Surah Ash-Shu'ara — Verse 25

Word Meanings:

• لِمَنْ حَوْلَهُ — to those around him, i.e., his courtiers, nobles, and advisors.
• أَلَا تَسْتَمِعُونَ — "Do you not listen?" — an expression of astonishment and an appeal for their attention and agreement.

Tafsir (Explanation):

When Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) answered Pharaoh's question about the Lord of the worlds by pointing to the Lord of the heavens and the earth and everything between them, Pharaoh was taken aback. He did not know how to respond to this profound and clear answer, so he turned to the nobles and chiefs surrounding him, seeking to belittle Musa's words and to rally their support. He said: "Do you not listen?" — meaning: Do you not hear what this man is saying? He claims there is a lord other than me, a lord who created and governs everything! Pharaoh said this with sarcasm and mockery, hoping to make Musa's words seem absurd in the eyes of his people, and to distract them from the truth that Musa was presenting.

This verse shows how the tyrants of every era respond to the truth when they are unable to refute it — they resort to mockery, deflection, and appealing to the crowd's ignorance rather than engaging with the evidence. Pharaoh did not say, "Prove it" or "Explain further"; instead, he tried to turn the gathering into a theatrical show where Musa would appear as a fool. Yet, the truth remains clear, and the Quran records this scene so that every believer may learn that the enemies of truth will always try to make the call to Allah seem strange — but the believer must remain steadfast, for Allah's support is with those who convey His message with sincerity and wisdom.

Da'wah Reflection:

Dear reader, notice how Pharaoh, despite all his power and wealth, was shaken by a single sentence from Musa. The truth has that effect — it unsettles falsehood, no matter how strong it appears. When you call people to Allah, whether by your words or your actions, do not be surprised if some respond with mockery or dismissal. That is the way of those who are attached to this world. But remember: the same truth that Pharaoh tried to silence is the truth that ultimately prevailed, and Musa and his followers were saved while Pharaoh and his hosts were drowned. So hold firm to the truth, speak it with wisdom and kindness, and trust in Allah — for He is the Best of planners, and His promise is true. And let this scene remind you that the greatest victory is not in the applause of people, but in the pleasure of the Lord of the worlds.