Surah an-Nazi`at (The Extractors) 79 : 15

Explanatory Note

The rhythm then slows down a little in order to suit the style of narration. For next we have an account of what took place between Moses and Pharaoh, and the end which Pharaoh met after he had tyrannised and transgressed all bounds.

The story of Moses is the most frequent and detailed of Qur’anic historical accounts. It is mentioned in many other surahs, in different ways and with varying emphasis. At times, certain episodes are given greater prominence than others. This variation of style and emphasis aims at striking harmony between the historical account and the surah in which it occurs. Thus, the story helps to make the message of the surah clearer. This method is characteristic of the Qur’an. Here the historical account is given in quick successive scenes which open with the call Moses receives in the sacred valley and end with the destruction of Pharaoh in this life and perdition in the life to come. Thus, it fits very well with the main theme of the surah, namely the hereafter. The part given here of Moses’s history spans a long period, yet it is conveyed by only a few short verses that fit in well with the rhythm and message of the surah as whole.

They start with an introductory question addressed to the Prophet: “Have you heard the story of Moses?” The question serves to prepare us to listen to the history and contemplate its lessons. Moses’s story is described here as history to emphasise that it actually happened.