قَالَ فِرْعَوْنُ وَمَا رَبُّ ٱلْعَـٰلَمِينَ 23
Translations
Said Pharaoh, "And what is the Lord of the worlds?"
Transliteration
Qāla Fir'awnu wa mā Rabbu al-'Ālamīn
Tafsir (Explanation)
Pharaoh arrogantly questions Musa's claim about the Lord of all worlds, demanding to know who this God is. This statement reflects Pharaoh's stubborn rejection and denial of Allah's existence and sovereignty, despite knowing the truth in his heart. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari note this was a rhetorical challenge meant to mock and dismiss Musa's message, representing the ultimate state of disbelief born from pride and tyranny.
Revelation Context
This ayah occurs within the narrative of Musa's confrontation with Pharaoh in Surah Ash-Shu'ara, which recounts the dialogue between the Prophet Musa and Pharaoh when Musa was commanded to convey Allah's message. It represents a pivotal moment where Pharaoh openly rejects the fundamental Islamic concept of Tawhid (monotheism) and Allah's lordship over all creation.
Related Hadiths
The Hadith of 'Umar ibn al-Khattab (Sahih Bukhari) describes how Pharaoh was so arrogant that he asked 'What is the Lord of the worlds?' rejecting the obvious signs of Allah's power. Additionally, Surah Al-Qasas 28:38 provides a parallel account where Pharaoh similarly denies knowledge of any lord besides himself.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah demonstrates how arrogance and attachment to worldly power can blind people to obvious truths and lead them to mock divine guidance; it serves as a warning against prideful rejection of Allah's message regardless of one's status or authority.