The story of Prophet Musa عليه السلام is one of the most powerful narratives of liberation, divine intervention, and unwavering reliance upon Allah in the history of humanity. Musa, the prophet whom Allah spoke to directly, lived in a time dominated by one of the most tyrannical figures ever recorded: Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt who arrogantly proclaimed divinity and subjugated Bani Isra’īl through systematic oppression. When Allah commanded Musa to lead his people out of Egypt toward the blessed lands, the tyrant mobilised his elite army with the intent to annihilate them and extinguish the light of truth.
As dawn broke and the two groups came face to face at the Red Sea, the situation seemed humanly impossible. Bani Isra’īl saw before them an unpassable body of water and behind them a ruthless army. In a moment of panic, they cried out, “Indeed, we are to be overtaken!” (Qur’an 26:61). Yet it was here, at the brink of apparent destruction, that the spiritual character of Musa shone with unmatched clarity. With complete tawakkul—absolute reliance upon Allah—he declared, “No! Indeed, with me is my Lord; He will guide me.” (Qur’an 26:62). This profound statement captures the essence of Islamic spirituality: when all worldly means collapse, certainty in Allah opens doors that do not exist in the material realm.
At that decisive moment, Allah commanded Musa to strike the sea with his staff. What followed was a miracle unparalleled in human history. The sea split into two towering walls—each like a massive mountain—creating a dry pathway through which Musa and Bani Isra’īl crossed safely. Pharaoh, blinded by arrogance and consumed by hatred, plunged his army into the same path, only to meet the decree of Allah as the waters collapsed upon them. The oppressors drowned, justice was fulfilled, and the oppressed—after generations of suffering—were granted the land Allah had promised them. As an eternal sign, Allah preserved the body of Pharaoh, a physical reminder for future generations of the fate that awaits every tyrant who challenges divine truth.
The day on which Allah saved Musa and destroyed Pharaoh is known as Ashura—the 10th of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. This day represents far more than a historical event; it is a universal spiritual lesson. Ashura teaches that when a believer’s heart is anchored in Allah, no enemy can harm them, no hardship can break them, and no obstacle can prevent divine deliverance. It is a reminder that Allah sees every injustice, hears every cry, and responds at the perfect moment—often from places we least expect. The fasting of Ashura, which the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ strongly encouraged, serves as a practice of gratitude and purification, with the promise of forgiveness for the previous year’s sins.
In every era, the story of Musa is a mirror for the believer: a reminder to trust Allah when situations appear impossible, to remain patient during trials, and to recognise that divine aid is always near. Whether facing personal challenges, societal pressures, or spiritual struggles, the message is the same—if Allah is with you, nothing can overpower you.
Ashura is therefore not merely a commemoration; it is a call to action. A call to strengthen tawakkul, to fast, to make du‘ā, and to draw nearer to Allah in His sacred month. It is a reminder that the Lord who split the sea for Musa is the same Lord who guides, protects, and delivers His servants today.