in the company of an erudite person who was not only the ruler of a great kingdom, but also a messenger of Allaah. She repented, gave up sun worship, accepted the faith of Allaah, and asked her people to do the same.
Thus, the queen saw her people's creed fall apart before Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention. She realised that the sun which her people worshipped was nothing but one of Allaah's creations.
The sun eclipsed within her for the first time, and her heart was lit by a never fading light - the light of Islam. Almighty Allaah told us this story in Soorah An-Naml (lit. ants) in the Quran, in the twentieth to forty-fourth verses.
Sulaymaan's public work was largely carried out by the jinn. This was a punishment for their sins of making people believe that they were all-powerful and that they knew the unseen and could foresee the future. As a prophet, it was Sulaymaan's duty to remove such false beliefs from his followers.
Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, lived amidst glory, and all creatures were subjected to him. Then Allaah, the Exalted, ordained for him to die. His life and death were full of wonders and miracles; thus, his death harmonised with his life and glory. His death, like his life, was unique. The people had to learn that the future is known neither by the jinn, nor by the Prophets, but by Allaah Almighty alone.
Sulaymaan's effort, may Allaah exalt his mention, in this direction did not end with his life, for even his death became an example. He was sitting holding his staff, overseeing the jinn at work in a mine. He died sitting in this position. For a long time, no one was aware of his death, for he was seen sitting erect. The jinn continued with their sand toil, thinking that Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, was watching over them.
Many days later, a little worm began nibbling on Sulaymaan's staff. It continued to do so, eating the lower part of the staff, until it fell out of Sulaymaan's hand, and his great body fell to the ground. People hurried to him, and upon reaching his body realised that he had died a long time ago and that the jinn did not perceive the unseen, for had the jinn known the unseen, they would not have kept working, thinking that Sulaymaan was alive.
Regarding this, Allaah the Exalted revealed (what means): "And to [Quran: 34:12-14]
Sunday, January 30, 2011
The story of Haaroot and Maaroot
The story of Haaroot and Maaroot – I
One of the stories in the Quran, is the story of Haaroot and Maaroot. Allaah Says what means: [Quran 2: 102]
The Children of Israel received a Great Book from Allaah, namely the Quran, which confirmed what they had been told in the Tawraah (i.e. Torah); they were claiming to adhere to their scripture, yet they disbelieved in the Messenger (Muhammad) sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, and a group of them also threw the Scripture of Allaah (i.e., the Tawraah) behind their backs and shunned it, despite them knowing that it was the truth, as Allaah tells us, saying what means [Quran 2: 101]
It is the way of Allaah that He punishes those who shun that which benefits them; He therefore busies them with things that are of no benefit to them, or makes them indulge in what harms them. Whoever shuns the worship of the Most Merciful will be afflicted with the worship of idols.
Whoever shuns Islamic monotheism will be afflicted with association with Allaah. Whoever shuns the Sunnah will be afflicted with religious innovation. Whoever shuns adhering to the Islamic texts will be afflicted with blind imitation of others who have no evidence to back up their actions.
Whoever shuns hoping in, loving and fearing only Allaah will be afflicted with directing all these acts to other than Him. Whoever refrains from spending his wealth for the sake of Allaah will be afflicted with spending it for the sake of Satan.
Whoever shuns humbling himself to Allaah will be afflicted with being humiliated by other people, and whoever shuns the truth will be afflicted with adhering to falsehood.
This is exactly what happened to the Jews when they shunned the Book of Allaah; they were afflicted with following in the footsteps of Satan. During the reign of Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, they refused to believe in the Book of Allaah, and were thus afflicted by following what the devils recited and invented.
The devils introduced magic to the people and claimed that Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, used magic and that it was the means for him to have such great power and a vast empire.
Indeed they lied, because Allaah is the One who granted him enough power and such a vast empire that he had no need to resort to magic, or to seek the help of the devils. As a matter of fact, Allaah facilitated the devils for the disposal of Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention; Allaah Says what means: “They made for him what he willed of elevated chambers, statues, bowls like reservoirs, and stationary kettles…” [Quran 34: 13]
Allaah utilised them for Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, to use, and so they were under his command, but after the death of Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, the devils came out to the people claiming that the reason behind his control over them was the magic he used and practiced, but Allaah exposes their lie saying what means: “And they [i.e., the Children of Israel] followed [instead] what the devils had recited during the reign of Sulaymaan. It was not Sulaymaan who disbelieved …” [Quran 2: 102]
Whoever practices or uses magic is a disbeliever, but Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, never disbelieved and never practiced magic; indeed Allaah confirms the very opposite, saying what means: “…It was not Sulaymaan who disbelieved, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic…” [Quran 2: 102] They disbelieved by teaching people magic and how to use it, thereby misguiding them.
The Jews practiced the magic that Allaah sent the two angels with, namely Haaroot and Maaroot, as a means of testing people and seeing who amongst His slaves would remain steadfast and who would deviate, or who would remain upon faith and who would disbelieve.
These two angels, Haaroot and Maaroot, were sent to teach people magic in the land of Babylon in Iraq as a test for these people. One may ask: “How can Allaah send these two angels to teach people magic if practicing magic is disbelief?” The answer is that it is done in order to subject people to a trial, as Allaah Says what means: “…But they [i.e., the two angels] do not teach anyone unless they say: 'We are a trial, so do not disbelieve [by practicing magic]…'” [Quran 2: 102]
These angels would initially warn people not to learn this magic, and that to do so would entail disbelief, but if they insisted on learning magic, then they would teach them it; this magic could thereafter be used for prohibited reasons, such as to separate spouses. The Jews practiced the magic that they accused Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, of using.
The Jews learnt magic and became specialists in it, and to this day the most skilled magicians are the Jews, especially the Moroccan Jews. These Jews shunned the news of the description and imminent arrival of the Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam that was in their scripture; they also shunned the new Book (i.e. the Quran); they eschewed all this and instead resorted to learning and practicing magic.
In this story, Allaah mentions some of the evil consequences of magic, such as what means: “…And [yet] they learn from them that by which they cause separation between a man and his wife…” [Quran 2: 102]
This is while Allaah describes marriage as something that results in harmony when He Says what means: “…He placed between you [i.e., man and his wife] affection and mercy….” [Quran 30: 21]
Magic separates man from his wife, which is proof that it does have an effect, but this effect only occurs by the will of Allaah. Some types of magic make a person love another and act as if he is enslaved to him or her; such a person would feel that he simply cannot live without this person; another type of magic results in the opposite, whereby a person may hate another to the extent that he cannot even look him in the eye; a father can be bewitched in order to make him despise his children or wife, as in the previously mentioned verse of Chapter Al-Baqarah.
Allaah Says what means: “But they [i.e. the Children of Israel] certainly knew that whoever purchased it [i.e. learnt and practiced magic] would not have in the Hereafter any share.” [Quran 2: 102]
The scholars differed in their interpretation of this verse. Some of them stated that Allaah did not send down these angels with magic to teach people, but rather it was the devils who taught people magic. On the other hand, many from the Salaf (predecessors), may Allaah have mercy upon them, were of the view that Allaah sent down to the earth these two angels from the heavens as a punishment to them; others said that they were angels who deviated and were an exceptional case from all the other angels, who never disobey Allaah; yet others said that they were honourable angels who were sent down to teach people magic as a way of testing them, but who only taught those who insisted on learning it after having been informed and reminded that magic is a form of disbelief, and after having been sternly warned against learning and practicing it.
Undoubtedly, learning magic is prohibited, and practicing it is disbelief, as indicated in the verse, in addition to many prophetic narrations that affirm this fact.
Magic is a reality and not mere illusion; some people consider tricks of the hand or deceptions of the eye to be magic, but magic is much more than that; it is a reality, and could lead one to hate what he used to love, such as the case which Allaah informs us of in the abovementioned verse where it can separate man from his wife. Indeed the goal that the devil strives hardest to achieve is to separate man from his wife, as in the narration of Jaabir ibn ‘Abdullaah, may Allaah be pleased with him, who stated that the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam said: “Satan places his throne on the water, then he sends his troops to people; the closest devil in position to him is the one who causes the most mischief and trials amongst people. One of them (i.e., from his troops) comes to him and says: `I continued to whisper to so and so until he committed such and such a sin.` Satan responds: `I swear by Allaah! You have not done much.` (This process continues) until one (devil) comes and says: `I continued to whisper to him until I made him separate from his wife.` Thereupon, Satan brings him close to him and hugs him, saying: `Yes! You are the one.`” [Muslim] Meaning, that he is the one who has achieved the greatest accomplishment. This separation is caused by either magic or by any other means.
Some magicians use magic to bewitch the eyes of people and make them believe that they are seeing something that they are not, as Allaah says regarding the magicians of Pharaoh what means: “…And they presented a great [feat] of magic.” [Quran 7: 116] People thought, as a result of their magic, that they were seeing snakes instead of ropes and sticks.
Some people claim that there is a prophetic narration that is as follows: "Learn magic but do not teach it to others." This is a fabrication; such words were never uttered by the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam.
The Islamic ruling regarding the magician is that he is to be beheaded, as the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam said: “The punishment for the magician is that he must be beheaded.” [At-Tirmithi & Al-Haakim] This is because such a person is an apostate, even if he fasts, prays and claims that he is a Muslim, because his practice of magic invalidates any good deeds he may perform.
There are two ways of being relieved from the effects of magic:
- The incorrect way is to go to magicians for this purpose; this is prohibited because the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam said: “He who approaches a magician and believes what he says will have his prayers rejected for forty days.” [Muslim] Thus, it is prohibited to approach them or to seek their assistance in removing the effect of magic done on one by others.
- The correct way is by reciting the legislated Ruqyah (i.e. the Quran and certain prophetic supplications). Examples of this would be the Chapters Al-Faatihah, Al-Ikhlaas, Al-Falaq, An-Naas and the Verse of the Throne, or Ayat Al-Kursi, which is the two-hundred and fifty fifth verse of Chapter Al-Baqarah. An example of a prophetic supplication that is useful in this regard is: "Allaahumma Rabban-naas, athhibil-ba's, wash'fi, Antash-Shaafi, laa shifaa'a illaa shifaa'uka, shifaa’n laa yughaadiru saqama [O Allaah! The Lord of mankind! Remove this disease and cure (him or her). You are the Great Curer. There is no cure but through You, which leaves behind no disease].'' [Al-Bukhaari]
One may also recite Quranic verses in water and add to it seven dried and crushed Lote-tree leaves. This method is confirmed to have been practiced by some of the Salaf such as Wahb ibn Munabbih, may Allaah have mercy upon him.
Some people recite the verses that address the issue of magic, like those found in Chapters Al-A’raaf, Yoonus, and Taa Haa over this water and then add the crushed leaves to it, then they recite Chapters Al-Ikhlaas, Al-Falaq, An-Naas and some authentic Prophetic supplications over it. They then wash their body with this water. This is a method that has been proven to be beneficial by experience.
The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was bewitched by Labeed ibn Al-A’sam, who had strong relations with the Jews, and the Jews requested his assistance due to him being renowned for his experience in magic.
The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was afflicted by this magic for six months. He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam would think that he was sleeping with his wives while in fact he was not. He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam persevered through this period, and when he feared that it would affect his zeal for worship, he sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam supplicated to Allaah, asking Him to remove it from him.
'Aa’ishah, may Allaah be pleased with her, narrated: “Magic was done on the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, so he began to think that he was doing things that he was not actually doing. One day, he sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam invoked (Allaah) for a long period and then said: "I feel that Allaah has inspired me as how to cure myself. Two persons came to me (in a dream) and sat down, one by my head and the other by my feet. One of them asked the other: 'What is the sickness of this man?' The other replied: 'He has been bewitched.' The first asked: 'Who has bewitched him?' The other replied: 'Labeed ibn Al-A'sam.' The first one asked: 'What materials did he use?' The other replied: 'A comb, the hair gathered on it, and the outer skin of the pollen of a male date-palm.' The first asked: 'Where are they?' The other replied: 'In the well of Tharwaan.'"
So the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam headed out towards the well. He later returned and said to me: "The date-palms (i.e., the ones on the well) are like the heads of devils." I asked: 'Did you take out those things with which the magic was done?' He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam replied: "No, for I have been cured by Allaah, and I am afraid that this action may spread evil amongst the people." Later on the well was filled up with earth." [Al-Bukhaari]
The hair that was on the comb was taken, and a knot was made in which the magic was placed; then, the hair that contained the magic was placed inside the outer skin of the pollen of a male date-palm, and this was placed under a rock, inside the well. When some Companions, may Allaah be pleased with them, went to remove this magic from the well, they found that its water was the colour of Henna, due to the effect of magic on it.
The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was inspired by Allaah as to where the location of the magic was; it was removed and the knot was undone, so the magic was ruined.
The question of 'Aa’ishah, may Allaah be pleased with her, was an indirect way of asking why the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam did not punish the man who bewitched him, and he sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam explained why, saying: “I am afraid that this action may spread evil amongst the people.” Meaning, that since the punishment of being a magician is execution by beheading, and because people did not know that he practiced such evil, nor did they witness him doing it on the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, then punishing him would have encouraged people to accuse anyone of doing magic, even if they were innocent, and justify it by quoting this action of the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam.
He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was very careful not to execute anyone whose crime was not obvious to everybody, and it is for this same reason he refrained from killing Ibn Salool, who was the head of hypocrites, despite him knowing that he was being a disbeliever, a liar and a hypocrite.
He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam did not kill him because it would not have been clear to people why he killed him, due to this Ibn Salool pretending to be Muslim.
One may ask: “How could the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam be bewitched when he was conveying the message?”
The answer is that the magic never affected any aspect of his mind, memory or mission; it only affected his relations with his wives.
Another question that might be asked is: “Does the fact that he sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was bewitched not contradict being protected by Allaah? Allaah Says what means: “…And Allaah will protect you from the people…” [Quran 5: 67]
The answer is that the protection referred to in this verse was against certain matters only, such as being killed before conveying the message fully, or being prevented from conveying the message in any way.
In fact, proof of the fact that such protection was limited is that he sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was afflicted greatly by the disbelievers: they offended and beat him, and besieged him and his followers. He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam also suffered hunger and fell into a pit that the disbelievers had dug for him. They did all these things but were unable to prevent him from conveying the message of Allaah.
Some magic is performed by blowing into knots and other materials which magicians compile, which makes the bewitched person believe he is performing actions that is not actually doing; another type makes a person incapable of having sexual intercourse with his wife; another type makes the wife imagine that her husband is a beast or a snake whenever he tries to approach her sexually; there is another type that makes the husband imagine that his wife has a foul stench whenever he attempts to approach her sexually, even though she may be clean and smell pleasant.
There are women who resort to magic in order to make their husbands divorce his other wife or wives, so that she can have him all to herself - and this is one of the greatest ways of oppressing others.
One may ask: “There are deadly types of magic; are they incurable?”
The answer is that they are curable, unless the effects of this magic coincide with the designated time of the person’s death. If that is the case, then nothing can help him. Allaah Says what means: "But never will Allaah delay a soul when its time has come. And Allaah is Acquainted with what you do.” [Quran 63: 11]
The one who bewitches others and thereby causes their death must be sentenced to death, because such a person killed a soul intentionally and without due right.
Some people wear amulets, claiming that they protect them from magic, but they only add to the evil and make them weaker in faith.
In Islam, ends do not justify means; there are people who resort to magic in order to reconcile, for example, between two disputing people. This is prohibited, even if people claim that they have good intentions and are only using it for a good purpose. This is refused in Islam because the means used are evil, and regardless of the sought result, using magic remains prohibited.
One of the stories in the Quran, is the story of Haaroot and Maaroot. Allaah Says what means: [Quran 2: 102]
The Children of Israel received a Great Book from Allaah, namely the Quran, which confirmed what they had been told in the Tawraah (i.e. Torah); they were claiming to adhere to their scripture, yet they disbelieved in the Messenger (Muhammad) sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, and a group of them also threw the Scripture of Allaah (i.e., the Tawraah) behind their backs and shunned it, despite them knowing that it was the truth, as Allaah tells us, saying what means [Quran 2: 101]
It is the way of Allaah that He punishes those who shun that which benefits them; He therefore busies them with things that are of no benefit to them, or makes them indulge in what harms them. Whoever shuns the worship of the Most Merciful will be afflicted with the worship of idols.
Whoever shuns Islamic monotheism will be afflicted with association with Allaah. Whoever shuns the Sunnah will be afflicted with religious innovation. Whoever shuns adhering to the Islamic texts will be afflicted with blind imitation of others who have no evidence to back up their actions.
Whoever shuns hoping in, loving and fearing only Allaah will be afflicted with directing all these acts to other than Him. Whoever refrains from spending his wealth for the sake of Allaah will be afflicted with spending it for the sake of Satan.
Whoever shuns humbling himself to Allaah will be afflicted with being humiliated by other people, and whoever shuns the truth will be afflicted with adhering to falsehood.
This is exactly what happened to the Jews when they shunned the Book of Allaah; they were afflicted with following in the footsteps of Satan. During the reign of Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, they refused to believe in the Book of Allaah, and were thus afflicted by following what the devils recited and invented.
The devils introduced magic to the people and claimed that Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, used magic and that it was the means for him to have such great power and a vast empire.
Indeed they lied, because Allaah is the One who granted him enough power and such a vast empire that he had no need to resort to magic, or to seek the help of the devils. As a matter of fact, Allaah facilitated the devils for the disposal of Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention; Allaah Says what means: “They made for him what he willed of elevated chambers, statues, bowls like reservoirs, and stationary kettles…” [Quran 34: 13]
Allaah utilised them for Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, to use, and so they were under his command, but after the death of Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, the devils came out to the people claiming that the reason behind his control over them was the magic he used and practiced, but Allaah exposes their lie saying what means: “And they [i.e., the Children of Israel] followed [instead] what the devils had recited during the reign of Sulaymaan. It was not Sulaymaan who disbelieved …” [Quran 2: 102]
Whoever practices or uses magic is a disbeliever, but Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, never disbelieved and never practiced magic; indeed Allaah confirms the very opposite, saying what means: “…It was not Sulaymaan who disbelieved, but the devils disbelieved, teaching people magic…” [Quran 2: 102] They disbelieved by teaching people magic and how to use it, thereby misguiding them.
The Jews practiced the magic that Allaah sent the two angels with, namely Haaroot and Maaroot, as a means of testing people and seeing who amongst His slaves would remain steadfast and who would deviate, or who would remain upon faith and who would disbelieve.
These two angels, Haaroot and Maaroot, were sent to teach people magic in the land of Babylon in Iraq as a test for these people. One may ask: “How can Allaah send these two angels to teach people magic if practicing magic is disbelief?” The answer is that it is done in order to subject people to a trial, as Allaah Says what means: “…But they [i.e., the two angels] do not teach anyone unless they say: 'We are a trial, so do not disbelieve [by practicing magic]…'” [Quran 2: 102]
These angels would initially warn people not to learn this magic, and that to do so would entail disbelief, but if they insisted on learning magic, then they would teach them it; this magic could thereafter be used for prohibited reasons, such as to separate spouses. The Jews practiced the magic that they accused Sulaymaan, may Allaah exalt his mention, of using.
The Jews learnt magic and became specialists in it, and to this day the most skilled magicians are the Jews, especially the Moroccan Jews. These Jews shunned the news of the description and imminent arrival of the Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam that was in their scripture; they also shunned the new Book (i.e. the Quran); they eschewed all this and instead resorted to learning and practicing magic.
In this story, Allaah mentions some of the evil consequences of magic, such as what means: “…And [yet] they learn from them that by which they cause separation between a man and his wife…” [Quran 2: 102]
This is while Allaah describes marriage as something that results in harmony when He Says what means: “…He placed between you [i.e., man and his wife] affection and mercy….” [Quran 30: 21]
Magic separates man from his wife, which is proof that it does have an effect, but this effect only occurs by the will of Allaah. Some types of magic make a person love another and act as if he is enslaved to him or her; such a person would feel that he simply cannot live without this person; another type of magic results in the opposite, whereby a person may hate another to the extent that he cannot even look him in the eye; a father can be bewitched in order to make him despise his children or wife, as in the previously mentioned verse of Chapter Al-Baqarah.
Allaah Says what means: “But they [i.e. the Children of Israel] certainly knew that whoever purchased it [i.e. learnt and practiced magic] would not have in the Hereafter any share.” [Quran 2: 102]
The scholars differed in their interpretation of this verse. Some of them stated that Allaah did not send down these angels with magic to teach people, but rather it was the devils who taught people magic. On the other hand, many from the Salaf (predecessors), may Allaah have mercy upon them, were of the view that Allaah sent down to the earth these two angels from the heavens as a punishment to them; others said that they were angels who deviated and were an exceptional case from all the other angels, who never disobey Allaah; yet others said that they were honourable angels who were sent down to teach people magic as a way of testing them, but who only taught those who insisted on learning it after having been informed and reminded that magic is a form of disbelief, and after having been sternly warned against learning and practicing it.
Undoubtedly, learning magic is prohibited, and practicing it is disbelief, as indicated in the verse, in addition to many prophetic narrations that affirm this fact.
Magic is a reality and not mere illusion; some people consider tricks of the hand or deceptions of the eye to be magic, but magic is much more than that; it is a reality, and could lead one to hate what he used to love, such as the case which Allaah informs us of in the abovementioned verse where it can separate man from his wife. Indeed the goal that the devil strives hardest to achieve is to separate man from his wife, as in the narration of Jaabir ibn ‘Abdullaah, may Allaah be pleased with him, who stated that the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam said: “Satan places his throne on the water, then he sends his troops to people; the closest devil in position to him is the one who causes the most mischief and trials amongst people. One of them (i.e., from his troops) comes to him and says: `I continued to whisper to so and so until he committed such and such a sin.` Satan responds: `I swear by Allaah! You have not done much.` (This process continues) until one (devil) comes and says: `I continued to whisper to him until I made him separate from his wife.` Thereupon, Satan brings him close to him and hugs him, saying: `Yes! You are the one.`” [Muslim] Meaning, that he is the one who has achieved the greatest accomplishment. This separation is caused by either magic or by any other means.
Some magicians use magic to bewitch the eyes of people and make them believe that they are seeing something that they are not, as Allaah says regarding the magicians of Pharaoh what means: “…And they presented a great [feat] of magic.” [Quran 7: 116] People thought, as a result of their magic, that they were seeing snakes instead of ropes and sticks.
Some people claim that there is a prophetic narration that is as follows: "Learn magic but do not teach it to others." This is a fabrication; such words were never uttered by the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam.
The Islamic ruling regarding the magician is that he is to be beheaded, as the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam said: “The punishment for the magician is that he must be beheaded.” [At-Tirmithi & Al-Haakim] This is because such a person is an apostate, even if he fasts, prays and claims that he is a Muslim, because his practice of magic invalidates any good deeds he may perform.
There are two ways of being relieved from the effects of magic:
- The incorrect way is to go to magicians for this purpose; this is prohibited because the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam said: “He who approaches a magician and believes what he says will have his prayers rejected for forty days.” [Muslim] Thus, it is prohibited to approach them or to seek their assistance in removing the effect of magic done on one by others.
- The correct way is by reciting the legislated Ruqyah (i.e. the Quran and certain prophetic supplications). Examples of this would be the Chapters Al-Faatihah, Al-Ikhlaas, Al-Falaq, An-Naas and the Verse of the Throne, or Ayat Al-Kursi, which is the two-hundred and fifty fifth verse of Chapter Al-Baqarah. An example of a prophetic supplication that is useful in this regard is: "Allaahumma Rabban-naas, athhibil-ba's, wash'fi, Antash-Shaafi, laa shifaa'a illaa shifaa'uka, shifaa’n laa yughaadiru saqama [O Allaah! The Lord of mankind! Remove this disease and cure (him or her). You are the Great Curer. There is no cure but through You, which leaves behind no disease].'' [Al-Bukhaari]
One may also recite Quranic verses in water and add to it seven dried and crushed Lote-tree leaves. This method is confirmed to have been practiced by some of the Salaf such as Wahb ibn Munabbih, may Allaah have mercy upon him.
Some people recite the verses that address the issue of magic, like those found in Chapters Al-A’raaf, Yoonus, and Taa Haa over this water and then add the crushed leaves to it, then they recite Chapters Al-Ikhlaas, Al-Falaq, An-Naas and some authentic Prophetic supplications over it. They then wash their body with this water. This is a method that has been proven to be beneficial by experience.
The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was bewitched by Labeed ibn Al-A’sam, who had strong relations with the Jews, and the Jews requested his assistance due to him being renowned for his experience in magic.
The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was afflicted by this magic for six months. He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam would think that he was sleeping with his wives while in fact he was not. He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam persevered through this period, and when he feared that it would affect his zeal for worship, he sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam supplicated to Allaah, asking Him to remove it from him.
'Aa’ishah, may Allaah be pleased with her, narrated: “Magic was done on the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, so he began to think that he was doing things that he was not actually doing. One day, he sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam invoked (Allaah) for a long period and then said: "I feel that Allaah has inspired me as how to cure myself. Two persons came to me (in a dream) and sat down, one by my head and the other by my feet. One of them asked the other: 'What is the sickness of this man?' The other replied: 'He has been bewitched.' The first asked: 'Who has bewitched him?' The other replied: 'Labeed ibn Al-A'sam.' The first one asked: 'What materials did he use?' The other replied: 'A comb, the hair gathered on it, and the outer skin of the pollen of a male date-palm.' The first asked: 'Where are they?' The other replied: 'In the well of Tharwaan.'"
So the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam headed out towards the well. He later returned and said to me: "The date-palms (i.e., the ones on the well) are like the heads of devils." I asked: 'Did you take out those things with which the magic was done?' He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam replied: "No, for I have been cured by Allaah, and I am afraid that this action may spread evil amongst the people." Later on the well was filled up with earth." [Al-Bukhaari]
The hair that was on the comb was taken, and a knot was made in which the magic was placed; then, the hair that contained the magic was placed inside the outer skin of the pollen of a male date-palm, and this was placed under a rock, inside the well. When some Companions, may Allaah be pleased with them, went to remove this magic from the well, they found that its water was the colour of Henna, due to the effect of magic on it.
The Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was inspired by Allaah as to where the location of the magic was; it was removed and the knot was undone, so the magic was ruined.
The question of 'Aa’ishah, may Allaah be pleased with her, was an indirect way of asking why the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam did not punish the man who bewitched him, and he sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam explained why, saying: “I am afraid that this action may spread evil amongst the people.” Meaning, that since the punishment of being a magician is execution by beheading, and because people did not know that he practiced such evil, nor did they witness him doing it on the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, then punishing him would have encouraged people to accuse anyone of doing magic, even if they were innocent, and justify it by quoting this action of the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam.
He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was very careful not to execute anyone whose crime was not obvious to everybody, and it is for this same reason he refrained from killing Ibn Salool, who was the head of hypocrites, despite him knowing that he was being a disbeliever, a liar and a hypocrite.
He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam did not kill him because it would not have been clear to people why he killed him, due to this Ibn Salool pretending to be Muslim.
One may ask: “How could the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam be bewitched when he was conveying the message?”
The answer is that the magic never affected any aspect of his mind, memory or mission; it only affected his relations with his wives.
Another question that might be asked is: “Does the fact that he sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was bewitched not contradict being protected by Allaah? Allaah Says what means: “…And Allaah will protect you from the people…” [Quran 5: 67]
The answer is that the protection referred to in this verse was against certain matters only, such as being killed before conveying the message fully, or being prevented from conveying the message in any way.
In fact, proof of the fact that such protection was limited is that he sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam was afflicted greatly by the disbelievers: they offended and beat him, and besieged him and his followers. He sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam also suffered hunger and fell into a pit that the disbelievers had dug for him. They did all these things but were unable to prevent him from conveying the message of Allaah.
Some magic is performed by blowing into knots and other materials which magicians compile, which makes the bewitched person believe he is performing actions that is not actually doing; another type makes a person incapable of having sexual intercourse with his wife; another type makes the wife imagine that her husband is a beast or a snake whenever he tries to approach her sexually; there is another type that makes the husband imagine that his wife has a foul stench whenever he attempts to approach her sexually, even though she may be clean and smell pleasant.
There are women who resort to magic in order to make their husbands divorce his other wife or wives, so that she can have him all to herself - and this is one of the greatest ways of oppressing others.
One may ask: “There are deadly types of magic; are they incurable?”
The answer is that they are curable, unless the effects of this magic coincide with the designated time of the person’s death. If that is the case, then nothing can help him. Allaah Says what means: "But never will Allaah delay a soul when its time has come. And Allaah is Acquainted with what you do.” [Quran 63: 11]
The one who bewitches others and thereby causes their death must be sentenced to death, because such a person killed a soul intentionally and without due right.
Some people wear amulets, claiming that they protect them from magic, but they only add to the evil and make them weaker in faith.
In Islam, ends do not justify means; there are people who resort to magic in order to reconcile, for example, between two disputing people. This is prohibited, even if people claim that they have good intentions and are only using it for a good purpose. This is refused in Islam because the means used are evil, and regardless of the sought result, using magic remains prohibited.
The story of Prophet Saalih
The story of Prophet Saalih – I
After the destruction of 'Aad, the people of Prophet Houd, may Allaah exalt his mention, Thamood, the people of Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, succeeded them in power and glory. They, like their predecessors, fell to idol-worshipping. As their material wealth increased so, too, did their evil ways, while their virtue decreased. Like the people of 'Aad, they erected huge buildings on the plains and hewed beautiful homes out of the hills. Tyranny and oppression became prevalent as evil men ruled the land.
Allaah, the Exalted, sent unto them His Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, a man from among them. His full name was Saalih Ibn Ubeid Ibn Maseh Ibn Ubeid Ibn Hader Ibn Thamood Ibn Ather Ibn Eram, Ibn Noah (Nooh, may Allaah exalt his mention). He called his people to worship Allaah alone, and not to associate any partners with Him. While some of them believed him, the majority of them disbelieved and harmed him by both words and deeds. Allaah Said in the Quran (what means): "And to...'" [Quran 11:61]
Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, was known for his wisdom, purity and goodness and had been greatly respected by his people before Allaah's revelation came to him. Almighty Allaah mentions what his people said to him in the Quranic verses (which mean):" [Quran 11:62]
They merely wanted to worship the same gods as their fathers had, with no reason, no proof, and no thought. The proof of Prophet Saalih's message was evident, but despite this, it was obvious that most of his people did not believe him. They doubted his words, thinking he was charmed, and they saw that he would not stop preaching. Fearing that his followers would increase in number, they tried to put him off by assigning him an important task; to prove that he was a messenger of Allaah by performing a miracle. They asked him to let a unique she-camel emerge from the mountains.
Allaah Almighty granted Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, this miracle and a huge, unique she-camel appeared from the direction of the mountain. The Quranic commentators said that the people of Thamood gathered on a certain day at their meeting place, and prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, came and addressed them to believe in Allaah, reminding them of the favors Allaah had granted them.
Then, pointing at a rock, they demanded: "Ask your Lord to make a she-camel, which must be 10 months pregnant, tall and attractive, issue from the rock for us." Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, replied: "Look now! If Allaah sends you what you have requested, just as you have described, will you believe in that which I have come to you with and have faith in the message I have been sent with?" They answered: "Yes." So he took a vow from them on this, and then prayed to Allaah, The Almighty, to grant their request. Allaah ordered the distant rock to split asunder, to bring forth a great ten-month pregnant she-camel. When their eyes set on it, they were amazed. They saw a great thing, a wonderful sight, a dazzling power and clear evidence!
A number of Prophet Saalih's people believed, yet most of them continued in their disbelief, stubbornness, and going astray. Allaah, the Almighty, said in the Noble Quran (what means): "And We gave Thamood the she-camel as a visible sign, but they wronged her." [Quran 17:59] And (what means): "And certainly did the companions of al-Hijr (628) [i.e. the Thamood] deny the messengers." [Quran 15:80-81]
There are a number of accounts by Quranic commentators of this she-camel and its miraculous nature. It was said that the she-camel was miraculous because a rock in the mountain split open and it came forth from it, followed by its young offspring. Other accounts said that the she-camel used to drink all the water in the wells in one day, and no other animals could approach the water. Still others claimed that the she-camel produced milk sufficient for all the people to drink, on the same day that it drank all the water, leaving none for them.
At first, the people of Thamood were greatly surprised when the she-camel emerged from the mountain rocks. It was a blessed beast, and its milk sufficient for thousands of men, women and children. If it slept in a place that place was abandoned by other animals. Thus it was obvious that is was not an ordinary she-camel, but one of Allaah's signs.
Their hatred of Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, turned towards the blessed she-camel and became centered on it. A conspiracy started to be hatched against the miraculous beast by the disbelievers, and they secretly plotted against it.
Prophet Saalih feared that they might kill her, so he warned them saying (what means): [Quran 11:64]
For a while, Prophet Saalih's people let the camel graze and drink freely, but in their hearts they hated it. However, the miraculous appearance of the unique she-camel caused many to become his followers, and they clung to their belief in Allaah.
The disbelievers now began complaining that this huge she-camel with its unusual qualities drank most of the water and frightened their cattle.
They laid a plot to kill the beast, and sought the help of their women folk to tempt the men to carry out their commands. A lady named Saduq Bint Mahya, who was from a rich and noble family, offered herself to a young man named Masrai Ibn Mahraj on condition that he hamstrings the she-camel. Aneezah, an old woman, offered one of her daughters to a young man, Qudaar Ibn Saluf, in return for killing the she-camel. Naturally, these young men were tempted and set about finding seven others to assist them.
The story of Prophet Saalih – II
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
30/12/2009
After they plotted to kill the she-camel, the disbelievers among the people of Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, began to watch her closely, observing all her movements. As she came to drink from the well, Masrai, the man who volunteered to kill her, shot her in the leg with an arrow. She tried to escape but was hampered by the arrow. Qudaar, his aide, followed her and struck her with a sword in the other leg. As she fell to the ground, he pierced her with his sword.
The killers were given a hero's welcome, cheered with songs and poetry composed in their praise. In their arrogance, they mocked Prophet Saalih, but he warned them: " [Quran 11:65]
Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, was hoping that they would see the folly of their ways and change their attitude before the three days went out.
"Why three days?" they asked. "Let the punishment come as quickly as possible."
He pleaded them saying (what means[Quran 27:46]
They replied: "We consider you a bad omen, you and those with you…" [Quran 27:47]
Almighty Allaah related their story, Saying (what means): [Quran 27:45-53]
They also plotted to kill Prophet Saalih and his household, as Almighty Allaah states (what means): "And they planned a plan, and We planned a plan, while they perceived not."[Quran 27:50] Allaah Almighty saved Prophet Saalih and his followers from their wicked plans. Heavy-hearted, they left the evil doers and moved to another place.
Three days after Prophet Saalih's warning, thunderbolts filled the air, followed by severe earthquakes, which destroyed the entire tribe and its homeland. The land was violently shaken, destroying all living creatures in it. There was one terrific cry, which had hardly ended when the disbelievers of Prophet Saalih's people were struck dead, one and all, at the same time. Neither their strong buildings nor their rock-hewn homes could protect them.
Allaah, the Exalted, Says (what means):”[Quran 7:73-79]
All were destroyed before they realized what was happening. As for the people who believed in the message of Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, they were saved because they had left the place.
Abdullaah Ibn Umar, may Allaah be pleased with him, narrated that while the Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, (may Allaah exalt his mention,) was passing by Thamood's houses on his way to the battle of Tabook, he stopped together with his companions, may Allaah be pleased with them. Some of the companions fetched water from the wells from which the people of Thamood used to drink. They prepared their dough (for baking) and filled their water-skins from it (the water from the wells). The Prophet, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, ordered them to empty the water-skins and give the prepared dough to the camels. Then he went away with them until they stopped at the well from which the she-camel (of Prophet Saalih) used to drink. He warned them against entering upon the people who had been punished, "I fear that you may be affected by what afflicted them; so do no enter upon them." [Al-Bukhaari]
After the destruction of 'Aad, the people of Prophet Houd, may Allaah exalt his mention, Thamood, the people of Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, succeeded them in power and glory. They, like their predecessors, fell to idol-worshipping. As their material wealth increased so, too, did their evil ways, while their virtue decreased. Like the people of 'Aad, they erected huge buildings on the plains and hewed beautiful homes out of the hills. Tyranny and oppression became prevalent as evil men ruled the land.
Allaah, the Exalted, sent unto them His Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, a man from among them. His full name was Saalih Ibn Ubeid Ibn Maseh Ibn Ubeid Ibn Hader Ibn Thamood Ibn Ather Ibn Eram, Ibn Noah (Nooh, may Allaah exalt his mention). He called his people to worship Allaah alone, and not to associate any partners with Him. While some of them believed him, the majority of them disbelieved and harmed him by both words and deeds. Allaah Said in the Quran (what means): "And to...'" [Quran 11:61]
Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, was known for his wisdom, purity and goodness and had been greatly respected by his people before Allaah's revelation came to him. Almighty Allaah mentions what his people said to him in the Quranic verses (which mean):" [Quran 11:62]
They merely wanted to worship the same gods as their fathers had, with no reason, no proof, and no thought. The proof of Prophet Saalih's message was evident, but despite this, it was obvious that most of his people did not believe him. They doubted his words, thinking he was charmed, and they saw that he would not stop preaching. Fearing that his followers would increase in number, they tried to put him off by assigning him an important task; to prove that he was a messenger of Allaah by performing a miracle. They asked him to let a unique she-camel emerge from the mountains.
Allaah Almighty granted Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, this miracle and a huge, unique she-camel appeared from the direction of the mountain. The Quranic commentators said that the people of Thamood gathered on a certain day at their meeting place, and prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, came and addressed them to believe in Allaah, reminding them of the favors Allaah had granted them.
Then, pointing at a rock, they demanded: "Ask your Lord to make a she-camel, which must be 10 months pregnant, tall and attractive, issue from the rock for us." Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, replied: "Look now! If Allaah sends you what you have requested, just as you have described, will you believe in that which I have come to you with and have faith in the message I have been sent with?" They answered: "Yes." So he took a vow from them on this, and then prayed to Allaah, The Almighty, to grant their request. Allaah ordered the distant rock to split asunder, to bring forth a great ten-month pregnant she-camel. When their eyes set on it, they were amazed. They saw a great thing, a wonderful sight, a dazzling power and clear evidence!
A number of Prophet Saalih's people believed, yet most of them continued in their disbelief, stubbornness, and going astray. Allaah, the Almighty, said in the Noble Quran (what means): "And We gave Thamood the she-camel as a visible sign, but they wronged her." [Quran 17:59] And (what means): "And certainly did the companions of al-Hijr (628) [i.e. the Thamood] deny the messengers." [Quran 15:80-81]
There are a number of accounts by Quranic commentators of this she-camel and its miraculous nature. It was said that the she-camel was miraculous because a rock in the mountain split open and it came forth from it, followed by its young offspring. Other accounts said that the she-camel used to drink all the water in the wells in one day, and no other animals could approach the water. Still others claimed that the she-camel produced milk sufficient for all the people to drink, on the same day that it drank all the water, leaving none for them.
At first, the people of Thamood were greatly surprised when the she-camel emerged from the mountain rocks. It was a blessed beast, and its milk sufficient for thousands of men, women and children. If it slept in a place that place was abandoned by other animals. Thus it was obvious that is was not an ordinary she-camel, but one of Allaah's signs.
Their hatred of Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, turned towards the blessed she-camel and became centered on it. A conspiracy started to be hatched against the miraculous beast by the disbelievers, and they secretly plotted against it.
Prophet Saalih feared that they might kill her, so he warned them saying (what means): [Quran 11:64]
For a while, Prophet Saalih's people let the camel graze and drink freely, but in their hearts they hated it. However, the miraculous appearance of the unique she-camel caused many to become his followers, and they clung to their belief in Allaah.
The disbelievers now began complaining that this huge she-camel with its unusual qualities drank most of the water and frightened their cattle.
They laid a plot to kill the beast, and sought the help of their women folk to tempt the men to carry out their commands. A lady named Saduq Bint Mahya, who was from a rich and noble family, offered herself to a young man named Masrai Ibn Mahraj on condition that he hamstrings the she-camel. Aneezah, an old woman, offered one of her daughters to a young man, Qudaar Ibn Saluf, in return for killing the she-camel. Naturally, these young men were tempted and set about finding seven others to assist them.
The story of Prophet Saalih – II
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
30/12/2009
After they plotted to kill the she-camel, the disbelievers among the people of Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, began to watch her closely, observing all her movements. As she came to drink from the well, Masrai, the man who volunteered to kill her, shot her in the leg with an arrow. She tried to escape but was hampered by the arrow. Qudaar, his aide, followed her and struck her with a sword in the other leg. As she fell to the ground, he pierced her with his sword.
The killers were given a hero's welcome, cheered with songs and poetry composed in their praise. In their arrogance, they mocked Prophet Saalih, but he warned them: " [Quran 11:65]
Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, was hoping that they would see the folly of their ways and change their attitude before the three days went out.
"Why three days?" they asked. "Let the punishment come as quickly as possible."
He pleaded them saying (what means[Quran 27:46]
They replied: "We consider you a bad omen, you and those with you…" [Quran 27:47]
Almighty Allaah related their story, Saying (what means): [Quran 27:45-53]
They also plotted to kill Prophet Saalih and his household, as Almighty Allaah states (what means): "And they planned a plan, and We planned a plan, while they perceived not."[Quran 27:50] Allaah Almighty saved Prophet Saalih and his followers from their wicked plans. Heavy-hearted, they left the evil doers and moved to another place.
Three days after Prophet Saalih's warning, thunderbolts filled the air, followed by severe earthquakes, which destroyed the entire tribe and its homeland. The land was violently shaken, destroying all living creatures in it. There was one terrific cry, which had hardly ended when the disbelievers of Prophet Saalih's people were struck dead, one and all, at the same time. Neither their strong buildings nor their rock-hewn homes could protect them.
Allaah, the Exalted, Says (what means):”[Quran 7:73-79]
All were destroyed before they realized what was happening. As for the people who believed in the message of Prophet Saalih, may Allaah exalt his mention, they were saved because they had left the place.
Abdullaah Ibn Umar, may Allaah be pleased with him, narrated that while the Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, (may Allaah exalt his mention,) was passing by Thamood's houses on his way to the battle of Tabook, he stopped together with his companions, may Allaah be pleased with them. Some of the companions fetched water from the wells from which the people of Thamood used to drink. They prepared their dough (for baking) and filled their water-skins from it (the water from the wells). The Prophet, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, ordered them to empty the water-skins and give the prepared dough to the camels. Then he went away with them until they stopped at the well from which the she-camel (of Prophet Saalih) used to drink. He warned them against entering upon the people who had been punished, "I fear that you may be affected by what afflicted them; so do no enter upon them." [Al-Bukhaari]
The story of Prophet Ayyoob
The story of Prophet Ayyoob -I
His Lineage
Imaam Ibn Is-haaq, may Allaah have mercy upon him, stated that Prophet Ayyoob's full name was Ayyoob, Ibn (son of) Mose, Ibn Razeh, Ibn Esau, Ibn Isaac (Is-haaq), Ibn Abraham (Ibraaheem), may Allaah exalt the mention of them all. Others stated that he was Ayyoob, Ibn Mose, Ibn Rimil, Ibn Esau, Ibn Isaac (Is-haaq, Ibn Jacob (Ya'qoob), may Allaah have mercy upon them all. There have also been other statements on his lineage. Imaam Ibn 'Asaakir, may Allaah exalt his mention, narrated that Prophet Ayyoob's mother was a daughter of Lot, may Allaah exalt his mention. It was said also that Prophet Ayyoob's father was one who believed in Ibraaheem, may Allaah exalt his mention, when he was cast into the fire.
The first opinion is the most plausible, because Prophet Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was a descendant of Ibraaheem's offspring, as Allaah Almighty declares in the Quran (what means [Quran 6:83-84]
Allaah Praises Him
Allaah the Almighty praised His worshipper Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, in His Glorious Quran, Saying (what means): [Quran 38:44]
Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was repentant, remembering Allaah with thankfulness, patience, and steadfastness. This was the cause of his rescue and the secret of Allaah's praising him.
A group of angels were discussing Allaah's other human creatures, how those who were humble earned Allaah's pleasure, while those who were arrogant incurred His displeasure. One of the angels remarked: "The best creature on earth today is Ayyoob, a man of noble character who displays great patience and always remembers his Generous Lord. He is an excellent model for the worshippers of Allaah. In return, his Lord has blessed him with a long life and plenty of servants, as well as the needy and the poor sharing in his good fortune; he feeds and clothes the poor and buys slaves to set them free. He makes those who receive his charity feel as if they are favouring him, so kind and gentle is he."
Satan's Envy of Him
Iblees (Satan) overhearing all of this, became annoyed. He planned to entice Ayyoob to corruption and disbelief, so he hastened to him. He tried to distract Ayyoob from his prayers by whispering to him about the good things in life, but Ayyoob was a true believer and would not let evil thoughts tempt him. This disturbed Iblees even more; thus he began to hate Ayyoob with even greater fervour.
Iblees complained to Allaah about Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention. He said that although he was continuously glorifying Allaah, he was not doing so out of his sincerity but to satisfy Allaah so that his wealth should not be taken away. It was all a show, all out of greed. "If You remove his wealth, then You will find that his tongue will no longer mention Your name and his praying will stop," he said to Allaah.
Allaah told Iblees that Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was one of His most sincere devotees. He did not worship Him because of the favours; his worship stemmed from his heart and had nothing to do with material things. But to prove to Iblees the depth of Ayyoob's sincerity and patience, Allaah allowed him to do whatever he and his helpers wished with Ayyoob's wealth.
Iblees was ecstatic. He gathered his helpers and set about destroying Ayyoob's cattle, servants and farms until he was left with no possessions. Rubbing his hands in glee, Iblees appeared before Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, in the guise of a wise old man and said to him: "All your wealth is lost; some people say that it is because you gave too much in charity and that you are wasting your time with your continuous prayers to Allaah. Others say that Allaah has brought this upon you in order to please your enemies. If Allaah had the capacity to prevent harm, then He would have protected your wealth."
True to his belief, Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, replied: "What Allaah has taken away from me belongs to Him. I was only its trustee for a while. He gives to whom He wills and withholds from whom He wills." With these words, Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, again prostrated to his Lord.
When Iblees saw this, he felt frustrated, so he again addressed Allaah: "I have stripped Ayyoob of all his possessions, but he still remains grateful to You. However he is only hiding his disappointment, for he places great store by his many children. The real test of a parent is through his children. You will see how Ayyoob will reject You."
Allaah again granted Iblees authority, but warned him that it would not reduce Ayyoob's faith in His Lord nor his patience.
Iblees again gathered his helpers and set about his evil deeds. He shook the fountain of the house in which Ayyoob's children were living and sent the building crashing, killing all of them. Then he went to Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, disguised as a man who had come to sympathise with him. In a comforting tone he said to Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention: "The circumstances under which your children died were sad. Surely, your Lord is not rewarding you properly for all your prayers." Having said this, Iblees waited anxiously, hoping Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was now ready to reject Allaah.
But again Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, disappointed him by replying: "Allaah sometimes gives and sometimes takes. He is sometimes pleased and sometimes displeased with our deeds. Whether a thing is beneficial or harmful to me, I will remain firm in my belief and remain thankful to my Creator." Then Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, prostrated to his Lord. At this, Iblees was extremely vexed.
The story of Prophet Ayyoob -II
Rating 1
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
WEDNESDAY 07/04/2010
Ayyoob is tested through his health
After failing to make Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, give up his worship of Allaah after destroying his wealth and children, Iblees (Satan), may Allaah curse him, called on Allaah: "O my Lord! Ayyoob's wealth is gone, his children are dead, but he is still healthy in body, and as long as he enjoys good health he will continue to worship You in the hope of regaining his wealth and producing more children. Grant me authority over his body so that I may weaken it. He will surely neglect worshipping You and will thus become disobedient."
Allaah wanted to teach Iblees a lesson that Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was a devoted servant of his Lord, so He granted Iblees his third request but placed a condition: "I give you authority over his body but not over his soul, intellect or heart, for in these places resides the knowledge of Me and My religion."
Armed with this new authority, Iblees began to take revenge on Ayyoob's body, and filled it with disease until it was reduced to mere skin and bone and he suffered severe pain. But through all the suffering, Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, remained strong in his faith, patiently bearing all the hardships without complaining.
Allaah's righteous servant did not despair or turn to others for help but remained hopeful of Allaah's mercy. Even close relatives and friends deserted him. Only his kind, loving wife stayed with him. In his hour of need, she showered her kindness on him and cared for him. She remained his sole companion and comforter through the many years of suffering.
The life-summary of Ayyoob
Imaam Ibn 'Asaakir, may Allaah have mercy upon him, narrated: "Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was a man having much wealth of all kinds; beasts, slaves, sheep, vast lands, and many children. All those favours were withdrawn from him and he was physically afflicted as well. Never a single organ of his was sound, except his heart and tongue, with both of which he glorified Allaah, the Almighty, constantly, day and night. His disease lasted for a long time until his visitors felt disgusted with him. His friends kept away from him and people abstained from visiting him. No one felt sympathy for him except his wife. She took good care of him, knowing his former charity and pity for her."
Therefore, Iblees became desperate. He consulted his helpers, but they could not advise him. They asked: "How is it that your cleverness cannot work against Ayyoob, yet you succeeded in misleading Aadam, the father of man, out of Paradise?"
Iblees went to Ayyoob's wife in the form of a man. "Where is your husband?" he asked her. She pointed to an almost lifeless form crumbled on the bed and said: "There he is, suspended between life and death." Iblees reminded her of the days when Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, had good health, wealth and children. Suddenly, the painful memories of years of hardship overcame her, and she burst into tears. She said to Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention: "How long are you going to bear this torture from our Lord? Are we to remain without wealth, children or friends forever? Why don't you call upon Allaah to remove this suffering?"
Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, sighed, and in a soft voice replied: "Iblees must have whispered to you and made you dissatisfied. Tell me, how long did I enjoy good health and riches?" She replied: "Eighty years." Then Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, asked: "How long have I been suffering like this?" She replied: "Seven years." Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, then told her: "In that case I am ashamed to call on my Lord to remove the hardship, for I have not suffered longer than the years of my good health and plenty. It seems your faith has weakened and you are dissatisfied with the fate of Allaah. If I ever regain health, I swear I will punish you with a hundred strokes! From this day onward, I forbid myself to eat or drink anything by your hand. Leave me alone and let my Lord do with me as He pleases."
Crying bitterly and with a heavy heart, she had no choice but to leave him and seek shelter elsewhere. In this helpless state, Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, turned to Allaah, not to complain, but to seek His mercy, saying (what means): [Quran 21:83-84]
Almighty Allaah records Prophet Ayyoob's invocation in the verses (which mean [Quran 38:41-43]
Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, obeyed this instruction, and almost immediately his good health was restored. Meanwhile, his faithful wife could no longer bear to be parted from her husband and returned to him to beg his forgiveness, desiring to serve him. On entering her house, she was amazed at the sudden change: Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was again healthy! She embraced him and thanked Allaah for His mercy.
Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was worried, for he had taken an oath to punish her with a hundred strokes if he had regained health but he had no desire to hurt her. He knew if he did not fulfil the oath, he would be guilty of breaking a promise to Allaah. Therefore, out of His wisdom and mercy, Allaah came to the assistance of His faithful servant and advised him with (what means [Quran 38:44]
Abu Hurayrah, may Allaah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam (may Allaah exalt his mention) said: "While Ayyoob was naked, taking a bath, a swarm of gold locusts fell on him, and so he started collecting them in his garment. His Lord called him: "O Ayyoob! Have I not made you too rich to need what you see?" He said: "Yes, My Lord! But I cannot shun Your Blessings." [Al-Bukhaari]
Source: Sheikh Muhammad Gemeiah's translation of 'Stories of the Prophets', by Imaam Ibn Katheer
His Lineage
Imaam Ibn Is-haaq, may Allaah have mercy upon him, stated that Prophet Ayyoob's full name was Ayyoob, Ibn (son of) Mose, Ibn Razeh, Ibn Esau, Ibn Isaac (Is-haaq), Ibn Abraham (Ibraaheem), may Allaah exalt the mention of them all. Others stated that he was Ayyoob, Ibn Mose, Ibn Rimil, Ibn Esau, Ibn Isaac (Is-haaq, Ibn Jacob (Ya'qoob), may Allaah have mercy upon them all. There have also been other statements on his lineage. Imaam Ibn 'Asaakir, may Allaah exalt his mention, narrated that Prophet Ayyoob's mother was a daughter of Lot, may Allaah exalt his mention. It was said also that Prophet Ayyoob's father was one who believed in Ibraaheem, may Allaah exalt his mention, when he was cast into the fire.
The first opinion is the most plausible, because Prophet Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was a descendant of Ibraaheem's offspring, as Allaah Almighty declares in the Quran (what means [Quran 6:83-84]
Allaah Praises Him
Allaah the Almighty praised His worshipper Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, in His Glorious Quran, Saying (what means): [Quran 38:44]
Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was repentant, remembering Allaah with thankfulness, patience, and steadfastness. This was the cause of his rescue and the secret of Allaah's praising him.
A group of angels were discussing Allaah's other human creatures, how those who were humble earned Allaah's pleasure, while those who were arrogant incurred His displeasure. One of the angels remarked: "The best creature on earth today is Ayyoob, a man of noble character who displays great patience and always remembers his Generous Lord. He is an excellent model for the worshippers of Allaah. In return, his Lord has blessed him with a long life and plenty of servants, as well as the needy and the poor sharing in his good fortune; he feeds and clothes the poor and buys slaves to set them free. He makes those who receive his charity feel as if they are favouring him, so kind and gentle is he."
Satan's Envy of Him
Iblees (Satan) overhearing all of this, became annoyed. He planned to entice Ayyoob to corruption and disbelief, so he hastened to him. He tried to distract Ayyoob from his prayers by whispering to him about the good things in life, but Ayyoob was a true believer and would not let evil thoughts tempt him. This disturbed Iblees even more; thus he began to hate Ayyoob with even greater fervour.
Iblees complained to Allaah about Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention. He said that although he was continuously glorifying Allaah, he was not doing so out of his sincerity but to satisfy Allaah so that his wealth should not be taken away. It was all a show, all out of greed. "If You remove his wealth, then You will find that his tongue will no longer mention Your name and his praying will stop," he said to Allaah.
Allaah told Iblees that Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was one of His most sincere devotees. He did not worship Him because of the favours; his worship stemmed from his heart and had nothing to do with material things. But to prove to Iblees the depth of Ayyoob's sincerity and patience, Allaah allowed him to do whatever he and his helpers wished with Ayyoob's wealth.
Iblees was ecstatic. He gathered his helpers and set about destroying Ayyoob's cattle, servants and farms until he was left with no possessions. Rubbing his hands in glee, Iblees appeared before Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, in the guise of a wise old man and said to him: "All your wealth is lost; some people say that it is because you gave too much in charity and that you are wasting your time with your continuous prayers to Allaah. Others say that Allaah has brought this upon you in order to please your enemies. If Allaah had the capacity to prevent harm, then He would have protected your wealth."
True to his belief, Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, replied: "What Allaah has taken away from me belongs to Him. I was only its trustee for a while. He gives to whom He wills and withholds from whom He wills." With these words, Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, again prostrated to his Lord.
When Iblees saw this, he felt frustrated, so he again addressed Allaah: "I have stripped Ayyoob of all his possessions, but he still remains grateful to You. However he is only hiding his disappointment, for he places great store by his many children. The real test of a parent is through his children. You will see how Ayyoob will reject You."
Allaah again granted Iblees authority, but warned him that it would not reduce Ayyoob's faith in His Lord nor his patience.
Iblees again gathered his helpers and set about his evil deeds. He shook the fountain of the house in which Ayyoob's children were living and sent the building crashing, killing all of them. Then he went to Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, disguised as a man who had come to sympathise with him. In a comforting tone he said to Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention: "The circumstances under which your children died were sad. Surely, your Lord is not rewarding you properly for all your prayers." Having said this, Iblees waited anxiously, hoping Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was now ready to reject Allaah.
But again Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, disappointed him by replying: "Allaah sometimes gives and sometimes takes. He is sometimes pleased and sometimes displeased with our deeds. Whether a thing is beneficial or harmful to me, I will remain firm in my belief and remain thankful to my Creator." Then Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, prostrated to his Lord. At this, Iblees was extremely vexed.
The story of Prophet Ayyoob -II
Rating 1
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
WEDNESDAY 07/04/2010
Ayyoob is tested through his health
After failing to make Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, give up his worship of Allaah after destroying his wealth and children, Iblees (Satan), may Allaah curse him, called on Allaah: "O my Lord! Ayyoob's wealth is gone, his children are dead, but he is still healthy in body, and as long as he enjoys good health he will continue to worship You in the hope of regaining his wealth and producing more children. Grant me authority over his body so that I may weaken it. He will surely neglect worshipping You and will thus become disobedient."
Allaah wanted to teach Iblees a lesson that Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was a devoted servant of his Lord, so He granted Iblees his third request but placed a condition: "I give you authority over his body but not over his soul, intellect or heart, for in these places resides the knowledge of Me and My religion."
Armed with this new authority, Iblees began to take revenge on Ayyoob's body, and filled it with disease until it was reduced to mere skin and bone and he suffered severe pain. But through all the suffering, Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, remained strong in his faith, patiently bearing all the hardships without complaining.
Allaah's righteous servant did not despair or turn to others for help but remained hopeful of Allaah's mercy. Even close relatives and friends deserted him. Only his kind, loving wife stayed with him. In his hour of need, she showered her kindness on him and cared for him. She remained his sole companion and comforter through the many years of suffering.
The life-summary of Ayyoob
Imaam Ibn 'Asaakir, may Allaah have mercy upon him, narrated: "Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was a man having much wealth of all kinds; beasts, slaves, sheep, vast lands, and many children. All those favours were withdrawn from him and he was physically afflicted as well. Never a single organ of his was sound, except his heart and tongue, with both of which he glorified Allaah, the Almighty, constantly, day and night. His disease lasted for a long time until his visitors felt disgusted with him. His friends kept away from him and people abstained from visiting him. No one felt sympathy for him except his wife. She took good care of him, knowing his former charity and pity for her."
Therefore, Iblees became desperate. He consulted his helpers, but they could not advise him. They asked: "How is it that your cleverness cannot work against Ayyoob, yet you succeeded in misleading Aadam, the father of man, out of Paradise?"
Iblees went to Ayyoob's wife in the form of a man. "Where is your husband?" he asked her. She pointed to an almost lifeless form crumbled on the bed and said: "There he is, suspended between life and death." Iblees reminded her of the days when Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, had good health, wealth and children. Suddenly, the painful memories of years of hardship overcame her, and she burst into tears. She said to Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention: "How long are you going to bear this torture from our Lord? Are we to remain without wealth, children or friends forever? Why don't you call upon Allaah to remove this suffering?"
Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, sighed, and in a soft voice replied: "Iblees must have whispered to you and made you dissatisfied. Tell me, how long did I enjoy good health and riches?" She replied: "Eighty years." Then Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, asked: "How long have I been suffering like this?" She replied: "Seven years." Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, then told her: "In that case I am ashamed to call on my Lord to remove the hardship, for I have not suffered longer than the years of my good health and plenty. It seems your faith has weakened and you are dissatisfied with the fate of Allaah. If I ever regain health, I swear I will punish you with a hundred strokes! From this day onward, I forbid myself to eat or drink anything by your hand. Leave me alone and let my Lord do with me as He pleases."
Crying bitterly and with a heavy heart, she had no choice but to leave him and seek shelter elsewhere. In this helpless state, Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, turned to Allaah, not to complain, but to seek His mercy, saying (what means): [Quran 21:83-84]
Almighty Allaah records Prophet Ayyoob's invocation in the verses (which mean [Quran 38:41-43]
Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, obeyed this instruction, and almost immediately his good health was restored. Meanwhile, his faithful wife could no longer bear to be parted from her husband and returned to him to beg his forgiveness, desiring to serve him. On entering her house, she was amazed at the sudden change: Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was again healthy! She embraced him and thanked Allaah for His mercy.
Ayyoob, may Allaah exalt his mention, was worried, for he had taken an oath to punish her with a hundred strokes if he had regained health but he had no desire to hurt her. He knew if he did not fulfil the oath, he would be guilty of breaking a promise to Allaah. Therefore, out of His wisdom and mercy, Allaah came to the assistance of His faithful servant and advised him with (what means [Quran 38:44]
Abu Hurayrah, may Allaah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam (may Allaah exalt his mention) said: "While Ayyoob was naked, taking a bath, a swarm of gold locusts fell on him, and so he started collecting them in his garment. His Lord called him: "O Ayyoob! Have I not made you too rich to need what you see?" He said: "Yes, My Lord! But I cannot shun Your Blessings." [Al-Bukhaari]
Source: Sheikh Muhammad Gemeiah's translation of 'Stories of the Prophets', by Imaam Ibn Katheer
The Story of Prophet Moosaa
The Story of Prophet Moosaa –I
The Birth of Moses
The story of Prophet Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, is mentioned in many different passages in the Quran, sometimes in detail, and sometimes in brief. Here, we will mention an account of his life taken from the Quran and Sunnah (prophetic tradition)
The Quran states (what means [Quran: 28:1-6]
Allaah mentions here the gist of the story, which He later expands upon. He mentioned the details of this story to His Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam in truth, the way it happened; He, the Almighty, Says (what means): “Indeed, Pharaoh exalted himself in the land and made its people into factions…”[Quran: 28:4]
Pharaoh (Pharaoh) rebelled in arrogance and was haughty. He preferred this world to the Hereafter, and disobeyed the Lord. He divided his people into sects. Some of them were made to live the life of subservience and humiliation; they were the people of Israel. They were the best people of their time. Pharaoh exploited them and dealt with them unjustly, forcing them to take up only the lowest of professions. Not only that, he also killed their males while keeping their women alive. The Quran states (what means): “…Slaughtering their [newborn] sons and keeping their females alive. Indeed, he was of the corruptors.”[Quran: 28:4]
The reason behind this evil practice was the belief of the Israelites that there would come a child from the progeny of Ibraaheem (Abraham), may Allaah exalt his mention, who would destroy the kingdom of Pharaoh. It happened when Saarah, may Allaah exalt her mention, the wife of Ibraaheem, may Allaah exalt his mention, passed through Egypt, and there the king of Egypt tried to misbehave with her. But Allaah saved her, and gave her the glad tidings that from her progeny would come a boy who would destroy that kingdom. This information was well known among the Israelites. The Coptic people of Egypt talked about it, till it reached Pharaoh through some of his ministers. Pharaoh then commanded the slaying of all the Israelite male children, in fear of this child.
Imaam As-Suddi, may Allaah have mercy upon him, who was a Muslim scholar, narrated from Ibn 'Abbaas and other Companions, may Allaah be pleased with them, that Pharaoh had a dream that a fire came from the direction of Jerusalem and burnt all the Coptic people and their houses, but did not harm the Israelites. He woke up terrified and gathered all his priests, soothsayers, and sorcerers, and asked them for the interpretation of his dream. They said: "There will be born a boy from these people, who will destroy the people of Egypt." So Pharaoh ordered that all newborn boys be killed, while the girls were to be kept alive.
That is why Allaah Says (what means): [Quran: 28: 6]
Allaah promised to grant strength and control to those who were weak and suppressed. This Divine promise was fulfilled, and they became, as Allaah Says in the Quran (what means): Quran: 7:137]
Allaah also Says (what means): [Quran: 26:57-59]
Pharaoh took every step to make sure that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, would not survive his birth; he even appointed midwives to check routinely upon pregnant women, and know the time of their delivery. No woman therefore gave birth to a baby boy except that the people of Pharaoh would kill it at birth.
Allaah Says (what means): [Quran: 7:129]
So the truth is that Pharaoh ordered the killing of boys in the first place to make sure that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, would not live after his birth.
Many exegetes stated that the Coptic population complained to Pharaoh that the Israelites were decreasing in number because of the killing of their boys, so soon both the old and the young might perish. Consequently, they would lose the manpower of the Israelites, and be forced to carry out the work which they did. So Pharaoh found an economically and socially sound solution, and hence decreed a new order: to kill the boys born in one year and then spare the lives of those born during the following year.
It is said that Haaroon (Aaron), may Allaah exalt his mention, was born during the year of pardon when children were not killed, while Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was born in the year in which they were being killed. Moosaa’s mother was very worried from the moment she became pregnant. However, the sign of pregnancy did not show on her. When she gave birth to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, it was inspired to her that she should make a chest (wooden box) and tie it with a long rope, with the other end tied to her house. As her house was on the bank of the Nile, she would place him in the chest letting the rope loose so it could be hidden in the reeds of the Nile.
Allaah Says (what means): [Quran: 28:7-9]
She was inspired in her heart that there was no cause for fear, even if he disappeared, Allaah would bring him back to her, because He was going to send him as His Prophet and Messenger. He would be a person of honour in this world and in the Hereafter. She used to do what she had been commanded. However, on the day when she let the chest go in the Nile, she forgot to tie it to her house. The chest went on till it passed by Pharaoh’s palace.
The palace servants found the basket with the baby and took it to Pharaoh and his queen. When the queen beheld the lovely infant, Allaah instilled in her a strong love for this baby. Pharaoh’s wife was very different from him. He was a disbeliever; she was a believer. He was cruel; she was merciful. He was a tyrant; she was delicate and kind-hearted. She was sad because she was infertile and had hoped to have a son. Hardly had she held the baby than she kissed him.
Pharaoh was stunned when he saw his wife hugging this baby to her breast. He was much astonished because his wife was weeping with joy, something he had never seen her do before. She requested her husband to allow her to keep the baby, so that he could be a son to him. So, as the Quran states (what means [Quran: 28:8]
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Moosaa -II
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
THURSDAY 22/12/2005
His Nursing
The queen summoned a few wet nurses to suckle baby Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, but he would not take any of their breasts. The queen was distressed and sent for more wet nurses. Moosaa’s sister was also worried, as her baby brother had gone without milk for a long time. Seeing the queen's anxiety, she blurted that she knew just the mother who would suckle the child affectionately. They asked her why she was following the floating chest. She said she did so out of curiosity. Her excuse sounded reasonable, so they believed her. They ordered her to rush and fetch the woman she was talking about. Her mother also was waiting with a heavy heart, worried about the fate of her baby. Just then her daughter rushed in with the good news. Her heart lifted and she lost no time in reaching the palace. Allaah the Almighty mentions this story in the Quran. [Quran: 28:10-13]
As the child was put to her breast, he immediately started suckling. Pharaoh (Pharaoh) was astonished and asked: "Who are you? This child has refused to take any other breast but yours!" Had she told the truth, Pharaoh would have known that the child was an Israelite and would have killed it instantly. However, Allaah gave her inner strength and she replied: "I am a woman of sweet milk and sweet fragrance, and no child refuses me." This answer satisfied Pharaoh. She was appointed as Moosaa’s wet nurse. She continued to breast-feed him for a long time. When he was bigger and was weaned, she was allowed the privilege of visiting him. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt him mention, was raised in the palace as a prince.
Allaah Says (what means): “And when he attained his full strength and was [mentally] mature, We bestowed upon him judgement and knowledge. And thus do We reward the doers of good." [Quran: 28:14]
Allaah had granted Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, good health, strength, knowledge, and wisdom. The weak and oppressed turned to him for protection and justice.
One day, in the main city, he, may Allaah exalt his mention, saw two men fighting. One was an Israelite, who was being beaten by the other, an Egyptian. On seeing Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, the Israelite begged him for help. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, became involved in the dispute and, in a state of anger, struck a heavy blow on the Egyptian, who died on the spot. Upon realising that he had killed a human being, Moosaa’s heart was filled with deep sorrow, and immediately he begged Allaah for forgiveness.
He had not intended to kill the man. He pleaded with Almighty Allaah to forgive him, and he felt a sense of peace filling his whole being. Thereafter Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, began to show more patience and sympathy towards people.
Soon after this, as Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was passing through the city, a man approached and alerted him: "O Moosaa! The chiefs have taken counsel against you. You are to be tried and killed. I would advise you to escape." Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, left Egypt in a hurry without going to Pharaoh’s palace or changing his clothes. Nor was he prepared for travelling. He did not have a beast of burden upon which to ride, and he was not in a caravan. He travelled on foot in the direction of Madyan, which was the nearest inhabited land between Syria and Egypt. His only companion in this hot desert was Allaah, and his only provision was piety. There was not a single root to pick to lessen his hunger. The hot sand burned the soles of his feet. However, fearing pursuit by Pharaoh’s men, he forced himself to continue on. He travelled for eight nights, hiding during the day. After crossing the main desert, he reached a watering hole outside Madyan where shepherds were watering their flocks.
No sooner had Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, reached Madyan than he threw himself under a tree to rest. He suffered from hunger and fatigue. The soles of his feet felt as if they were worn out from hard walking on sand and rocks and from the dust. He did not have any money to buy a new pair of sandals, nor to buy food or drink. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, noticed a band of shepherds watering their sheep. He went to the spring, where he saw two young women preventing their sheep from mixing with the others.
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, sensed that the women were in need of help. Forgetting his thirst, he drew nearer to them and asked if he could help them in any way.
The older sister said: "We are waiting until the shepherds finish watering their sheep, then we will water ours."
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, asked again: "Why are you waiting?"
The younger one said: "We cannot push men."
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was surprised that women were shepherding, as only men were supposed to do it. It is hard and tiresome work, and one needs to be on the alert. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, asked: "Why are you shepherding?"
The younger sister said: "Our father is an old man; his health is too poor for him to go outdoors for pasturing sheep."
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, said: "I will water the sheep for you."
When he approached the water, he saw that the shepherds had put over the mouth of the spring an immense rock that could only be moved by ten men. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, embraced the rock and lifted it out of the spring's mouth. He was certainly strong. He watered their sheep and put the rock back in its place.
He returned to sit in the shade of the tree. At this moment he realised that he had forgotten to drink. His stomach was sunken because of hunger.
Almighty Allaah describes this event in the verses (which mean): [Quran: 28:23-24]
The young ladies returned home earlier than usual, which surprised their father. They related the incident at the well, which was the reason that they were back early. Their father sent one of his daughters to invite the stranger to his home. Bashfully, the woman approached Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention: "My father is grateful for what you have done for us. He invites you to our home so that he may thank you personally."
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, welcomed this invitation and accompanied the maiden to her father. He, may Allaah exalt his mention, could see that they lived comfortably as a happy and peaceful household. He introduced himself and told the old man about the misfortune that had befallen him and had compelled him to flee from Egypt. The old man comforted him: "Fear not, you have escaped from the wrong-doers."
Moosaa’s gentle behaviour was noticed by the father and his daughters. The man invited him to stay with them. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, felt at home with this happy household, for they were friendly and fearful of Allaah.
One of the daughters suggested to her father that he employ Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, as he was strong and trustworthy. They needed someone like him, especially at the water hole, which was visited by ruffians.
The father asked her how she could be sure of his trustworthiness in such a short time. She replied: "When I bade him to follow me to our home, he insisted that I walk behind him so he would not observe my form (to avoid sexual attraction)."
The old man was pleased to hear this. He approached Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and said: "I wish to marry you to one of my daughters on condition that you agree to work for me for a period of eight years."
This offer suited Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, very well, for being a stranger in this place, he would soon have to search for shelter and work. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, married the Madyanite's daughter and looked after the old man's animals for ten long years.
Time passed, and he lived in seclusion, far from his family and his people. This period of ten years was of importance in his life. It was a period of major preparation. Certainly Moosaa’s mind was absorbed in the stars every night. He followed the sunrise and the sunset every day. He pondered on the plants and everything else around him. He contemplated water and how the earth is revived by it and flourishes after its death.
Of course, he was also immersed in the Glorious Book of Allaah, open to the insight and heart. He was immersed in the existence of Allaah. All these became latent within him.
One day after the end of this period, a vague homesickness arose in Moosaa’s heart. He wanted to return to Egypt. He was fast and firm in making his decision, telling his wife: "Tomorrow we shall leave for Egypt." His wife said to herself. "There are a thousand dangers in departing that have not yet been revealed." However, she obeyed her husband.
[To be continued…]
Source: Sheikh Muhammad Gemeiah's translation of: ‘Stories of the Prophets’, by Imaam Ibn Katheer
The story of Prophet Moosaa -III
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
SUNDAY 25/07/2010
Back to Egypt
Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, left Madyan with his family and travelled through the desert until he reached Mount Sinai. There, he discovered that he had lost his way. He sought Allaah's direction and was shown the right course. At nightfall, they reached Mount Toor. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, noticed a fire in the distance. "I shall fetch a firebrand to warm us," he said to his wife.
As he neared the fire, he heard a sonorous voice calling him, with (what means): "…‘O Moosaa! Indeed I am your Lord’…" [Quran: 20:11-12] Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was bewildered and looked around. He again heard the strange voice, saying (what means): "And what is that in your right hand, O Moosaa?" [Quran: 20:17] Shivering, he answered with (what means): "...‘It is my staff; I lean upon it, and I bring down leaves for my sheep and I have therein other uses." [Quran: 20:18] This question was asked so that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, would focus his attention on the staff and to prepare him for the miracle which was to happen. This was the beginning of Moosaa’s mission as a prophet.
The same voice commanded him with (what means): "Throw it [i.e., the staff] down!..." [Quran: 20:19] He did so, and at once the staff became a wriggling snake. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, turned to run, but the voice again addressed him (what means): "…‘Seize it and fear not; We will return it to its former condition.’" [Quran: 20:19] The snake changed back into his staff. Moosaa’s fear subsided and was replaced by peace, for he realised that he was witnessing the truth.
Next, Allaah commanded him to thrust his hand into his robe at the armpit. When he pulled it out, the hand had a brilliant shine. He, therefore, had two signs from his Lord. Allaah then commanded Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, with what means: "Go to Pharaoh [Pharaoh]. Indeed, he has transgressed [i.e., tyrannised]."[Quran: 20:24]
However, Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, feared that he would be arrested by Pharaoh, so he turned to Allaah saying: "My Lord! I have killed a man among them and I fear that they will kill me." Allaah assured him of his safety and set his heart at rest.
Almighty Allaah narrated this event in the Quranic verses (which mean): [Quran: 20:24-36]
Moosaa and His Brother Haaroon Debate with Pharaoh
Moosaa and Haaroon, may Allaah exalt their mention, went together to Pharaoh and delivered their message. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, spoke to him about Allaah, His mercy and His Paradise, and about the obligations of monotheism and His worship.
Pharaoh listened to Moosaa’s speech with disdain. He thought that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was mad because he dared to question his 'supreme' position. Then he raised his hand and asked: "What do you want?"
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, replied: "I want you to send the children of Israel with us."
Pharaoh asked: "Why should I send them, as they are my slaves?"
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, replied: "They are the slaves of Allaah, Lord of the Worlds."
Fir’awm then inquired sarcastically if his name was Moosaa, to which Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, answered in the affirmative.
Pharaoh said: "Are you not the Moosaa whom we picked up from the Nile as a helpless baby? Are you not the Moosaa whom we reared in this palace, who ate and drank from our provisions and on whom we showered wealth with charity? Are you not the Moosaa who is a fugitive, the killer of an Egyptian man? It is said that killing is an act of disbelief. Therefore, you were a disbeliever when you killed. You are a fugitive from justice and you come to speak to me! What were you talking about O Moosaa? I forgot."
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, knew that Pharaoh’s mentioning of his past, his upbringing, and his receiving Pharaoh’s charity was Pharaoh’s way of threatening him. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, ignored his sarcasm and explained that he was not a disbeliever when he killed the Egyptian, he only went astray and Allaah, the Almighty, had not yet given him the revelation at that time. He made Pharaoh understand that he fled from Egypt because he was afraid of their revenge upon him, even though the killing was an accident. He informed him that Allaah had granted him forgiveness and made him one of the messengers.
Allaah the Almighty revealed to us part of the dialogue between Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and Pharaoh; He Says (what means):
" [Quran: 26:15-31]
The degree of the conflict expressed in this dialogue reached its apex; thus, the tone of dialogue changed. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, used a convincing intellectual argument against Pharaoh. However, Pharaoh escaped from the circle of dialogue based on logic and began a dialogue of another type, a type which Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, could not bear to follow, a dialogue of menace and threat. Pharaoh deliberately adopted the style of the absolute ruler. He asked Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, how he dared to worship Allaah! Did he not know that Pharaoh was a god?
After declaring his divinity, Pharaoh asked Moosaa how he dared to worship another god. The punishment for this crime was imprisonment. It was not permitted for anyone to worship anyone other than Pharaoh. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, understood that the intellectual arguments did not succeed. The calm dialogue was converted from sarcasm to mentioning charity, then to scorn, then to the threat of imprisonment.
Allaah Says (what means): [Quran: 26:30-33]
Pharaoh’s amazement turned to terror. Fearing that his rule was in danger, he addressed his advisors: "These are two wizards who will strip you of your best traditions and drive you out of the country with their magic. What do you advice?" They counselled Pharaoh to detain Moosaa and his brother, may Allaah exalt their mention, while they summoned the best magicians in the country. Then they too, could show their skills of magic and change sticks into serpents. In this way they sought to reduce the influence of Moosaa’s miracles on the masses.
Pharaoh detained Moosaa and Haaroon, may Allaah exalt their mention. He dispatched couriers all over the land to enlist the best magicians. He offered each successful magician a big reward, including appointment as a royal courtier.
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Moosaa -IV
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
SUNDAY 25/07/2010
The Great Contest
On the customary festival day, which attracted citizens from all over the Egyptian empire, Pharaoh (Pharaoh) arranged for a public contest between Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, and the magicians. The people came in droves when they heard of the greatest contest ever between Pharaoh’s many magicians, and a single man who 'claimed to be a prophet'.
Everyone was eager and excited to watch this great contest. Before it began, Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, arose and addressed the magicians, saying (what means): [Quran: 20:61]
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, had spoken sincerely and made the magicians think. But they were overwhelmed by their greed for money and glory. They hoped to impress the people with their magic and to expose Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, as a fraud and a cheat.
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, asked the magicians to perform first. They threw their magical objects down on the ground. Their staffs and ropes took the forms of wriggling serpents while the crowd watched in amazement. Pharaoh and his men applauded loudly. Then, Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, threw his staff. It began to wriggle and became an enormous serpent. The people stood up, craning their necks for a better view. Pharaoh and his men sat silently as Moosaa's huge serpent swallowed all the snakes, one by one. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, bent to pick it up, and it became a staff in his hand.
The crowd rose like a great wave, shouting and screaming with excitement. A wonder like this had never been seen before! On witnessing the power of Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, the magicians prostrated themselves to Allaah, declaring (what means): "…‘We believe in the Lord of Haaroon [Aaron] and Moosaa.’"[Quran: 20:70] Pharaoh was furious and began plotting his next move. He charged that the demonstration had been arranged secretly between Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and the magicians. He demanded that the magicians confess to their scheme, threatening them with death. They refused to denounce Allaah and stuck to their sincerity of their belief. No longer hiding his cruel nature, Pharaoh threatened to cut off their hands and feet and to crucify them on the trunks of palm trees as an example to his subjects.
Almighty Allaah recounts this event in the following verses (which mean):
” [Quran: 20:57-76]
The magicians represented the elite of the Egyptian society. They were its scholars. They prostrated before righteousness, but the people abandoned them and left them to their fate. The path of righteousness was plain, but in spite of this, the people did nothing but stand by and watch. If every one of the Egyptians had stopped to pick up a piece of brick and had thrown it at Pharaoh, he would have fallen dead and the history of Egypt would have been changed. This obviously did not happen. None of the people moved. Each one stood motionless in his place. The people did nothing but watch, and they paid the price of this inactivity: they were drowned later as the price for the cowardice of one day.
Moosaa and Haaroon, may Allaah exalt their mention, left, and Pharaoh returned to his palace. Pharaoh was completely stupefied when he faced the two miracles. When Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, went out of his presence, Pharaoh’s emotions changed from amazement and fear to violent rage. He quarrelled with his ministers and men, reviled them bitterly for no reason, and commanded them to get out of his presence. When he was left alone, he tried to think more calmly. He drank several cups of wine, but his anger did not abate.
Then he summoned all the ministers, leaders, and responsible men for a serious meeting. Pharaoh entered the meeting with a rigid face. It was obvious that he would never surrender easily. He had established a kingdom on the basis of his being a god worshipped by the Egyptian people. Now Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, came to destroy what he had built. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, said that there was no Lord other than Allaah in existence. This meant that Pharaoh was a liar.
Pharaoh opened the session by throwing a sudden question at Haamaan, his aide: "Am I a liar, O Haamaan?" Haamaan fell to his knees in amazement and asked: "Who dared to accuse Pharaoh of lying?" Pharaoh said: "Has he (Moosaa) not said that there is a Lord above the heaven?" Haamaan answered: "Moosaa is lying." Turning his face to the other side, Pharaoh asserted impatiently: "I know he is a liar." Then he looked towards Haamaan and cried (what means): [Quran: 40:36-37]
Pharaoh issued his royal command to erect a lofty tower to reach the heavens. Pharaoh’s command depended fundamentally upon Egyptian civilisation and its fondness for building what Pharaoh wanted. However, he ignored the rules of engineering. In spite of this, Haamaan assented (hypocritically), knowing that it was impossible to erect such a tower. He said that he would issue a command to build it immediately. "However, your majesty, let me object to Pharaoh for the first time. You will never find anyone in the heavens. There is no god but you."
Pharaoh listened to a settled fact. Then he declared in the famous meeting his historic line (which means): "…‘O eminent ones! I have not known you to have a god other than me’…" [Quran: 28:38]
Pharaoh was absorbed in his new problem. A series of serious meetings began in his palace. He summoned those responsible for the army, the police and, what we call today his director of intelligence. He also summoned the ministers, princes, and priests. He called whoever had a powerful effect on the direction of events.
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Moosaa -V
Rating 1
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
WEDNESDAY 28/07/2010
Pharaoh’s Crisis
Pharaoh (Pharaoh) was absorbed in his new problem - the loss of the magic contest with Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, which led to the submission of the magicians to Moosaa's call. A series of serious meetings began in his palace. He summoned those responsible for the army, the police and, what we call today his director of intelligence. He also summoned the ministers, princes, and priests. He called whoever had a powerful effect on the direction of events.
Pharaoh asked his director of intelligence: "What are the people saying?" He said: "My men have spread among them that Moosaa won the contest because of a plot and that a major magician had joined with him in this plan. The plot had been disclosed, and we believe an unknown authority financed it." Pharaoh asked his director of police: "What about the magicians' corpses?" He said: "My men hung them in public squares and markets to terrify the people. We will spread a rumour that Pharaoh will kill whoever had anything to do with the plot." Then Pharaoh asked the commander of the army: "What does the army say?" He said: "The army hopes that commands will be issued to move in whatever direction Pharaoh desires." Pharaoh said: "The role of the army has not come yet. Its role will come."
Pharaoh fell silent. Haamaan, the Prime Minister, moved and raised his hand to speak. Pharaoh permitted him and Haamaan asked: "Will we leave Moosaa and his people to corrupt the rest of the people on the earth so that they leave your worship?" Pharaoh said: "You read my thoughts, O Haamaan. We will kill their sons, rape their women, and conquer them." He issued commands, and Pharaoh’s men rushed to slay the sons, rape the women, and imprison whoever objected to these acts.
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, stood watching what was happening. He could not interfere, nor did he have the power to forbid these acts. All he could do was to advise his people to be patient. He ordered them to ask Allaah the Almighty for a calamity on the Egyptians. He pointed out to them the model of the Egyptian magicians who endured for Allaah's sake without complaint. He helped them to understand that Pharaoh’s soldiers behaved on earth as if they were its private owners. Pharaoh’s terrorism infused the Children of Israel with a spirit of defeat. They complained to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, saying (what means): "…‘We have been harmed before you came to us and after you have come to us.’ He [Moosaa] said: ‘Perhaps your Lord will destroy your enemy and grant you succession in the land and see how you will do.’" [Quran: 7:129]
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, began to face a difficult situation. He had to confront Pharaoh’s anger and plots, while, at the same time, he had to deal with the mutiny of his people. In the midst of all this, Qaaroon (Korah) moved. Qaaroon was one of Moosaa's people. He was very rich and lived in a magnificent mansion. He wore only the most expensive clothes. Numerous slaves waited on him and he indulged in every known luxury. His enormous wealth made him arrogant. Qaaroon treated the poor with contempt and told them that their poverty was due to their lack of intelligence. He believed that what he owned was due to his cleverness and business acumen.
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, reminded Qaaroon to pay Zakaah (alms) from his wealth, a portion of which was rightfully due to the poor. Alms are compulsory upon all the believers. Qaaroon was annoyed by this advice and told Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention that his being wealthy was proof that he was favoured by Allaah, Who approved of his lifestyle and increased his wealth daily. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, argued with him and warned him of the result of his wicked thoughts.
When Qaaroon did calculate the alms due on his wealth, he was shocked at the large amount he had to part with. He not only refused to give alms, but spread a rumour that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, had invented the law of Zakaah for his own gain. He even bribed the people to oppose Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and to spread wicked rumours about him.
Allaah warned Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, of the plot of Qaaroon. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, appealed to Allaah to punish him for his stinginess and for defying His laws. Allaah's wrath fell on Qaaroon. The earth opened up and swallowed him, his mansion and all his wealth, as if he had never existed. Almighty Allaah revealed (what means):
[Quran: 28: 81]
When the Egyptians and Children of Israel examined the miracle, the conflict between Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and Pharaoh again reached a crisis because Pharaoh believed that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was threatening his kingdom.
Pharaoh was afraid that the people would be misled by Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention. He suggested to his ministers and notable men that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, be killed. It was on the verge of approval, except for the vote of one of the notable men of the state, whose name is not mentioned in the Quran. The Quran simply states that this man was a believer.
This believer spoke in the assembly where the idea of killing Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, had been introduced. He proved that it was not a good idea: "Moosaa did not say more than that Allaah is his Lord. Later, he came with clear evidence that he is a Messenger. There are two possibilities; either Moosaa is righteous or a liar. If he lies, he will be responsible for his lie. If he is righteous and we slay him, where is the guarantee that we will be rescued from the torment of Allaah? Either way, he neither says nor does anything that merits our killing him."
This angered Pharaoh and his counsellors and they threatened to harm the man, but he refused to budge from his stance. Then they tried to woo him back, but he still warned them that they were inviting their doom. This further angered Pharaoh, and he now threatened to kill the man. However, Allaah protected His believer.
Almighty Allaah revealed their dialogue in the following verses (which mean): Quran: 40:26-33]
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, repeated his demand that Pharaoh release the Children of Israel from slavery. In response, Pharaoh called his subjects, including the Children of Israel, to a huge gathering where he reminded them that he was their lord and provided all their needs. He said: "Moosaa has no gold amulets or angels following him; he is just a poor man." Being a people who had been oppressed for a very long time, they lacked vision. Their judgment was limited to what they could see in the material world. They regarded their ruler to be wealthy and able to provide all their worldly needs. In ignorance, they obeyed Pharaoh and ignored Moosaa's call. Allaah commanded Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, to warn Pharaoh of a punishment in this world for his faithlessness and his persecution of the Children of Israel.
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Moosaa -VI
Rating 1
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
SUNDAY 01/08/2010
The Divine Sign
Allaah commanded Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, to warn the arrogant Pharaoh (Pharaoh) of a punishment in this world for his faithlessness and his persecution of the Children of Israel. As a portent of the punishment which Allaah would mete out, the Nile did not flood its banks to soak the dry land as it normally did. As a result, crops failed, leading to famine. However, Pharaoh remained arrogant, so Allaah caused a huge flood, which devastated the land.
As often as they were troubled grievously, they appealed to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, with (what means"[Quran: 7:134]
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, prayed to his Lord and He relieved the suffering caused by the flood. The surging water ceased and withdrew from the land, and it became cultivatable. But when Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, bade them to fulfil their promise to release the Children of Israel, they did not respond.
Then Allaah sent swarms of locusts which ate whatever corps they had grown. The people hurried to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, asking him to invoke Allaah to remove this affliction and promising they would send the Children of Israel with him this time. The locusts departed, but they did not fulfil their promise.
Then another sign came, the sign of lice, which spread amongst the Egyptians, carrying diseases. Their refuge to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and their promise to him, was repeated. His prayer to Allaah was repeated and so, too, their breach of promise, as usual.
A sign of frogs was revealed. The land suddenly filled with frogs. They jumped on the food of the Egyptians, shared their houses, and distressed them greatly. The Egyptians went to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, again, promising him to release the Children of Israel. He prayed to his Lord, and Allaah relieved them of the problem of the frogs, but they again broke their promise.
Then the last sign was revealed, the sign of blood. The Nile water was changed into blood. When Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and his people drank the water, it was, for them, ordinary water. However, if any Egyptian filled his cup with the water, he discovered his cup full of blood. They hurried to Moosaa as usual, but as soon as everything returned to normal, they turned their backs on Allaah.
Almighty Allaah Says in the Quran (what means): Quran: 7:130-133]
Almighty Allaah also Says (what means): "But when We removed the punishment from them until a term which they were to reach, then at once they broke their word."[Quran: 7:135]
Pharaoh became ruder and more arrogant. He proclaimed to his people: "Pharaoh is the only god. Has he not the kingdom of Egypt and rivers flowing under it?" He declared that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was a liar, a magician, and an indigent man who did not wear even one bracelet of gold. Almighty Allaah declares (what means):
" [Quran: 10:88-89]
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Moosaa -VII
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
THURSDAY 22/12/2005
The Exodus
Allaah Almighty inspired Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, to conduct his people from Egypt, but only a few of his people believed in his message. Almighty Allaah revealed in the Quran (what means): [Quran 10:83-86]
Almighty Allaah decided to put an end to Pharaoh’s crimes after He had given him several chances. Allaah commanded Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, to depart, and the Children of Israel received reluctant permission from Pharaoh to go out of the city for a feast. They prepared themselves to leave Egypt. This departure became known as the Exodus. They carried with them their jewels and borrowed many jewels from the Egyptians.
In the darkness of night, Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, led his people towards the Red Sea, and in the morning, they reached the beach. By then, Pharaoh was aware of their departure, so he mobilised a huge army to pursue them.
The impatient among the Children of Israel soon became agitated and Yoosha' bin Noon (Joshua) exclaimed: "In front of us is this impassable barrier, the sea, and behind us the enemy; surely death cannot be avoided!"
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, replied that he would wait for further guidance from Allaah. These words filled them with some hope, but man is always impatient for results: they were willing to surrender themselves back into slavery. At that moment Allaah revealed to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, (what means): "…‘Strike with your staff the sea’…" [Quran: 26:63] Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, did as he was commanded. A fierce wind blew, the sun shone brightly, and in a flash the sea parted, the crests of the waves standing like mountains on each side.
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, led his people across. This miracle proved Moosaa's oft-repeated claim: "Indeed, with me is my Lord." As they looked back, they saw Pharaoh and his army approaching, about to take the very path which had been opened for them. In great fear and panic, they pleaded with Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, to ask Allaah to close the sea. However, Allaah commanded Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, not to smite the sea with his staff again, for Allaah's decree was already in action.
Pharaoh and his army had seen the miracle, how the sea had parted, but being the pretender that he was, Pharaoh turned to his men and proclaimed: "Look! The sea has opened at my command so that I may follow those rebels and arrest them!" They rushed across the parted waters, and when they were midway, Allaah commanded the sea to return to its former state.
Terror-stricken, Pharaoh, realising his end had come, declared out of fear, what means: "…‘I believe that there is no deity except that whom the Children of Israel believe, and I am of the Muslims.’" [Quran: 10:90] But Allaah did not accept this declaration from the tyrant, and the waters closed over him, drowning him and his entire army.
Almighty Allaah narrates (what means): [Quran: 26:52-68]
The Birth of Moses
The story of Prophet Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, is mentioned in many different passages in the Quran, sometimes in detail, and sometimes in brief. Here, we will mention an account of his life taken from the Quran and Sunnah (prophetic tradition)
The Quran states (what means [Quran: 28:1-6]
Allaah mentions here the gist of the story, which He later expands upon. He mentioned the details of this story to His Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam in truth, the way it happened; He, the Almighty, Says (what means): “Indeed, Pharaoh exalted himself in the land and made its people into factions…”[Quran: 28:4]
Pharaoh (Pharaoh) rebelled in arrogance and was haughty. He preferred this world to the Hereafter, and disobeyed the Lord. He divided his people into sects. Some of them were made to live the life of subservience and humiliation; they were the people of Israel. They were the best people of their time. Pharaoh exploited them and dealt with them unjustly, forcing them to take up only the lowest of professions. Not only that, he also killed their males while keeping their women alive. The Quran states (what means): “…Slaughtering their [newborn] sons and keeping their females alive. Indeed, he was of the corruptors.”[Quran: 28:4]
The reason behind this evil practice was the belief of the Israelites that there would come a child from the progeny of Ibraaheem (Abraham), may Allaah exalt his mention, who would destroy the kingdom of Pharaoh. It happened when Saarah, may Allaah exalt her mention, the wife of Ibraaheem, may Allaah exalt his mention, passed through Egypt, and there the king of Egypt tried to misbehave with her. But Allaah saved her, and gave her the glad tidings that from her progeny would come a boy who would destroy that kingdom. This information was well known among the Israelites. The Coptic people of Egypt talked about it, till it reached Pharaoh through some of his ministers. Pharaoh then commanded the slaying of all the Israelite male children, in fear of this child.
Imaam As-Suddi, may Allaah have mercy upon him, who was a Muslim scholar, narrated from Ibn 'Abbaas and other Companions, may Allaah be pleased with them, that Pharaoh had a dream that a fire came from the direction of Jerusalem and burnt all the Coptic people and their houses, but did not harm the Israelites. He woke up terrified and gathered all his priests, soothsayers, and sorcerers, and asked them for the interpretation of his dream. They said: "There will be born a boy from these people, who will destroy the people of Egypt." So Pharaoh ordered that all newborn boys be killed, while the girls were to be kept alive.
That is why Allaah Says (what means): [Quran: 28: 6]
Allaah promised to grant strength and control to those who were weak and suppressed. This Divine promise was fulfilled, and they became, as Allaah Says in the Quran (what means): Quran: 7:137]
Allaah also Says (what means): [Quran: 26:57-59]
Pharaoh took every step to make sure that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, would not survive his birth; he even appointed midwives to check routinely upon pregnant women, and know the time of their delivery. No woman therefore gave birth to a baby boy except that the people of Pharaoh would kill it at birth.
Allaah Says (what means): [Quran: 7:129]
So the truth is that Pharaoh ordered the killing of boys in the first place to make sure that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, would not live after his birth.
Many exegetes stated that the Coptic population complained to Pharaoh that the Israelites were decreasing in number because of the killing of their boys, so soon both the old and the young might perish. Consequently, they would lose the manpower of the Israelites, and be forced to carry out the work which they did. So Pharaoh found an economically and socially sound solution, and hence decreed a new order: to kill the boys born in one year and then spare the lives of those born during the following year.
It is said that Haaroon (Aaron), may Allaah exalt his mention, was born during the year of pardon when children were not killed, while Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was born in the year in which they were being killed. Moosaa’s mother was very worried from the moment she became pregnant. However, the sign of pregnancy did not show on her. When she gave birth to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, it was inspired to her that she should make a chest (wooden box) and tie it with a long rope, with the other end tied to her house. As her house was on the bank of the Nile, she would place him in the chest letting the rope loose so it could be hidden in the reeds of the Nile.
Allaah Says (what means): [Quran: 28:7-9]
She was inspired in her heart that there was no cause for fear, even if he disappeared, Allaah would bring him back to her, because He was going to send him as His Prophet and Messenger. He would be a person of honour in this world and in the Hereafter. She used to do what she had been commanded. However, on the day when she let the chest go in the Nile, she forgot to tie it to her house. The chest went on till it passed by Pharaoh’s palace.
The palace servants found the basket with the baby and took it to Pharaoh and his queen. When the queen beheld the lovely infant, Allaah instilled in her a strong love for this baby. Pharaoh’s wife was very different from him. He was a disbeliever; she was a believer. He was cruel; she was merciful. He was a tyrant; she was delicate and kind-hearted. She was sad because she was infertile and had hoped to have a son. Hardly had she held the baby than she kissed him.
Pharaoh was stunned when he saw his wife hugging this baby to her breast. He was much astonished because his wife was weeping with joy, something he had never seen her do before. She requested her husband to allow her to keep the baby, so that he could be a son to him. So, as the Quran states (what means [Quran: 28:8]
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Moosaa -II
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
THURSDAY 22/12/2005
His Nursing
The queen summoned a few wet nurses to suckle baby Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, but he would not take any of their breasts. The queen was distressed and sent for more wet nurses. Moosaa’s sister was also worried, as her baby brother had gone without milk for a long time. Seeing the queen's anxiety, she blurted that she knew just the mother who would suckle the child affectionately. They asked her why she was following the floating chest. She said she did so out of curiosity. Her excuse sounded reasonable, so they believed her. They ordered her to rush and fetch the woman she was talking about. Her mother also was waiting with a heavy heart, worried about the fate of her baby. Just then her daughter rushed in with the good news. Her heart lifted and she lost no time in reaching the palace. Allaah the Almighty mentions this story in the Quran. [Quran: 28:10-13]
As the child was put to her breast, he immediately started suckling. Pharaoh (Pharaoh) was astonished and asked: "Who are you? This child has refused to take any other breast but yours!" Had she told the truth, Pharaoh would have known that the child was an Israelite and would have killed it instantly. However, Allaah gave her inner strength and she replied: "I am a woman of sweet milk and sweet fragrance, and no child refuses me." This answer satisfied Pharaoh. She was appointed as Moosaa’s wet nurse. She continued to breast-feed him for a long time. When he was bigger and was weaned, she was allowed the privilege of visiting him. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt him mention, was raised in the palace as a prince.
Allaah Says (what means): “And when he attained his full strength and was [mentally] mature, We bestowed upon him judgement and knowledge. And thus do We reward the doers of good." [Quran: 28:14]
Allaah had granted Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, good health, strength, knowledge, and wisdom. The weak and oppressed turned to him for protection and justice.
One day, in the main city, he, may Allaah exalt his mention, saw two men fighting. One was an Israelite, who was being beaten by the other, an Egyptian. On seeing Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, the Israelite begged him for help. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, became involved in the dispute and, in a state of anger, struck a heavy blow on the Egyptian, who died on the spot. Upon realising that he had killed a human being, Moosaa’s heart was filled with deep sorrow, and immediately he begged Allaah for forgiveness.
He had not intended to kill the man. He pleaded with Almighty Allaah to forgive him, and he felt a sense of peace filling his whole being. Thereafter Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, began to show more patience and sympathy towards people.
Soon after this, as Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was passing through the city, a man approached and alerted him: "O Moosaa! The chiefs have taken counsel against you. You are to be tried and killed. I would advise you to escape." Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, left Egypt in a hurry without going to Pharaoh’s palace or changing his clothes. Nor was he prepared for travelling. He did not have a beast of burden upon which to ride, and he was not in a caravan. He travelled on foot in the direction of Madyan, which was the nearest inhabited land between Syria and Egypt. His only companion in this hot desert was Allaah, and his only provision was piety. There was not a single root to pick to lessen his hunger. The hot sand burned the soles of his feet. However, fearing pursuit by Pharaoh’s men, he forced himself to continue on. He travelled for eight nights, hiding during the day. After crossing the main desert, he reached a watering hole outside Madyan where shepherds were watering their flocks.
No sooner had Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, reached Madyan than he threw himself under a tree to rest. He suffered from hunger and fatigue. The soles of his feet felt as if they were worn out from hard walking on sand and rocks and from the dust. He did not have any money to buy a new pair of sandals, nor to buy food or drink. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, noticed a band of shepherds watering their sheep. He went to the spring, where he saw two young women preventing their sheep from mixing with the others.
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, sensed that the women were in need of help. Forgetting his thirst, he drew nearer to them and asked if he could help them in any way.
The older sister said: "We are waiting until the shepherds finish watering their sheep, then we will water ours."
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, asked again: "Why are you waiting?"
The younger one said: "We cannot push men."
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was surprised that women were shepherding, as only men were supposed to do it. It is hard and tiresome work, and one needs to be on the alert. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, asked: "Why are you shepherding?"
The younger sister said: "Our father is an old man; his health is too poor for him to go outdoors for pasturing sheep."
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, said: "I will water the sheep for you."
When he approached the water, he saw that the shepherds had put over the mouth of the spring an immense rock that could only be moved by ten men. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, embraced the rock and lifted it out of the spring's mouth. He was certainly strong. He watered their sheep and put the rock back in its place.
He returned to sit in the shade of the tree. At this moment he realised that he had forgotten to drink. His stomach was sunken because of hunger.
Almighty Allaah describes this event in the verses (which mean): [Quran: 28:23-24]
The young ladies returned home earlier than usual, which surprised their father. They related the incident at the well, which was the reason that they were back early. Their father sent one of his daughters to invite the stranger to his home. Bashfully, the woman approached Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention: "My father is grateful for what you have done for us. He invites you to our home so that he may thank you personally."
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, welcomed this invitation and accompanied the maiden to her father. He, may Allaah exalt his mention, could see that they lived comfortably as a happy and peaceful household. He introduced himself and told the old man about the misfortune that had befallen him and had compelled him to flee from Egypt. The old man comforted him: "Fear not, you have escaped from the wrong-doers."
Moosaa’s gentle behaviour was noticed by the father and his daughters. The man invited him to stay with them. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, felt at home with this happy household, for they were friendly and fearful of Allaah.
One of the daughters suggested to her father that he employ Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, as he was strong and trustworthy. They needed someone like him, especially at the water hole, which was visited by ruffians.
The father asked her how she could be sure of his trustworthiness in such a short time. She replied: "When I bade him to follow me to our home, he insisted that I walk behind him so he would not observe my form (to avoid sexual attraction)."
The old man was pleased to hear this. He approached Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and said: "I wish to marry you to one of my daughters on condition that you agree to work for me for a period of eight years."
This offer suited Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, very well, for being a stranger in this place, he would soon have to search for shelter and work. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, married the Madyanite's daughter and looked after the old man's animals for ten long years.
Time passed, and he lived in seclusion, far from his family and his people. This period of ten years was of importance in his life. It was a period of major preparation. Certainly Moosaa’s mind was absorbed in the stars every night. He followed the sunrise and the sunset every day. He pondered on the plants and everything else around him. He contemplated water and how the earth is revived by it and flourishes after its death.
Of course, he was also immersed in the Glorious Book of Allaah, open to the insight and heart. He was immersed in the existence of Allaah. All these became latent within him.
One day after the end of this period, a vague homesickness arose in Moosaa’s heart. He wanted to return to Egypt. He was fast and firm in making his decision, telling his wife: "Tomorrow we shall leave for Egypt." His wife said to herself. "There are a thousand dangers in departing that have not yet been revealed." However, she obeyed her husband.
[To be continued…]
Source: Sheikh Muhammad Gemeiah's translation of: ‘Stories of the Prophets’, by Imaam Ibn Katheer
The story of Prophet Moosaa -III
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
SUNDAY 25/07/2010
Back to Egypt
Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, left Madyan with his family and travelled through the desert until he reached Mount Sinai. There, he discovered that he had lost his way. He sought Allaah's direction and was shown the right course. At nightfall, they reached Mount Toor. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, noticed a fire in the distance. "I shall fetch a firebrand to warm us," he said to his wife.
As he neared the fire, he heard a sonorous voice calling him, with (what means): "…‘O Moosaa! Indeed I am your Lord’…" [Quran: 20:11-12] Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was bewildered and looked around. He again heard the strange voice, saying (what means): "And what is that in your right hand, O Moosaa?" [Quran: 20:17] Shivering, he answered with (what means): "...‘It is my staff; I lean upon it, and I bring down leaves for my sheep and I have therein other uses." [Quran: 20:18] This question was asked so that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, would focus his attention on the staff and to prepare him for the miracle which was to happen. This was the beginning of Moosaa’s mission as a prophet.
The same voice commanded him with (what means): "Throw it [i.e., the staff] down!..." [Quran: 20:19] He did so, and at once the staff became a wriggling snake. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, turned to run, but the voice again addressed him (what means): "…‘Seize it and fear not; We will return it to its former condition.’" [Quran: 20:19] The snake changed back into his staff. Moosaa’s fear subsided and was replaced by peace, for he realised that he was witnessing the truth.
Next, Allaah commanded him to thrust his hand into his robe at the armpit. When he pulled it out, the hand had a brilliant shine. He, therefore, had two signs from his Lord. Allaah then commanded Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, with what means: "Go to Pharaoh [Pharaoh]. Indeed, he has transgressed [i.e., tyrannised]."[Quran: 20:24]
However, Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, feared that he would be arrested by Pharaoh, so he turned to Allaah saying: "My Lord! I have killed a man among them and I fear that they will kill me." Allaah assured him of his safety and set his heart at rest.
Almighty Allaah narrated this event in the Quranic verses (which mean): [Quran: 20:24-36]
Moosaa and His Brother Haaroon Debate with Pharaoh
Moosaa and Haaroon, may Allaah exalt their mention, went together to Pharaoh and delivered their message. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, spoke to him about Allaah, His mercy and His Paradise, and about the obligations of monotheism and His worship.
Pharaoh listened to Moosaa’s speech with disdain. He thought that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was mad because he dared to question his 'supreme' position. Then he raised his hand and asked: "What do you want?"
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, replied: "I want you to send the children of Israel with us."
Pharaoh asked: "Why should I send them, as they are my slaves?"
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, replied: "They are the slaves of Allaah, Lord of the Worlds."
Fir’awm then inquired sarcastically if his name was Moosaa, to which Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, answered in the affirmative.
Pharaoh said: "Are you not the Moosaa whom we picked up from the Nile as a helpless baby? Are you not the Moosaa whom we reared in this palace, who ate and drank from our provisions and on whom we showered wealth with charity? Are you not the Moosaa who is a fugitive, the killer of an Egyptian man? It is said that killing is an act of disbelief. Therefore, you were a disbeliever when you killed. You are a fugitive from justice and you come to speak to me! What were you talking about O Moosaa? I forgot."
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, knew that Pharaoh’s mentioning of his past, his upbringing, and his receiving Pharaoh’s charity was Pharaoh’s way of threatening him. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, ignored his sarcasm and explained that he was not a disbeliever when he killed the Egyptian, he only went astray and Allaah, the Almighty, had not yet given him the revelation at that time. He made Pharaoh understand that he fled from Egypt because he was afraid of their revenge upon him, even though the killing was an accident. He informed him that Allaah had granted him forgiveness and made him one of the messengers.
Allaah the Almighty revealed to us part of the dialogue between Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and Pharaoh; He Says (what means):
" [Quran: 26:15-31]
The degree of the conflict expressed in this dialogue reached its apex; thus, the tone of dialogue changed. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, used a convincing intellectual argument against Pharaoh. However, Pharaoh escaped from the circle of dialogue based on logic and began a dialogue of another type, a type which Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, could not bear to follow, a dialogue of menace and threat. Pharaoh deliberately adopted the style of the absolute ruler. He asked Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, how he dared to worship Allaah! Did he not know that Pharaoh was a god?
After declaring his divinity, Pharaoh asked Moosaa how he dared to worship another god. The punishment for this crime was imprisonment. It was not permitted for anyone to worship anyone other than Pharaoh. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, understood that the intellectual arguments did not succeed. The calm dialogue was converted from sarcasm to mentioning charity, then to scorn, then to the threat of imprisonment.
Allaah Says (what means): [Quran: 26:30-33]
Pharaoh’s amazement turned to terror. Fearing that his rule was in danger, he addressed his advisors: "These are two wizards who will strip you of your best traditions and drive you out of the country with their magic. What do you advice?" They counselled Pharaoh to detain Moosaa and his brother, may Allaah exalt their mention, while they summoned the best magicians in the country. Then they too, could show their skills of magic and change sticks into serpents. In this way they sought to reduce the influence of Moosaa’s miracles on the masses.
Pharaoh detained Moosaa and Haaroon, may Allaah exalt their mention. He dispatched couriers all over the land to enlist the best magicians. He offered each successful magician a big reward, including appointment as a royal courtier.
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Moosaa -IV
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
SUNDAY 25/07/2010
The Great Contest
On the customary festival day, which attracted citizens from all over the Egyptian empire, Pharaoh (Pharaoh) arranged for a public contest between Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, and the magicians. The people came in droves when they heard of the greatest contest ever between Pharaoh’s many magicians, and a single man who 'claimed to be a prophet'.
Everyone was eager and excited to watch this great contest. Before it began, Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, arose and addressed the magicians, saying (what means): [Quran: 20:61]
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, had spoken sincerely and made the magicians think. But they were overwhelmed by their greed for money and glory. They hoped to impress the people with their magic and to expose Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, as a fraud and a cheat.
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, asked the magicians to perform first. They threw their magical objects down on the ground. Their staffs and ropes took the forms of wriggling serpents while the crowd watched in amazement. Pharaoh and his men applauded loudly. Then, Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, threw his staff. It began to wriggle and became an enormous serpent. The people stood up, craning their necks for a better view. Pharaoh and his men sat silently as Moosaa's huge serpent swallowed all the snakes, one by one. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, bent to pick it up, and it became a staff in his hand.
The crowd rose like a great wave, shouting and screaming with excitement. A wonder like this had never been seen before! On witnessing the power of Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, the magicians prostrated themselves to Allaah, declaring (what means): "…‘We believe in the Lord of Haaroon [Aaron] and Moosaa.’"[Quran: 20:70] Pharaoh was furious and began plotting his next move. He charged that the demonstration had been arranged secretly between Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and the magicians. He demanded that the magicians confess to their scheme, threatening them with death. They refused to denounce Allaah and stuck to their sincerity of their belief. No longer hiding his cruel nature, Pharaoh threatened to cut off their hands and feet and to crucify them on the trunks of palm trees as an example to his subjects.
Almighty Allaah recounts this event in the following verses (which mean):
” [Quran: 20:57-76]
The magicians represented the elite of the Egyptian society. They were its scholars. They prostrated before righteousness, but the people abandoned them and left them to their fate. The path of righteousness was plain, but in spite of this, the people did nothing but stand by and watch. If every one of the Egyptians had stopped to pick up a piece of brick and had thrown it at Pharaoh, he would have fallen dead and the history of Egypt would have been changed. This obviously did not happen. None of the people moved. Each one stood motionless in his place. The people did nothing but watch, and they paid the price of this inactivity: they were drowned later as the price for the cowardice of one day.
Moosaa and Haaroon, may Allaah exalt their mention, left, and Pharaoh returned to his palace. Pharaoh was completely stupefied when he faced the two miracles. When Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, went out of his presence, Pharaoh’s emotions changed from amazement and fear to violent rage. He quarrelled with his ministers and men, reviled them bitterly for no reason, and commanded them to get out of his presence. When he was left alone, he tried to think more calmly. He drank several cups of wine, but his anger did not abate.
Then he summoned all the ministers, leaders, and responsible men for a serious meeting. Pharaoh entered the meeting with a rigid face. It was obvious that he would never surrender easily. He had established a kingdom on the basis of his being a god worshipped by the Egyptian people. Now Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, came to destroy what he had built. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, said that there was no Lord other than Allaah in existence. This meant that Pharaoh was a liar.
Pharaoh opened the session by throwing a sudden question at Haamaan, his aide: "Am I a liar, O Haamaan?" Haamaan fell to his knees in amazement and asked: "Who dared to accuse Pharaoh of lying?" Pharaoh said: "Has he (Moosaa) not said that there is a Lord above the heaven?" Haamaan answered: "Moosaa is lying." Turning his face to the other side, Pharaoh asserted impatiently: "I know he is a liar." Then he looked towards Haamaan and cried (what means): [Quran: 40:36-37]
Pharaoh issued his royal command to erect a lofty tower to reach the heavens. Pharaoh’s command depended fundamentally upon Egyptian civilisation and its fondness for building what Pharaoh wanted. However, he ignored the rules of engineering. In spite of this, Haamaan assented (hypocritically), knowing that it was impossible to erect such a tower. He said that he would issue a command to build it immediately. "However, your majesty, let me object to Pharaoh for the first time. You will never find anyone in the heavens. There is no god but you."
Pharaoh listened to a settled fact. Then he declared in the famous meeting his historic line (which means): "…‘O eminent ones! I have not known you to have a god other than me’…" [Quran: 28:38]
Pharaoh was absorbed in his new problem. A series of serious meetings began in his palace. He summoned those responsible for the army, the police and, what we call today his director of intelligence. He also summoned the ministers, princes, and priests. He called whoever had a powerful effect on the direction of events.
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Moosaa -V
Rating 1
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
WEDNESDAY 28/07/2010
Pharaoh’s Crisis
Pharaoh (Pharaoh) was absorbed in his new problem - the loss of the magic contest with Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, which led to the submission of the magicians to Moosaa's call. A series of serious meetings began in his palace. He summoned those responsible for the army, the police and, what we call today his director of intelligence. He also summoned the ministers, princes, and priests. He called whoever had a powerful effect on the direction of events.
Pharaoh asked his director of intelligence: "What are the people saying?" He said: "My men have spread among them that Moosaa won the contest because of a plot and that a major magician had joined with him in this plan. The plot had been disclosed, and we believe an unknown authority financed it." Pharaoh asked his director of police: "What about the magicians' corpses?" He said: "My men hung them in public squares and markets to terrify the people. We will spread a rumour that Pharaoh will kill whoever had anything to do with the plot." Then Pharaoh asked the commander of the army: "What does the army say?" He said: "The army hopes that commands will be issued to move in whatever direction Pharaoh desires." Pharaoh said: "The role of the army has not come yet. Its role will come."
Pharaoh fell silent. Haamaan, the Prime Minister, moved and raised his hand to speak. Pharaoh permitted him and Haamaan asked: "Will we leave Moosaa and his people to corrupt the rest of the people on the earth so that they leave your worship?" Pharaoh said: "You read my thoughts, O Haamaan. We will kill their sons, rape their women, and conquer them." He issued commands, and Pharaoh’s men rushed to slay the sons, rape the women, and imprison whoever objected to these acts.
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, stood watching what was happening. He could not interfere, nor did he have the power to forbid these acts. All he could do was to advise his people to be patient. He ordered them to ask Allaah the Almighty for a calamity on the Egyptians. He pointed out to them the model of the Egyptian magicians who endured for Allaah's sake without complaint. He helped them to understand that Pharaoh’s soldiers behaved on earth as if they were its private owners. Pharaoh’s terrorism infused the Children of Israel with a spirit of defeat. They complained to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, saying (what means): "…‘We have been harmed before you came to us and after you have come to us.’ He [Moosaa] said: ‘Perhaps your Lord will destroy your enemy and grant you succession in the land and see how you will do.’" [Quran: 7:129]
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, began to face a difficult situation. He had to confront Pharaoh’s anger and plots, while, at the same time, he had to deal with the mutiny of his people. In the midst of all this, Qaaroon (Korah) moved. Qaaroon was one of Moosaa's people. He was very rich and lived in a magnificent mansion. He wore only the most expensive clothes. Numerous slaves waited on him and he indulged in every known luxury. His enormous wealth made him arrogant. Qaaroon treated the poor with contempt and told them that their poverty was due to their lack of intelligence. He believed that what he owned was due to his cleverness and business acumen.
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, reminded Qaaroon to pay Zakaah (alms) from his wealth, a portion of which was rightfully due to the poor. Alms are compulsory upon all the believers. Qaaroon was annoyed by this advice and told Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention that his being wealthy was proof that he was favoured by Allaah, Who approved of his lifestyle and increased his wealth daily. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, argued with him and warned him of the result of his wicked thoughts.
When Qaaroon did calculate the alms due on his wealth, he was shocked at the large amount he had to part with. He not only refused to give alms, but spread a rumour that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, had invented the law of Zakaah for his own gain. He even bribed the people to oppose Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and to spread wicked rumours about him.
Allaah warned Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, of the plot of Qaaroon. Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, appealed to Allaah to punish him for his stinginess and for defying His laws. Allaah's wrath fell on Qaaroon. The earth opened up and swallowed him, his mansion and all his wealth, as if he had never existed. Almighty Allaah revealed (what means):
[Quran: 28: 81]
When the Egyptians and Children of Israel examined the miracle, the conflict between Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and Pharaoh again reached a crisis because Pharaoh believed that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was threatening his kingdom.
Pharaoh was afraid that the people would be misled by Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention. He suggested to his ministers and notable men that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, be killed. It was on the verge of approval, except for the vote of one of the notable men of the state, whose name is not mentioned in the Quran. The Quran simply states that this man was a believer.
This believer spoke in the assembly where the idea of killing Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, had been introduced. He proved that it was not a good idea: "Moosaa did not say more than that Allaah is his Lord. Later, he came with clear evidence that he is a Messenger. There are two possibilities; either Moosaa is righteous or a liar. If he lies, he will be responsible for his lie. If he is righteous and we slay him, where is the guarantee that we will be rescued from the torment of Allaah? Either way, he neither says nor does anything that merits our killing him."
This angered Pharaoh and his counsellors and they threatened to harm the man, but he refused to budge from his stance. Then they tried to woo him back, but he still warned them that they were inviting their doom. This further angered Pharaoh, and he now threatened to kill the man. However, Allaah protected His believer.
Almighty Allaah revealed their dialogue in the following verses (which mean): Quran: 40:26-33]
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, repeated his demand that Pharaoh release the Children of Israel from slavery. In response, Pharaoh called his subjects, including the Children of Israel, to a huge gathering where he reminded them that he was their lord and provided all their needs. He said: "Moosaa has no gold amulets or angels following him; he is just a poor man." Being a people who had been oppressed for a very long time, they lacked vision. Their judgment was limited to what they could see in the material world. They regarded their ruler to be wealthy and able to provide all their worldly needs. In ignorance, they obeyed Pharaoh and ignored Moosaa's call. Allaah commanded Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, to warn Pharaoh of a punishment in this world for his faithlessness and his persecution of the Children of Israel.
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Moosaa -VI
Rating 1
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
SUNDAY 01/08/2010
The Divine Sign
Allaah commanded Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, to warn the arrogant Pharaoh (Pharaoh) of a punishment in this world for his faithlessness and his persecution of the Children of Israel. As a portent of the punishment which Allaah would mete out, the Nile did not flood its banks to soak the dry land as it normally did. As a result, crops failed, leading to famine. However, Pharaoh remained arrogant, so Allaah caused a huge flood, which devastated the land.
As often as they were troubled grievously, they appealed to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, with (what means"[Quran: 7:134]
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, prayed to his Lord and He relieved the suffering caused by the flood. The surging water ceased and withdrew from the land, and it became cultivatable. But when Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, bade them to fulfil their promise to release the Children of Israel, they did not respond.
Then Allaah sent swarms of locusts which ate whatever corps they had grown. The people hurried to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, asking him to invoke Allaah to remove this affliction and promising they would send the Children of Israel with him this time. The locusts departed, but they did not fulfil their promise.
Then another sign came, the sign of lice, which spread amongst the Egyptians, carrying diseases. Their refuge to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and their promise to him, was repeated. His prayer to Allaah was repeated and so, too, their breach of promise, as usual.
A sign of frogs was revealed. The land suddenly filled with frogs. They jumped on the food of the Egyptians, shared their houses, and distressed them greatly. The Egyptians went to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, again, promising him to release the Children of Israel. He prayed to his Lord, and Allaah relieved them of the problem of the frogs, but they again broke their promise.
Then the last sign was revealed, the sign of blood. The Nile water was changed into blood. When Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, and his people drank the water, it was, for them, ordinary water. However, if any Egyptian filled his cup with the water, he discovered his cup full of blood. They hurried to Moosaa as usual, but as soon as everything returned to normal, they turned their backs on Allaah.
Almighty Allaah Says in the Quran (what means): Quran: 7:130-133]
Almighty Allaah also Says (what means): "But when We removed the punishment from them until a term which they were to reach, then at once they broke their word."[Quran: 7:135]
Pharaoh became ruder and more arrogant. He proclaimed to his people: "Pharaoh is the only god. Has he not the kingdom of Egypt and rivers flowing under it?" He declared that Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, was a liar, a magician, and an indigent man who did not wear even one bracelet of gold. Almighty Allaah declares (what means):
" [Quran: 10:88-89]
[To be continued…]
The story of Prophet Moosaa -VII
Rating 0
Vote!
Print Send this Article to friend
THURSDAY 22/12/2005
The Exodus
Allaah Almighty inspired Moosaa (Moses), may Allaah exalt his mention, to conduct his people from Egypt, but only a few of his people believed in his message. Almighty Allaah revealed in the Quran (what means): [Quran 10:83-86]
Almighty Allaah decided to put an end to Pharaoh’s crimes after He had given him several chances. Allaah commanded Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, to depart, and the Children of Israel received reluctant permission from Pharaoh to go out of the city for a feast. They prepared themselves to leave Egypt. This departure became known as the Exodus. They carried with them their jewels and borrowed many jewels from the Egyptians.
In the darkness of night, Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, led his people towards the Red Sea, and in the morning, they reached the beach. By then, Pharaoh was aware of their departure, so he mobilised a huge army to pursue them.
The impatient among the Children of Israel soon became agitated and Yoosha' bin Noon (Joshua) exclaimed: "In front of us is this impassable barrier, the sea, and behind us the enemy; surely death cannot be avoided!"
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, replied that he would wait for further guidance from Allaah. These words filled them with some hope, but man is always impatient for results: they were willing to surrender themselves back into slavery. At that moment Allaah revealed to Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, (what means): "…‘Strike with your staff the sea’…" [Quran: 26:63] Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, did as he was commanded. A fierce wind blew, the sun shone brightly, and in a flash the sea parted, the crests of the waves standing like mountains on each side.
Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, led his people across. This miracle proved Moosaa's oft-repeated claim: "Indeed, with me is my Lord." As they looked back, they saw Pharaoh and his army approaching, about to take the very path which had been opened for them. In great fear and panic, they pleaded with Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, to ask Allaah to close the sea. However, Allaah commanded Moosaa, may Allaah exalt his mention, not to smite the sea with his staff again, for Allaah's decree was already in action.
Pharaoh and his army had seen the miracle, how the sea had parted, but being the pretender that he was, Pharaoh turned to his men and proclaimed: "Look! The sea has opened at my command so that I may follow those rebels and arrest them!" They rushed across the parted waters, and when they were midway, Allaah commanded the sea to return to its former state.
Terror-stricken, Pharaoh, realising his end had come, declared out of fear, what means: "…‘I believe that there is no deity except that whom the Children of Israel believe, and I am of the Muslims.’" [Quran: 10:90] But Allaah did not accept this declaration from the tyrant, and the waters closed over him, drowning him and his entire army.
Almighty Allaah narrates (what means): [Quran: 26:52-68]
The story of Prophet Luut
Prophet Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, left Egypt, accompanied by his uncle Ibraaheem, may Allaah exalt his mention, and headed to the city of Sodom in Palestine, which was on the western shore of the Dead Sea.
This city was filled with evil. Its residents waylaid, robbed and killed travellers. Another common evil among them was that their men used to have sex with men instead of women. This unnatural act later became known as sodomy, after the city of Sodom. It was practiced openly and unashamedly.
It was at the height of these crimes and sins that Allaah revealed to Prophet Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, that he should summon the people to give up their indecent behaviour, but their immoral habits were so deeply ingrained that they were deaf to Luut's preaching. Addicted to their unnatural desires, they refused to accept the call to repentance, even when Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, warned them of Allaah's punishment. Instead, they threatened to drive him out of the city if he continued preaching against their evil habits.
Allaah Almighty revealed (what means): [Quran: 26:160-171]
The sinful actions of Prophet Luut's people saddened his heart. Their abominable reputation spread throughout the land, while he continued to struggle against them. As the years passed, he persisted in his mission, but to no avail. No one responded to his call and believed except for the members of his family; even in his household, not all the members believed: Luut's wife was a disbeliever.
If home is the place of comfort and rest, then Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, found none, for he was tormented both within and outside his home. His life was continuous agony as he suffered greatly, but he remained patient and steadfast as a Messenger to his people. Instead of heeding to him, they belittled his message, and mockingly challenged him, saying (what means): "…'Bring us the punishment of Allaah, if you should be of the truthful!" [Quran: 29:29]
Overwhelmed with despair, Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, prayed to Allaah to grant him victory and to destroy the corrupt. Allaah Almighty, therefore, sent three angels in the guise of young handsome men in answer to his prayer. They reached the walls of the town in the afternoon. The first person who caught sight of them was Luut's daughter while she was filling her jug with water from the river. When she saw them, she was stunned that there could be men of such magnificent beauty on earth.
One of the three men (angels) asked her: "O maiden! Is there a place to rest?"
Remembering the evil character of her people, she replied: "Stay here and do not enter the town until I inform my father and return." Leaving her jug by the river, she swiftly ran home.
"O father!" she cried. "You are wanted by young men at the town gate and I have never before seen the like of their faces!"
Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, felt distressed as he quickly ran to his guests.
They visited him at home as guests. After ushering them in hospitably, he asked them where they came from and where they were going.
They did not reply to his questions. Instead they asked if he could host them. He began talking with them and impressed upon them the repulsive nature of his people. Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, was filled with turmoil; he wanted to convince his guests without offending them, not to spend the night there, yet at the same time he wanted to extend to them the expected hospitality normally accorded to guests. In vain, he tried to make them understand the perilous situation. At last, therefore, he requested them to wait until nightfall, for then no one would see them.
When darkness shrouded the town, Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, escorted his guests to his home. No one was aware of their presence. However, as soon as Luut's wife saw them, she slipped out of the house quietly so that no one noticed her. Quickly, she ran to her people with the news and spread it to all the inhabitants like wildfire. The people rushed towards Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, quickly and excitedly.
When Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, saw the mob approaching his house, he shut the door, but they kept on banging on it. He pleaded with them to leave the visitors alone and fear Allaah's punishment. He urged them to seek sexual fulfilment with their wives, for that is what Allaah had made lawful.
Luut's people waited until he had finished his short sermon, and then they roared with laughter. Blinded by lust, they broke down the door. Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, became very angry, but he stood powerless before these violent people. He felt powerless to prevent the abuse of his guests, but he firmly continued to plead with the mob.
At that terrible moment, he wished he had the power to push them away from his guests. Seeing him in a state of helplessness and grief, the guests said to him: "Do not be anxious or frightened, for we are angels, and these people will not harm you."
On hearing this, the mob was terrified and fled from Luut's house, hurling threats at him as they left. The angels warned Prophet Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, to leave his house before sunrise, taking with him all his family, except his wife.
Allaah had decreed that the city of Sodom should perish. An earthquake rocked the town. It was as if a mighty power had lifted the entire city and flung it down in one jolt. A storm of stones then rained on the city. Everyone and everything was destroyed, including Luut's wife.
The Holy Quran recorded this event; it states (what means
[Quran: 26:170-175]
Thus, the people of Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, were destroyed and their towns and names have been erased from the face of the earth.
Source: Sheikh Muhammad Gemeiah's translation of 'Stories of the Prophets', by Imaam Ibn Katheer
This city was filled with evil. Its residents waylaid, robbed and killed travellers. Another common evil among them was that their men used to have sex with men instead of women. This unnatural act later became known as sodomy, after the city of Sodom. It was practiced openly and unashamedly.
It was at the height of these crimes and sins that Allaah revealed to Prophet Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, that he should summon the people to give up their indecent behaviour, but their immoral habits were so deeply ingrained that they were deaf to Luut's preaching. Addicted to their unnatural desires, they refused to accept the call to repentance, even when Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, warned them of Allaah's punishment. Instead, they threatened to drive him out of the city if he continued preaching against their evil habits.
Allaah Almighty revealed (what means): [Quran: 26:160-171]
The sinful actions of Prophet Luut's people saddened his heart. Their abominable reputation spread throughout the land, while he continued to struggle against them. As the years passed, he persisted in his mission, but to no avail. No one responded to his call and believed except for the members of his family; even in his household, not all the members believed: Luut's wife was a disbeliever.
If home is the place of comfort and rest, then Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, found none, for he was tormented both within and outside his home. His life was continuous agony as he suffered greatly, but he remained patient and steadfast as a Messenger to his people. Instead of heeding to him, they belittled his message, and mockingly challenged him, saying (what means): "…'Bring us the punishment of Allaah, if you should be of the truthful!" [Quran: 29:29]
Overwhelmed with despair, Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, prayed to Allaah to grant him victory and to destroy the corrupt. Allaah Almighty, therefore, sent three angels in the guise of young handsome men in answer to his prayer. They reached the walls of the town in the afternoon. The first person who caught sight of them was Luut's daughter while she was filling her jug with water from the river. When she saw them, she was stunned that there could be men of such magnificent beauty on earth.
One of the three men (angels) asked her: "O maiden! Is there a place to rest?"
Remembering the evil character of her people, she replied: "Stay here and do not enter the town until I inform my father and return." Leaving her jug by the river, she swiftly ran home.
"O father!" she cried. "You are wanted by young men at the town gate and I have never before seen the like of their faces!"
Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, felt distressed as he quickly ran to his guests.
They visited him at home as guests. After ushering them in hospitably, he asked them where they came from and where they were going.
They did not reply to his questions. Instead they asked if he could host them. He began talking with them and impressed upon them the repulsive nature of his people. Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, was filled with turmoil; he wanted to convince his guests without offending them, not to spend the night there, yet at the same time he wanted to extend to them the expected hospitality normally accorded to guests. In vain, he tried to make them understand the perilous situation. At last, therefore, he requested them to wait until nightfall, for then no one would see them.
When darkness shrouded the town, Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, escorted his guests to his home. No one was aware of their presence. However, as soon as Luut's wife saw them, she slipped out of the house quietly so that no one noticed her. Quickly, she ran to her people with the news and spread it to all the inhabitants like wildfire. The people rushed towards Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, quickly and excitedly.
When Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, saw the mob approaching his house, he shut the door, but they kept on banging on it. He pleaded with them to leave the visitors alone and fear Allaah's punishment. He urged them to seek sexual fulfilment with their wives, for that is what Allaah had made lawful.
Luut's people waited until he had finished his short sermon, and then they roared with laughter. Blinded by lust, they broke down the door. Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, became very angry, but he stood powerless before these violent people. He felt powerless to prevent the abuse of his guests, but he firmly continued to plead with the mob.
At that terrible moment, he wished he had the power to push them away from his guests. Seeing him in a state of helplessness and grief, the guests said to him: "Do not be anxious or frightened, for we are angels, and these people will not harm you."
On hearing this, the mob was terrified and fled from Luut's house, hurling threats at him as they left. The angels warned Prophet Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, to leave his house before sunrise, taking with him all his family, except his wife.
Allaah had decreed that the city of Sodom should perish. An earthquake rocked the town. It was as if a mighty power had lifted the entire city and flung it down in one jolt. A storm of stones then rained on the city. Everyone and everything was destroyed, including Luut's wife.
The Holy Quran recorded this event; it states (what means
[Quran: 26:170-175]
Thus, the people of Luut, may Allaah exalt his mention, were destroyed and their towns and names have been erased from the face of the earth.
Source: Sheikh Muhammad Gemeiah's translation of 'Stories of the Prophets', by Imaam Ibn Katheer
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)