Surah Ash-Shu'ara — Verse 20

Key Words and Their Meanings:

• "Idhan" (إِذًا): At that time, then, or in that situation — referring to the past moment when the act occurred.
• "Al-Daalleen" (الضَّالِّينَ): Those who are astray, mistaken, or in error — here meaning those who lacked knowledge and guidance, not deliberate wrongdoers.

Explanation of the Verse:

In this noble verse, Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) responds to Pharaoh's accusation with remarkable honesty, humility, and wisdom. Pharaoh had reminded him of the incident where he had unintentionally killed an Egyptian man, attempting to use this against him. Musa's reply is a model of truthful self-awareness: he openly admits, "I did it at that time, and I was among those who were mistaken."

This admission carries profound meanings. Musa was not justifying the act or denying it; rather, he acknowledged it as a mistake committed before Allah's revelation and prophethood came to him. He was not a deliberate murderer — the killing was accidental, occurring during a struggle when he intervened to defend an oppressed person from the aggressor. His words reflect the character of a true believer: one who does not make excuses for his past errors but owns them with sincerity, while recognizing that Allah's mercy and guidance transformed his life thereafter.

The verse also highlights a beautiful aspect of Musa's journey: his past mistake did not define his future. After this incident, he fled to Madyan, where Allah nurtured him, granted him prophethood, and chose him as a messenger. This teaches us that Allah's mercy is vast — no matter one's past, sincere repentance and turning to Allah can lead to greatness and divine favor.

A Da'wah Reflection:

This verse carries an inspiring message for every believer and seeker of truth. Musa (peace be upon him), one of the greatest prophets, was not ashamed to admit his past error. This humility is a hallmark of faith. It reminds us that Islam does not demand perfection from the start; rather, it calls us to acknowledge our shortcomings, seek Allah's forgiveness, and strive forward with sincerity. If a man who made a mistake could rise to become a prophet, then no one should despair of Allah's mercy or feel unworthy of His guidance. The door of repentance is always open, and Allah loves those who turn back to Him. Let this verse inspire you to be honest with yourself, to seek Allah's forgiveness for your past, and to move forward with hope and determination — for Allah's plan for you is always greater than your past.