Surah Ash-Shu'ara — Verse 14

Word Meanings:

• "Dhanb" (ذَنب): A sin, fault, or crime — here referring to an act that incurred blame or liability.
• "Faqatalūn" (فَيَقْتُلُونِ): "They will kill me" — expressing fear of retribution.

Tafsir (Explanation):

In this verse, Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) continues his humble supplication to his Lord, acknowledging a heavy burden that weighs on his heart as he prepares for the monumental task of delivering Allah’s message to Pharaoh and his people. He says: *"And they have against me a sin, so I fear that they will kill me."*

This refers to the incident in his past when, before his prophethood, he unintentionally struck and killed a Coptic man while defending an oppressed Israelite. Though it was not premeditated murder, Musa knew that Pharaoh’s court still held this against him, and he feared they would seek revenge by taking his life before he could even deliver the message of monotheism.

In his plea, Musa was not hesitant to obey Allah’s command — rather, his concern was purely practical: he wanted to ensure the mission would succeed. He worried that his tongue might not flow freely due to the anxiety of being rejected, and that the weight of this past incident would close every door before he could speak. Therefore, he asked Allah to send revelation to his brother Harun (Aaron) as a supporter and partner, so that together they could fulfill the divine duty.

This verse beautifully illustrates the humility and sincerity of a prophet who, despite his elevated rank, laid his fears and weaknesses before his Creator. It teaches us that even the greatest of Allah’s messengers felt the need to seek help and express their vulnerabilities — and that turning to Allah with a sincere heart, acknowledging our shortcomings, is a sign of true faith, not a weakness. It also reminds us that when we are called to a noble purpose, we should prepare ourselves with patience, seek righteous companions, and place our complete trust in Allah, who removes all obstacles for those who strive in His cause.