The story of Prophet Musa (Moses) and his escape from the tyranny of Pharaoh is a powerful narrative that transcends religious boundaries, symbolising the universal struggle for freedom against oppression. It is not only foundational in Jewish and Islamic traditions but also offers pertinent lessons for addressing modern issues of tyranny, such as those faced by Palestinians today.
The Exodus of Prophet Musa
The liberation of the Israelites from Egypt, led by Prophet Musa, is a seminal event celebrated in both Judaism and Islam. In the Torah, this story is detailed extensively, describing how Musa confronted Pharaoh’s cruel regime, which inflicted harsh slavery upon the Israelites. The Book of Exodus narrates:"And the Egyptians made the children of Israel to serve with rigour: And they made their lives bitter with hard bondage, in mortar, and in brick, and in all manner of service in the field" (Exodus 1:13-14).The climax of their escape occurs when Musa, by Allah’s command, parts the Red Sea to provide safe passage for the Israelites, then closes it over the pursuing Egyptian army, a moment captured powerfully in Exodus:
"And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided" (Exodus 14:21).
Jewish Commemoration: Passover
Passover, or Pesach, is the Jewish festival commemorating this dramatic escape and liberation. During Passover, the abstention from leavened bread (chametz) symbolises the haste of the Israelites' departure from Egypt, which did not allow bread to rise. This festival involves the Seder meal, where the story of the Exodus is recounted through readings from the Haggadah, emphasising themes of liberation and divine salvation.The Day of Ashura
In Islamic tradition, the story of Musa also holds significant importance and is commemorated on the Day of Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram. Prophet Muhammad highlighted the significance of Ashura by relating it to the fast observed by Musa as a thanksgiving for their salvation from Pharaoh. According to Sahih Bukhari, Muhammad said:“I am closer to Musa than they are. He observed the day of Ashura and ordered [the Muslims] to fast on it” (Sahih Bukhari).This emphasises the shared appreciation for Musa’s struggle and victory across both Jewish and Muslim communities.
