فَتَوَلَّىٰ بِرُكْنِهِۦ وَقَالَ سَـٰحِرٌ أَوْ مَجْنُونٌ 39
Translations
But he turned away with his supporters and said, "A magician or a madman."
Transliteration
Fatawalla bi-ruknihee wa-qala sahirun aw majnun
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah describes Pharaoh's arrogant rejection of Prophet Moses' message, turning away in pride (with his supporters/power) and dismissing Moses as either a magician or a madman. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir and Al-Qurtubi emphasize that Pharaoh's response exemplifies the spiritual blindness and obstinate denial of those who possess power and wealth yet refuse to submit to divine truth; his dismissal of Moses reflects the typical defense mechanism of the proud when confronted with clear signs.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the Meccan surah describing the story of Moses and Pharaoh, which served to comfort the Prophet Muhammad during the early persecution in Mecca. The narrative illustrates how even the most powerful earthly ruler cannot prevail against Allah's will, providing reassurance to believers facing opposition from the Meccan elite.
Related Hadiths
The hadith in Sahih Bukhari (3614) records that the Prophet Muhammad mentioned Pharaoh among those who will face severe punishment, emphasizing the consequences of arrogance and rejection of divine guidance. Additionally, hadiths regarding the superiority of faith over worldly power relate to the broader theme of Pharaoh's downfall despite his material dominion.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that earthly power and social status are meaningless when coupled with spiritual blindness and arrogance toward divine truth. Modern readers should reflect on how pride can prevent us from recognizing and accepting guidance, regardless of how clearly it is presented.