يَأْتُوكَ بِكُلِّ سَحَّارٍ عَلِيمٍ 37
Translations
Who will bring you every learned, skilled magician."
Transliteration
Ya'tooka bikulli sahhaarin aleem
Tafsir (Explanation)
This ayah refers to Pharaoh's threat to bring every skilled sorcerer against Prophet Musa (Moses) in their miraculous contest. Classical scholars like Al-Tabari and Ibn Kathir explain that 'sahhar aleem' (skilled sorcerer) denotes those who had mastered the art of sorcery and illusion, which was highly regarded in Egyptian society at that time. The ayah illustrates Pharaoh's desperate attempt to counter the clear signs of Allah through worldly means and deception, yet such efforts are ultimately futile against divine truth.
Revelation Context
This ayah is part of the narrative account of Musa's confrontation with Pharaoh, a central theme in Ash-Shu'ara. The surah recounts how Pharaoh refused belief despite witnessing miracles, and instead relied on his kingdom's resources and sorcerers to oppose the message. This context demonstrates the timeless pattern of how those in power reject divine guidance in favor of preserving their worldly dominion.
Related Hadiths
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said regarding magic: 'The greatest sins are associating partners with Allah and magic' (Sunan An-Nasa'i). This relates thematically to Pharaoh's reliance on sorcery as a false alternative to faith.
Themes
Key Lesson
This ayah teaches that no amount of worldly resources, expertise, or clever deception can ultimately stand against the truth of Allah's message; believers should trust in divine guidance rather than being swayed by the impressive but ultimately hollow accomplishments of those who reject faith.