One of the most awe-inspiring events in human history is the moment the waters of the deep parted for a nation in flight. For parents and students of knowledge, asking "How did Moses split the Sea?" is a way to explore the themes of absolute trust in Allah and the triumph of truth over tyranny. In Islamic tradition, understanding how did Moses split the Sea serves as a vital lesson in the Deliverance of the believers from the clutches of oppression.
The Historical Context: The Exodus from Egypt
The story begins with the long-standing conflict between Prophet Musa (Moses) in Islam and the tyrannical ruler of the time. After years of دعوت (calling) and witnessing Prophet Musa's miracles in Egypt, such as the Moses' staff turning into a snake, the final moment arrived.
Prophet Musa and Pharaoh (Fir'aun) had reached a breaking point. Under divine command, Musa (AS) led the Bani Israel (Children of Israel) escape during the night.
As they reached the shore, they found themselves trapped: the vast water in front of them and the chariots of Pharaoh behind them. It was in this moment of apparent desperation that the question of how did Moses split the Sea became a matter of life and death.
Read about: Who built the Kaaba
The Parting of the Sea in Quran: A Divine Decree
So, how did Moses split the Sea according to the Holy Quran? The event was not a result of natural coincidence but of direct Divine intervention in Moses' story.
The Miracle of the Staff (Asa Musa)
In Surah Ash-Shu'ara, Allah (SWT) describes the command given to Musa (AS). When his people cried out, "Indeed, we are to be overtaken!", Musa (AS) replied with unwavering faith: "No! Indeed, with me is my Lord; He will guide me." (Quran 26:62).
Allah then revealed: "Strike with your staff the sea," and it parted, and each portion was like a great towering mountain. (Quran 26:63). This is the core answer to how did Moses split the Sea; it was the Miracle of the Staff (Asa Musa) acting as a physical cause for a supernatural result.
Learn more about: Who was the first Muadhin in Islam
Scholarly Insights: Ibn Kathir and Al-Tabari
In his famous work Qisas Al-Anbiya (Stories of the Prophets), the scholar Ibn Kathir explains that when Musa (AS) struck the water, twelve distinct paths were created, one for each tribe of the Bani Israel. Similarly, Imam Al-Tabari mentions in his Tarikh (History) that the water stood firm like solid walls, allowing for a safe Crossing the Red Sea story.
Find out more about: How long did it take Noah to build the ark
The Drowning of Pharaoh and the Day of Ashura
While the believers crossed safely, the same path became a graveyard for the oppressors. The drowning of Pharaoh occurred as the water collapsed back into its natural state.
As mentioned in Sahih Bukhari, when Prophet Musa's leadership brought his people to safety, he fasted out of gratitude. This is why we celebrate the Day of Ashura and Prophet Musa, as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) told the people of Madinah that Muslims have more right to celebrate Musa's victory than anyone else.
Register your children for our online Islamic courses
FAQ about How did Moses split the Sea
How did Moses split the Sea according to the Quran?
He struck the water with his staff (Asa) by the command of Allah, which caused the sea to part into twelve paths, each like a massive mountain of water.
Explore: Difference between a Prophet and a Messenger
What happened to Pharaoh after the sea split?
As Pharaoh and his army tried to follow, the water returned to its place. The Quran records that in his final moments, Pharaoh tried to declare faith, but it was too late. His body was preserved as a sign for future generations.
Why do we fast on the Day of Ashura?
We fast to commemorate the day Allah saved Musa (AS) and the Bani Israel from Pharaoh. It is a day of celebrating the Deliverance of the believers.
Discover: Virtues of fasting in Rajab
Learn the Miracles of the Prophets with Iman School
The story of how did Moses split the Sea is just one of many powerful lessons in Islamic history. To truly appreciate Prophet Musa (Moses) in Islam and the depths of the Quran, you need a teacher who can connect the verses to your life.
Iman School is the best online Islamic academy for families. We offer specialized courses on the Stories of the Prophets, Tajweed, and Arabic. Our expert tutors will guide you through the Splitting of the Red Sea miracle and other foundational stories with authentic evidence from the Quran and Sunnah.
Enroll in Iman School today and bring the stories of the Quran to life for your family.
