Prophets
Prophet Musa (Moses)
Mūsā
Moses, one of the five greatest prophets and 'Kalimullah' — who spoke with Allah. He confronted Pharaoh, led the Israelites out, and received the Torah.
Who is Musa?
Musa (Moses) is one of the greatest messengers of God and one of the five Ulul-Azm. He is the prophet most frequently mentioned by name in the Quran. God spoke to him directly, earning him the title Kalim Allah — "the one whom God addressed". He was sent to free the Children of Israel from the tyranny of Pharaoh and to deliver the Torah.
From the River to the Palace
Born when Pharaoh was killing the male children of Israel, the infant Musa was placed by his mother in a basket on the river by divine inspiration. He was drawn from the water and raised in the very household of Pharaoh — a profound sign of God's plan unfolding within the palace of the tyrant.
Musa and Pharaoh
God sent Musa, with his brother Harun, to call Pharaoh to faith and to release the Israelites. Supported by clear miracles — the staff that became a serpent and his radiant hand — Musa confronted Pharaoh and his magicians, who believed and prostrated when they saw the truth. When Pharaoh pursued the fleeing Israelites, God parted the sea for Musa and drowned Pharaoh and his army.
Musa in the Quran
- "And Allah spoke to Musa with [direct] speech." (4:164)
- "And We certainly gave Musa the Scripture..." (2:53)
- "Go, you and your brother, with My signs... Go to Pharaoh. Indeed, he has transgressed." (20:42-43)
Lessons from the Story of Musa
The story teaches reliance on God in the face of overwhelming power, that truth triumphs over arrogance, the duty of standing against tyranny, and the importance of patience — themes shown vividly in his mission, his receiving of the Torah, and his journey with Khidr in search of knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Musa called Kalim Allah?
Because God spoke to him directly, without intermediary — a distinction granted to him, notably at the sacred valley of Tuwa and at Mount Sinai.
Which scripture was revealed to Musa?
The Torah (al-Tawrat), revealed as guidance and light for the Children of Israel.
Etymology & origin
Musa (موسى) is the Quranic name of the prophet known in English as Moses. The name is generally treated as non-Arabic (from Egyptian/Hebrew). A well-known explanation links it to the circumstances of his rescue: in Coptic, "mu" (water) and "sha" (tree/reeds), as he was found by water among the reeds. Musa is mentioned by name more than any other prophet in the Quran.
References
- Quran:
- 2:53, 4:164, 7:143, 20:9, 20:42, 28:7, 28:30
- Hadith:
- Bukhari 3394 (the Prophet saw Musa on the Night Journey); Bukhari 2411 (Musa and the rock); Muslim 2373 (Musa and Adam debated); Bukhari 3401 (the story of Musa and Khidr)
Related terms
Day of Ashura (10th of Muharram)
The 10th of Muharram, a day of fasting commemorating God's saving of Moses; also the day of the martyrdom of Husayn, mourned by Shia Muslims.
Prophet Harun (Aaron)
Aaron, the brother of Musa, appointed by Allah as his helper and spokesman. An eloquent prophet who supported Musa in confronting Pharaoh and guiding the Israelites.
Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham)
Abraham, one of the five greatest prophets and "Khalilullah" (Friend of Allah). Father of Ismail and Ishaq, he built the Kaaba and is the patriarch of monotheism.
Prophet Isa (Jesus)
Jesus, one of the five greatest prophets, born miraculously of the virgin Maryam. Given the Injil (Gospel), he will return before the End of Times.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
The final Prophet and Messenger of Allah, mercy to all worlds. He received the Quran, established Islam, and is the seal of prophets — none comes after him.
Prophet Nuh (Noah)
Noah, one of the five greatest prophets (Ulul-Azm). He called his people to monotheism for 950 years, built the Ark, and was saved with the believers from the Flood.