The story of Hazrat Musa (A.S.) is one of the most dramatic and powerful narratives in the Qur’an. It’s a story filled with miracles, struggles, hope and a Prophet who stood fearlessly against one of the most tyrannical rulers in history – Fir’awn (Pharaoh). His journey teaches us about patience, leadership and trusting Allah even when everything looks impossible.
A Dangerous Beginning
Hazrat Musa (A.S.) was born at a time when Pharaoh had become obsessed with controlling the population of Bani Isra’il. A warning had reached him that a male child from this community would rise and end his rule. Out of fear, he ordered the killing of every newborn boy.
In the middle of this terror, Musa (A.S.) was born.
Allah inspired his mother with a plan that sounded unbelievable but was filled with divine protection. She placed baby Musa in a small basket and set it afloat on the Nile River, trusting that Allah would guide it.
The basket floated gently toward the palace – the one place no mother would want her child to end up. But this was Allah’s plan.
Raised in the House of the Enemy
Pharaoh’s wife, Asiyah (R.A.), found the baby and was immediately touched by his innocence. She convinced Pharaoh to adopt him. Musa grew up as a prince in the palace, even though the same ruler had tried to kill children like him.
This shows how Allah protects whom He wills – even in the house of the enemy.
Musa (A.S.) grew into a strong, intelligent and compassionate young man. Though he lived in luxury, he never forgot his roots. He cared deeply for the oppressed Bani Isra’il.
A Turning Point
One day, Musa (A.S.) saw an Egyptian man mistreating a man from Bani Isra’il. Musa intervened to defend the weak man, and during the struggle, the Egyptian man died. It was an accident, but Musa was filled with regret and fear that Pharaoh would use it against him.
Word spread quickly. Pharaoh planned to kill him. Musa had no choice but to flee.
He escaped Egypt and travelled to the land of Madyan, exhausted, alone and unsure of what awaited him. But Allah was guiding every step.
A New Life in Madyan
In Madyan, Musa (A.S.) helped two women who were struggling to water their animals. Their father, a wise elder (many say he was Prophet Shuayb), invited Musa to stay with them. Musa found safety, work and eventually married one of the daughters.
For years he lived a calm life, away from Egypt, far from danger. But he always sensed that Allah had a greater purpose for him.
The Moment of Prophethood
While travelling back to Egypt with his family, Musa (A.S.) saw a bright light on Mount Tur. Curious, he approached it.
That moment changed everything.
Allah spoke to him – making him a Prophet and giving him a divine mission:
Go to Pharaoh. Deliver the message of truth. Free the oppressed.
Musa was given miracles as signs:
- His staff turning into a living serpent
- His hand shining with bright light
- Protection and guidance from Allah
He asked Allah to make his brother Haroon (A.S.) his helper, and Allah accepted.
Facing the Tyrant
Musa and Haroon went to Pharaoh with calm words and clear signs. They invited him to worship Allah alone and free Bani Isra’il.
Instead of listening, Pharaoh mocked Musa, called him a liar and reminded everyone that he raised Musa in his palace. He accused him of causing trouble.
When Musa showed his miracles, Pharaoh claimed it was magic. He gathered the greatest magicians of Egypt to defeat Musa.
On the day of the showdown, the magicians threw their ropes and sticks, creating illusions. Musa’s staff turned into a real serpent and swallowed their tricks. The magicians immediately recognised the truth and believed in Allah.
Pharaoh was furious. His power was slipping.
The Hard Years for Bani Isra’il
Pharaoh responded with cruelty. He intensified punishments, tortured believers, and tried to break the spirit of Musa’s people.
Allah sent warnings to Pharaoh’s nation:
- Floods
- Locusts
- Lice
- Frogs
- Blood
Each time, Pharaoh promised to let Bani Isra’il go if the punishment was lifted – but he always broke his word.
Still, Musa (A.S.) remained patient. He kept guiding his people and trusting Allah.
The Night of Escape
Finally, Allah commanded Musa to take Bani Isra’il and leave Egypt. They travelled at night, quietly moving toward the sea.
By morning, Pharaoh realised what happened and chased them with a massive army. When Musa’s people reached the sea, they panicked. They were trapped between water and soldiers.
Some lost hope, but Musa stood firm and said:
“My Lord is with me. He will guide me.”
Allah commanded him to strike the sea with his staff. The water parted, creating a dry path for them to cross.
This miracle became one of the greatest signs in history.
The End of Pharaoh
When Bani Isra’il crossed safely, Pharaoh and his army followed. As soon as they were in the middle, the sea crashed back, drowning them all.
Pharaoh realised the truth only when it was too late. His tyranny ended, and Musa’s people were finally free.
Life After Escape
Even after such a massive miracle, Musa’s mission wasn’t over. His people still needed guidance. They struggled with discipline, patience and faith.
Musa went up Mount Tur to receive the Tawrah (Torah) from Allah. But during his absence, some people fell into the sin of worshipping the golden calf. Musa returned heartbroken, corrected them and continued teaching his people.
He spent his life guiding, correcting and leading Bani Isra’il toward righteousness.
Key Lessons from the Story of Hazrat Musa (A.S.)
- Truth stands tall even against tyranny
Musa confronted the strongest ruler of his time with faith as his only weapon.
- Allah protects in ways we can’t imagine
From the river to the palace to the sea – every step of Musa’s life was guided.
- Patience during hardship brings victory
His people suffered for years, but Allah eventually freed them.
- Miracles come after struggle
The sea did not split until Musa walked into the crisis with trust.
- Leadership requires courage
He guided his community even through rebellion, fear and confusion.
Why His Story Still Inspires Today
Hazrat Musa (A.S.) teaches us to stay strong when life feels unfair. His journey reminds us that no tyrant, no hardship and no fear is greater than Allah’s power. His story gives courage to anyone facing challenges, oppression or uncertainty.
Whether someone reads it for spiritual guidance or personal strength, Musa’s story always delivers hope.