One of the most famous miracles in Islamic history is the splitting of the sea, granted to Prophet Mūsā (Moses, عليه السلام) by Allah. This great event is mentioned several times in the Qur’an, especially in Surah Ash-Shu‘arā (26:60–67), and remains a powerful lesson of faith, patience, and divine deliverance.
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Early Life of Prophet Mūsā (عليه السلام):
Prophet Mūsā was born in Egypt at a time when Pharaoh (Fir‘awn) was a tyrant. Out of fear that a child from the Israelites would one day overthrow him, Pharaoh ordered the killing of every newborn male from the Children of Israel.
Allah inspired Mūsā’s mother to place him in a basket and set it afloat in the Nile, where he was found and raised in Pharaoh’s palace. Though he grew up under Pharaoh’s care, Mūsā never forgot his roots and remained connected to his people, the Israelites.
His Mission as a Prophet:
As an adult, Allah chose Mūsā as a prophet and commanded him to call Pharaoh to the worship of the One God. Mūsā, together with his brother Hārūn (Aaron, عليه السلام), went to Pharaoh with signs and miracles.
But Pharaoh was arrogant, claiming to be a god himself, and refused to believe. Instead, he increased his oppression of the Israelites.
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The Exodus:
After years of rejection and hardship, Allah commanded Mūsā to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. They left secretly at night, heading towards the Red Sea.
When Pharaoh learned of their escape, he gathered his army and pursued them with full force. Soon, Mūsā and his people found themselves trapped — the vast sea in front of them and Pharaoh’s army closing in from behind.
At this moment of fear, the Israelites cried out:
“Indeed, we are to be overtaken!” (Qur’an 26:61)
But Prophet Mūsā, full of faith in Allah, replied with certainty:
“No! Indeed, with me is my Lord; He will guide me.” (Qur’an 26:62)
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The Splitting of the Sea:
Allah then revealed to Mūsā:
“Strike the sea with your staff.” (Qur’an 26:63)
When he struck the water, the sea miraculously split into two, with towering walls of water on each side and a dry path opening in between.
The Israelites crossed safely through this miraculous passage. When Pharaoh and his army attempted to follow, Allah commanded the waters to return. The sea closed in on them, drowning Pharaoh and his soldiers.
As he was drowning, Pharaoh tried to declare faith:
“I believe that there is no deity except the One in whom the Children of Israel believe, and I am of the Muslims.” (Qur’an 10:90)
But Allah responded that it was too late:
“Now? And you had disobeyed before and were of the corrupters?” (Qur’an 10:91)
Thus, Pharaoh died as a disbeliever, and his body was preserved as a sign for future generations.
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Lessons from the Splitting of the Sea:
1. Allah’s Power is Absolute
What seems impossible for humans is easy for Allah. He can open paths where no path exists.
2. Faith in Times of Trial
While the Israelites panicked, Mūsā trusted Allah completely. His firm belief teaches us to remain steadfast when we face difficulties.
3. Arrogance Leads to Destruction
Pharaoh’s pride, arrogance, and refusal to submit to Allah led to his downfall. No worldly power can stand against Allah’s will.
4. Deliverance for the Oppressed
Allah protects and delivers those who are patient under oppression, just as He rescued the Israelites from Pharaoh’s tyranny.
5. Miracles Do Not Replace Effort
Mūsā still had to act — he struck the sea with his staff. Likewise, believers must put in effort and trust Allah for the results.
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The Great Sign
The splitting of the sea is one of the greatest signs in human history. It shows that:
Allah supports His prophets.
Truth ultimately prevails over falsehood.
Believers should never despair, no matter how hopeless a situation seems.
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Conclusion
Prophet Mūsā’s splitting of the sea is more than a historical event — it is a timeless lesson of faith and reliance on Allah. Standing between the sea and a raging army, Mūsā did not lose hope. His unwavering trust in Allah opened a way where none existed.
For Muslims, this story serves as a reminder: whenever we are trapped between life’s difficulties, we should call upon Allah with certainty. Just as He saved Mūsā and his people, He can deliver us from any hardship.
Indeed, as Allah says:
“Indeed in that is a sign, but most
of them were not to be believers.” (Qur’an 26:67)
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