Lessons from the Life of Prophet Musa for Children
By Amanda Hasan
Prophet Musa or Moses (Peace be Upon Him) is one of the mightiest prophets of Islam. His incredible story reflected how Allah assists those who remain strong in their faith. His courage and perseverance to Allah’s rules helped him lead his people through hard times. His story teaches valuable lessons about trusting in Allah, courage, and perseverance. Here are some key lessons from Prophet Musa’s life:
Trust in Allah
During the ancient Egyptian times, there were Israelites that were treated harshly from the Pharaoh. He was very arrogant and ruthless by forcing them to work as slaves in a brutal way. One day, Pharaoh heard a premonition from an advisor that there will be a boy that would be born and would oppose his position. Consequently, he commanded that all baby Israelites boys be killed.
Meanwhile, a baby boy named Musa was born. His mother, Yukabid (May Allah be pleased with her), was very concerned about his safety, however she trusted in Allah and was motivated with a bold plan. She brought a tiny basket, put baby Musa inside, and placed him into the river, hoping that Allah will protect him. Indeed, Allah protected Musa by guiding the basket safely to the Pharaoh’s palace. The Pharaoh’s wife, Asiyah (May Allah be pleased with her), discovered baby Musa in the basket. She adored him and convinced Pharaoh to keep Musa. Then, Allah arranged Yukabid to nurse and take care of him while he was residing in the palace.
The Qur’an states:
“We inspired the mother of Moses: Nurse him, but when you fear for him, put him then into the river, and do not fear or grieve. We will certainly return him to you, and make him one of the messengers.”
(Surah Al-Qasas 28:7)
This shows that trusting Allah and abiding by His rules, He will protect and make situations work out in the best way.
Courage
Later in his life, Musa fled Egypt after defending an Israelite and resided in Midian, where he started a new life and raised a family. Several years later, Musa decided to return to Egypt with his family. While they were traveling, Musa saw an unusual and glowing fire on the side of a mountain at nighttime. He went closer to the fire wondering if it could keep his family warm.
As he approached the fire, Allah communicated to him from the burning bush.
The Qur’an states:
“But when he approached it, he was called, “O Moses! It is truly I. I am your Lord! So, take off your sandals, for you are in the sacred valley of Ṭuwa.”
(Surah Taha 20: 11-12)
He told Musa that he should return to Egypt and confront Pharaoh because he was treating the Israelites harshly. This experience was a very significant event during Musa’s life. It was the beginning of his position as a prophet and assigned a very difficult task to confront Pharaoh and release the Israelites. Initially, Musa felt reluctant about the hard mission. However, Allah encouraged him, telling him that He would assist and guide him through this mission. Musa found courage in Allah’s help and His guidance, despite facing a challenging mission.
Perseverance
Prophet Musa persevered when he led the Israelites out of Egypt by Allah’s command. Indeed, life was difficult for the Israelites because of Pharaoh’s cruel treatment and rejection of Musa’s message throughout the years. Pharaoh didn’t want to release them, so he ran after them with his army. The Israelites were frightened since they were confined between the Red Sea and the Pharaoh’s army. However, Musa persisted and trusted Allah’s plan.
As a result, Allah told Musa to strike the sea with his staff. Miraculously, the Red Sea split. The water divided into two large walls, having a dry path in the middle. Musa guided his people safely across the sea. When they arrived at the other side, the sea sealed, and Pharaoh’s army was banished.
The Qur’an states:
“We inspired Moses: “Strike the sea with your staff,” and the sea was split, each part was like a huge mountain.”
(Surah Ash-Shu’ara 26:63)
This verse reflects how Musa followed Allah's rules and struck the sea with his staff, causing the water to split into two enormous walls. When we trust and obey Allah, He can do anything.
Musa’s perseverance enabled him to guide his people. He never gave up, even when the situation appeared to be impossible to overcome.
Musa’s story serves valuable lessons about placing trust in Allah and pursuing one’s goals with courage and perseverance. His life shows that even when situations are difficult, one should remain strong and have firm faith that Allah’s help will come. Musa’s courage showed that facing obstacles makes one stronger. His story encourages individuals to remain faithful and know that Allah’s assistance is always near. By following his example, people can get stronger in their faith and handle hardships with confidence.
