قَالَ أَوَلَوْ جِئْتُكَ بِشَىْءٍ مُّبِينٍ 30
Translations
[Moses] said, "Even if I brought you something [i.e., proof] manifest?"
Transliteration
Qala awa law ji'taka bi shay'in mubin
Tafsir (Explanation)
Pharaoh responds to Moses' initial call to faith by asking, 'Even if you brought me something clear (and manifest)?' This rhetorical question reveals Pharaoh's stubborn rejection and closed heart—he is essentially challenging Moses to produce a sign while already determined not to believe. Classical scholars like Ibn Kathir note this demonstrates the arrogance of those who reject truth despite evidence, as Pharaoh's question implies conditional acceptance that he has no genuine intention of honoring.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the narrative of Moses confronting Pharaoh in Egypt (Surah Ash-Shu'ara, verses 10-68). The context depicts Moses presenting himself as a messenger of Allah to Pharaoh, and this ayah marks Pharaoh's defiant response. The surah presents this confrontation as a historical reminder of how tyrants have rejected divine guidance throughout history.
Related Hadiths
While no hadith directly comments on this specific ayah, Surah Al-A'raf 7:105-111 contains the parallel account of Moses and Pharaoh, and Sahih Bukhari records hadiths about Pharaoh's rejection of faith despite witnessing clear signs.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah warns against the spiritual disease of hardened hearts—when people are determined to reject truth, they will rationalize away even the clearest evidence. Modern believers should examine their own hearts for similar pride and closed-mindedness, ensuring they remain open to divine guidance.