Why Prophet Moses (AS) Slapped the Angel of Death Before His Passing?

Explore the story of Prophet Moses (AS) slapping the Angel of Death before his demise. Learn about the courage and devotion of Prophet Moses (AS) to Allah SWT.

One of the heart-touching tales for the Islamic community is the story of the passing of Prophet Moses (AS). Prophet Moses (AS) held a high status in the eyes of Allah SWT as one of the Ulul Azmi prophets. He is renowned for his bravery in confronting Pharaoh, the arrogant and tyrannical ruler of Egypt.

Prophet Moses (AS) passed away at the age of 120 after dedicating his life to serving Allah SWT by conveying the message of the Torah. However, before his passing, there was an intriguing incident involving Prophet Moses (AS) and the Angel of Death, who is responsible for taking the lives of living beings.

What transpired between Prophet Moses (AS) and the Angel of Death? Why did Prophet Moses (AS) slap the Angel of Death? How did the life of Prophet Moses (AS) conclude? Let's delve into the explanation below.

Prophet Moses (AS), the Brave Opponent of Pharaoh

Prophet Moses (AS) was a descendant of Prophet Abraham (AS) through his paternal lineage. He was born in Egypt during the reign of Pharaoh, a ruler who was arrogant and declared himself as a deity. Pharaoh governed with oppression and tyranny, subduing the believers of Allah SWT, known as the Children of Israel.

Allah SWT sent Prophet Moses (AS) to call upon Pharaoh and his people to embrace monotheism and abandon their misguided ways. Allah SWT bestowed miraculous abilities upon Prophet Moses (AS), such as a staff that could transform into a large serpent and a radiant hand.

Prophet Moses (AS) faced numerous challenges and trials in conveying his message. He had to confront Pharaoh's sorcerers, endure the plagues sent by Allah SWT upon Pharaoh's people, and flee from Pharaoh and his army.

With Allah SWT's permission, Prophet Moses (AS) successfully led the Children of Israel out of Egypt toward the holy land of Palestine. During their journey, they had to cross the divided Red Sea, a miraculous event facilitated by Prophet Moses's (AS) staff. On the other side, Pharaoh and his forces drowned in the sea due to their arrogance.

Prophet Moses (AS) also received revelations from Allah SWT in the form of the Torah on Mount Sinai. The Torah contained the divine laws and commandments of Allah SWT that the Children of Israel were required to obey. However, the Children of Israel often transgressed these laws and indulged in idol worship, particularly the worship of a golden calf.

Prophet Moses (AS) remained patient and steadfast in dealing with the stubborn and complaining nature of the Children of Israel. He continuously prayed to Allah SWT for guidance and assistance.

Prophet Moses (AS) Passed Away After Slapping the Angel of Death

After living for 120 years, the time had come for Prophet Moses (AS) to return to Allah's mercy. Allah SWT sent the Angel of Death to take Prophet Moses's (AS) soul. However, the Angel of Death did not appear in his true form but rather in the guise of an ordinary human.

When the Angel of Death approached Prophet Moses (AS), he did not recognize him and felt disturbed by his presence. Consequently, Prophet Moses (AS) instinctively slapped the Angel of Death, causing his eye to fall out.

This incident is narrated by Abu Hurairah (RA) from the Prophet Muhammad (PUBH) as follows:

"The Angel of Death was sent to Moses (AS). When he met him, Moses (AS) struck him and gouged his eye out. The Angel of Death then returned to his Lord and said, 'You have sent me to a servant who does not want to die.'"

The Angel of Death sought permission from Allah SWT to approach Prophet Moses (AS) once more and inform him that his time had come. Allah SWT granted permission and instructed the Angel of Death to tell Prophet Moses (AS) that he could choose between a longer life or immediate death.

The Angel of Death returned to Prophet Moses (AS) in human form. This time, Prophet Moses (AS) recognized him. The Angel of Death conveyed Allah SWT's message to Prophet Moses (AS).

Prophet Moses (AS) asked the Angel of Death, "Ask my Lord, when the time comes, what will happen next?"

The Angel of Death replied, "Then, you must die."

Upon hearing this, Prophet Moses (AS) said, "In that case, today is the day, as the appointed time is not far off."

Prophet Moses (AS) willingly accepted the Angel of Death's arrival. However, before his passing, he requested to be buried near the Holy Land (Baitul Maqdis), the sacred destination of the Children of Israel.

Prophet Moses (AS) once prayed, "O Allah, bring me near to the Holy Land (Baitul Maqdis) so close that I can throw a stone there."

Allah SWT granted Prophet Moses's (AS) prayer and buried him on a hill not far from Baitul Maqdis. However, the exact location of his grave remains known only to Allah SWT.

Thus concludes the tale of Prophet Moses's (AS) passing, in which he slapped the Angel of Death before his demise. This story teaches us about the courage and devotion of Prophet Moses (AS) to Allah SWT. May we draw lessons from this narrative and emulate the character of Prophet Moses (AS). Amen.

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