Surah al-Qasas (The Stories) 28 : 31

Explanatory Note

God then continued to give His instructions: “Throw down your stag?” Moses complied with the order, throwing down his staff. Only now it was no longer his staff but instead a writhing serpent, which was large in size but moving very fast: “But when he saw it moving, as if it were a serpent, he turned and fled, with no thought of turning back.” Moses was totally unprepared for this. Taken aback, he turned and set to flight. He did not even think of going back to find out what had happened to his staff, or to better see this preternatural happening. Such is the natural reaction of spontaneous people.

He then listened to his Lord’s address: “Draw near and have no fear! You are certainly secure.” Again, we witness Moses experiencing fear and security in quick succession. Such contrasting emotions were indeed the essence of his life. In fact, this continuous interaction was deliberately instilled in him so as to counterbalance the Israelite’s inactivity and habitual acceptance of their humble position. His spontaneity was part of what God granted him so that he could fulfil his role. He is told to come near and to have no fear. Needless to say, a person whose every step is watched over by God will always be safe and secure.