Surah al-Qasas (The Stories) 28 : 8

Explanatory Note

“Pharaoh’s household picked him up.” Is this the security promised her? Does it augur the fulfilment of the happy news she has been given? How, when she feared for her son none other than Pharaoh and his household? It is they that now have him. Nothing could have worried her more than her child falling into their hands. Here, we see the challenge thrown down openly, in full view of all. It is a challenge to Pharaoh, Hāmān and their hosts. They were chasing down every newborn male in Moses’ community because of fear for their own positions. Their spies were everywhere, so that no newly born boy could escape their watchful eyes. Now God’s hand effortlessly puts into their very own midst such a child. It is indeed the child who will bring about their downfall. He is now in their hands and he is helpless, unable to fend for himself. Indeed, he cannot cry for help, should he be in danger. The purpose behind delivering the child to Pharaoh is also clearly stated: “So [in time] he would become an enemy to them and a source of grief” He will certainly be an open foe, challenging them, and bringing grief and sorrow. “Pharaoh, Hāmān and their hosts were sinners indeed.”