079-AL-BAQARAH (Ayat 243-246)
The historical parallels between the Israelites’ plight and the early Muslim community are examined. Following three centuries of oppression, the Israelites requested a leader to fight in the way of Allah, mirroring a similar desire expressed by the Sahaba during the time of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This led to the establishment of the Rashidun Caliphate, comparable to a period of Israelite rule after the time of Prophet Musa (Moses). The narrative highlights the challenges faced by both communities—displacement, persecution, and the call to jihad—and warns against hypocrisy or abandoning the struggle when adversity arises. The importance of sincere devotion and reliance on Allah’s blessings is emphasized, framing both financial support (qarz e hasana) and physical struggle as acts of worship.
