Surah Ad-Dukhan — Verse 22

Key Words:

• "Da‘ā" (دَعَا): Called upon or supplicated to his Lord.
• "Mujrimūn" (مُجْرِمُونَ): Criminals, sinners, those who persist in wrongdoing and disbelief.

Explanation of the Verse:

When Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) had delivered the message of his Lord to Pharaoh and his chiefs, and they responded with denial, arrogance, and refusal to believe, he turned to his Lord in humble supplication. He said: "My Lord, these people are criminals—they have persisted in their disbelief, associated partners with You, and committed grave sins. They have rejected Your signs and oppressed Your servants." In this moment, Musa did not seek revenge for himself, nor did he ask for personal triumph; rather, he declared the truth about their state, acknowledging that they had crossed every limit and deserved the punishment that would come as a consequence of their persistent transgression. This was a turning point where the prophet of Allah entrusted the matter entirely to his Lord, knowing that Allah’s justice is perfect and His decree is inevitable.

Reflection and Da‘wah:

This verse teaches us a profound lesson in patience and reliance upon Allah. When you have done your part in conveying the truth with wisdom and sincerity, and people still turn away in arrogance, do not despair. Follow the example of Musa—turn to Allah in supplication, place your trust in Him, and leave the outcome to His perfect wisdom. Allah never abandons His righteous servants. The story of Musa reminds us that no matter how powerful the oppressor may seem, Allah’s power is greater, and His help is near for those who call upon Him with a sincere heart. Let this inspire you to remain steadfast in your faith, to never lose hope in Allah’s mercy, and to always remember that the final victory belongs to the believers.