فَلَمَّا بَلَغَا مَجْمَعَ بَيْنِهِمَا نَسِيَا حُوتَهُمَا فَٱتَّخَذَ سَبِيلَهُۥ فِى ٱلْبَحْرِ سَرَبًا 61
Translations
But when they reached the junction between them, they forgot their fish, and it took its course into the sea, slipping away.
Transliteration
Falammā balaghā majma'a baynihumā nasiyā hūtahumā fattakhādha sabīlahu fī al-bahri saraban
Tafsir (Explanation)
When Musa and his companion (Al-Khidr) reached the meeting point between two seas, they forgot about their fish (provisions), which miraculously came alive and took its way into the sea. This verse marks the crucial turning point in their journey where the fish's disappearance serves as the appointed sign for them to find Al-Khidr. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note that this forgetting was divinely ordained to test their memory and serve as the sign Allah had promised (18:60), demonstrating that the fish's escape was no mere accident but a divine sign.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the Story of Musa and Al-Khidr (18:60-82), a Meccan surah revealed to the Prophet Muhammad to provide guidance and spiritual lessons. The story illustrates divine wisdom beyond human comprehension and the importance of seeking knowledge. The context here shows the fulfillment of the sign mentioned in verse 18:60 where Musa was told he would find Al-Khidr when they lose their fish.
Related Hadiths
Sahih Bukhari (3401): The hadith of Abu Hayyaj Al-Asadi from the Prophet describes the full story of Musa and Al-Khidr, providing detailed context for this journey and the significance of the fish as a sign.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches us that sometimes we fail to notice divine signs due to our forgetfulness or preoccupation, reminding us to remain spiritually vigilant and aware of Allah's guidance in our lives. It also illustrates that seekers of knowledge must be prepared for unexpected trials and signs that guide them toward their spiritual destination.