This Muharram we will be focussing on this famous saying, that “Every Pharaoh will meet his Moses.”

What does this statement mean?

The phrase “Every Pharaoh will meet his Moses” is a metaphorical expression rooted in the true story of Musa Alayhis Salaam and Firaun (the Pharaoh of Egypt), as told in the Noble Quran. In the story, Musa AS, a Prophet chosen by Allah, confronts the Egyptian Pharaoh, commanding him to believe in the One Allah, the Almighty and also to demand the liberation of the enslaved Israelites. Despite the Pharaoh’s immense power, Musa AS, representing divine will and justice, eventually triumphs. This confrontation eventually leads to the death of Pharaoh and the freedom of the Israelites.

Interpretations and Implications:

Power and Resistance:

Firaun (Pharaoh) symbolizes an oppressive or authoritarian force, often representing unjust or unchallenged power.

Musa AS represents a challenger or liberator, someone who stands up against oppression and fights for justice and freedom.

Inevitable Justice:

The phrase implies that no matter how powerful or tyrannical a leader or system is, there will always be a force or individual (a “Moses”) who will rise to challenge and eventually overcome it.

It suggests an inherent balance in the universe, where injustice and tyranny cannot remain unchallenged forever.

Moral and Ethical Victory:

Beyond just a physical confrontation, the phrase speaks to the triumph of moral and ethical righteousness over wrongdoing.

It highlights the eventual victory of truth and justice over deceit and oppression.

Historical and Social Context:

Throughout history, many leaders and movements have been seen as “Pharaohs” due to their oppressive nature, and there have been “Moses” figures who have risen to oppose them.

The greatest example of this would be the most beloved Messenger of Allah, Muhammed ﷺ. He stood up against almost every type of tyranny, injustice and oppression and he certainly ensured that the Quraysh Pharaohs met their “Moses.” What made him stand out was the love and affection with which he called people towards Allah and the burning desire he had for the people to enter the religion of Islam. After him, his Companions RA, followed his example and firmly established the Deen of Allah ﷻ.

Other examples can include civil rights leaders, revolutionaries, and reformers who have stood against tyranny.

Personal and Philosophical Application:

On a personal level, it can be interpreted as a reminder that everyone will face their own challenges and opponents in life, but with perseverance and righteousness, they can overcome them.

Philosophically, it touches on the themes of resistance against evil and the enduring struggle for justice.

Over the next few days we will in sha Allah look at various incidents in the story of Musa AS that shows his resilience and how Justice Prevailed.