Surah Al-Baqarah — Verse 70

Word Meanings:

• "تُبَيِّن لَّنَا مَا هِيَ": Clarify for us what it is—i.e., specify further distinguishing features.
• "تَشَابَهَ عَلَيْنَا": It has become ambiguous and confused to us; we cannot tell which one is meant.
• "لَمُهْتَدُونَ": We will surely be guided to the right cow and find it.

Tafsir (Explanation):

The Children of Israel, instead of hastening to obey the command of Allah, continued to show stubbornness and excessive questioning. They said to Moses (peace be upon him): "Call upon your Lord to make clear to us what exactly this cow is—whether it is one that ploughs the land or one that is used for watering crops—for the cows that match the previous description are many, and we are confused as to which one to choose. But if you ask Allah, and He clarifies it for us, then, Allah willing, we will surely be guided to the right one and will not delay any further."

This verse highlights their repeated evasion and unnecessary hardship they brought upon themselves. Had they simply obeyed the first command to slaughter any cow, it would have been easy for them. But by asking for more details, they made the matter harder, and Allah, in His wisdom, tightened the conditions upon them step by step—as a consequence of their own obstinacy.

A Da'wah Reflection:

This story carries a profound lesson for every believer: the beauty of Islam lies in submission and trust in Allah’s command without excessive questioning or hesitation. When Allah commands us, the wisest and most blessed response is swift obedience, for His command is always for our own good, even if we do not fully understand the wisdom behind it. The Children of Israel’s repeated questioning did not bring them ease; rather, it multiplied their burden. So let us learn from their mistake: embrace the commands of Allah with a sincere heart, and you will find ease, blessing, and guidance in every step. Allah loves those who hasten to obey Him with humility and trust, and He never lets their efforts go to waste.