The seventh verse of Surah Al-Qasas (The Stories) is a pivotal revelation conveying divine instruction and assurance to the mother of Prophet Moses (Musa). It details a miraculous directive concerning the protection and future of Moses during his infancy.
The Exact Revelation
The precise wording of the seventh verse of Surah Al-Qasas is:
"We inspired the mother of Moses: “Nurse him, but when you fear for him, put him then into the river, and do not fear or grieve. We will certainly return him to you, and make him one of the messengers.”"
This verse is a profound example of divine inspiration (wahy) directly given to an individual who was not a prophet, guiding her through an exceptionally challenging situation. You can find this verse and the entire Surah Al-Qasas on Quran.com.
Context and Significance
Surah Al-Qasas, meaning "The Stories," largely narrates the story of Prophet Moses, from his birth and early life to his encounters with Pharaoh and his eventual mission. Verse 7 specifically highlights the initial phase of his life, marked by the severe persecution of male Israelite infants by Pharaoh.
The verse encapsulates several key aspects:
- Divine Intervention: Allah directly intervenes to protect Moses, guiding his mother through inspiration.
- Specific Instructions:
- "Nurse him": This ensured Moses received early maternal nourishment and bonding.
- "but when you fear for him, put him then into the river": This seemingly dangerous command was a test of faith and the means of his salvation from Pharaoh's decree. The river was not meant to harm him but to transport him to safety.
- Profound Assurances: The divine message included comforting promises designed to alleviate the mother's immense fear and grief:
- "and do not fear or grieve": A direct command to find peace in Allah's plan.
- "We will certainly return him to you": A miraculous promise of reunion, which was later fulfilled.
- "and make him one of the messengers": A clear declaration of Moses' future prophetic role, indicating his ultimate purpose and significance.
This verse lays the foundation for Moses' remarkable life story, demonstrating Allah's overarching providence and the intricate ways in which divine will unfolds, protecting His chosen servants and fulfilling His plans. It serves as a powerful reminder of trust in God even in the face of insurmountable fear.
Key Elements and Their Implications
The verse can be broken down into commands and promises, illustrating a clear path of faith and reliance on divine decree:
| Aspect | Description | Implication |
|---|---|---|
| Divine Inspiration | God directly guides Moses' mother. | Assurance of direct intervention and care for His chosen ones. |
| Nursing Command | Initial period of maternal care. | Importance of early nurture and natural bonding. |
| River Instruction | Placing the child in the river when fearful. | A test of faith; a seemingly counter-intuitive command for safety. |
| "Do not fear or grieve" | Command to release anxiety. | Emphasis on reliance on Allah's plan, not human worries. |
| "Return him to you" | Promise of reunion. | Fulfillment of divine promises, comfort for the mother. |
| "Make him one of the messengers" | Declaration of Moses' future prophethood. | God's long-term plan and destiny for His servants. |
This verse sets the stage for the unfolding of one of the most significant narratives in the Quran, emphasizing themes of divine protection, trust, and the fulfillment of God's promises.
